Diamond Magazine Edition 29 - November & December 2024 by DiamondMag-gatwickdiamondbusiness

Apple: Nonstop from LGW to JFK is back

Steel building specialists for the South East

Celebrate the season in style in the heart of the South Downs

GATWICK DIAMOND BUSINESS AWARDS 2025

Join us as we recognise the passion and talent of our business community

We are delighted to announce that the plans for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2025 are well underway, and will be delivered at The Grand, Brighton, on Thursday 20th March 2025.

The official launch of the Awards programme for 2025 took place on 3rd October at the Diamond Alumni VIP lunch, at the Holiday Inn London Gatwick Worth The awards are now ‘Open for Entries’ for all businesses (not just gdb Members) located or operating in the Gatwick Diamond, and we are keen to attract a wide-range of entries.

HEADLINE SPONSORS

Birketts LLP, Gatwick Diamond Initiative, London Gatwick

PRE-DINNER RECEPTION SPONSOR

Cleankill Pest Control

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

15th November 2024

Closing Date for Entries

December 2024 – January 2025 Judging Period

10th February 2025

Finalists Announcement

20th March 2025

The Gatwick Diamond Business Awards

PARTNERS

Creative Partner - Storm12

Set Design & AV Production Partner - Avensys Ltd

Event Organiser - Gatwick Diamond Business

Media Partner - Platinum Media Group

Venue Partner - The Grand, Brighton

Banner Print Partner - FastSigns

Print Sponsor - MR Printers

The Gatwick Diamond Business Awards first launched in 2009 and has grown in size ever since, becoming one of the south east’s most prestigious business awards.

A well-established highlight of the business calendar, the Awards celebrate the achievements of individual businesses and business people across a wide range of categories. Importantly, they also showcase the success of the Gatwick Diamond economic area as major driver of the regional and national economies.

AWARD CATEGORIES & SPONSORS

Apprentice of the Year - Chichester College Group

Business of the Year over £1m - Cripps

Business of the Year up to £1m - Carnegie Group

Business Person of the Year - TBC

Employee of the Year - Crawley Borough Council

Employer of the Year - Reigate & Banstead Borough Council

Environmental Culture Award - TBC

International Business of the Year - Gatwick Diamond Initiative

Manufacturing

Business of the Year - Birketts LLP

New Business of the Year - Richard Place Dobson

Professional Services Firm of the Year - Lloyds Commercial Banking

The Award for Community Contribution - Elekta Ltd

The Award for Customer Delight - ILG UK

The Award for Innovation - DigiBubble

IOT Graduate of the Year - Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology

Gatwick Diamond Business Awards @gatwickdiamondbusinessawards

Welcome!

Welcome to the last edition of Diamond Magazine for 2024, packed full once again with your inspiring news stories and articles.

With Christmas fast approaching, we are once again in full swing preparing for the Gatwick Diamond Business Awards 2025 (now open for entries!) Our front cover showcases our new HOT PINK colour scheme, and on page

3 you can see full details of our valued sponsors and this year’s categories. We are of course extremely grateful to our sponsors and partners for their support, and with 15 categories to choose from, there should be something for everyone! With some real business benefits to be gained from being involved and entry completely free of charge, I encourage you to get your entries in now, and perhaps 2025 will be your year!

Our Member Spotlight this edition shines on Alexis & Sam from Marshall Volkswagen Gatwick. Take a look at page 4 to read their views on the benefits of being part of the gdb community. (Interestingly they both mention gdb Re-Energise Conference as a great way to start the year!)

gdb Re-Energise 2025 takes place in January, providing an excellent opportunity for you to bring colleagues and/or guests along so they can all benefit from this positive kickstart to

the new year. Our 4 inspirational guest speakers will be announced very soon, and you can take advantage of our early bird offer until 1st December (See page 31 for more details).

Some final exciting news from me, as we welcome our newest team member Alicia Remfry to Team gdb! As Membership Engagement Executive, Alicia will be on hand to support you with all your membership needs, and I am sure you will join the team in making her feel very welcome! Our thanks as always to Creative Pod for the design of Diamond, and to all of you who have contributed your news, inspiring stories and advice to this edition. On behalf of the gdb Team, I wish you all a successful end to 2024 and a peaceful and enjoyable Christmas!

Sally Brown General Manager

DARTS MASTERS

FRIDAY 22 NOVEMBER

DARTS EXHIBITION

FEATURING: BOB ANDERSON, MARTIN ‘WOLFIE’ ADAMS AND TRINA ‘GOLDEN GIRL’ GULLIVER

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

1. What appealed to you about joining gdb?

Alexis: Joining an existing, successful large network with access to a broad spectrum of businesses.

Sam: The ability to network and make relationships with our local neighbours.

2. What was the thing that surprised you about gdb?

Alexis: The sheer passion the team have to build a fantastic networking environment, no matter the business.

Sam: Every business type you could imagine, is a part of gdb in some form.

3. What’s the biggest single thing you’ve got from being a member of gdb?

Alexis: A new perspective on how networking meetings can be run and how they can benefit the local business community and the community at large.

Sam: Secured a large order with a local business after meeting at a gdb networking event.

4. What difference has being a member of gdb made to your business?

Name: Alexis Turnbull & Samuel James

Business name:

Marshall Volkswagen Gatwick Fleet

Member since: 2016

Description: We offer you customised fleet solutions, tailored support, dedicated service with a personal touch. We focus on building strong relationships, customer satisfaction and providing expert guidance throughout the purchasing process.

"A friendly and approachable networking community, filled with people looking to achieve shared goals."

Alexis: Fantastic new connections, with brilliant business outcomes and the chance for excellent exposure to the businesses surrounding us, be it via joining morning meetings or the chance to host breakfast meetings and give our peers a greater understanding of what we can do and offer to them.

Sam: Friendships, working relationships and excellent connections.

5. gdb puts on lots of different types of events - what’s your favourite?

Alexis: For me it has be the Re-Energise event – an inspirational day, setting an enthusiastic mindset for the new business year! And who doesn’t love a fabulous lunch?!

Sam: I second with Alexis on this one, Re-Energise is a great way to start the year, fresh ideas and a fresh energetic approach to networking.

6. What’s different about gdb compared to other networking you do?

Alexis: It’s certainly on a larger scale, but always unique and always provides the very best guest speakers.

Sam: gdb provides direct networking with your Gatwick Diamond neighbours, giving you maximum representation throughout your local area.

7. What’s your top tip for getting the most out of networking?

Alexis: I think noting on the attendee list who is most likely to make use of your services and to follow up with an email after making those contacts.

Sam: By making friendships! Talking to people, building relationships. You don’t necessarily need to talk about work. Get to know each other. People buy from people.

8. Besides the events, what else do you get out of your gdb membership?

Alexis: The support offered by the team after and in between the events. They are always thinking how they can make introductions for you and your business.

Sam: The gdb team are a great bunch of people and will continue to refer business to business even if you can’t attend an event.

marshall.co.uk

Microsoft 365 apps – the useful yet lesser know ones!

If your organisation uses Microsoft 365, you are likely familiar with the core apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and Outlook and it’s probably hard to avoid these ones in your daily work. There are some useful apps that you might not have heard of though. Here’s a summary of some that are worth checking out:

Planner – for complex projects I use Microsoft Project, but that does come with a license cost. If you want to organise and collaborate on less in-depth projects using a board style interface similar to Trello, Planner could be for you. See p8 of the Jul/Aug Diamond magazine for more details on how Project and Planner compare.

Visio – draw diagrams such as flow charts, system structures, org charts and room plans using layers to aid presentation and editing. A great

alternative to PowerPoint for more complex diagrams.

Sway – create interactive newsletters, presentations, stories and reports. Even those without great design skills can create a visually appealing, web-based sway with media and links.

Forms – build surveys, feedback forms and quizzes. You can then view and analyse the results using Forms and Excel.

Bookings – allow colleagues, customers and service users to book appointments directly through an online calendar.

Stream – upload, manage and share videos with captioning. Use to store your organisation’s video recordings and to live steam events. It also integrates with Teams.

To find these apps, just search the name of the app into Google (or another

browser) and sign in with your 365 login. There are plenty more, so look out for Part Two in a future edition! If you have any questions, please get in touch with Jane Hames.

jane@glidetraining.com

Midnight Communications joins Certified B Corp community

Midnight Communications, an awardwinning business-to-business PR agency, is now a Certified B Corporation™ (B Corp), joining a global community of for-profit businesses that have pledged to use business as a force for good.

There are currently more than 8,000 Certified B Corporations, operating in 162 industries and 96 countries. Each has undertaken a rigorous assessment administered by the not-for-profit B Lab™ to achieve a minimum verified score showcasing high standards of social and environmental impact, accountability

and transparency.

The assessment examined how Midnight’s operations impact and add value to stakeholders, including its employees, clients, the community and the environment. Verification and Certification took nine months, and every member of the Midnight team was engaged in the process.

Alex Hankinson, Joint Managing Director of Midnight, said: “Becoming a Certified B Corp™ is such an important milestone for our agency, and one our team are so proud to have reached

together. Working toward B Corp accreditation this year has been such a positive experience, and the framework has supported us to make strides in all areas of our business.

“Midnight’s mission is to be the best business-to-business PR partner in the UK, helping clients to grow their business and reputation responsibly. Joining the B Corp movement will help supercharge that mission.

“We’ll allow ourselves a moment to celebrate, and then crack straight back on – certification is just the beginning. Forging connections with like-minded businesses who believe that businesses can and should be a force for good and the power of collective action is very exciting. We can’t wait to see what the next year brings.”

For more information about Midnight, please visit:

midnight.co.uk

Steel Building Specialists for the South East

Carnegie Group specialises in steel frame construction in the industrial and commercial sectors. We offer main contractor services with the ability to take your project from initial concept through to completion. We ensure quality, transparency and excellent communication throughout your project.

Architectural design in-house

CGIs & 3D modelling

Main contractor services

New builds & developments

Extensions & refurbishments

Steel building installation

Demolition & groundwork

Full construction services

Projects of all sizes. Call us on 01959 572501 info@carnegiegroup.co.uk

Power BI and Copilot AI can elevate your business performance

Microsoft’s investment in developing the Power BI platform has resulted in a product that now has in-built AI, powered by Microsoft’s Copilot. Whether your business data resides in single or multiple systems, is large or small, Microsoft Power BI can assist in both defining your queries and building your visualisations. Here are just a few of the ways Copilot can enhance your business practices, through visualisation:

Summarise Your Data

Ask Power BI to summarise your data to better understand its logic. This can pinpoint data gaps and business process errors.

Ask Power BI questions about data in the model:

Copilot checks if the answer can be found in the report visuals.

Get Power BI to build the visuals for you:

If existing visuals don't answer the question, Copilot then builds a visual for you.

Co-Pilot adds the ability to view and navigate your system data sets in a different way, providing new insights to your business performance through many AI based features. To discuss how Power BI and AI can elevate your

Find your data treasure chest

Data is everywhere. The trouble is, it’s so commonplace, you don’t even notice it’s there! But, digging it up will save you time and money – because that data is your organisation’s precious gems of knowledge.

Uncover it, and you’ll shift your decision-making approach from gutinstinct to evidence-based.

Not sure where to dig? Here are a few ideas:

• Employee data. This comes in so many forms… where to begin?

Wellbeing is one of the best – because happy, engaged workforces are more productive. What employee wellbeing data do you have?

• Members/customers. When they found you, what did you ask them? Which sectors do they work in? How many have 250+ employees? These answers help you create relevant, more engaging content.

• Website. What is your Chat Bot being asked? Turning chatbot queries into website FAQs that answer ‘real’

business, contact Roger Bateman or book a review directly on BookMeNow. We would be delighted to show you what is possible.

vazontech.co.uk

questions is proven to save time for your Customer Services team.

• Marketing. This is abundant - but are you measuring and tracking it? How did that LinkedIn post go down last week? Which post generated the most enquiries?

• Feedback. Where do you keep workshop feedback? Gathering it in one centralised place helps identify patterns. Do certain times work best? Do people want a takeaway ‘cheat sheet’? Pooling your data creates a richer set – allowing you to make continuous improvements to what you deliver.

Need help to fill your treasure chest? Bonamy Waddell works with organisations to turn data into actions, insights and recommendations to ultimately improve people’s experiences. Katie Merrien’s visual messages bring data to life and make it accessible; enabling others to join your journey. Their approach is to tell stories – so what story would you like to tell? Find out more here:

boninsight.com communikate.design

Extech Cloud: Your Trusted Copilot Specialists

At Extech Cloud, we are at the forefront of innovation, and we’re excited to highlight the incredible potential of Microsoft Copilot – a powerful AI tool designed to revolutionise how you approach productivity and business operations.

How Can Copilot Transform Your Business?

We’ll help you unlock copilot's full potential, empowering your teams to work smarter:

• Document Summarisation: Summarise long reports or presentations. Copilot enables you to focus on the key insights without getting bogged down in details.

• Web Search Integration: Copilot integrates web search into your workflow, providing access to accurate, relevant data without needing to leave your workspace.

• Image Analysis & Generation: Enhance your marketing materials and presentations by generating

and analysing images with Copilot, allowing you to bring creativity to life with AI-powered precision.

• Programming Assistance: From debugging code to writing new scripts, Copilot supports your development team by streamlining coding tasks and helping to solve complex challenges faster.

• Microsoft 365 Productivity Tools: Copilot works directly within your favourite Microsoft applications, automating repetitive tasks, generating insights, and crafting highquality content effortlessly.

• Conversational Support: Engage with Copilot to discuss ideas, receive recommendations, or get answers to tricky questions

Why Choose Microsoft Copilot?

• Efficiency: Automate routine tasks and reduce manual effort.

• Accuracy: Leverage AI to ensure precision and reliability in your work.

• Innovation: Stay ahead of the curve

with cutting-edge technology that evolves with your business needs. At Extech Cloud we understand Microsoft Copilot inside and out. We understand that every business is unique and we work closely with you to understand your specific needs and ensure Copilot enhances your workflows in the most impactful way.

We believe Microsoft Copilot can be a game-changer for your business, helping you achieve more in less time. If you have any questions or would like to see what Copilot could do for you, please feel free to reach out to us.

extechcloud.com

JetBlue inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals

Charity Inspire Education Business Partnership has successfully secured financial support from JetBlue to deliver an exciting project in the UK.

Over the past several months, JetBlue have collaborated closely on this initiative, conducting drop-in sessions in schools to engage students in careers in aviation, with a strong

emphasis on sustainability. Five schools participated and the students presented their projects to a judging panel, which selected the winning group. This project, implemented in partnership with Inspire Education Business Partnership and London Gatwick Airport, is yet another fantastic example of JetBlues commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals. JetBlue hosted 20 talented girls from four schools, who showcased their incredible projects focused on sustainability. These projects were developed with support from JetBlue, and the students had the unique opportunity to pitch their ideas to a judging panel comprising JetBlue and Gatwick Airport professionals.

The London Gatwick team, including Chris Boyle FCIHT and Louisa Venables, provided students with a fun and

educational experience at the Gatwick STEM centre. Here, students built their own mini electric vehicles and raced them against each other, combining #FUN with #SCIENCE.

In a special collaboration, JetBlue partnered with ecube to create unique trophies for the winning group. These trophies are made from actual parts of an A320 aircraft, thanks to ecube’s innovative “reuse, repurpose, recycle” methodology. Imagine owning a piece of aviation history! These students now have their very own part of an A320, symbolising their commitment to sustainability and passion for the industry. We are confident that we are leaving our industry and this world in good hands.

jetblue.com

Cripps calls for urgent action after report finds 100% of female C-suites and founders have experienced gender bias

Cripps has published a new report focusing on gender bias and the career barriers senior businesswomen face. The report uses the findings of a survey of 101 female c-suite executives including CEOs, COOs, CFOs and business owners and founders. It also contains personal experiences and opinions of senior businesswomen in Cripps’ own network.

100% of survey respondents reported that they had experienced some form of gender bias in the workplace. C-suite women most commonly cited outdated views and gender assumptions (33% and 31% respectively). Owners and founders most frequently cited support bias and stereotyping (32% and 30%).

90% of respondents cited professional barriers to progression and business growth, defined as obstacles largely out of their control:

• 25% of respondents believe female business owners have higher barriers then men when seeking investment

• 22% cited “access to affordable childcare” as a barrier to

career progression

• 19% cited “lack of access to appropriate networks of professional contacts” as a barrier to career progression

62% of respondents cited personal barriers to progression and business growth, defined as those within the individual’s control:

• 26% cited “taking a career break to start a family” as a barrier to career progression

• 37% saying that gender bias experienced in the workplace has hindered their confidence in their abilities at work

• 16% cited “fear of failure” as a barrier to business growth

Victoria Symons, partner at Cripps, said: “In today’s business landscape, achieving gender parity remains a pressing issue. Female leaders and entrepreneurs face unique challenges, from funding disparities to maledominated networks and juggling the competing demands of work and life.

What on earth are R and Python?

It’s been a busy month here at Datacove!

As well as becoming the newest members of Gatwick Diamond business, last month, we hosted our first-ever EARL conference, reviving it just in time for its 10th anniversary.

The Enterprise Applications of the R Language (EARL) is a premier conference focusing on the commercial usage of the R and Python programming languages. R and Python are two of the most widely used programming languages and are rapidly becoming the lingua franca for business analytics.

We were thrilled to welcome industry speakers from big brands such as Amazon, Microsoft, the BBC, Posit, Booking.com, Dogs Trust, and the NHS, sharing their R and Python solutions for

modern day business challenges over three inspiring days of workshops, high profile keynotes, expert led talks and networking at The Grand Brighton and Brighton i360.

The conference was a huge success, and we’ve received fantastic feedback (an average rating of 9/10!). Looking ahead, we’re already gearing up for

By addressing these challenges, we can create a more equitable environment that allows businesses to thrive, benefitting everyone regardless of gender. We hope this report takes a crucial step towards understanding these issues and implementing meaningful solutions.” To view the report visit:

cripps.co.uk/female-leaders

EARLconf 2025 (exciting, right?), which will take place in October – and whilst a year away, the planning starts now! We hope to see some of our new Gatwick Diamond friends there too and nearer the time we will let you know more about it.

datacove.co.uk

ETIAS and ETA are coming – are your business travellers prepared?

Travel to Europe

The EU is introducing two schemes:

1. The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated system for registering non-EU national travellers when they cross an EU external border.

2. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is a security clearance authorisation

to enter the EU for citizens of nonEU countries who currently do not require a visa to enter the EU as a visitor.

The EES is expected to go live on 10 November 2024. It will track the length of time each visitor spends in the EU and covers 25 EU member states (excluding Cyprus and Ireland) and four non-EU countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland).

It is administered automatically at the border, so no advance application is required. Travellers are only permitted to spend 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen zone. ETIAS will come into force in May 2025. It will apply to UK and all non-EU/nonSchengen country citizens travelling to the EU for up to 90 days (not Ireland). It will also apply for travel to the four non-EU countries set out above.

Clearance must be obtained before travel. UK nationals and their family

Cleankill technician wins UK’s top pest controller

Cleankill Pest Controller Josh Bates has been named Pest Controller of the Year in the 2024 national Pest Awards beating thousands of other pest controllers across the country.

Josh decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and join Cleankill Pest Control five years ago having spent the previous eight years in John Lewis.

He said: “I love the pest control industry and I only wish I had become involved in the industry sooner. It’s a career I am completely committed to and every day brings huge job satisfaction. I am really thrilled to have won the Pest Controller of the Year Awards and still can’t quite believe it. I have worked very hard to prove myself as a professional pest controller and to get this sort of recognition from people outside the company is very important to me.”

Cleankill Managing Director Paul Bates added: “Josh is known for delivering a high level of service while being patient with customers in highly stressful

members resident in an EU member state at the end of the Brexit transition period do not need ETIAS.

Travel to the UK

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme already applies to visitors who do not otherwise need a visa to enter the UK. It currently applies to certain gulf states. However, November 2024 will see the scheme extend to almost all other countries, and from March 2025 it will apply to EU citizens.

Travellers will need to apply for security clearance before travel. It does not apply to British or Irish nationals, or those who are required to apply for/in possession of a visa. Pre-planning these processes is important as approval will not be instant for all applications.

birketts.co.uk

situations. He has a calm, friendly manner which puts customers at ease.

“For one of our technicians to win this award is very special. We have won many awards as a company but to now have an individual win an award is brilliant. Individuals make our company and we rely on them to deliver our services.”

The judges were impressed by Josh’s Level 3 Certificate in Pest Control and the range of courses and qualifications he has completed. He is also involved in ‘out in the field’ training of new members of operational staff as part of their induction programme. Cleankill Pest Control is a Gold Investors in People accredited organisation.

cleankill.co.uk

Gatwick Express: the smooth way to start your winter holiday

Glide into Gatwick stress-free. Jetting off on a winter adventure? Whether you’re heading for snowy slopes, festive markets or chasing some sun, it’s always a great idea to start your trip with Gatwick Express.

Designed with flyers in mind, it’s a speedy, stressfree and comfortable way to get to the airport, so you can focus on enjoying your holiday.

Get there in just 31 minutes

It takes just 31 minutes to get to London Victoria or Gatwick Airport with Gatwick Express. No need to worry about traffic jams, breakdowns or other hiccups on the road. And with two direct trains per hour, you won’t be waiting around. Just hop on board and relax, knowing you’re on your way to your winter getaway.

Bags of room for your luggage

Lots of luggage? No problem. Whether you’re packing ski boots or beach towels, there’s plenty of storage space on board, so you can pop your bags away and stretch your legs.

Smooth, savvy travel

Skip the expensive taxi and forget paying for airport parking. Plus, there are plenty of ways to save on your fare too – like booking direct to save 10% or saving 1/3 on group travel with GroupSave. And remember, kids travel for £2 and under 5s are free. That means more money left over for a treat at the airport or an après-ski hot chocolate.

Straight

from train to plane

Step off the train and into the terminal. No extra transfers needed. You’re ready to check in!

Fancy starting your winter holiday with Gatwick Express? To find out more or book a ticket, head to gatwickexpress.com or download the app.

Sussex Professional Earns CCXP Certification

Paul Matthews, a Sussex and Surreybased Customer Experience (CX) Specialist for insight6, has achieved the globally recognised Certified Customer Experience Professional (CCXP) certification, making him one of only 75 professionals in the UK to hold this prestigious qualification.

With over 30 years of experience, and now as the most qualified CX expert in Sussex and Surrey, Paul brings unparalleled expertise to businesses seeking to excel by delivering exceptional customer service to build customer loyalty and boost profitability.

Paul is integrating his additional expertise and cutting-edge tools, such as real-time customer feedback, into his mystery shopping, customer journey mapping, focus groups, team training, and mentoring services.

For those unfamiliar, the CCXP is the globally recognized standard for

customer experience professionals, accredited by the Customer Experience Professionals Association (CXPA).

It demonstrates expertise across six key competencies of customer experienceincluding customer-centric culture, CX strategy, customer insights, experience design improvement.

Paul’s certification process was rigorous—requiring 5+ years of CX experience, real-life project evidence, and a challenging 3-hour exam in London.

Paul reflected on his achievement: “Earning the CCXP certification is a proud moment for me. It provides me with the latest tools and strategies to help my clients in Sussex and Surrey create seamless customer journeys, improve loyalty, and drive long-term growth. I’m excited to apply this knowledge to help businesses stay ahead in the evolving CX landscape.”

For independent businesses, the customer experience has become a critical differentiator. Companies that focus on improving their customer journey and listening to their customers, see significant increases in customers who refer, return, and remain customers for life. You can also ask Paul anything of course:

paul.matthews@insight6.com

Dame Vera Lynn Children's Charity Partners with National UK Law Firm

Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity support children under 5 with cerebral palsy and other motor learning impairments. Their specialist early intervention service aims to improve their physical, social and emotional skills while also offering support to their families.

Based in Chailey, the charity supports hundreds of children and their families each year, providing a wide range of therapies such as physiotherapy, music therapy, speech and language therapy, as well as outreach services. Families travel from across London and the Southeast region to access their specialist support.

Nationwide UK lawyers, Slater and Gordon will be supporting Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity with a generous two-year partnership deal, enabling them to reach out and help even more families across the region. The law

firm are supporting part of the family outreach service, as well as backing the Lighthouse Project, a new initiative to support our parents through group sessions, that will offer information and advice, emotional and morale support, as well as providing a much-needed social opportunity.

CEO Glenys Creese said: “We are delighted that Slater and Gordon

recognise the importance of the work that we do, and this new partnership is providing another layer of support for our families, not only offering legal advice and guidance, but also funding a professional mental health and wellbeing group for our parents. It is wonderful that Slater and Gordon recognise the need to support the entire family which is crucial when it involves a child with complex health problems. We are so excited and grateful to be building a close relationship with their team.”

Participating in a charity partnership sends a strong message to both staff and clients about a company’s ethic and values, and is often used as a marker in tendering processes and the award of contracts. If you would like to have a chat about working with Dame Vera Lynn Children’s Charity, please email:

tracey.shaw@dvlcc.org.uk

Cardiovascular Health Crawley Wellbeing

is pleased

to now offer NHS health checks

The heart is responsible for pumping blood around the body and the fitter and healthier it is, the more efficient it is, and requires regular exercise and good nutrition to stay this way.

Cardiovascular (heart) health can be improved by taking part in more

regular exercise and general activity. It’s not necessarily about running marathons or rowing boats, the simple act of going out for a walk that gets you slightly out of breath is enough for health benefits to start making an impact. These benefits include improving

Productivity in the Workplace

Targets and projections are often at the centre of business discussions. How we can maximise profits and productivity often dominates agendas, crowding out discussions on employee wellbeing and motivations.

Wells Fargo were in the news recently after they dismissed employees who had used so-called ‘mouse jigglers’, to deceive software tracking user activity. Such software allegedly helps companies measure employee productivity, but instead raises questions surrounding how we measure and value employees’ work, as well as how we motivate employees.

Whilst tracking software may seem an obvious solution to concerns regarding employee output, such systems oversimplify the working process. By tracking digital strokes, the monitoring systems do not value the time dedicated

to ‘soft’ skills such as communicating with colleagues or clients. Similarly, it presumes that all work completed by employees takes place online or is quantifiable. Such systems also fail to consider how people work, with individuals perhaps preferring different mediums such as handwritten diagrams or notes. This may be as a result of familiarity, or due to accessibility.

Rather than micro-measuring,

blood circulation, lowering of blood pressure and lowering resting heart rate if coupled with a healthy diet. In fact, 85% of cardiovascular disease risk factors are modifiable. Foods that can help improve your Cardiac health are fruits and vegetables (lots of colour!), wholemeal bread and rice, lean meats and reducing fat and sugar intake. These actions can also help lower cholesterol and reduce your chances of developing type 2 Diabetes.

Having a free NHS Health Check is a great way of monitoring your heart health. The check includes Blood Pressure check, Cholesterol reading, BMI measurement and lifestyle questions to assess your risk of developing Cardiovascular Disease in the next 10 years (exclusion criteria applies).

If you would like to find out more about the NHS Health Check, please contact your GP or visit:

crawley.gov.uk/health/crawleywellbeing

or managing employee output to deter potential ‘slackers’, effective People strategies can help to motivate individuals so they engage with their work. This can start as early as the recruitment process by ensuring that the right people are placed in the right positions across the company. A more human based approach can not only improve employee wellbeing by relieving unnecessary pressure, but builds a relationship between employer and employee that is based on trust that the final outcome will be achieved. With an increase in remote and flexible working, it is as important as ever to have effective management strategies in place for both your business, and your people. If you wish to discuss in more detail, contact:

mary@mjvconsulting.co.uk

Why a Strong Operating System is Essential for Business Success

In today’s challenging business environment, many organisations struggle with issues like lack of direction, team misalignment, and inconsistent performance. A strong business operating system is essential to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and success. An effective operating system ensures that your business is built on a solid foundation. It simplifies processes, aligns teams, focuses on the things

that are important to the business, and that drive long-term success. This clarity leads to better decision-making, increased efficiency, and improved communication across all levels of your organisation.

Tips for Maximising Your Operating System:

1. Be Clear on Your Vision: Plan, document and share your long- and medium-term direction with your whole organisation. This enables everyone to understand where you’re going and how you’re going to get there.

2. Implement a Weekly Scorecard: Track key metrics weekly to get a clear snapshot of your business’s health. This data-driven approach enables you to make informed decisions and address issues before they escalate.

3. Conduct Regular Process Reviews: Schedule quarterly reviews of your

How can SMEs transition to the circular economy?

The circular economy is becoming known as a game-changing approach to production and consumption that aims to minimise waste and maximise resource efficiency. By designing out waste and pollution and promoting the reuse of materials, businesses can significantly reduce their environmental impact while also generating social values. For small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs), embracing the circular economy can be particularly advantageous. It offers cost savings, new revenue streams, enhanced brand image, and opportunities for innovation.

Earlier this year, researchers from the University of Sussex Business School collaborated with two food SMEs and a charity to implement circular practices. They focused on addressing the organisations’ everyday business challenges through circular opportunities. Instead of prescribing

solutions, they asked the organisations what key challenges they wanted to address. Here are three of our key insights:

1. Start small: Implement simple actions, like simply using a freezer rather an ice cube maker, which could save on energy costs. These small steps can immediately reduce costs while starting the journey, without waiting for larger, more complex initiatives.

2. Join a community: Engage with a community of like-minded businesses to share small actions and learn from others. This can be incredibly valuable and encourage other businesses to take small actions too.

3. Assemble a committed team: Communicate social and environmental goals. Buy-in from

core processes. This helps identify inefficiencies and ensures that your processes are documented and followed by all, which is key to achieving consistency and scalability.

4. Hold Consistent and Focussed Meetings: Use weekly meetings (we call them Level 10 Meetings™) to maintain focus and alignment within your leadership team. These meetings provide a platform to review Rocks, solve issues, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

A robust operating system, such as the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), provides the structure and discipline needed to drive your business forward. By implementing these tips, you can strengthen your organisation and set the stage for sustained growth.

eosworldwide.com/andrew-addison

the entire team ensures that circular actions become day-to-day, rather than requiring extra effort. By taking these steps, SMEs can begin their journey towards a circular economy, reaping the benefits of sustainability while addressing pressing business challenges like the energy crisis and cost of living crisis. This approach not only supports the environment but also strengthens the business’ resilience and competitiveness. Explore our courses at:

sussex.ac.uk/business-school/study

gdb leader for Growth change gear

Last month we reported on the new format of the gdb’s Diamond Leaders for Growth programme and on 19th September the group, led by Andrew Manley, enjoyed its first meeting in the new half day format.

The group spent the four-hour session on its customary exchange of successes and challenge in the businesses of its members and then spent the rest of the time in a structured examination of one particular business problem, led by Di Mill, COO of Commtel Ltd, the Crawley based manufacturer of gate and access control systems.

Speaking after the event Di commented that being part of Gatwick Diamond Leaders peer group has brought huge value to her personal and professional growth. “The group provides a space for me to share my thinking around business decisions and strategies, and the crucial feedback I receive helps me

to refine my thinking and challenges me to continuously improve. The shared discussions on common business issues allow me to gain new insights and perspectives that I might not have considered on my own. The meetings ensure that I spend much needed time working ‘on’ the business rather than ‘in’ it, while the expert guest speakers bring

Top tips for the winter season

1. Honesty: Be open about feeling overwhelmed; it's okay to cancel plans in favour of self-care.

2. Press Pause: Take breaks to relax and recognise your limits during busy holiday times.

3. Get creative: Set aside a day to bake, make decorations and cards; even better if you do it with someone else!

4. Watch for Santa: Look for sleigh lights on clear nights; enjoy stargazing. If it’s raining (!) tell

Christmas stories and cuddle up with a spiced warming drink.

5. Get Unstuck: Go for brisk walks with loved ones instead of overindulging indoors.

6. Don’t Believe the Hype: Avoid comparing your experience to idealised versions; appreciate what you have and the people around you.

7. Bed Head: Aim to sleep early on Christmas Eve for a refreshed start.

new ideas and challenge old thinking”.

She went on to say that the friendships she has built within the group of other established business leaders has been invaluable. “The support from this group has helped me navigate challenges with confidence, knowing that I have a network of trusted peers to turn to for advice. The group has enriched my leadership journey in ways I never expected.”

The group now meets six times a year –three times for half a day and three times for a full day meeting involving a session from an expert, from either within gdb or outside, to bring a wider perspective to a given topic. Lunch always forms part of the day. If you are interested in joining gdb Leaders for Growth, then please contact Mandi Lloyd at gdb or Andrew Manley directly at:

robandrew.manley@prolifient.com

8. Talk: Share feelings of stress with someone for support during festivities.

9. Give Yourself a Prezzie: Do something you genuinely enjoy during the break.

10. Get into the spirit of things: remember what this season is all about and do something for someone else. Giving is one of the 5-ways to Wellbeing and the more you give the more you get back; it’s not about money – what could you do for someone else? Learn about other’s winter festival traditions –you might like to add a few to your current list.

If you think you would like to talk to someone, then visit the link below to find our contact details and further information.

westsussexmind.org

Creative Pod Supports RSPCA with The Big Animal Lottery and Summer Cruelty Campaigns

As part of Creative Pod’s 2024 strategy and in light of their 18th birthday, they wanted to expand their client base beyond Sussex and the South East to work on larger projects in London. Over the summer, they started working with the RSPCA, the UK’s leading animal welfare charity, dedicated to preventing cruelty, promoting kindness, and rescuing animals in need.

The RSPCA reached out to Creative Pod for design support to help with two campaigns:

• The Big Animal Lottery - allowing supporters to win cash prizes while contributing to the charity's efforts.

• The Summer Cruelty Appealraises awareness about the spike in animal cruelty cases during the summer months.

Our digital designers were tasked

to create graphics and animations to support and spread awareness across their website and social media channels. These designs involved 3D icons, dynamic motion, and enticing animations. We introduced colour schemes, typography, and imagery whilst ensuring the design was structured to guide the viewer’s attention from the headline down to the story and call-to-action.

Gordon Hazelwood, Head of Creative, said: “My team have loved working with the RSPCA and I’m proud of the campaign work we’ve produced. My designers have provided exceptional service with accurate, quick work and great attention to detail. We all collectively love working with a charity that does so much good too.”

Matt Turner, CEO, said: “Working with

the RSPCA and helping them with two of their largest campaigns has been a privilege. It’s given us an opportunity to showcase our Michelin-star service with quality work, delivered on time and on budget. It’s incredible to see how far we have grown as an agency over 18 yearsworking with a national charity like this is a major milestone for us!”

creativepod.uk.com/contact

Roof Maintenance: Why Drones Are Transforming Inspections

Roof inspections have long been a labour-intensive and hazardous part of building maintenance, particularly in colder months. Traditional methods required operatives to climb ladders, set up scaffolding, and navigate uneven surfaces - all while contending with unpredictable weather conditions. These challenges not only posed risks to safety but also increased the time and cost associated with roof inspections.

In recent years, however, drone technology has emerged as a gamechanger in this field, providing a smarter, more efficient way to survey roofs. At Focus Consulting, the decision to incorporate drones into our surveying toolkit was driven by both practical and technological advantages.

Drones offer unmatched speed and accuracy in inspections. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, they can capture detailed footage of a roof’s condition without the need

for physical access to the structure. This allows for thorough assessments of hard-to-reach areas, including high-pitched roofs or those with complex layouts.

One of the major reasons drones are

superior for roof surveys is their ability to minimise risk. By keeping inspectors on the ground, the potential for accidents is drastically reduced. Drones can safely operate in cold and icy weather conditions - scenarios where traditional methods would pose significant hazards. Drones offer real-time data collection, which can be analysed immediately, allowing for quicker decision-making and identification of issues such as leaks, missing tiles, or structural damage. The efficiency drones bring to roof maintenance can’t be overstated. Inspections that once required days can now be completed in hours, without compromising on detail or accuracy. As drone technology continues to evolve, their role in routine building maintenance is likely to grow, marking a significant shift in how we approach inspections and structural assessments.

focuscs.co.uk

NONSTOP FROM LGW TO JFK IS BACK . FROM BIG BEN TO THE BIG APPLE:

Seasonal service from London-LGW to New York-JFK resumes summer 2025. Book now to connect to the city that never sleeps and beyond. With the Delta, Air France, KLM and Virgin Atlantic joint venture enjoy a greater choice of routes and loyalty options between Europe, the U.K. and North America, and some of the best premium cabins in the sky.

What is a baby bank?

A Baby Bank provides a family with everything they need from cots to clothes, buggies to bottles to blankets, formula to fun activities; everything a child needs to be kept warm, safe and fed – things many of us take for granted but for some are simply out of reach.

The need for services like this has risen at an incredible rate in the last few years, and there are now 300 registered Baby Banks in the UK (Baby Bank Alliance).

Driven by the ongoing cost of living crisis and the impact this has had on families across the country who now, more than ever, are seeking help to stay safe and well.

Add in housing challenges, decline in mental wellbeing and increased impact of rising costs, this really is a challenging time for our community – many of whom are employed and working hard and contributing to our local economy, and

yet still struggling to make ends meet at home.

Our local baby bank, Ten Little Toes, has supported over 1000 families this year alone, to help lift them out of poverty and live with dignity and respect. They are providing bespoke bundles to ensure each family gets what they need, without judgement and with an abundance of love and care.

Baby Banks rely on communities like you to help improve lives and change outlooks for local people. If you would like to find out more about Ten Little Toes and the work we do, we would love to hear from you. Please checkout our socials or visit our website:

tenlittletoesbabybank.org

Matthew Tyson, Managing Director of Richard Place Dobson (RPD), completes Dart 10K, raising £2,600 for Charity!

We are excited to congratulate Matthew Tyson, Managing Director of Richard Place Dobson, on his remarkable achievement of completing the Dart 10K open water swim in an impressive time of 2 hours and 38 minutes!

Founded in 1908, Richard Place Dobson has built a reputation for delivering exceptional accounting services with outstanding results. While their expertise spans across a wide range of financial disciplines, they excel far beyond just accounting and tax. They work closely with third-sector clients, including charities and not-for-profit organisations, whose efforts are truly transformational. This commitment is why RPD continually strives to go the extra mile to back those making a genuine impact in our community. Fundraising efforts are second to none; So far, Matthew has raised an incredible £3,500 for the RPD Foundation, a charitable organisation supporting two

important causes: The Holistic Wellness Community and Level Water.

• The Holistic Wellness Community provides free holistic therapies to individuals in Crawley, focusing on mental health and overall well-being. Their mission is to nurture emotional balance, offering crucial support to those in need.

• Level Water is dedicated to providing one-on-one swimming lessons for children with disabilities. Their work has a life-changing impact, empowering children by developing their water skills and boosting their confidence and independence.

The Dart 10K is the first marathondistance outdoor swim in the UK, following the River Dart from Totnes to Greenway, National Trust. Often compared to the London Marathon, the Dart 10K is a wild, long, and sometimes cold swim, demanding a high level of fitness and endurance!

Well done, Matthew, on this outstanding accomplishment and for your dedication to supporting such worthy causes!

placedobson.co.uk

Who owns your brand?

For Joe Cheal, founder of Imaginarium Learning & Development, a conversation at Gatwick Diamond Business led to a panic… and then a solution… with the stalwart support of another member.

Panic Attack

A chance chat with a fellow trainer and trademark agent Clive Bonny prompted Clive to praise Joe’s innovation for his brand name. Clive then offered a free search to check if Joe’s trademark could

be registered and protected. This led to Clive finding 16 similar names already on the register owned by other companies and the risks of infringement costs and reputation damage suddenly loomed.

Intellectual Property Office ‘IPO’ statistics have shown up to one third of small enterprises experience IP infringement issues. Trademark infringement costs for small firms can be over £100,000 so a fast solution was required.

Options to Resolve

Clive investigated all similar registered and unregistered trademarks to avoid a potential infringement claim. Over 10,000 UK trademark applications are rejected every year due to failure to search all the relevant registries.

Unsuccessful applications alert eagleeyed attorneys who can then take legal action against infringing applicants. Clive then successfully processed the Imaginarium trademark application. Joe can now add the trademark Certificate

Network Charging Compensation Scheme

The Network Charging Compensation Scheme (NCC Scheme) is a crucial government measure to ensure Britain’s Energy Intensive Industries (EIIs) retain their competitive edge in the global marketplace.

This initiative is significant as it offers financial relief to industries heavily reliant on energy, helping them manage costs associated with using the Great Britain electricity grid.

The scheme provides up to 60% compensation on network charging costs for eligible EIIs including the Transmission Network Use of System (TNUoS), Distribution Use of System (DUoS), and Balancing Services Use of System (BSUoS).

It reduces the financial burden on EIIs, allowing them to continue their operations without being crippled by the high costs of energy consumption.

Compensation provided under this scheme is funded by the EII Support Levy on electricity suppliers. This levy will be introduced from April 2025, with each supplier's contribution determined by their market share. The funds generated will compensate EIIs for the network charges they incur.

Eligible EIIs can expect to receive compensation payments from May 2025. The regulatory framework governing this scheme is outlined in The EnergyIntensive Industry Electricity Support Payments and Levy Regulations 2024, which took effect on 1st April 2024.

As the scheme progresses, there will be increased engagement with suppliers and the development of the systems required to support payment calculations and invoicing processes.

Contact Control Energy Costs for expert advice and assistance navigating

to his website to deter copycats and google adword buyers who may take Joe’s online enquirers.

Results and Outcome

Joe says “I thank Clive for avoiding infringement risks and protecting my long-standing brand with a fast affordable service. I’m delighted that Imaginarium Learning & Development is now officially registered… and safe.” Clive adds “Imaginarium offers unique design processes which improve retention and behavioural change. By registering ownership of his intellectual property Joe can also licence this to third party trainers and corporates.

This can create extra future annual revenues across the UK and abroad to capitalise Joe’s past investment in content design. Registered IP ownership always accelerates success”. For more information contact:

Joe@imaginariumdev.com

this valuable scheme and to see if your business qualifies.

cec.uk.com/contact-us

Manufacturing a Sustainable Future

Menzies LLP have released a practical guide for manufacturing companies aiming to enhance and develop their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy.

Companies across the UK are increasingly held to account by customers, suppliers, investors and other stakeholders when it comes to sustainability and ethics, both in their own business operations and throughout their supply chain. As a significant consumer of energy and materials, the UK manufacturing sector is particularly well placed to take advantage of the benefits of developing a robust ESG strategy, with opportunities to attract and retain talented individuals and increase profitability through investment in environmental and operational improvements.

At the same time, the implementation of such strategies is uniquely challenging for businesses within the sector, particularly SMEs for whom the required

investment in cleaner technologies or energy sources may represent a strain on available working capital. In addition, many companies report knowledge and resource gaps as a key barrier to transitioning to more sustainable business practices.

This latest report produced by Menzies Manufacturing Sector team walks businesses through the process of implementing an effective ESG strategy, drawing on available government support and tax incentives whilst avoiding the pitfalls of “greenwashing”. Through explaining key terminology and breaking down the process into manageable steps, the report points business leaders in the right direction to begin developing practical and commercial ESG strategies bespoke to their needs.

Although aimed at businesses operating within the manufacturing sector, the report is a comprehensive jumping-off point for any business

concerned with the operational, financial or resourcing implications of adopting a future-proof ESG strategy. For further information, contact Anna Johnston on:

ajohnston@menzies.co.uk

DMH Stallard bolsters corporate practice with double partner hire

DMH Stallard has appointed two leading female M&A and private equity partners. Kate Partridge and Emma Boorman both qualified at Eversheds, before career moves that saw Kate join city firm Berwin Leighton Paisner, followed by US investment bank Bear Stearns. Emma moved from Eversheds to DLA Piper, then became legal counsel and an investment director at (mid-market PE

house) Barclays Ventures, before joining (international PE house) CVC Capital Partners.Kate went on to become one of the founders of a female led legal consultancy business called ‘Illume’, where she reunited with Emma, before both decided to join DMH Stallard.

Jonathan Grant, Head of Corporate at DMH Stallard, said: “We have a strong female team within DMH Stallard, which encouraged Kate and Emma to join us.

We expect to see steadily increasing demand from female led businesses over the next few years, and Kate and Emma are great lawyers, with impressive client followings.

“This is the first time as a traditional law firm we have been able to attract lawyers from a self-employed consultancy business. Over recent years the move has been the other way, but our values and flexible working environment, combined

with a strong team of junior lawyers was compelling for Kate and Emma.”

Kate said: “DMH Stallard puts client experience at the forefront of its strategy. Its commitment to a supportive and flexible working environment is very impressive, as is its corporate team. DMH Stallard provides me with an opportunity to work for clients in London and on the south coast with the backing of a fullservice law firm. An exciting prospect!”

Emma said: “The expansion of DMH Stallard across all practice areas over the last ten years reflects an absolute focus on providing clients with the highest quality advice and support available in the market.

This reputation, allied to a progressive culture, is why I’m delighted to be joining DMH Stallard in London.”

dmhstallard.com

Celebrate 2024 and Set the Stage for 2025 with Roffey Park

As we approach the end of the year, forwardthinking organisations are already planning for a successful 2025. Roffey Park Institute, a leader in professional development and training, is offering an exciting promotion to help businesses invest in their teams and prepare for a successful 2025.

Unlock 2025: Invest in Your Team's Future

Get a head start on next year's success and book any open programme in November, December, or January and enjoy a 20% discount if you’re a new client. This offer is designed to equip your team with the essential skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing business landscape.

Roffey Park's diverse range of open programmes covers crucial areas such as leadership and management development, strategic thinking, and organisational development. You can browse the full range of open programmes via their website at roffeypark.com and claim your 20% off by emailing Juliet at marketing@roffeypark.com

Celebrate Success at Roffey Park Venue

As the year draws to a close, it's time to not only plan ahead for 2025 but also bring your team together to reflect on their

Every business owner needs a plan B

Most business owners are working to a plan. You might be hoping to sell in the long-term or pass your business onto the next generation. That’s Plan A.

But if unexpected health problems happen, you might need a Plan B. Every

hard work and celebrate their accomplishments.

Roffey Park, a dedicated corporate events, training and conference venue, invites you to round off 2024 with a special 24% discount on all Venue bookings made throughout November for events held in December.

Nestled in picturesque surroundings, Roffey Park's venue provides the perfect backdrop for your end-of-year celebrations. Whether you're planning a team-building day, a festive gathering, or a corporate retreat, the Venue allows you to effortlessly bring your teams together to socialise and connect. Treat your team today via roffeyparkvenue.com and quote ‘DECEMBER24’ with your enquiry to save.

business, no matter how small, needs to know it could continue if key people are faced with the unexpected. Every business is different, and costs vary depending on circumstances, but there are options to consider:

1. Private Medical Insurance (PMI)

Designed to get you diagnosed and treated quickly, PMI will bypass NHS waiting lists with a prompt referral to a consultant and admission to a private hospital.

2. Income Protection

Income protection will pay a regular monthly benefit, replacing income lost in the event of injury or illness.

3. Critical Illness Protection

Critical illness protection is designed to provide a tax-free lump sum after the life assured has survived one of a specified list of critical illnesses for 14 days.

4. Life Insurance

A life insurance policy provides a lump sum to the policy owner’s family upon death. “Relevant Life” is a life insurance policy available to employers to provide an individual death-in-service benefit for directors and key staff in a tax-efficient way.

To learn about protecting your business and more, download your free ‘Big company benefits for small business owners’ guide here.

benchmarkfp.co.uk

Choosing the right Digital Apprenticeship Provider for your business

Digital Apprenticeships are continuing to grow in popularity, however choosing the right provider can be challenging. It’s essential to find one that not only sources top talent but also delivers quality digital skills training to advance your business.

Here’s a few factors which contributes to a great apprenticeship provider.

1. Tailored Teaching

Everyone learns a little differently. That’s why a training provider who can adapt their style to suit each person is necessary. By designing customised learning plans for each digital apprentice, they will be able to train in a way that’s most suited to them, which not only benefits their learning progress but also brings additional value to your business.

2. Up-to-date Knowledge

Digital marketing and tech solutions all have something in common - they’re continuously evolving. Finding a provider who will be on top of the most-up-date knowledge and developments and who

can communicate this knowledge in an impactful way is imperative.

3. Blended Learning Approach

When information is delivered in multiple ways, humans are more likely to retain it. Therefore, choose a provider who offers their apprentices meaningful variety and autonomy throughout their training. With an integrated blend of classroom-based learning, one-one sessions, accessible online material, live

webinars, and self-directed learning. The training should appeal to an extensive range of students and improve their overall learning experience.

4.

Industry Leading Tutors

Ensure that your apprenticeship provider has tutors who are experts in their field. All our coaches and mentors are established professionals, allowing them to deliver relevant industry skills and knowledge, while inspiring apprentices.

5. Going Above and Beyond

Delivering the core curriculum to apprentices is essential, but what sets a high-quality provider apart is the additional value they offer. Creative Process not only tailors digital programs but also emphasizes leadership skills, problem-solving, communication, and emotional intelligence.

Discover more about our exceptional, fully funded digital apprenticeship programmes: creativeprocessdigital.com

Why It’s Hard for Business Owners to Call Themselves ‘Experts’

Imposter Syndrome:

(You know I talk about this one often!) You might feel like you’re ‘faking it’ or that someone will call you out for not knowing enough.

This self-doubt can be strong, especially when you're constantly comparing yourself to others in your field.

As a business owner myself, coaching other business owners, I know that we wear many hats.

But calling yourself an 'expert' can feel like the most uncomfortable one of all. Here are three reasons why:

2. Ever-Changing Industry:

When you're a business owner, you're responsible for keeping up with industry trends on your own.

The more you learn, the more you realise there’s always SO much more to know, making you feel even less like an 'expert'.

3. Fear of Judgment:

We all hate to be judged by others. Labelling yourself as an expert feels risky. What if people don’t agree? What if you fail?

But let's have a shift in perspective here. My definition of an expert is someone who has extensive knowledge, skill, or experience in a particular field. And as a business owner - that's you. So own it!

I’m Kerry Jones, an Executive Coach supporting business owners to create brilliant businesses whilst enjoying the journey. You can reach me at: kerryjonescoaching.com

A midwinter nature challenge

Every June Sussex Wildlife Trust challenges you to try 30 Days Wild, doing one wild thing a day throughout the month, and to stay wild for the rest of the year. Keeping up with your daily doses of nature can be tough, especially as the days start getting shorter. So, to provide a little mid-winter inspiration, we’ve launched our 12 Days of Wild Christmas. The idea is simple: one Random Act of Wildness a day, from Christmas Day to 5th January.

It’s the perfect companion to a busy festive period, the chance to take some time to slow down and reconnect with nature. At first glance, winter can seem a bit bleak, but take a look around and you’ll see that nature has plenty of gifts to offer. Flocks of thrushes chatter in hedgerows, feasting on glistening red berries; frost forges delicate, glittering sculptures on every surface; and rainsoaked mud and freshly-fallen snow

preserve the footprints of birds and mammals, leaving perfect tracks to be discovered.

12 Days of Wild Christmas is also a chance to give something back. Small changes can make a difference. Recycle your Christmas tree, turn your leftovers into a tasty meal or – if you’re brave enough – raise a bit of money for wildlife with a polar plunge on New Year’s Day! A Random Act of Wildness can benefit the planet, as well as your own sense of wellbeing. So, whether

you take five minutes to sit and watch the birds from your window, with a mug of hot chocolate in hand, or pull on your warmest Christmas jumper for an afternoon exploring a local nature reserve, why not take on our winter wildlife challenge? We’ve got some top tips for what nature can give you this Christmas, and what you can give back to nature. It’s time to start planning your 12 Days of Wild Christmas! Sign up here:

LouiseColbran@sussexwt.org.uk

Major Redevelopment for GEW's Innovation Centre on the Manor Royal Estate, Crawley, Led by Carnegie Group Ltd

Carnegie Group Ltd is leading a major redevelopment project on the Manor Royal Industrial Estate in Crawley, with the aim of transforming a 5,200m² two-storey building into a cuttingedge innovation centre for GEW, a global leader in the manufacture of UV curing systems. Malcolm and Gillian Rae of GEW have committed a multimillion-pound investment to expand their manufacturing and development capabilities, further reinforcing their

commitment to Manor Royal, UK manufacturing and their position in the global UV marketplace.

As the main contractor, Carnegie Group Ltd has taken on the challenge of completely stripping the building back to its structural concrete frame.

A new steel frame atrium structure has been installed, while re-cladding and curtain walling are currently being fitted, as designed by the Carnegie Group Ltd architectural team.

This large-scale project has also seen significant structural improvements, including the installation of a new steelframed extension and all civil works required including all underground drainage, and the repositioning of a large concrete water attenuation system, which are now at the completed stage.

Once the exterior is sealed, Carnegie Group Ltd will begin the internal fit-

out, creating office spaces, canteens, and washroom facilities, while also installing lifts for personnel and materials. Additionally, a comprehensive M&E package will be managed by the Carnegie Group Ltd team, followed by the completion of all roadways, parking, landscaping, planting of beds and security gates and fencing, ensuring a state-of-the-art facility for GEW’s continued innovation. Located on the Kent-Surrey border, Carnegie Group Ltd specialises in steel frame buildings and general construction for industrial and commercial projects, offering full contractor services including planning, RIBA-certified architectural services, design, and construction. For more information or advice on your next big project, please visit:

carnegiegroup.co.uk

Showerkap’s watertech innovation scoops award

Gatwick Diamond Business member

Showerkap has been named as one of the Top 10 extraordinary companies tackling big challenges after making the TechRound SaaS66 2024 on October 3.

The award celebrates the startups changing the Software as a Service (SaaS) space across the UK and Europe. Showerkap’s mission is to address the global water crisis - ranked among the top five global risks.

Combating water and energy waste, Showerkap is helping businesses to reveal hidden waste - empowering both users and organisations to create a lasting impact on the environment and its communities.

Its platform enables monitoring and management of water in granular detail - delivering valuable insights and reducing water and energy waste and carbon emissions. It delivers the tools to gain full visibility of a building’s water

use - from a managed office space to a hotel with hundreds of rooms - metrics like volume, temperature and duration are all visible.

Its unique, automated platform continuously monitors, reports, analyses, and improves water use and efficiency using real-time insights and data-driven optimisation. It also

New policies launched for breakthrough businesses

New economic development policies are now being proposed in consultation with entrepreneur influencers and trade body advisors.

These focus on four key areas of growth: funding, capital markets, taxation and employee incentives. The

aim is to boost scale up opportunities across all industry sectors and encourage more investment funding for firms with high growth potential.

Recent figures show UK venture capital funding was just 0.1% of UK GDP, eight times lower in relative terms than USA.

The House of Lords hosted the publication of new proposals to boost UK business innovation. The research on business growth opportunities called Backing Breakthrough Businesses by The Entrepreneurs Network has been sponsored by the Rigby Group, a private UK company with a £4 billion pa turnover.

The recommendations have been endorsed by Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds who is also President of the Board of Trade.

The policy recommendations for economic development add to the Private Business Commission’s initial

improves water stewardship by engaging guests and staff with soft nudges, such as tips for water saving.

The innovation combines engineering and behavioural science in first-of-itskind smart technology. The system features a smart box connected to flow meters, centralised cloud system and mobile app, to remotely monitor and manage water temperature and safety. It allows businesses to lower carbon emissions and enables the pursuit of net-zero targets to help meet the SD6 UN Goals for Sustainability reporting.

Showerkap’s business strategy is to partner with some of the planet’s largest water consumers, including hotels and universities and it is in partnership discussions with some of the UK’s leading businesses.

To learn more contact Carly Hunt on:

carly@showerkap.co.uk

government report and is informed through consultations with top business leaders across the UK.

Attendees included international trade bodies and entrepreneurs who support innovation in all enterprise sectors.

The Entrepreneurs Network APPG supporter Clive Bonny commented “These recommendations will make it easier for business to obtain investment tax relief for equity funding, facilitate R and D tax credits, and encourage more employees into share ownership schemes. This is the result of effective consultations between government policy makers, trade bodies and high growth enterprises who have benchmarked success.”

To open the report click on Backing Breakthrough Businesses

For more information contact Clive Bonny at: consult-smp.com

A Day In The Life of a Self Employed WFH

I LOVE the flexibility of working from home. It’s great to be able to have a break from sitting at the laptop for hours, which can happen if it’s an admin/ coaching day.

Love to go off on my bike for a proper workout between rain showers, or break it up with housework. It works well for me to be able to choose my hours and I like the mix of sometimes working evenings and weekends, and having days off during the week.

Here’s my day last Thursday: