connected issue 98

INSPIRING SUCCESS

ISSUE 98

The official magazine for Chamber members

OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO DECARBONISATION PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM THE CHAMBER NETWORK

E M A THE G D E G N A H HAS C

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this issue

6

16

24

CONTENTS

21

26

32

4

Editors comment

18-19

Eastern New Energy Programme

5

Chief Executive’s comment

20-21

Charity news

6

Connect

8

22

New Members

Transform

23-27

Member news

9

Protect

28-30

Green column

10-11

Inform

31

Mental Health column

12-13

Global

32

Stagecoach update

14

Training courses

33

Growth Works

15

Marketing Insight

16-17

34-35

Chamber Events

Ask the Expert

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welcome from the

EDITOR

Welcome ....

ISSUE 98 INSPIRING SUCCESS

The official magazine

for Chamber members

Mental Health and the Green Agenda are key right now so we have introduced a column on both topics in each issue of connected.

This month’s guest article has been written

by Antony Gough, Grant Scheme Project Manager at Eastern New Energy, and discusses the Eastern New Energy Programme and the support available to businesses.

There are lots of events taking place across the county during July with some great speakers. Turn to our event pages to read more and find out how to register your place.

RS TO OVERCOMING BARRIE DECARBONISATION PLUS. . . ALL THE LATEST

ER NETWORK

NEWS FROM THE CHAMB

Chief Executive Vic Annells Editor Sadie Parr

Advertising in connected is key to ensuring we can continue to produce this publication. If you would like to advertise, submit an Ask the Expert piece or have the opportunity to take the front cover and centre page spread, please send me an email or give me a call on 01223 237414.

You can also submit your articles for the member news pages. Send your article to me as a word document, plus photo as a jpeg file, and you company could appear in print next month.

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 Jack Wilson 07564 054922 Kamla Sooriah 07955 439393 Chamber contact details Clifford House, 2 Station Yard, Oakington, Cambridge, CB24 3AH Tel 01223 237414 Email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk Visit www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

• D IA RY DAT E S • JUNE 2022 JULY 2022

@CambsChamber

5

AUG 2022

12

Understanding a Customs Declaration course

Bitesize Workshop: Logistics and Brokerage

Chamber HR Coffee Club, Peterborough

14

15

19

Informal Networking Evening, Ely

@CambsChamber

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5

25

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

30

Annual Global Conference, London

Understanding Logistics course

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce

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.

28

Safari Networking Breakfast, Stamford

5

Summer Garden Party, Cambridge

Construction Networking Lunch, Peterborough

26

Safari Networking Breakfast, Peterborough

11

Import / Export Diagnostics course

Meet the Neighbours, Wyboston

13

13

20

21

Safari Networking Breakfast, Cambridge

Informal Networking Evening, Stamford

Informal Networking Evening, Huntingdon

Informal Networking Evening, Cambridge

comment from the

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Chief Executive’s comments With this latest issue of connected magazine, Q2 comes to an end for 2022 and I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about what the latter half of this year will bring for business in the region.

As you will likely be aware, the Cambridgeshire Chambers continue to support the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) in lobbying for the government to take urgent action to address the cost of doing business crisis. Rising NI contributions, energy costs and surging inflation have left businesses with considerable feelings of uncertainty, and as such business investment has naturally waned.

In the face of global economic shock, first from Covid and then from the conflict in Ukraine, businesses are struggling to absorb rising costs and have had little choice but to increase prices, or to make plans to do so in the near future. The impact of rising inflation and reduced consumer spending is already beginning to be seen in many of our most exposed sectors, including hospitality and leisure, and business investment is slowing down as many of us begin to talk of the likelihood of recession.

The government need to put in place support for businesses that is stable and reliable, to give businesses the confidence to invest and drive growth. The BCC have been pushing constructive conversations with government to review capital allowances

amongst other policies to incentivise business investment. Taking measures now to improve business confidence is desperately needed to ensure that investment is made to support the growth that our economy needs.

What support would you like to see put in place?

Let us know by emailing chamber@cambscci. co.uk and we’ll share your suggestion with the BCC but also the relevant local authorities for more local support.

Vic Annells Chief Executive

Key points from the British Chambers of Commerce economic forecast for June: l UK GDP growth forecast for 2022 is 3.5%, 0.6% in 2023 and 1.2% in 2024 l Following Q1 2022 growth of 0.8%, quarter-on-quarter GDP growth is forecast to come to a halt with zero growth in Q2 and Q3, before a 0.2% contraction in Q4 2022 l Household consumption forecast is for growth of 4% in 2022, growth of 0.6% for 2023 and 1.2% in 2024 l Business investment forecast is to grow by 1.8% in 2022 before more than halving to 0.8% in 2023, amid the end of the super deduction and the corporation tax rise, and then rising to 1.5% in 2024

l BCC expects export growth of 3% in 2022, 2.3% in 2023 and 1.6% in 2024, compared to import growth of 6.9%, -2.7% and 1.7% l BCC expects UK unemployment rate of 3.8% in 2022, 3.9% in 2023 and 2024 l CPI inflation is forecast to peak at 10% in Q4 2022, before easing to 3.5% by the end of 2023. Inflation is expected to drop back to the Bank of England’s 2% target by Q4 2024 l UK official interest rates are expected to rise to 2% by Q4 2022 and then to 3% in Q4 2023, ending 2024 at the same level.

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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.

MEET THE CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP TEAM If you want to find out more about the benefits included in your Chamber membership, get in touch with one of the team or chat with them at one of our events across the county.

KAMLA SOORIAH, Head of Membership

Kamla joined us in October 2021 having been a Chamber member herself for 11 years in two previous roles. She already knew the benefits of membership and now enjoys sharing this with other people and being part of how it can work for them too.

Having previously worked in weddings, events and magazines she is passionate about the whole membership experience including networking events, connected magazine and the website. k.sooriah@cambscci.co.uk

JACK WILSON, Membership Executive Jack recently joined us in May. He has a vast and varied background of experience in many sectors including sales, insurance, finance, civil service and much more.

His love for networking and building strong professional relationships is something he feels will help drive new membership as well as develop existing member relations.

Jack is endlessly ambitious and feels there is no limit to what the Chamber team can achieve in the future. j.wilson@cambscci.co.uk

BREN COLEMAN, Membership Co-ordinator Bren has been with us since April 2011. She believes in offering a positive customer

Build connections Networking is key to individual and company development.

Businesses network to develop relationships with people and companies they may do business with now, and in the future. These connections help to establish rapport and trust among the business community. The Chamber provides many opportunities for members to widen their network of business contacts through building opportunities and maximising the benefits of being part of Cambridgeshire’s most vibrant business network.

Each month we hold informal networking evenings across the county, these are free to attend and allow you to build new connections. Take this opportunity to catch up with familiar acquaintances you haven’t seen in a while, mingle with new business contacts and share knowledge and skills with like-minded professionals.

We also hold regular structured safari networking events with guest speaker and breakfast. Or for something less structured, we hold regular sector events, social events and dinners.

Turn to event pages 34 to see what’s coming up or visit our website www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk/events

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experience, whether that be for a potential member looking to find out more about the Chamber, or as an existing member to guide you in the right direction in regard to all the benefits, services and opportunities the membership holds. Bren wants to ensure you get the most from your Chamber membership. b.coleman@cambscci.co.uk

ONLINE HEALTH & SAFETY TRAINING The Chamber offers a wide range of online Health & Safety training courses, ranging from health & safety inductions and manual handling to more specialised courses designed for hospitals, care homes, education providers and retailers.

We’ve added a new course to our list: Data Protection & GDPR This Data Protection & GDPR Course learning outcomes include: Understand your Data Protection responsibilities and how GDPR is used to protect confidential or sensitive information.

This course explains Data Processing compliance, and the formal roles of the ICO, Data Controller, Data Processor and the Data Protection Officer (DPO).

The whole course, on average, takes 23 minutes.

Full details of all our online courses, including Data Protection & GDPR can be found at www.cambridgeshiretraining.co.uk.

CHAMBER CONFERENCE ROOM AVAILABLE TO HIRE We have a conference room available to hire for up to 10 people with free parking.

Costs: £200.00 (plus VAT) full day, £115.00 (plus VAT) half day.

10% discount for Chamber members.

Tea, coffee and biscuits provided for £2.00 (plus VAT) per person.

If you’re interested in hiring the John Bridge Conference Room please email enquiries@cambscci.co.uk or telephone 01223 237414

Choose The Right Venue For Your Off-Site Event The benefits of getting away from the desk to have an off-site meeting or a team building day are numerous – including leaving the daily tasks behind and allowing a clear focus on broader issues.

Choosing the right venue can play a key role in the day’s success – so what should you look for? Meet Cambridge, which has a portfolio of more than 50 venues ranging from historical Colleges to contemporary spaces, shares some pointers: l Select a venue that complements the objectives of your event – look at the outside space if you plan team-building or networking sessions – and ensure it is accessible with good transport links. l Arrange a site visit, either in-person or virtually, ahead of the event – so you can envisage how the different spaces can work for you. l Choose somewhere where delegates can close off the outside world – a city centre venue might not be the ideal choice. l An unusual venue can spark creativity and surprise, with an ambiance that will encourage everyone to step out of the norm and be inspired. l Provide lots of opportunities for downtime – it’s often where the most creative ideas are born. l Ensure that your event is inclusive and that all delegates can contribute. For example, don’t choose a physical activity if everyone isn’t able to take part or a driving event if some delegates can’t drive. l Avoid activities that could be triggers unless you know your delegates very well – a murder/CSI type of event for instance could be fun but it could also be difficult for someone who has had to live through such an experience. l Make sure you can measure the outcomes of your event against your objectives and choose an activity supplier who is able to help you monitor this. www.meet-cambridge.com

• For meetings and events from 4 to 100 • All year round availability near Cambridge For information, call 01223 746286 email: enquiry@madingleyhall.co.uk Website: www.madingleyhall.co.uk

ABOVE: the Kathleen Lyttelton Room

Perfect room for a team away day or off-site meeting • For meetings and events from 4 to 100 • All year round availability near Cambridge For information, call 01223 746286 email: enquiry@madingleyhall.co.uk Website: www.madingleyhall.co.uk

Splitting into small groups can be a good way to explore topics.

• Can fit up to 20 in boardroom style • Situated in our beautiful Old Court • Touch screen audio-visual system with hybrid meeting and whiteboard functionality.

Tel: 01223 335855 E-mail: conferences@sel.cam.ac.uk Website: www.sel.cam.ac.uk

• Ca • Sit • To me

the power to

TRANSFORM

Lobby for Change 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.

• R aise local issues affecting your business through your local Chamber committee • C omplete our quarterly economic survey to ensure your views are represented in the results each quarter • C ontribute to national debates • L obby local MPs on matters of local, regional and national economic interest.

Quarterly Economic Survey

To support our local Chamber committees and members across the county in their focus on business advocacy and representation, including their role in lobbying local government and contributing to national policy consultations, we have promoted Laura Ruaux into the role of Policy & Partnerships Executive.

If you have an issue you would like raised at one of our local Chamber committees or support with lobbying local government get in touch with Laura at l.ruaux@cambscci.co.uk.

NICs increase has immediate impact on business Research carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce, of more than 1,100 UK employers, has uncovered a series of negative impacts from the increase in National Insurance contributions.

Firms said the rise in employer contributions to National Insurance (NI) from 13.8% to 15.05% had increased staffing costs, forced some to put up their prices, and meant they would be limiting their investment.

Thank you to everyone that took part in our quarterly economic survey for quarter 2. We hope to have the results available for print in our July issue of connected.

As part of its call for an Emergency Budget, the BCC is calling for the rise to be immediately reversed for at least a year, as firms battle surging costs on multiple fronts.

Benefits for completing the QES Survey

The BCC is calling for action to give businesses a chance to keep a lid on rising prices, boost productivity and ease cost pressures.

• T he QES is Britain’s biggest, and longest-running, private business survey • I t’s provided consistent data since 1989, and regularly receives more than 7,000 business responses. Compare that to the average business survey, which gathers a few hundred responses • I t’s a leading indicator – often picking up big changes in the economy long before other surveys or official statistics • The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee uses the QES as one of its key benchmarks when setting interest rates • H M Treasury and the independent Office for Budget Responsibility use the QES to put together their forecasts for the UK’s economic performance • The European Commission uses the QES to assess the health of the UK economy when it makes policy recommendations for both Westminster and Brussels • The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) use the QES when comparing the UK to competitors worldwide • The QES is a clear example of how being part of a local Chamber of Commerce means your part of something bigger. Together, we are the economy.

Q3 survey will start on 22 August. Please do spare a few minutes to complete the survey when you receive the link, your views really do help to ensure Cambridgeshire has a strong voice in the future planning of the economy.

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Hannah Essex, Co-Executive Director of the BCC, said: “Businesses are telling us that the rise in National Insurance contributions has been a body blow as they try to get back on their feet.

“When firms are already facing a toxic mix of surging inflation, rising energy costs and supply chain disruption, this increase is very hard to swallow.

“The tight labour market is already pushing up staff costs and the NI rise has only served to exacerbate that pressure, without having a positive impact on recruitment.

“With firms’ profits also taking a further hit, after two years of the pandemic, it is no surprise that their investment intentions are also weakening.

“But it is not too late to change tack and push the increase back until firms are in a better place to take on the extra burden.

“The costs crises facing firms and people in the street are two sides of the same coin. If we can ease the pressure on businesses, then they can keep a lid on the price rises.

“Acting now will also put businesses in a better position to create the future profits needed to fill tax coffers.”

The British Chambers of Commerce will continue to lobby for businesses across the country to help them get the support they need during these challenging times.

Working together with the Chamber Network, the BCC engages with decision-makers to influence policy, ensuring the interests of businesses are represented.

how to

PROTECT Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

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

Employee expects rights of privacy on personal emails Can an employee expect rights of privacy on personal emails contained in a business email account of the employer?

The above was addressed by the Court of Appeal in the case of Brake v Guy 2022 where a partnership business providing luxury breaks and events on the Axnoller estate closed resulting in bankruptcy for the partners with the Axnoller estate being sold and ending up with Guy (G) who proceeded to employ Mrs Brake (B) a former partner of the partnership business to run the business until their relationship broke down with (B)’s employment thereafter being terminated.

TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT

Following termination of employment, the parties entered to litigation actions on various legal issues including an employment claim over the misuse of private information and breach of confidence by the Employer relating to a business email account that was used to receive customer / potential customer enquiries about the services provided on the Axnoller estate, but which (B) has also used for private purposes.

The Employer had accessed the email account and provided copies of (B)’s emails to third parties including trustee in backruptcy under provisions within s.366 of the Insolvency Act 1986.

As the business account in question had a general enquiries email address rather than one in the (B)s name which would have had a greater expectation of privacy, the Court of Appeal held on the facts of the case that the employee should not have any expectation of privacy or confidentiality in respect of personal emails sent from a business email account where (B) had shared this email account with two other employees, neither of whom used it for personal correspondence.

LJ Baker stated at paragraph 57 of his judgement that “The fact that Mrs Brake did not have exclusive use of the account but shared it

with others is plainly relevant to the question whether there was a reasonable expectation of privacy” and that “It is clear from emails adduced in evidence and shown to this Court during the appeal hearing that other employees replied to business emails sent to Mrs Brake via the enquiries account.”

Other case law highlights that the fact that certain types of personal information would as a general rule be treated as private but that does not give rise to any legal presumption – Bloomberg LP v ZXC (2022) UKSC thus whether there is a reasonable expectation of privacy will be a broad one taking into account of all the circumstances of the case as explained in the case of Murray v Express Newspapers PLC (2008) and thus the contents of any emails was only one factor to be considered in addressing that issue.

FRAUD

Despite the above, where an employee’s conduct is perceived as unlawful for example using a business email to perpetrate fraud on the Employer or the Employer’s business associates, that conduct would be relevant to both (a) to whether there was a reasonable expectation of privacy and/or duty of confidence and, if there was, (b) to whether there was a breach of privacy and/or confidence by disclosure.

Privacy disputes can be very complex matters and always prudent to take professional advice on the matter.

Please note that this article is for general information purposes only and should not be relied upon as being authoritative on the matter and is current to 22 April however further guidance on the matter can be provided by contacting the HR/legal advice line on 01455 852028.

Jatinda Tara, Advice Line Team Leader

As a Chamber member you have unlimited access to four services – HR, Legal, Health & Safety and Tax. This includes: 5 Advice Lines – HR, legal, health & safety, tax and VAT 3 Document Libraries – HR, Legal, Health & Safety that contains almost 800 templated documents £1,000,000 Legal Expenses Insurance – includes employment cover and Tax Enquiry cover.

Visit https://chambercambs.questcover.com/login or call the helpline on 01455 852037.

If you don’t know your log-in details to access this service, please give the team a call on 01223 237414. connected 9

Photo by FLY:D on Unsplash

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.

IT, SECURITY AND DIGITAL SECTOR UPDATES PASSWORD PROTECTION FOR BUSINESSES

PREPARING TO RESPOND TO A CYBER ATTACK

Last month (5 May) it was Password Protection Day. We’d like to further help businesses protect their data with these helpful tips.

Firstly, always use strong passwords. These are passwords that contain at least eight characters or more. Every character you add, makes it harder for hackers, so, the more the better. Secondly, a mix of lower-case and upper-case letters is advisable. Thirdly, numbers and symbols are also encouraged and of course there should be no ties to your personal information. If your employees adopted such approaches when producing a password, your company will be in a much better position security wise.

It is not possible to allow for every scenario when it comes to cyber security incident response management, but having the right processes in place can alleviate some of the panic which often ensues during an incident. A well-prepared plan affords both management and staff the knowledge of how they should respond and what they should do when an attack happens.

In addition, password manager apps can be very useful and will store passwords for each of the services that you use. If, for whatever reason, some passwords cannot be stored in a password manager, then we would recommend using sentence-based passwords. These are far easier for the human mind to remember.

Plus, longer passwords increase the difficulty level for hackers to breach your account.

Lastly, never share your passwords with anyone. This leaves room for human error and could be devastating. Don’t reuse the same password and never write your passwords down. Whether this is in a book or a single piece of paper; if you lose it, it could fall into the wrong hands.

Advice from Cambridge Support 10 connected

Part of effectively managing your teams response to a cyber incident, and preparing them for the real thing is conducting a number of ‘test runs’ in the form of table top exercises. These are pre-defined scenarios, simulating a cyber-attack or security related incident for the incident response team to work through.

We strongly believe that creating simulated cyber-attack scenarios tailored to the organisation and based on real world attacks, latest techniques and tactics used by cyber criminals have the most benefit.

So, how do we do this? During an initial workshop, we aim to determine what incident response processes and practices are already in place and what the organisation would like to achieve.

This is followed up by some further research which can be pertinent to the types of scenarios the organisation will get the most benefit from. We then build scenarios tailored specifically to the organisation. These would be presented in the form of play books and would contain a thorough, fully developed exercise for the incident response team to follow.

learn and

Exercises can often contain curveballs and move in another direction depending on the actions of the Incident Response team.

This can further help mimic real world situations and allow for likely changes and developments as the incident progresses.

Actually participating in exercises is so important for the Incident Response team to become familiar with and understand how the process should work. It allows staff to ask questions, make mistakes, understand how best to work together, learn and really take notice and control of the responses and ultimate outcome.

Talk to CyberScale if you want to know more about how to build resilience in to your business. info@cyberscale.co.uk 01603 339550 Advice from CyberScale

DEFENDING YOUR SME IN THE CURRENT THREAT LANDSCAPE Organisations nowadays face more complex cyber risks than ever before.

Cyber security is important for small businesses because cyber criminals know that SMEs typically do not have the resources available to properly manage cyber security. For cyber criminals managing large-scale automated attacks, it is often easier to steal £5,000 each from 1,000 SMEs than to try and steal £500,000 from a single target.

All SMEs should take basic cyber security precautions – the Cyber Essentials standard is the very minimum of what they should

INFORM

have in place. Cyber Essentials Plus is a good step up, followed by the Cyber Assessment Framework (CAF) – and the CAF is a good standard for larger SMEs to follow, although they will typically need to outsource the support they need for this.

A defence-in-depth approach to cyber security is the only way to gain the peace of mind you need to focus on your day-to-day objectives and secure your organisation’s success.

Cyber security defence in depth covers five important elements: detection, protection, management, response and recovery.

We recognise that cyber security is an ongoing process, requiring continual evaluation, maintenance and revision. This is why we’ve put together a suite of products and services to help your organisation address the evolving range of cyber risks it faces each and every day.

How IT Governance can help SMEs Cyber Safeguard protects small businesses against cyber-attacks quickly and cost-effectively with expert support, training and tools.

With Cyber Safeguard, you get access to dedicated cyber security expertise, legal support and specialised cyber insurance cover of up to £500,000 for added peace of mind.

Whatever your resources or expertise, a defence-in-depth approach to cyber security will give you the best chance of mitigating the cyber security threats your organisation faces, so you can focus on your core business objectives without having to worry about coming under attack.

Advice from IT Governance Ltd

Photo by Jorge Aguilar on Unsplash

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.

Chamber Network welcomes launch of UKMexico trade negotiations Trade Ministers from the UK and Mexico have launched negotiations on an improved trade agreement between the two countries.

Current trade terms are based on a continuity agreement put in place when the UK left the EU. Reacting to news of the launch William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: “Mexico is a key market for exporting firms, particularly in Northern Ireland and the North-East of England, from business services to food and drink.

“We want to see an ambitious new agreement that focuses on the growing market in green trade, as well as future proofing access for further expansion in services.

“Other key factors will be effective labour mobility and business travel schemes, and reduced costs for exporters through strong digital trade provisions.

“We also want to see arrangements on rules of origin which provide manufacturers with similar flexibilities on supply chains to those currently in place, as well as the benefits of further tariff reductions.

“A modern agreement has the potential to boost opportunities in Mexico for UK exporters in a growing and exciting market the 15th largest economy in the world in 2020.”

How to mitigate currency risk Currency market volatility and supply chain interruptions caught out hundreds of companies during the early weeks of the COVID-19 outbreak, highlighting the importance of managing foreign exchange risks. On 20 March 2020, sterling fell to its lowest level against the US dollar for 35 years, with the GBP/USD exchange rate moving from 1.3157 to 1.1494 in the space of a few days. If they haven’t already done so, company directors with significant overseas transactions should move quickly to help mitigate against further volatility.

Those seeking greater visibility of their future costs may opt to use a forward contract like the ones offered by WorldFirst.

Forward contracts allow you to secure an exchange rate for a defined period in the future, helping with cash-flow planning and potentially mitigating currency risk. By embracing this approach, company directors can budget for future revenues and book transactions ahead of time while funding them at a later date.

The World Trade Organization suggests the pandemic may result in increased levels of international trade longer term, which means the use of currency risk management solutions could become a popular and prudent choice for businesses. Read more about the importance of managing currency risk on the WorldFirst website.

For more information please contact regional.sales@worldfirst.com

UKRAINE SUPPORT

RECENT UPDATES

The British Chambers of Commerce Ukraine Hub contains updated information and guidance for businesses about the situation in Ukraine. This will continue to be updated as and when new guidance is received.

Visit the Hub at www.britishchambers.org.uk/page/ ukraine-support

New packaging and electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) obligations for sellers on German online marketplaces From 1 July 2022 online marketplaces and fulfilment service providers operating in Germany will be subject to new extended producer responsibility obligations for packaging that they place on the market, with similar regulations for electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) coming into force on 1 January 2023.

such as storing, packaging or dispatching goods, if the sellers of these products have not complied with their legal obligations. Sellers need to be registered with the German Central Packaging Register LUCID and license their packaging with a German compliance scheme. These regulations apply to both product and shipping packaging.

Due to recent German packaging law changes, operators of online marketplaces will no longer be allowed to offer packaged products, and fulfilment service providers must not carry out any activities,

For help and support on anything International Trade related give the Chamber a call on 01223 237414 or email internationaltrade@cambscci.co.uk

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extend your

GLOBAL REACH

Why and when you need Multilingual Copywriting Services Top Tips from Iwona Lebiedowicz, founder of PAB Languages Centre To engage effectively with your customers in various markets, you need to create content with your audience in mind. But you can’t always get that from a straightforward translation.

Standard technical translation can be applied to technical, factual, non-emotional documents. These are often related to the engineering, financial, and medical fields, and might include machine manuals, system descriptions and specifications, labelling of hazardous substances, safety instructions and so on.

Certified translation will be often required for official purposes and is used in legal documents such as birth, death and marriage certificates, legal contracts, written or recorded accounts of court proceedings, and so on.

messages for other countries or cultures, you need multilingual copywriting services.

Copy persuades. It inspires action. This is why it’s such a powerful tool to promote and sell.

Multilingual copywriting is the best option when you need to adapt your content to a local and cultural context in another country. This might include advertisements and billboards – both physical and digital – headlines and body copy, slogans, and straplines. Indeed, any type of content which you want to connect emotionally with your global audience. And sometimes translation isn’t enough.

“You will not truly connect with your foreign clients simply by showing you understand their culture; your words and actions must prove that you have entered their world.”

Standard and certified translation is usually a rigid, word-for-word, literal translation. Which is great if that’s what you’re looking for. But if you need something more nuanced, something that carries the original meaning of your words and emotions across languages and cultures, neither standard nor certified translation will do.

At PAB Languages, our team of native-speaking experts come from all over the world and understand all the elements and cultural references you’ll need to take account of when speaking to your audiences. Our creative linguists will use the right words, the right style and tone to ensure you are communicating effectively with your international audience.

The fact is, when you need to accurately reflect your marketing

Get in touch today on 07799 772 360 to discuss your project.

The Bank of England can’t avoid being the headline news There was a time when policy makers at Central Banks were able to remain fairly anonymous, their thoughts and mutterings would be at most an article in tomorrow’s newspaper.

For Bank of England (BofE) Governor, Andrew Bailey, and his cohorts, remaining in the background is not an option. Inflation in many large global economies shows no sign of abating, his every word, every action, every thought is scrutinised like never before.

Central Banks are in the main tasked with protecting financial stability, many being specifically tasked to keeping inflation at manageable levels. With UK inflation soaring, potentially to 12 per cent, the BofE are being heavily challenged on how they intend to meet their remit.

Independent since 1997, the BofE has until recently shown that it can keep inflation low but now must demonstrate that it can reduce high inflation. Its credibility is at stake, which in turn will be a key driver of how the financial markets perceive the outlook for the Pound over the next 12 month.

Their task is a tough one, Andrew Baily noted to the Treasury Select Committee “80 per cent of the overshoots over the target is due to energy and tradable goods.” He further highlighted, the unforeseen war in Ukraine and a further wave of covid in China, also putting pressure on prices.

Historically high inflation is now being met with a slowing economy, raising interest rates also risks stalling the economy and unemployment rising. With these forces coming together, the

BofE will need verbal and policy support from the Government to help as times get tougher.

However, only 30 months (at most) to the next general election, a verbally supportive Government could quickly have dissenters, tying to shift the blame for the economic woe.

The flip side should the BofE succeed in keeping structural inflation in check, then Politicians will be keen to bask in their efforts to the wider public.

Chancellor Sunak’s cost of living announcement supported Sterling from the BofE inspired lows, however the theme of recent times will continue, it’s choppy waters with more negative forecasters than positive in the market. Markets are already betting on when Sunak will return to give more, whilst also demanding the BofE raise interest rates again.

2022 ranges for GBP (up to 1 June) GBP v Euro – High 1.2190 - Low 1.1602 GBP v US Dollar – High 1.3749 - Low 1.2154 For more information on reducing the cost of foreign exchange for your business contact karen.benson@ascendant.world or visit www.ascendant.world/uk

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chamber

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

TRAINING

CHAMBER TRAINING Course Dates

UNDERSTANDING A CUSTOMS DECLARATION 7 July, 3 November This course will highlight what you need to know to complete customs declarations accurately for both the import and export of goods, including taking you through step-by-step guidance on completing the SAD C88 form.

UNDERSTANDING RULES OF ORIGIN 14 July, 6 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.

UNDERSTANDING LOGISTICS 19 July, 13 October Understand the process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to their final destination.

IMPORT/ EXPORT DIAGNOSTICS WORKSHOP 11 August, 24 November This workshop shows companies how to look at their SOPS and compliance, going through key areas of procedures and compliance, preparing for trading internationally either by exporting or importing.

UNDERSTANDING EXPORTING 8 September This course covers all the basic key areas around exporting.

It will explain the requirements for documentation, plus an overview of country of origin and incoterms.

BITESIZE WORKSHOP: EXPORT STRATEGY 8 September We will discuss the importance of Export Strategy, new or old.

Building new international markets is the first stage.

Export Strategy: • Market entry • Barriers to understand and overcome • Useful tools and website to help your journey • Assessing needs of customers and capabilities • Making a procedure plan.

UNDERSTANDING IMPORTING 20 September This course covers all the basic key areas around importing and will explain the requirements for documentation, plus an overview of country of origin and incoterms.

BITESIZE WORKSHOP: EXPORT MARKETING 20 September Find out how to market your products and services overseas.

• Understanding how countries adopt different methods when marketing your products • Origin plays a key role when dealing with some Countries • Check best trading countries - we will show you some useful tools to use • Importance of FTA when exporting.

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UNDERSTANDING COMMODITY CODES 27 September, 13 December By attending this course we will ensure you are aware of what a commodity code is and what it is used for, understand the process of how to classify goods, successfully classify a range of goods and understand the importance of getting your commodity codes correct.

CUSTOMS PROCEDURES AND DOCUMENTATION 6 October The course looks at the procedures required to deal with customs. 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.

INCOTERMS 2020 18 October This seminar will explain Incoterms® and their importance in international trade contracts.

BITESIZE WORKSHOP: DOCUMENTATION 18 October Having the following set up allows Export and/or Import departments to move goods without delays and extra costs.

• Processing and Documentation • Understanding Incoterms • Understanding Commodity codes • Correct Documentation and procedures.

LETTERS OF CREDIT 15 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.

INWARD AND OUTWARD PROCESSING 1 December The course will cover special procedures and the benefits of using IP and OP in your compliance.

Full course details are available on our website www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk/training TRAINING COURSES Our training courses run from 9.30am-1.00pm.

Cost per course: £250.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £330.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

BITESIZE WORKSHOPS Our Bitesize sessions run from training courses run from 3.00-4.00pm.

Cost per bitesize session: £50.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £75.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

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

insight from

SARAH WEST

Top tips to help grow your business through marketing In reality, your business may not actually do anything particularly but by communicating your USP in every piece of marketing, customers will begin to identify your business with the qualities you want to promote.

4. BE CONSISTENT, BE PERSISTENT To be memorable, all your marketing needs to communicate the same message.

Customers are likely to be exposed to your marketing in many ways, so keep your messages consistent for as long as it takes to develop the right brand reputation.

5. MAXIMISE YOUR ROI An increase in your marketing spend should result in a corresponding increase in customers, revenue or profit – given appropriate time.

When choosing your marketing activities, you need to evaluate the time, cost, and expertise needed and the likelihood of results.

Which marketing will deliver the best results?

How much should I spend? What return can I expect?

Whilst it can be difficult to give generic answers to these common questions, there are tactics which increase the chances of positive results from marketing.

Sarah West of Full Mix Marketing looks at nine top tips:

1. BE STRATEGIC Often mistaken simply for how you publicise your products or services, marketing affects everything you do and is often broken down into the 7 P’s – products, price, place, promotion, people, process and physical evidence.

It’s tempting to skip straight to promotion and assume the better you publicise your services, the faster you’ll grow. However, if your service is poor or your product is overpriced, promotion will only go so far.

Customers don’t differentiate between your product, website or the person who answers your phone. Every element can affect their decision to buy. Successful marketing is about ensuring everything you do meets or exceeds their expectations.

For example, e-mail marketing is low cost but requires the right skills.

Whilst advertising can generate a high return, it can also be costly.

Social media is essential for most businesses but can absorb time.

It may be more effective to get more from your existing customers, rather than target new ones.

The return you receive from marketing is often directly proportionate to the thought which goes into your strategy.

6. ALWAYS CREATE A BRIEF Whenever you create a piece of marketing, create a written brief first.

It simply needs to specify what you want it to achieve, who you’re targeting, the key message and what action you want it to encourage the recipient to take Without a brief, marketing is often evaluated on looks, rather than effectiveness. Once the piece of marketing is delivered, you can compare results against the brief and learn lessons.

7. BENEFITS, NOT FEATURES Whilst the specifics of your product or service are important, your customer wants to know ‘What’s in it for me?’

SWOT analysis involves looking internally at your business’s strengths and weaknesses - and externally at any opportunities and threats.

Customers are more likely to see the benefits if you help them. Rather than the raw features, focus your marketing on the benefits your customers value most.

Recognising your business’s strengths is often something you can capitalise upon. For example, if your business has a great reputation for quality, it could become the focus of your marketing.

8. THREE CRITICAL ELEMENTS Whilst marketing must be visually appealing, it has a job to do. Don’t let design overshadow the effectiveness of your marketing.

Improving weaknesses could be the fastest route to success. For example, if your website is poor, improving it could be key to online growth.

Whatever marketing you deliver, it’s likely to only be seen for a few seconds. Keep text to a minimum, use headlines to create impact and choose images which convey a lot of positive information.

2. SWOT THE OPPORTUNITIES

Chances are you’ve already identified some opportunities for growth. There may be a gap in the market or a new type of customer you can target.

Like weaknesses, threats can often be turned around. If your industry is threatened by new technology, be the first to embrace it.

3. BE DIFFERENT A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is something which helps your business stand out over competitors.

Some evolve naturally, but it’s often best to proactively select your USP from the key attributes your customers look for.

Effective marketing should encourage a response. Include a call-toaction such as a reminder to get in touch or a tempting offer.

9. MONITOR, EVALUATE, IMPROVE Greater results come as you refine your marketing. The more you can track your activities, the more accurately you can evaluate results, especially with digital marketing.

A/B testing is a powerful tool. By using two differing versions of the same marketing, you can gauge which performs better.

Need more help? Visit fullmixmarketing.co.uk connected 15

ask the

EXPERT

The Reality of implementing ISO Standards You may be prompted to implement an ISO standard in order to win or retain a client or customer but whether the decision to implement is reactive or proactive, you need to understand the requirements of the chosen standard before you start. You don’t need to understand the technicalities or the detail – that’s what consultants are for, but you need to be familiar with the basic requirements in the context of your business. Having reasonable awareness of the standard can save you time and money as you’re able to make informed decisions from day one and on-going management is also going to be easier. Consultants are there to help with understanding, training and so on but making the effort to read up is worthwhile.

In terms of cost, not all standards are equal. Implementing 9001 on its own is relatively straightforward compared to 27001. That’s due to the complexity and reach of the 27001 standard. More complex standards usually take longer to put in place and that means higher consultancy fees, a greater requirement for training and so on. Of course, your baseline as a business also has a bearing on project costs. ISO standards require a process approach so if your business doesn’t have documented processes in place there will be a lot more work to do. Records are also important. If your business is weak on record keeping that will increase the amount of preparatory work needed to get everything in place.

Nowadays many businesses have an ISO standard in place typically ISO 9001 (quality management) or ISO 9001 combined with other standards relevant to their sector or required by their clients. As Information Security (ISO 27001) and Environment (ISO 14001) become increasingly relevant many sectors are demonstrating their commitment to these and other standards through accreditation within the ISO framework. If your business hasn’t yet taken the plunge, there are some things to be aware of before you start.

Regardless of which standard or standards you want to adopt, implementation requires a significant commitment in terms of time (typically months not weeks) and resources, both physical and financial.

Many businesses opt to use a consultant like me to help them with implementation but that doesn’t mean you can step away and come back when everything is in place. The adoption of ISO standards requires changes in how you operate, so any implementation project is going to require significant input from the client. Be prepared to appoint an implementation team who are able to take on an additional workload for the duration of the project.

Because of the degree of change involved, you may need to manage negative reactions to the implementation project itself or to the new ways of working required by the standard. Positive messages from Senior management throughout the project can go a long way towards reducing resistance but an on-going education and awareness programme is also important. Ideally, you’d be doing both. Some Standards, ISO 9001 included, specifically require demonstrable and on-going involvement from Senior management to achieve accreditation.

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Costs don’t stop at the implementation stage. Having achieved your accreditation you need to shout about it – that may mean updating your marketing, carrying out a comms campaign to make your sector aware of your accreditation and you may need to incentivise staff who’ve taken on additional responsibilities for managing the standard going forward.

You may also decide to use a platform to help you manage documentation – that’s another layer of costs to be considered.

Although these are often very affordable they do represent an on-going cost.

ISO implementation projects usually cost upwards of £50,000 not including the ongoing costs I’ve mentioned here so planning ahead is helpful if you can do it. The implementation of any ISO standard should be considered a business project rather than being departmentally-focussed as the long-term commercial benefits are undeniable.

With all of these factors in mind, choosing the right consultant is crucial. They need to be a good fit with your business as they’ll be immersed in it for the duration of the project. They should be working to help keep your costs to a minimum where possible.

They need to be flexible and adaptable to work with you and your operation as painlessly as possible and most of all they should leave you in a position to pick up the reigns and keep going.

Get in touch for an informal conversation about cost-effective ISO implementation for your business.

Annie McNeely, AMC Operations, annie@anniemcneely.co.uk, 07590 267209

ask the

EXPERT

Construction Delay Analysis – What You Need to Know The three fundamental essential elements of any construction contract are PRICE, TIME and SCOPE. Price and Scope are often only perceived as required by contracting parties, without any serious consideration for TIME. Jonathan Nugent, Managing Director at Arbicon, answers your questions.

Why is TIME consideration so important?

Time is money, so on any construction project it is little wonder that often when a project is delayed or delivered late, a construction dispute will arise. Imagine the Client procuring a building where they will lose £30,000 per week in lost revenue when they do not get the building on time, and likewise the builder who claims the client has been the cause of delay and, as a result, is losing £30,000 per week.

What happens if a Construction Delay Occurs?

If construction delays occur, to satisfy the burden of proof, the contractor must notify the Client and keep good records of the impact each event has on the programmed construction works. The contractor should make an “Extension of Time” claim as works proceed and the substantiation behind this process is called ‘Delay Analysis’.

Under the Standard Form of Contract there are normally “mechanisms” in place

to extend time and the responsibility for assessing this is with the Employer or their representative. If the Employer doesn’t deal with construction delays seriously, it can lead to huge liabilities later in adjudication. It is common practice for Employers to amend the construction contract provisions and contractors should be aware of the implications of these, particularly if they claim to be a “condition precedent”.

When Delay Analysis Should be Used The delay analysis should be deployed throughout the construction process, creating “contemporaneous evidence”. The contract mechanism must be adhered to reduce the risk of loss or dispute. Delays can be caused by either party, the offender paying for it, however there are “neutral events” where nobody is to blame and cases where both parties are to blame, often known as concurrent delays.

Careful management, record keeping and an understanding of all the factors and risks which can impact on time or result from delay, must be considered in managing any construction project effectively.

The Importance of Records As work proceeds, it is important to manage the time with records, and to understand how an Adjudicator is likely to deal with the claim, whether by a critical path analysis or otherwise.

Although common sense may prevail it is recommended that a clear understanding of the concept of time management for any construction project, a clear chronology of events recorded and all the risk factors that can arise be appreciated to avoid unnecessary losses and disputes.

Arbicon are experts in dealing with Delay and Extension of Time issues. Arbicon can prepare or defend quantum time claims using Delay Analysis and dealing with any time issues in adjudication proceedings.

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chamber

GUEST ARTICLE

SWITCH ON TO SAVINGS It’s a challenging time for the business community with a vast array of different issues to address including, labour and skill shortages, increasing raw material costs and supply chain issues.

However, it is soaring energy prices and growing uncertainty around the security of supply, that is driving more and more businesses to seek out advice and support to better manage their energy use and identify ways to become more efficient.

Add to that increasing demands from key customers to contribute towards addressing climate change and work towards becoming net zero, and arguably, managing energy has never been more crucial.

OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO DECARBONISATION

Thanks to funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), eligible small and medium-sized businesses across Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Suffolk, and Norfolk have been able to access support from the Eastern New 18 connected

Energy (ENE) Programme, led by the University of East London (UEL).

The Eastern New Energy Programme’s main goal is to remove the barriers that prevent the rapid decarbonisation of local communities, business operations, buildings, and transport systems. The programme works with a range of stakeholders including businesses, councils, community organisations, and even individual households.

From a business perspective the programme offers support to: - Develop and deliver Net Zero action plans - Switch vehicle fleets to lower carbon alternatives - Design, develop and bring to market new low carbon products and services Specific support available to eligible businesses includes energy audits and Net Zero focused workshops. More details on the full range of support can be accessed at https://www.uel.ac.uk/our-research/ sustainability-research-institute-sri/ eastern-new-energy-project or by emailing ene@uel.ac.uk

FINANCIAL SUPPORT

A key element of the support available to businesses through Eastern New Energy is the SME Grant Scheme that is facilitated on behalf of UEL by the Peterborough based sustainability charity PECT. The grant scheme has been helping businesses to secure financial support to invest in low carbon and energy-efficient measures, such as LED lighting and solar PV. To date over £1 million of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects have received an offer of grant funding support, including those that will facilitate an additional 0.911 GWh of solar PV capacity in the region.

If eligible for funding projects can qualify for 20-25 per cent of capital costs, subject to the level of energy savings likely to be secured.

“Now is the time to invest in low carbon technology whilst funding is still available.

Businesses have a huge role to play in creating a cleaner, greener future. Not only does investing in technology such as LED lights have a positive impact on your carbon

chanber

footprint, but it is financially beneficial as well; making it a worthwhile investment.”

“For smaller businesses, it can be difficult to find the funding to invest in new technology, and PECT is delighted to be supporting the University of East London to provide a solution to help bridge this gap through the ENE Grant Scheme,” says Carly Leonard, PECT CEO.

SIMPLE AND STRAIGHTFORWARD PROCESS

St Ives based business, Direct Communications Radio Services Limited (DCRS) were awarded a £2,234 grant towards replacing their existing light fittings with more energy-efficient LEDs. The project will deliver estimated annual cost savings of around £3,164 and carbon savings of around 6.1 tonnes.

Michael Price, Accounts Manager at DCRS, explains: “The process to apply for a grant

was simple and straightforward. Clear instructions and advice were given at every stage to ensure a smooth path for our project to be completed.”

LAST CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

As the scheme enters its last few months of operation, the Peterborough based ENE Grants Team are keen to hear from businesses looking to invest less than £25,000 and support them to navigate the application process.

Currently, the final date for applications to be considered by the Eastern New Energy Programme’s Grants Panel is 19 August 2022, meaning applications need to be underway no later than 3 August 2022.

“There are many organisational benefits to investing in energy efficiency solutions or renewable energy technologies,” explains Antony Gough, ENE Grant Scheme Project Manager.

GUEST ARTICLE “This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to access expert assistance and funding to implement effective energy efficiency measures. Our funding pot is limited, and with only a few months left before the scheme closes, we’d urge businesses to get in touch today, so they don’t miss out.”

Interest in the grant scheme has increased significantly since the start of 2022, as businesses start to experience significant cost increases and realise the grant scheme is soon due to end. Any business who may be interested in grant funding is urged to get in touch with the ENE team as soon as possible as the funding pot is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Interested parties can find out more about receiving a grant, and eligibility criteria, by emailing ene@pect.org.uk or visiting www.pect.org.uk/projects/ene Antony Gough, Grant Scheme Project Manager at Eastern New Energy

Switch onto energy savings Limited funding still available for eligible businesses towards energy saving projects*. Find out more: www.pect.org.uk/projects/ene

The ENE project is funded by the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding * Eligibility criteria apply. Minimum project value £5,000.

chambers

CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Mindfulness at Maggie’s Cambridge

Research has highlighted that mindfulness has significant benefits for managing stress Mindfulness has enjoyed being in the media spotlight for some time now. From newspaper discussions, courses, books and apps to an All-Party Parliamentary group advocating its use in education, health and the criminal justice system in order to reduce stress and increase wellbeing. It is also now used regularly in NHS settings as well as in business.

Mindfulness is the practice of directing our attention to our experience as it unfolds with open – minded curiosity and acceptance. Mindfulness invites you to bring your attention to the present moment with an intention of acceptance, paying attention to thoughts and feelings without judging them and without believing there is a right or wrong way to think in a particular moment. The intention of these practices is to help people develop skills which can manage physical and psychological issues. Observing how we think about and react to any given situation can open up new possibilities for how we feel and behave as a result. With

practice these skills can allow us to navigate ongoing challenges in life with curiosity, calmness and resilience.

Mindfulness is not a new concept and forms of mindfulness can often be found in many cultures for thousands of years. For example, in Buddhist traditions forms of mindfulness meditations have been practiced for 2,500 years. Mindfulness entered the mainstream in the 1970’s after Jon Kabat Zinn, a medical doctor based in the USA, undertook significant research into its benefits. In the 1990’s Mark William a psychologist based at Oxford University collaborated with the MRC in Cambridge to help develop Mindfulness based cognitive therapy. This evidence-based approach has since been developed to help people manage physical and psychological health. This approach is taught worldwide by trained facilitators who incorporate mindfulness into their daily lives.

Numerous research studies have shown that people who learn to practice mindfulness find they are better able to cope with their cancer experience, finding an increased

wellbeing and enjoyment of life. Indeed, a study undertook by researchers at Harvard University discovered through neuro imaging that people who practice mindfulness daily displayed measurable changes in the brain. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has recommended Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for the treatment of depression.

A cancer diagnosis gives rise to many physical and emotional challenges which may continue well beyond treatment for the person experiencing cancer and their family and friends. Mindfulness as an evidence-based approach is an integral part of the programme of support that is offered here at Maggie’s Cambridge; ranging from individual psychological support to the stress management course that we offer.

We are offering the Mindfulness Based cognitive therapy group in our centre in Cambridge. To find out more, please contact our centre on 01223 249 220 or email cambridge@maggies.org.

SOME TIPS FOR LEARNING TO BE MINDFUL Awareness of the breath Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down.

First take a normal breath then try a deep breath: Breathe in slowly through your nose, allowing your chest and lower belly to rise and fill your lungs. Let your abdomen expand fully. Now breathe out slowly through your mouth.

Ground yourself in this moment Either standing or sitting become aware of the contact of the full surface area of the soles of your feet against the floor. Feel the sensations of touch, temperature and pressure. Feeling and sensing rather than thinking about what you are doing.

Take a mindful tea break Bring your full awareness to the experience of drinking tea. Holding the cup in your hands, feel the heat against the hands, taste the tea, smell the aroma of the blend. Open up your awareness to this moment. Allow this time just to be for you.

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chambers

CHARITY NEWS

Anglia Translations support children with brain tumours Cambridgeshire company Anglia Translations Ltd have made a major donation of £10,000 to local charity Anna’s Hope, which will go towards helping children and young people diagnosed with brain tumours to reach their full potential through specialist support and rehabilitation.

Director of Anglia Translations Ltd, Mary Gilbey, had this to say: “We have been immensely proud to have Anna’s Hope as our charity of the year for the past 12 months. I have known Carole for quite a few years and the work that her and her fabulous fairies have done and continue to do in this region is absolutely astonishing.

“The Anglia Translations team have worked incredibly hard over the past 12 months to ensure that we had another successful year in what have been challenging times for everyone. The cherry on the cake is that we can now also make a big difference to so many families that are affected by brain tumours.”

Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killers of young people and children, and are the second biggest overall in children. For those who do survive, the impact of the tumour and the treatment itself can have a long-term effect on their physical and mental abilities, which is why the work that Anna’s Hope do each day is so crucial.

The donation from Mary and her team will aid the brilliant work that Anna’s Hope do to increase awareness of childhood brain tumours, while offering support and rehabilitation to children,

What’s your next power move?

young people, and their families during, what is, an exceedingly challenging time.

Founder of Anna’s Hope, Carole Hughes, said: “On behalf of Anna’s Hope I would like to thank Mary and all at Anglia Translations Ltd for this wonderful donation that will make a huge difference to the lives of the children and families we support.

“Every penny will go to supporting specialist neuro rehabilitation by the Anna’s Hope Therapy Team as part of the Brainbow Service and will provide six months support for six children.”

Limited funding still available for eligible businesses towards renewable energy projects*.

Find out more and apply: www.pect.org.uk/projects/ene

The ENE project is funded by the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/european-growth-funding * Eligibility criteria apply. Minimum project value £5,000.

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

• NEW MEMBERS • Barnes Commercial Insurance Broker BrandWorks Clayton Hotel Cambridge Elite Swimming Academy Ltd Jimmy’s Cambridge Motor Detox Novotel Cambridge North

Having worked for more than thirty years in Learning and Need to persuade people to work for you, buy from you or invest in you?

We bring marketing, communications and brand expertise to fast-growing SMEs, helping you build strong connections with customers, staff, prospects and partners.

Some things we can help with: Market research, developing persuasive messages, a fresh look and feel for your brand, creating compelling content …and much more.

Ready to take your business to the next stage? www.thescalepartnerhip.com

Prior Scientific Instruments Ltd QVS Electrical Supplies Shawbrook Bank St Neots Town Football Club The Edmund Trust The Good Plant Company Upp Ltd

Coach on a Boat Having worked for more than thirty years in Learning and Development in corporate and not-for-profit organisations, I now specialise in supporting teams and individuals through change.

A qualified coach and NLP Practitioner I can help you support your people in the following ways: l Design and delivery of bespoke workshops, covering topics such as Dealing with Change, Team Building, Communicating Effectively and Coaching Skills for Everyone. l DISC Profiling l Coaching and mentoring for individuals and groups.

If you would like to discuss how I can help you and your organisation, please get in touch. sarahp@coachonaboat.co.uk www.coachonaboat.co.uk Sarah Pocklington | LinkedIn

Jimmy’s Cambridge Jimmy’s Cambridge is a peoplefocused organisation that has been working, since 1995, alongside those experiencing homelessness in our community to support and empower. From the moment a former rough sleeper first arrives at Jimmy’s they are met with a welcome offering safety and support for their journey to independence. www.jimmyscambridge.org.uk

Hottinger Brüel & Kjær The two market leaders, HBM and Brüel & Kjær, have joined forces as HBK – Hottinger Brüel & Kjær – to form the world’s foremost provider of integrated test, measurement, control, and simulation solutions.

HBK – Hottinger Brüel & Kjær – provides a complete portfolio of solutions across the test and measurement product life cycle, that unite the physical world of sensors, testing and measurement with the digital world of simulation, modelling software and analysis. By creating a scalable and open data acquisition hardware, software and simulation ecosystem, product developers can cut time-tomarket, drive innovation and take the lead in a highly competitive global marketplace.

For more information, please visit www.hbkworld.com

BrandWorks BrandWorks provide marketing consultancy, coaching and social media support for start-ups to PLCs. Our consultancy and coaching are flexible and results-focused. We help identify issues and execute activities.

We also provide social media management, helping businesses build relationships and grow without the hassle of managing social themselves.

Contact us: dan@brandworksmarketing.co.uk or telephone 07770 738323.

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HOW YOU ARE SEEN IS OFTEN THE FIRST IMPRESSION CLIENTS HAVE OF YOUR COMPANY. We are here to help you get that right.

We offer a range of Graphic Design services to boost your company’s identity. From logo design to websites and social media.

We consider ourselves a creative partner for the businesses we work with, helping them grow and achieve success. If you have a project or need Branding or Graphic Design services, please get in touch.

Vavoom.co.uk

chamber

MEMBER NEWS

Inspire Education Group appoints Rachel Nicholls as Chief Executive Inspire Education Group (IEG), the further education organisation consisting of Peterborough College, Stamford College and University Centre Peterborough, announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive.

Rachel Nicholls will be taking over the position on 1 July 2022 from Janet Meenaghan, who joined Stamford College as Principal in 2015 and became Chief Executive of IEG when it was formed in August 2020.

Rachel joined Peterborough College as Acting Principal in November 2018, having previously been Deputy Principal of Stamford College. She currently holds the role of Deputy CEO of IEG. Ian Jackson, Chair of Governors at IEG, said: “Rachel is a natural successor to this role and we have no doubt that she will continue the exemplary progress that Janet has achieved as Chief Executive.

“Not only does Rachel know both Peterborough and Stamford Colleges extremely well from her previous positions, but she has also delivered exceptional improvement at Peterborough over the past four years.

In a recent visit, Ofsted praised IEG for its high educational standards and putting students and apprentices at the centre of everything it does.

“We extend our sincere thanks to Janet for her dedication and support, and wish her well in her new appointment as CEO and Principal of Nottingham College.”

Janet Meenaghan said: “While I am looking forward to taking on new challenges as CEO at Nottingham College, I am sad to say goodbye to my colleagues and the students in Stamford and Peterborough.

It has been enormously rewarding to be a part of the improvement journey for IEG and I know that Rachel is the ideal leader to take the Group forward.”

Rachel Nicholls said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as CEO of Inspire Education Group and excited about our next phase of development as we build on the fantastic work across the group.

I believe that Further Education has the power to transform lives and help people get good jobs. I will be working tirelessly to ensure we meet the needs of employers and the communities we serve.”

New ‘recruit’ Ashley appointed to help meet regional job market demand offer with the agency itself!

Ashley added: “My partner was placed in a role with Anne Corder Recruitment a few years ago, told me how amazing they were and suggested I get in touch.

“After a long chat with Managing Director Nel Woolcott, she told me that I was just what the businesses was looking for as part of their expansion plans and offered me a role.

As the regional jobs market continues its robust recovery from the pandemic, a leading recruitment agency has strengthened its team to help meet client and candidate demand.

Peterborough-based Anne Corder Recruitment has welcomed Ashley Phillips, an experienced retail and operations HR manager/partner, to the team.

Ashley has taken on the role of HR & general recruitment specialist, after registering as a candidate turned into a job

“I feel that I bring a degree of understanding and empathy when it comes to the HR sector. Having held or managed the roles that I am tasked with recruiting for, gives me an insight into the requirements which helps both the business and the candidates.

“Along with my experience of running my own business I understand recruitment across multiple sectors and the challenges we all face in finding the right candidate for the business and the right business for the candidate.”

Ashely added: “It has been fantastic to speak with the HR managers out there to see how adaptive and exceptional they have all been through the pandemic. My aim in my new role is to make recruitment as smooth and easy as possible for both the candidate and the employer.”

Ashely spent many years working in all aspects of retail management for large supermarkets all over the country, and in 2016 decided to focus on a HR career path.

He said: “I gained my CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personal Development) qualification and was able to transition from operational management to HR management.”

Nel commented: “Ashley brings a new dimension to the business and is a perfect fit with our team. His knowledge and firsthand experience of HR roles is invaluable, particularly at what is now a very busy time in the regional jobs market. We are delighted to have him on board.” connected 23

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

George Hay Chartered Accountants appoint three Associate Partners Barry Jefferd, Senior Partner at George Hay, said about the announcements: “I am delighted to announce the appointments

of Caroline Hicks, Emma Wilsher and Samantha Green, three long-standing and valued members of the team, in recognition

of their respective achievements and the contributions they have made to the development of the firm.

“Having been working with businesses and individuals across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire for over 80 years now, we are readying ourselves to approach the next 80 with enthusiasm, ingenuity and purpose.”

All three internal promotions come amid a period of organic change and growth within the business and are a step towards realising long-term plans for succession.

Samantha, Emma and Caroline will step into their new roles, following a period of two years during which they have been looking after and developing their own portfolios.

Guardtech Group lead £17,000 fundraising drive to support MS sufferer Haverhill cleanroom construction company donate £4,000 to support close friend of family business.

Suffolk-based cleanroom construction company the Guardtech Group have led a campaign which helped to raise £17,000 for a family friend suffering with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Guardtech Commercial Director Mark Wheeler and Marketing Manager Joe Shackley joined forces with a group of their ex-school friends to raise the money for Joe Martin, a multiple sclerosis sufferer from Woolpit, who had been struggling to eat a wide range of foods for some time.

Having already seen his quality of life deteriorate significantly due to MS, Mr Martin had dropped to just seven stone in weight by the time the group of friends decided to act.

Mr Wheeler and Mr Shackley had initially set up a GoFundMe campaign in the hope of raising some money to help Mr Martin receive medical therapy known as FMT that he couldn’t get via the 24 connected

NHS, with Haverhill company Guardtech pledging £4,000 towards the campaign.

“As a family business, we try to do our bit to help out as many good causes as we can,” said Mr Wheeler, “and the Guardtech Directors kindly agreed to donate up to £4,000, with the hope that we’d get around the same amount in outside donations.”

But what happened next was astonishing.

After sharing the GoFundMe page to their Facebook pages and beyond, friends, family and ex-colleagues of Mr Martin rallied around the cause, helping the fundraising total soar towards the £10,000 mark in just 24 hours. The total eventually reached £13,276 (£17,276 with Guardtech’s donation) before it was finally closed officially at the start of May.

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MEMBER NEWS

DOMINO PRINTING APPOINTS UK HEAD OF MARKETING Domino Printing is promoting Chris Thorpe to the role, following 11 years at the company working in a range of different positions.

Chris joined the business as UK Marketing Executive before progressing to UK Marketing Manager and most recently National Marketing & Business Development Manager.

In his new role, he will head up UK Marketing, which will also include UK Sales Operations, along with a newly-formed UK Customer Success team, focusing on ‘proactive’ customer engagement to ensure customers achieve their desired outcomes.

Chris said: “Putting the customer at the heart of our marketing strategy is key and my experience in new business sales acquisition has given me a direct insight into the challenges customers face on a daily basis. Domino’s understanding and capability to deliver solutions has made it the successful organisation it is today.

“I am delighted to be taking up this new position and to be working with my colleagues in sales operations and establishing our new customer success team. It’s an exciting time within Domino as we emerge from the pandemic and focus on a long-term sustainable future for all.”

Roythornes ‘Family’ grows Specialist family solicitor Caroline Elliott has joined Roythornes Solicitors as a partner in its Alconbury office, boosting the top 150 law firm’s strong private client team.

One of four appointments in the firm, each bolstering a different department, Caroline is joined by associate in agricultural property Darren Gill, associate in property litigation Tara Goodwin, and corporate and commercial solicitor Wendy Davidson.

Having started her career as a journalist before moving into law, Caroline brings more than 25 years’ experience to the company’s family law offering. Her expertise includes financial divorce settlements for high net worth individuals, as well as preand post-nuptial agreements, agreements for unmarried co-habiting couples, and custody battles.

Caroline said: “I was drawn to Roythornes as an agile and growing practice, with opportunities for me to help develop the business and drive its direction as well as work with a range of interesting clients.

Everyone in the firm is passionate about their work and I’m looking forward to collaborating with them in my new role.

“It’s an exciting time for the family law space with the recent introduction of no-fault divorce, which is something I’ve been advocating for as part of my work with family law network Resolution. I’ll be supporting clients to navigate this legislative change and find solutions to resolve their family issues.

“One of the biggest challenges facing the sector at the moment is cohabiting rights, with many unmarried couples being unaware of their lack of legal protection.

As the picture of a typical family changes, we’re seeing more and more couples remain unmarried, which can lead to some unpleasant surprises, should the couple part ways in the future. In my new role I’ll be doing my best to support clients through these challenges and provide the expert legal advice that Roythornes prides itself on.”

Roythornes has also appointed another successful solicitor with a non-traditional career history. Associate Darren Gill began his working life with six years’ service in the army as a Royal Military police officer before retraining as a solicitor.

Darren said: “Roythornes’ renowned reputation and long-standing client base really drew me to the firm, especially as I qualified into agricultural and rural property law.

“I’m looking forward to representing the firm, building on its long-standing client relationships, and further nurturing its impressive reputation. As the Environment Land Management Scheme is phased in, clients will need support and advice during this transition, which I’ll be well placed to offer with the backing of Roythornes’ experienced team.”

The four new hires, across a variety of levels, offices, and departments, will support Roythornes’ ambitious growth as it moves

into summer. Vember Mortlock, Managing Director at Roythornes, said: “It’s great to see a number of new faces joining us month on month across all our offices, which is demonstrative of an exciting period of growth for us. We’re delighted to have appointed another talented partner, heading up the family team in our Alconbury office, as well as other new hires across a range of our departments. We look forward to the end of our business year in June when we can reflect on this success.” connected 25

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

Hegarty Solicitors expands range of service with appointment of tax specialist Peterborough, Stamford and Oakham law firm Hegarty Solicitors have announced the appointment of a tax specialist to further broaden the range of services they offer to clients.

Tom Moore, a Chartered Tax Advisor, who specialises in private client tax, joins the firm and brings with him a wealth of tax planning experience for both private and corporate clients.

Tom is a member of the Association of Taxation Technicians and the Chartered Institute of Taxation, and prior to joining Hegarty Solicitors has provided accountancy and tax advice at local and national accountancy firms for the past 15 years.

Greg Baker, Partner and Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate services at Hegarty Solicitors, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Tom to the team. Tom’s appointment is a valuable addition to the firm and will enhance the range of services we are able

to offer clients, with a bespoke tax offering to compliment the services our Trusts & Probate team already provide.

“Tom will offer advice to clients regarding Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax, completion of Estate, Trust & Personal Tax Returns and registration of Trusts & Estates on HMRC’s Trusts Register. This means that when our clients require tax planning advice, we can offer this advice in-house, making the process easier and more straightforward for clients and ensuring they receive the highest standards of service that we pride ourselves on at Hegarty Solicitors.

“Tom will also provide tax advice to clients on a range of other matters, such as Capital Gains Tax advice and reporting on sales of residential and commercial properties, advice for those who have a portfolio of let residential properties when considering creating a company, Stamp Duty Land Tax advice for residential and commercial

property clients and advice for corporate clients regarding tax implications in commercial transactions.”

Tom said: “I am delighted to join Hegarty Solicitors to expand the range of services on offer to clients. Tax is an important consideration for both individuals and businesses, and I look forward to assisting and advising clients on organising their affairs the most tax-efficient way.”

KingsGate Conference Centre achieves iconic industry quality assurance KingsGate Conference Centre has secured the much sought-after AIM accreditation from the Meetings Industry Association (mia).

The KingsGate Conference Centre in Parnwell has achieved entry status from the UK’s nationally recognised standard for service providers in the meetings, conferences and events industry, after a panel of independent industry assessors scrutinised the venue against a robust checklist of criteria. The process includes legal compliance, accessibility and quality checks of its facilities as well as its customer service proposition and experience, ethical codes of conduct and best practice standards.

Nige De Soyza, Business Development Manager at KingsGate Conference Centre, said: “It’s a fantastic testament to the highly experienced and dedicated team at KingsGate that we have secured national AIM accreditation as it provides buyers a benchmark of the highest standard. We appreciate that it can sometimes be overwhelming as there are so many things to consider when planning an event from location to catering, photography, speakers, delegates and marketing; however, with our AIM accreditation, buyers can immediately feel confident they are working with dedicated and experienced professionals.”

Jane Longhurst, Chief Executive at the mia, said: “We’re delighted that KingsGate Conference Centre is the latest venue 26 connected

to secure entry AIM accreditation. The iconic status acts as a guarantee to buyers that they’re choosing a service provider that cares about best practice and actively strives to meet and exceed your expectations. With so many dedicated conference centres and hotels, sporting and academic venues to choose from nationwide, it offers a smart method to quality control your selections that could ultimately save you time, anxiety and reputational risk later down the line.”

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MEMBER NEWS

Promotions and appointments at MHA MacIntyre Hudson

Alastair Cassels

Francis Hudson

The new appointments at the Top 12 Accountancy firm supports its impressive and consistent growth throughout the pandemic.

Promotions include Francis Hudson and Nathan Sutcliffe, with Alastair Cassels being a new hire. Francis has become the area’s new Tax Partner, whilst Nathan Sutcliffe becomes Tax Partner based in Northampton. Alastair Cassels has been appointed Automotive Advisory Partner based at the firm’s Milton Keynes office to support the Motor Team.

Francis joined MHA as a Tax Director in June 2018 bringing with him over 20 years of knowledge and experience of advising clients on a wide range of UK tax matters.

Francis commented: “Peterborough is a vibrant cathedral city, with a rich history and exciting plans for new growth and innovation, much like MHA MacIntyre Hudson who are long established here.

Having joined the Peterborough office in 2018, I am excited to step up to lead our tax team and look forward to further connecting with the local business community and growing our tax services for the benefit of all those in the region we serve.”

Nathan further strengthens the team in Northampton and looks forward to expanding the tax discipline across the Firm’s entrepreneurial families and transaction advisory services.

Nathan Sutcliffe “I’m delighted to be joining the partnership at MHA as a Tax Partner which I originally joined as a trainee. During this time there has been significant growth across the Firm and they have supported by journey and provided the career path I was seeking. We work with many fantastic entrepreneurs and high net-worth clients for whom we are continuously developing our offering for. As a specialist area, I’ll also be working alongside our corporate finance partners to grow our Transaction Advisory business and team.”

Alastair Cassels joins MHA from Volkswagen to further expand the expertise within the Automotive team. Although based at MHA MacIntyre Hudson’s Milton Keynes office, Alastair will add vital sector knowledge to advise the team Nationally on their compliance matters.

Steve Freeman, Partner and Head of the Automotive team for the firm, commented: “The market opportunity is huge with the fundamental changes the Automotive and Automotive Retail sector is facing across digital transformation, Electric Vehicles, OEM Agency arrangements and network rationalisation, technology, new market entrants/disruptors, autonomous vehicles and connected cars and I am delighted that Alastair will be joining to support our existing sector to capture this.”

Showhome, sales and marketing suite at Spiregrass Square Housebuilder This Land is delighted to announce the opening of a new sales and marketing suite and a brand new four-bedroom showhome at Spiregrass Square, a new high-quality, energy-efficient housing scheme in the village of Over, Cambridgeshire.

The sales and marketing suite will offer prospective purchasers the opportunity to get a real insight into this much anticipated new development close to the River Great Ouse. Only 11 miles northwest of Cambridge City centre, Spiregrass Square offers the ideal village location and will feature 53 two, three and fourbedroom homes, 21 of which are affordable homes to help meet the needs of the local district.

“We are delighted to have launched our new sales and marketing

suite, and to be able to offer prospective buyers a stunning new fourbedroom house to explore,” said David Lewis, Acting Chief Executive at This Land™. “This stylish new showhome is the ideal family house and will enable buyers to see the desirable lifestyle that is on offer at a development which has sustainability at its core. We are looking forward to welcoming potential buyers at our marketing suite and showing them around the showhome we are proud of.”

The development offers a wide range of homes and as part of the sustainability strategy, all properties will feature improved fabric insulation and air source heat pumps (ASHP), one of the key enabling technologies that will provide them with the energy efficiency they need to succeed. connected 27

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GREEN COLUMN

NET ZERO BY 2050 is a distant-sounding goal but one that is delivering real pressure for businesses to cut their carbon now and show with a degree of rigour what they are doing to reduce their emissions. Here, we’ll describe the call to action for businesses to make a net zero pledge and set up a carbon reduction plan to enable them to win business and do their bit for the climate. This article will focus on sustainable procurement as the direction of travel for big procurement bodies and how this will affect SMEs. The learnings here may be transferable to meeting the net zero requirements for public and corporate tenders.

NET ZERO AND PROCUREMENT

Big procurement bodies including the public sector and large corporations that have boldly made this commitment are now asking their value chains to help them deliver their own net-zero commitments. The reason for this is clear: our carbon footprints extend far beyond the operation of our buildings and company-owned transport (largely our scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions), and it is no longer acceptable for large purchasing departments to ignore the significant influence they can have on emissions largely within their value chain.

Value chain emissions or supply chain emissions for many service sectors are likely to be most intensive in their indirect or ‘embodied carbon’ within the goods and services purchased.

If you’re a business that wants to bid for public sector tenders, developing a credible plan for your own net zero targets will give you a major edge in winning new business. Currently, public sector suppliers in the UK are required to start disclosing their carbon footprint through a carbon management plan that will show their emissions across each scope and their plans for reducing by conforming to PPN 06/21.

HOW TO PREPARE

To meet this requirement: l You will need to provide disclosure on your carbon footprint and on how your company plans to reduce it by publishing this information on your company website. You must confirm in writing and in policy practice your commitment to reaching net zero by 2050 at the latest. l A Carbon Reduction Plan (CRP) should be created.

• D etail your UK emissions for Scope 1, 2, and 3.

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• D etail the environmental management measures you have in place, this may include ISO 14001:2015, PAS 2060, or Investors in the Environment (iiE)! There is no specific requirement for accreditation at this stage but any evidence you have to show that you are taking a systems approach to tackle your footprint will give you an edge.

• A CRP is freely available via PPN 06/21. Find out more below.

This is a brilliant idea for any company procurement process to request suppliers to do this to meet sustainability requirements at the pre-qualification stage – and is a more influential step than asking whether they have an environmental policy. Encourage your suppliers to let you know what their emissions are and what measures they are taking to reduce them.

OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL PRIORITY AREAS FOR PROCURERS

Net zero commitments do not exclude other areas of impact from your organisation, but what’s good for a stable climate is good for human wellbeing, biodiversity, and a sustainable bottom line. Here are some other areas you should include in your carbon reduction plan.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing air pollution If road transport is a big area of impact for your organisation, you should be thinking about low emission vehicles, delivery consolidation practices to reduce mileage, and ‘last mile innovations.’ But it isn’t only about obvious emissions, those involved in food production and sourcing will also need to start thinking about how they incorporate regenerative agricultural practices and food waste reduction, both major sources of emissions.

Engaging in circular economy principles

There is a focus here on reducing consumption alongside waste. Suppliers will need to show how they are reducing single-use plastic for both packaging and products. You may also look to show how you take into account life cycle consideration for products throughout their lifespan, including their sourcing, proper use, and disposal.

SHOULD SMALL ORGANISATIONS BE WORRIED ABOUT NEW REQUIREMENTS?

Many large suppliers are adopting sensitive criteria into this process to make it easier for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and VCSEs (voluntary, community, and social enterprises) with fewer resources to still apply for, and win, contracts. Working with smaller businesses is also how they will deliver social value, so many are keen to be inclusive in this process – some even doing extra work to educate and resource this transition for their suppliers.

The carbon management plan is not an overly burdensome requirement, but it will require some carbon literacy within the organisation. iiE can directly help with this through resources and support made freely available to members. This will make it much easier for SMEs and VCSEs to understand what data they need to be collecting and reporting on, and how they will be reducing their emissions in each focus area.

DELIVERING ON NET ZERO: NHS CASE STUDY

The NHS is a leader on the road to net zero. With more than 60 per cent of NHS carbon emissions occurring in the supply chain, working with suppliers will not only enable them to reach net zero

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but will deliver significant social value - cutting costs for the NHS, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting local economies (Greener NHS, March 2022). To do this, the NHS has created a net zero roadmap are working with their suppliers, with a phased plan to encourage them to start acting now but setting a net zero ambition and planning for decarbonisation in the next few years.

Change is coming fast - by 2024 suppliers will be required to publish a carbon reduction plan for their UK Scope 1 and 2 as a minimum, and in 2027 will need to disclose global emissions aligned to the NHS net zero target, for all of their Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.

This is not dissimilar to other organisations – we don’t do business in a vacuum and our carbon emissions are really a result of a nexus of mutual activity.

We expect to see this pressure increasing across the board, year on year. Last year it was about large organisations needing to disclose their carbon footprint in their financial accounts; this year we see this pressure really trickling down across the whole economy as the gears of climate policy get traction.

Search NHS in the iiE Green Directory to view our pioneering NHS iiE members and learn what good looks like in their healthcare settings.

LOOKING AHEAD AND WHAT’S NEXT

The UK Government is developing its Net Zero Strategy alongside greening government commitment, government buying standards, and setting up a sustainable procurement unit. This is great news for the environment and will send even stronger signals to the marketplace to act on climate.

To see the power of procurement, look no further than the amazing traction iiE has achieved in the veterinary sector in the UK. Through the power of awareness and collective action, more and more businesses need a clear pathway to net zero, along with the tools and guidance to keep them on track.

There is a lot we’re not able to anticipate for how exactly net zero targets will be achieved globally. The net zero plan for each company will change as technology, policies, and behaviours/ expectations change in the coming years. The intention here is that a net zero plan will include everything that can be done now and in the medium-term on scopes 1-3 with a credible action plan for continual improvement. Your environmental management system will enable your organisation, whatever size, to review and adapt the plan and annual targets or focus areas to meet net zero.

GREEN COLUMN FIND OUT MORE • F urther detail on PPN 06/21 Procurement Policy Note 06/21: Taking account of Carbon Reduction Plans in the procurement of major government contracts GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) • Our free training brief with our partner, SmartCarbon, on the streamlined energy and carbon reporting (SECR) regulations https://youtu.be/FQlY2slNvpc • What the NHS are doing to create social value alongside climate action: Greener NHS B1030applying-net-zero-and-socialvalue-in-the-procurement-of-NHSgoods-and-services-march-2022.pdf (england.nhs.uk) • F ree training on meeting the new PPN 06/21 criteria Crown Commercial Service Events | Eventbrite • D o the right thing: our advice to help you avoid greenwashing The Green Claims Code: New guidance issued for environmental claims | Investors In The Environment (iie.uk.com) April Sotomayor, Principle Sustainability Consultant at iiE

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GREEN NEWS

Room2Grow: Wyboston Lakes Resort’s latest environmental initiative will reduce energy usage and increase tree planting Wyboston Lakes Resort has launched Room2Grow, a new environmental initiative that will not only reduce energy usage but also result in the planting of thousands of trees this year.

Whenever a guest staying two nights or more decides not to have their room cleaned, a tree will be planted in Resort’s 380 acres of grounds. This is an opt out scheme so the team will assume the guest is happy to go without a clean, unless they hang a sign on their door to say otherwise.

Louisa Watson, Director of Marketing at Wyboston Lakes Resort, says: “With more than 400 bedrooms and many large residential courses booked this year, we’re aiming to plant in excess of 5,000 trees by the end of the year.

Our philosophy is to be ‘More Sustainable, No Apology’ and we’re always looking for new ways to reduce energy consumption and all types of waste. Every little saving can

cumulatively make a big difference and the more trees we plant the better for everyone.”

A tally of how many trees have been planted will be kept up to date on the Resort’s Sustainability web pages.

The commitment of Wyboston Lakes Resort to sustainability has been widely recognised with Platinum accreditation from Eco-Smart, a Gold Award from Green Tourism and the IACC Gold Star.

These have been earned through a wide range of energy and waste reduction initiatives. Last year for the seventh consecutive year, zero waste was sent to landfill and currently the aim is to ensure that no food waste goes off-site. All electricity used on the site is generated from renewable energy sources, saving more than 1,300 tonnes of Co2 emissions and the resort is working towards a 2040 Net Zero Carbon Emission Goal.

Greater Anglia report highlights environmental benefits of rail Greater Anglia’s reported carbon emissions have reduced by over 25,000 tonnes of equivalent Carbon Dioxide (CO2) in recent years– as revealed it the company’s annual Environment and Energy Report.

The report details Greater Anglia’s environmental achievements and plans for greener travel in East Anglia.

The report shows that Greater Anglia’s carbon emissions have reduced by over 25,000 tonnes over the last two years with a series of energy and carbon reduction measures. This is equivalent to the annual average energy use of over 9,000 homes.

The train operator has been working to minimise its carbon emissions – reducing them by 11 per cent in 2021 – and become an even more sustainable organisation. This has seen Greater Anglia introduce new more energy-efficient trains, cut waste, increase recycling and work with partners and communities on projects to improve sustainability and biodiversity at stations.

The company has also worked to install wireless energy management systems at its rail stations to ensure heating and lighting are used efficiently and taken steps to reduce water consumption.

Commenting on the publication of the report, Greater Anglia’s Environment & Energy Manager, Stephanie Evans said: “I’m pleased that we have made even more progress in the last year towards becoming ever more sustainable as an organisation.

“Research shows that trains are the most environmentally friendly form of transport after cycling and walking, with greenhouse gas emissions per kilometre by rail being far less than cars.

“Because of this, we hope that rail will be an important part of the ‘green recovery’ we are all aspiring to, helping communities stay 30 connected

connected to jobs, education, family, friends and leisure opportunities in a way that helps to reduce everyone’s carbon footprint.

“Our new trains are more efficient and produce less particulate pollution than our old ones which will help to make rail travel in East Anglia an even more environmentally friendly option.”

Aerodynamic fronts, lighter chassis and brakes which return energy back to the network are some of the features of Greater Anglia’s new trains which are making train travel even more sustainable. They are also longer with more seats, which means that they can carry more passengers and take even more cars off the road - preventing tonnes of harmful CO2 emissions being released into the atmosphere as well as reducing congestion.

One of Greater Anglia’s full intercity trains potentially takes up to 504 cars off the road, while a new four carriage bi-mode train removes 152, and a three-carriage bi-mode train removes 111. The company’s new five-carriage electric commuter trains take up to 362 cars off the road – or 725 when they run as 10 carriages.

Leaving the car at home and taking the train cuts carbon emissions by two thirds. People can check how much they can reduce their carbon emissions by swapping a car journey for the train on Greater Anglia’s carbon calculator at greateranglia.co.uk/ carbon-calculator.

Greater Anglia worked with environmental consultants, WSP, to quantify its environmental impact and understand its carbon emissions, as part of an aim to become even greener and more sustainable.

The full Environment & Energy Report can be found at greateranglia.co.uk/greeneranglia

Mental Health Top Tips for us all 1. Everybody has Mental Health It is easy to think of Mental Health as being something that somebody else suffers from. Interestingly many people do not think of themselves as having mental health and see it in the context of mental ill health and diagnosable conditions. We all have a mind and we all have thoughts, feelings and emotions connected to our minds including hormonal fluctuations therefore we all have Mental Health and just like physical health, we need to look after it.

TOP TIP – Understand the signs of when it’s just a bad day and when it is something more persistent and negative. Speak up if it is the latter, perhaps to a trusted friend or if things are impacting your life to the point where you are worried, book an appointment with your GP I know it’s a cliché, but It’s good to talk.

2. Isolation and loneliness can be a problem Isolation can sometimes be absolutely awesome and in my world, I crave the chance to spend a few hours alone to gather my thoughts and work out what needs to be done and when, especially when every other aspect of my life is hectic what with small children and a business to run. Repetitive isolation for long periods of time can sometimes have a negative impact on a person and if the thought of spending another hour in your own company fills you with dread, do something about it.

TOP TIP – Get out! I know that the last year has been really difficult and zoom is not the same! With more people working alone and from home now, it is even more important to get out and about.

Hook up with a friend, neighbour or colleague and go for a work.

Book it in your diary and keep the appointment with yourself.

3.. It’s ok not to be ok Do you ever wake up in a foul mood, low and unmotivated and feel that it’s wrong to feel like this?

Well actually it’s perfectly fine to have the odd bad day. Occasional negative mental wellbeing is not the same as Mental Ill health and should not be looked upon as the same. Sometimes a person can fight the very natural urge to bed down and chill out but by doing so create a negative association with the need to relax and take time out.

TOP TIP – Sometimes, chocolate and binge-watching TV is perfectly good for the soul. So is online shopping, (as long as you have the funds!) a catch up and a chin wag on the phone with a friend, or binge watching all of the Avengers on the TV, (for the third time, don’t judge! ) are all good for you when you need a little me time.

4. Thoughts are just thoughts Have you ever thought the most random thought and wondered where it came from? I certainly have and at times, I worry about where the thought came from for longer than I should. This is a normal activity but one that can cause a great deal of distress if you have nowhere to put that thought. It’s called ruminating and can be very annoying! Remember, you are not your thoughts. They have no power over you… unless you act on them.

TOP TIP – Meditation – I know… you may be thinking about sitting in the lotus position and chanting and for some, it may be just that… (I think it looks really cool!) but for some, taking time out, closing your eyes and practicing to clear your mind can rid you of persistent unhelpful thoughts.

Remember the more you think about wanting to get rid of the thought, the more it stays there!

Let it go, just like Elsa said… (Try downloading the Headspace App on your phone!)

5. Work Life Balance (what does that even look like?)

I have been looking for the ever elusive work life balance for a very long time and I still can’t find it. I think this is a difficult one as it’s going to be different

for everybody right? I mean I have other responsibilities and therefore cannot commit all of my time to my ever expanding business but at the same time, I like working lots! This causes lots of problems for some, especially if your life involves others being in it.

What does this have to do with Mental Health I hear you ask?

Well OVERWHELM for a start.

– It’s too much, my brain can’t handle it. I could start showing signs of panic and anxiety and although this is normal, if it’s there most of the time, something needs to be done about it. You may have this one down, under control, in the bag and if you do, nice one… (Share perhaps?)

TOP TIP – This one is going to look a bit different for different people and so it could be about setting strict working times to incorporate family into your life.

Turning off your phone when the kids get home from school (or your partner). Turning off email notifications or leaving your phone in another room. Booking friends and family time into your work schedule. Delegating or outsourcing those time demanding jobs that do not bring joy or money! Look at what the problem is and look at the practical things that you can do to help yourself.

Danielle Bridge, CEO, ABC Life Support CIC

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A message from Stagecoach MD, Darren Roe Stagecoach East is, and always has been, all about our people. Whether they’re from the communities we serve, the teams we employ or the countless, every-day passengers who rely on our buses to discover new places, connect with loved ones, commute to work and school, and live their lives to the fullest.

While we continue to learn to live with the after-effects of the Covid pandemic, and adapt to the ‘new normal’ of working and living, we suddenly face a new challenge. Communities across the country are now dealing with a steep rise in the cost of living and household goods, with utility bills and fuel prices soaring to new record rates and the devastating war in Ukraine set to deliver further blows to the UK economy.

As families continue to navigate the pressures of today’s society, and adapt to the cost of the living crisis, it has never been more imperative for us to support our people. Stagecoach East is dedicated to delivering sustainable, affordable and reliable bus travel and doing our utmost to support our passengers and ease the financial pressure on communities who have loyally chosen to travel with us over the decades.

Back in January we launched our new fare simplification structure to provide people with a more consistent range of flexible and cost-effective travel options. The new system ensured

that 92 per cent of passengers across Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Huntingdonshire and Peterborough pay the same or less for their bus tickets.

Through this initiative, we introduced several new ticket types across the East, including the ‘Youth’ ticket to offer under 19’s and students with 33 per cent off on our Single, Day, 7 Day, 28 Day and ‘Flexi’ tickets.

The new range of ‘Flexi’ tickets also launched, providing passengers with bus travel from just £2.94 a day through a bundle of Day tickets, valid for 12 months. This option was especially beneficial for employees who have, since the pandemic, embraced a hybrid working pattern and require more flexibility when it comes to commuting between home and the office.

Furthermore, we also reduced the price of 95 per cent of our DayRider tickets, giving day travellers more value for money. To benefit small and large groups travelling onboard our services, the new ‘Group’ ticket options makes it cheaper for people to travel together and enjoy days out at a more affordable cost. The ‘Small Group’ ticket allows one Adult and up to two Youths or a group of three Youths to travel, which equates to the same cost of an Adult DayRider plus just £2. ‘Large Group’ tickets are valid for up to any five passengers, saving up to 60 per cent on the total cost.

*Information on fuel prices taken from the RAC’s website: www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/fuel-watch/

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We believe our buses can help people save money, especially in this time of record inflation and extortionate fuel prices. It now costs nearly £90 to fill up a 55-litre family petrol car, which is approximately £22 more than it did a year ago, with the cost of a tank of diesel up to around £97, a shocking 40 per cent increase from this time last year.* Running a car is becoming increasingly unsustainable, both in the sense of affordability and the negative implications for the environment. We hope that local people will see the increasing value in travelling by bus, not just for their wallets but for the wider community and the world we live in. By choosing bus travel, you are choosing to contribute towards a better future for all and enjoy a cheaper and hassle-free mode of transport. Especially now, with our new ticket options, bus travel can provide a solution to those struggling with the rising cost of living.

People will always be at the root of everything we do, and we are constantly looking at ways to evolve and enhance our services. We will continue to support communities, through the challenges we all face, and to provide the best quality bus travel to our customers.

Darren Roe, Managing Director, Stagecoach East

HOW GROWTH WORKS HELPED A DOUBLE AWARD-WINNING PETERBOROUGH BUSINESS TO ROLL-OUT AUTOMATED GARMENT CLEANING PODS Peters’ Cleaners is a Peterborough-based garment cleaning business that was hit hard at the start of the pandemic. Offering garment cleaning services for fabric items in physical shops that had to close, their revenue halved but their costs didn’t.

Owner and Managing Director, Vicky Whiter, recalls her experience saying: “with the weak spots of the business well and truly exposed”, she acted quickly to change their business model and looked for new, innovative ways to serve customers.

Through this period came an ambitious business plan to launch new, fully-automated garment cleaning pods that customers could drop off and collect from at any time. There are currently two 24/7 pods alongside two traditional garment cleaning shops in the Peterborough area, with big plans to roll out the pods nationally.

The challenge: How do you get people excited about the future of garment cleaning?

As Vicky came from a background of working in a traditional business model, there were huge challenges facing her to launch this new idea. Being the only person in the business responsible for the ambitious growth, she needed support to fill the gaps.

With the ever-changing digital landscape and wondering how they would generate excitement over the new pods, Vicky knew “marketing is not my strong suit”. Although she spent time upskilling herself in marketing through online courses, she needed an experienced professional marketer on the team.

Realising she not only needed financial investment to deliver the initial product launches, but also needed business and marketing guidance, Vicky began to look for support. Through talking to other local businesses, she found out about Growth Works and applied for funding.

The solution: Fully funded strategic support, peer learning and funding to ignite crowdfunding campaign Vicky was able to hire a new Marketing Director, Clare, and “go all-in with their marketing efforts”. This position was something that would not have been possible, or deemed as important, before the growth plans with the garment cleaning pods and their grant application.

This led to the new slogan of ‘there’s never been a better time to drop your trousers’, and supporting statement saying their pods offer ‘garment cleaning for how we live now’. These marketing messages add a playfully fresh and modern take on garment cleaning, moving away from the traditional expectations.

Peters’ Cleaners used part of the funding received from Growth Works to hire a professional videographer to launch a high-quality crowdfunding campaign. The crowdfunding campaign they put together well-exceeded their target, raising over £270,000! Without Growth Works’ financial support, they would have not been able to produce such good-quality marketing videos to elevate the campaign and receive more funding.

Growth Works offered Vicky both one-to-one mentoring and peer support alongside a revenue grant. When joining the peer support programme, Vicky said it helped to give her a support network of “local talent” and that “everyone has been really supportive, not coming across anyone that’s put my ideas down”. This meant she had people available.

“When you are isolated as a business owner, especially during covid, it gets really lonely… being able to go on these chats, meet people and get excited feedback about what you were doing was really nice” Talking in this environment helped to build confidence in herself, in turn making the presentation of her business better.

The outcome: Exceeding crowding funding goals and growing the team Vicky has exceeded her original crowdfunding ambition by reaching £276,670 from 235 investors at the time of writing.

Peters’ Cleaners’ MD Vicky has also been recognised for contributions to innovation and technology by winning TWO local business awards, increasing their brand recognition.

This has helped with morale for the current staff as they’ve seen a reward for their hard work and have been recognised as being a part of a forward-thinking team. With a new marketing manager already in place, the rest of the team will need to expand to reach their growth goals.

Hiring in the Peterborough area, Peters’ Cleaners are looking for more staff to support the additional pods and keep up with demand. The revenue grants and support Growth Works has given them the opportunity to elevate their business growth, and in the words of Vicky - “why wouldn’t you get free access to experts?”

Could your business benefit from expert support and funding to help you unlock further growth?

Check your eligibility and tell us about your business to join our programme: https://www.growthworkscoaching.uk/get-started/. connected 33

chamber

EVENTS

Chamber members can register for events via the Chamber website www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk or please contact Zoe McCabe Brennan, Events Co-ordinator on 01223 237414 or email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk

Construction Networking Lunch

Informal Networking Evenings Take this free opportunity to catch up with familiar acquaintances you haven’t seen in ages, mingle with new business contacts and share knowledge and skills with like-minded professionals.

Regus, Huntingdon Wednesday 13 July, 5.00-6.30pm Haycock Manor, Stamford Wednesday 20 July, 5.00-6.30pm IWM Duxford, Cambridge Thursday 21 July, 5.00-6.30pm Poets House, Ely Monday 25 July, 6.00-7.00pm

HR SECTOR EVENTS Chamber HR Coffee Club Tuesday 12 July, 9.00-10.30am Holiday Inn, Peterborough, PE3 6SG Network informally with likeminded HR professionals, share ideas and have a chat over a coffee.

Cost: Free to attend but we encourage you to register via the Chamber website. organised by the HR and Recruitment Sector.

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Friday 15 July, 12.00-2.00pm Peterborough United Football Club, London Road, Peterborough, PE2 8AL Network with other construction and property-related companies at this specialist informal event.

Guest speaker: Peterborough Ltd T/A Aragon Direct Services.

Cost: £15.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £22.50 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Meet the Neighbours Tuesday 19 July, 7.45-10.00am Wyboston Lakes, Great North Road, Wyboston, MK44 3AL We’re so excited to be joining forces with Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce for this safari networking breakfast.

These structured networking sessions are designed to forge new business relationships across county boundaries, and maximise your opportunity to build a profitable network.

Our guest speaker is Paul Salmon, Senior Project Manager at National Highways A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet improvements.

Paul will discuss the proposed route improvements between the Black Cat roundabout and Caxton Gibbet roundabout which will see a new 10-mile dual carriageway and a number of junction improvements. If given the go ahead, the upgrades will improve journeys between Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge, bringing communities together and supporting long term growth in the region.

Paul will show and talk through the proposed route upgrade, where they are in the process, timings and how it will benefit your business.

Cost: £25.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members only.

Chamber members can register for events via the Chamber website www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk or please contact Zoe McCabe Brennan, Events Co-ordinator on 01223 237414 or email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk

chamber

EVENTS

SAFARI NETWORKING BREAKFASTS Take the opportunity to meet new business connections through safari networking. This relaxed but structured format offers guests the chance to move around the room and form connections with new business contacts from a wide range of industry sectors.

Tuesday 28 June, 7.45-10.00am Haycock Manor, Wansford, Peterborough, PE8 6JA We’re looking forward to welcoming James Oliver, founder of Tanso, as our speaker at this event, talking about ‘How to Grow your Personal Brand’.

James is a Disruptive Brand Strategist, Public Speaker and Host of the Your Life Your Brand Podcast.

He is the founder of Tanso, a brand and social agency based in Peterborough. He is a big believer in the personal brand movement. Working with entrepreneurs and businesses across the UK, James and his team help define brands and help them communicate with their audience.

Cost: £ 20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £30.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Wednesday 13 July, 7.45-10.00am Graduate Hotel, Granta Place, Mill Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1RT Copywriting marginal gains: The little tweaks that make a big impact Digital content specialist Sue Keogh will talk you through those little changes that can make a big difference to customer perceptions of your business.

Contact pages… social media profiles… automated responses… all those little touchpoints that are overlooked or forgotten about, and could be creating a bad impression – without you even realising! Sue will show you what to look for and share tips on refining your copy to help people really understand the messages you want to get across.

Sue Keogh runs Sookio, a digital marketing agency based in Cambridge. They help ambitious and transformative organisations communicate their ideas to the world through brilliant digital content, strategy and training.

Cost: £20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £30.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Tuesday 26 July, 7.45-10.00am Peterborough United Football Club, London Road, Peterborough, PE2 8AL Antony Gough, Grant Scheme Project Manager at Eastern New Energy, will explain how to access grants offering financial support to invest in low carbon and energy-efficient measures.

Cost: £20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £30.00 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members.

Summer Garden Party Friday 5 August, 3.00-5.00pm Madingley Hall, Cambridge, CB23 8AQ Join us for an afternoon of informal networking, canapes & drinks in the glorious gardens of Madingley Hall. This is a great opportunity to treat your employees, colleagues, clients or suppliers.

Sponsored by Madingley Hall Cost: £20.00 (plus VAT) Chamber members, £27.50 (plus VAT) non-Chamber members

British Chambers of Commerce Global Annual Conference 2022 Thursday 30 June QEII Centre, London After a turbulent few years, the BCC Global Annual Conference will be an opportunity for business leaders from the UK and around the world to come together and look to a more sustainable and responsible future.

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