VOX Magazine - issue 6

VOX

YOUR QUARTERLY BUSINESS MAGAZINE CONNECTING CHESTER & WREXHAM

VOX

YOUR QUARTERLY BUSINESS MAGAZINE CONNECTING CHESTER & WREXHAM

Meet the team:

Clara lives in Chester and runs a successful marketing company, Zebra Marketing and Communications (www.zebra-comms.co.uk), that has been operating locally, nationally and internationally since 2010. Clara specialises in strategic marketing, copywriting, media relations and services relating to events, exhibitions and conferences.

01978 437070 | 07702 736763 clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Welcome to VOX. Your voice to target the business community across Chester and Wrexham. Whether you are based in Chester or Wrexham, or are keen to reach the businesses that are, our magazine has been specifically designed to reach the people that matter. Cover illustration: Pontcysyllte

Vicky lives just outside Wrexham and owns and produces EssentialsMAG (www.essentialsmag.co.uk) – a local monthly community magazine which is hand-delivered through 14,000 letterboxes in and around Wrexham. She is also a successful graphic designer and artist and has been working in the creative industries since 1992 and established her first business in 2003.

01978 855459 | 07740 945795

vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk

Clara Hughes Editorial Director

Vicky Heathfield Creative Director & Advertising

Welcome

We do hope 2023 has got off to a flying start for you. We were delighted to kick off January with a successful VOX networking event at Cleopatra’s Bistro in Holt, which you can read more about on page 22. One of the big drivers for us when we originally decided to introduce VOX was the opportunity to help local businesses connect. Seeing such a wonderful, diverse group of people come together and do just that is hugely gratifying – and the pizza was pretty darn good too (thanks Phil and Helen)! Thank you to everyone who came along.

So, what is VOX? – a quick reminder

VOX is the Latin word for ‘voice’ and this is what we want to provide for local businesses around Chester and Wrexham – a voice and a platform to showcase your work, share your successes and offer help and advice to one other.

What’s in store?

There should be plenty to tempt you in our latest edition, as once again we are covering a host of interesting topics. Skills shortages is one of the biggest challenges businesses most often cite at the moment. With Apprenticeship Week having taken place 6-12th February, one of our key focuses in this issue is a look at apprenticeships and other gateways to industry. We share one surveying company’s first-hand experience and look at ways that businesses can help nurture the future generation of talent.

Looking ahead to June, Chester will once again host Green Expo, which includes three days of conferences, events and exhibitions. You can find out more about it – and how to get involved – on page 28. In each issue of VOX, we also like to gain some insight from our local business leaders. For this issue, we have spoken with Councillor Ian Bancroft, Leader of the Council in Wrexham, Alex Lovén, Net World Sports and Samantha Jones from Moneypenny, to find out about their plans to launch the Wrexham Business and Community Awards. We also interviewed Councillor Richard Beacham, to find out more about the launch and success of the new Chester Market. Plus, you will find lots of business insights and interviews, along with all our usual features.

Help us raise your voice

Once again, we would like to thank our advertisers and contributors, who have helped us to create our latest issue. And huge appreciation goes out once again to our resident artist Emma Gore, who has developed another stunning piece of original cover artwork. We are looking forward to heading to the Chester Business Show in May, and Emma will be joining us on our stand to promote her fabulous artwork.

We want to make VOX the voice for local businesses – a platform where we can share your stories and experiences of the region, celebrate your successes and be proud to be part of a community uniting two important economic hubs. To make this happen, we would love to hear your views and find out what you would be interested in reading about.

We hope you enjoy reading our latest issue of VOX!

Clara and Vicky

Croeso

Croeso i'n rhifyn diweddaraf o VOX Rydym yn gobeithio eich bod wedi dechrau 2023 ar dân. Roeddem yn falch iawn o ddechrau mis Ionawr gyda digwyddiad rhwydweithio VOX llwyddiannus yn Cleopatra’s Bistro yn Holt, y gallwch ddarllen mwy amdano ar dudalen 22. Un o'r sbardunau mawr i ni pan benderfynon ni gyflwyno VOX yn wreiddiol oedd y cyfle i helpu busnesau lleol i gysylltu. Mae gweld grŵp mor wych, amrywiol o bobl yn dod at ei gilydd ac yn gwneud hynny yn braf iawn - ac roedd y pizza yn eithaf da hefyd (diolch Phil a Helen)! Diolch i bawb a ddaeth draw.

Felly, beth yw VOX? – nodyn cyflym i’ch atgoffa VOX yw'r gair Lladin am 'lais', a dyma beth rydyn ni am ei ddarparu ar gyfer busnesau lleol o amgylch Caer a Wrecsam - llais a llwyfan i arddangos eich gwaith, rhannu eich llwyddiannau a chynnig help a chyngor i'n gilydd.

Beth sydd ar y gweill?

Dylai fod digon i'ch temtio yn ein rhifyn diweddaraf, gan ein bod unwaith eto yn ymdrin â llu o bynciau diddorol. Prinder sgiliau yw un o'r heriau mwyaf y mae busnesau yn sôn amdanynt amlaf ar hyn o bryd. Gydag Wythnos Prentisiaethau wedi'i chynnal 6-12 Chwefror, un o'n prif ffocysau yn y rhifyn hwn yw edrych ar brentisiaethau a phyrth eraill i ddiwydiant. Rydym yn rhannu profiad uniongyrchol un cwmni arolygu ac yn edrych ar ffyrdd y gall busnesau helpu i feithrin y genhedlaeth o dalent y dyfodol.

Wrth edrych ymlaen at fis Mehefin, bydd Caer unwaith eto yn cynnal Green Expo, sy'n cynnwys tridiau o gynadleddau, digwyddiadau ac arddangosfeydd. Gallwch gael rhagor o wybodaeth amdano — a sut i gymryd rhan — ar dudalen 28. Ym mhob rhifyn o VOX, rydym hefyd yn hoffi cael rhywfaint o fewnwelediad gan ein harweinwyr busnes lleol. Ar gyfer y rhifyn hwn, rydym wedi siarad â'r Cynghorydd Ian Bancroft, Arweinydd y Cyngor yn Wrecsam, Alex Lovén, Net World Sports, a Samantha Jones o Moneypenny, i gael gwybod am eu cynlluniau i lansio Gwobrau Busnes a Chymuned Wrecsam. Gwnaethom hefyd gyfweld â'r Cynghorydd Richard Beacham, i ddarganfod mwy am lansiad a llwyddiant Marchnad newydd Caer. Hefyd, fe welwch lawer o fewnwelediadau busnes a chyfweliadau, ynghyd â'n holl nodweddion arferol.

Helpwch ni i godi eich llais

Unwaith eto, hoffem ddiolch i'n hysbysebwyr a'n cyfranwyr, sydd wedi ein helpu i greu ein rhifyn diweddaraf. Hoffwn hefyd estyn ein gwerthfawrogiad enfawr unwaith eto i'n hartist preswyl Emma Gore, sydd wedi datblygu darn trawiadol arall o waith celf clawr gwreiddiol. Rydym yn edrych ymlaen at fynd i Sioe Fusnes Caer ym mis Mai, a bydd Emma yn ymuno â ni ar ein stondin i hyrwyddo ei gwaith celf gwych.

Cofiwch, rydyn ni am wneud VOX yn llais i fusnesau lleol – yn llwyfan lle gallwn rannu eich straeon a'ch profiadau o'r rhanbarth, dathlu eich llwyddiannau a bod yn falch o fod yn rhan o gymuned sy'n uno dau hwb economaidd pwysig. Er mwyn i hyn ddigwydd, byddem wrth ein bodd yn clywed eich barn a chael gwybod beth fyddai gennych ddiddordeb mewn darllen amdano.

Gobeithio y byddwch chi’n mwynhau darllen ein rhifyn diweddaraf o VOX!

Clara and Vicky

Academic collaboration between a leading college and the NHS is in good health

The Healthcare Cadets programme launched by Coleg Cambria and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is attracting interest from potential learners across north east Wales, following its launch last September. Based at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, members of the debut cohort – all from the college’s Yale site –are now on placement in their second year, having gained experience on different surgical and medical wards.

Cadets were able to choose which specific discipline they wanted to pursue –including A&E, gynaecology and on Children’s wards – and from January 2023, are supporting staff in the critical care and cancer units.

With up to 40 students across the two years, lead tutor Stefanie Matthews said the course is becoming popular with both male and female candidates keen to pursue a career in the health sector. “We have built on the foundations laid over the last 15 months, so the programme has improved and covers a wider range of areas. Learners on the first year have the benefit of being able to gain feedback and advice from those on the second year. They can reassure and mentor them about what to expect, given the nature of working in a hospital, and the environment and pressure that comes with that.

“We will continue to grow the programme, so both the hospital and the Cadets reap the rewards, both now and long-term, as many of them will go on to work for the NHS and in other healthcare roles in the future.”

Blending time in the classroom with one day a week on different wards, the learners are studying for a WJEC Level 3 Health and Social Care in Principles and Practice, WJEC Medical Science, and the Health and Social Care City and Guilds Level 2 Core Qualification.

Award success for Chester Racecourse

Chester Racecourse has recently announced that it has won the ‘Taste of Racecourses’ category in the 2022 Quality Assured Racecourse Scheme (QARS) awards. In addition, the course has also ranked in the top 10 racecourses for customer experience. The QARS aims to objectively assess the race day experience, from the perspective of the customers enjoying a race meet at the course.

Wrexham named as one of the best cities in the UK for job opportunities

New research has named Wrexham as one of the top UK cities to have the best job opportunities for people living and working within them.

HR software provider Ciphr examined 50 locations with city status, comparing multiple factors such as their average earnings, recent salary growth, employment rate changes, unemployment rate, number of job listings and SME density, to identify the top 15 cities that offer the best employment opportunities for job hunters and those considering a change of career. Life satisfaction and happiness scores, as well as housing affordability – to reflect the local population’s general level of wellbeing and the city’s cost of living – were also included, as key indicators in determining the result.

Welsh Secretary sees £13m levelling up project in north Wales

In December last year, Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart visited sites in North East Wales which are receiving £13.3m in UK Government funding to boost tourism. The Welsh Secretary joined Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes and Wrexham Council to see how the money, allocated as part of the UK Government’s new Levelling Up Fund, will transform connectivity, public spaces and services in the area.

Part of this funding will go to the Trevor Basin Technical Masterplan, which will see investment in a new arrival area, rewilding of former industrial land, setting up a woodland activity and education area, and creating a new Dee Valley walking route in the area around the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct World Heritage site.

Cllr Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “The improvement of our unique World Heritage Site is of critical importance to Wrexham, the World Heritage Site Board, Wales and the United Kingdom. I would like to thank everyone involved in putting together this very successful bid and look forward to seeing the progress that will now be made in the area.”

Plans underway for Chester Gateway

Following a number of public consultations, plans have been unveiled to transform the area around the railway station into a ‘destination for business, living and tourism’. The proposals for ‘The Gateway’ features new homes, a multistorey car park for the station, a high-quality pedestrian and cycle bridge next to the existing Hoole Bridge, public art and play spaces, and a tree-lined boulevard, rain garden and parklets on City Road.

A major revamp of the railway station also forms part of the long-term vision for the area. The partners leading the Chester City Gateway regeneration project –including Cheshire West and Chester Council, Network Rail and individual landowners – have put together a draft ‘Strategic Regeneration Framework’ (SRF), which will shape future development in this area over the next decade.

The document outlines: “The Gateway presents a major opportunity to bring forward mixed-use regeneration and economic growth to Chester. The poor configuration of the existing Railway Station and surrounding road network is uninspiring and heavily congested, creating barriers to movement and a poor environment for people living, working and visiting the area. Redevelopment around the area can help to mitigate these transport-led issues and create a vibrant and popular destination for business, living and tourism.”

UK Shared Prosperity Fund

The UK Government has awarded over £22.4 million from the recent UK Shared Prosperity Fund to Wrexham. This funding is meant to be spent in a way that brings opportunity, growth and pride in Wrexham. Some of this money will be awarded to local individuals, businesses and charities in the form of grants. The first round of funding applications is now closed, but visit the website to find out about further rounds: wrexham.gov.uk/SharedProsperityFund

Official launch of new Wrexham Visitor Centre

Visitors to Wrexham will find an enhanced offering this year, as the new Visitor Information Centre on Chester Street has opened its doors. As well as being a place to find out about events, attractions and things to see and do across the county, with more space, the new centre focuses on showcasing local food and drink produce and Welsh gifts.

With a new team in place, headed up by experienced local retailer Mick Pinder, the centre aims to become the first point of call for visitors to Wrexham over the coming years. Mick said: "It's a really exciting time given the enhanced profile that Wrexham is currently receiving. Each week, more new local products are being stocked and business is growing thanks to both the local community and also a growing wave of overseas travellers – many who've got an interest in the football!"

Despite other similar centres closing across North Wales in recent years, having a visitor information centre is seen as an important feature, as Wrexham's tourism sector recovers from the pandemic and looks to keep growing. Tourism manager at Wrexham Council, Joe Bickerton added: "Having a bold, visible centre located between two key attractions (Ty Pawb and Xplore!) is really important and shows our commitment to supporting not only the City centre, but the promotion of hospitality businesses and destination events across the whole county. Thanks to support from Visit Wales, we were able to design the centre to not only offer retail and information, but to also have flexible space for local food and drink traders to have pop-up trading space, tasting events and more. If it helps promote local tourism and showcase what a brilliant place Wrexham County is to visit and stay, then we're up for working with businesses to try and make it happen".

The Wrexham Visitor Information Centre is based on Chester Street on the corner of the South Arcade leading into Ty Pawb and opposite the Xplore! Science Discovery Centre. It is open between 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Saturday.

The appliance of science in Germany inspired a group of learners from Coleg Cambria

Fourteen students from the college’s Yale site in Wrexham visited Berlin on a healthcare field trip, led by Medical and Applied Science lead, Paul PhillipsJenkins. They travelled on more than 50 trains in four days while taking in some of the capital’s leading institutes and exhibitions. Among them were students from Medical Science, Applied Science and A-Level Biology courses.

Paul explained: “The trip was to immerse the students in science in Berlin, the best city in Europe to do so. The emphasis was on health sciences, so we attended exhibits, enjoyed interactive science and technology activities, natural history attractions, and looked at predictions for science in the future, as part of Berlin’s International Science Festival.

“Ultimately, it was an incredible opportunity for the students, demonstrating the benchmark for science and providing us all with the unforgettable and inspiring memories we have brought back to Cambria, laying the foundations for their future careers.”

Events and Festivals in Cheshire

Marketing Cheshire held its inaugural Events and Festivals in Cheshire session at the start of February.

Hosted by Chester Race Company at Chester Racecourse, the session provided a great opportunity for discussions and thoughts on how businesses in this sector can enhance the region by working together.

Hoola Nation runs successful Wellbeing Day

On Saturday 28 January, almost 50 women of different ages and fitness levels got together to enjoy a selection of exercise classes, motivational talks and a cooking class.

“Self-care is the basis for everyone’s mental and physical wellbeing. The main issue lies in the fact that we often don’t prioritise it until it is too late. I am on a mission to change that”, says Sasha Kenney, the event organiser and the founder of Hoola Nation. “Events like these enable us to build a community where women feel motivated and inspired to take their health to next level, so they can thrive at home and at work.”

‘Inspirational’ Wrexham Glyndŵr University leader named in Welsh Changemaker 100 list

An ‘inspirational leader who galvanises others into action and system working’ has been named in the Future Generations Changemaker 100 list for Wales. Nina Ruddle, Head of Public Policy Engagement at Wrexham Glyndŵr University, has been recognised as part of her work in leading the Civic Mission project at the university. This project sees the institution working with partners across North Wales, to make a positive difference for the good of the region – with the overarching goal of helping to end social inequality across North Wales by 2030.

Nina’s nomination states: “Nina is an inspiring example and advocate for systems leadership in Wales. She leads the Civic Mission at Wrexham Glyndŵr University and has convened and galvanised others across the north of the country. She has been pivotal in developing partnerships and cross-sectoral collaborations in new ways, to embed the Wellbeing of the Future Generations Act and bring about social change.”

Throughout the day, the women were able to have a go at a selection of fun fitness classes –from Hoop Yoga and Pilates (lead by Cathy from The Pilates Centre, Wrexham) to Hoola Hoop Fit (lead by Lucy from Hoola Nation) and Pound – using drum sticks to move your body and create a lot of noise. There was also a motivational talk on women’s hormones and menopause, led by women’s hormone expert Laura Teare-Jones, as well as a Clean eating cooking class – led by a Hoola Nation nutritionist Zoe O’Neill.

Feedback from the day was excellent, with one participant Leora saying: “The event was a lot of fun and a great way to start the year”.

To celebrate making the list, Nina attended the Future Generations Changemaker 100 event at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff. The event highlighted champions from across Wales, who are helping to inspire change, via the Wellbeing of the Future Generations Act.

A Festival of Professional Futures

Chester Business School hosted its ‘Festival of Professional Futures’ on 13-17 February. The festival featured free future skills workshops and networking for businesses, students and staff at Chester Business School. The week of events also brought together University of Chester students, staff and Business Growth Programme (BGP) businesses to support enterprise and community, networking and collaboration, innovation, entrepreneurship, digital transformation and transition to net zero.

Chinese New Year: celebrations in Chester draw big crowds

Chester celebrated the Lunar New Year of the Rabbit on Saturday 21 January, with record crowds to greet a parade of traditional music, lions and dragon dancing, non-combustible firecrackers and cultural characters. After an absence from the streets of Chester of two years, performances took place in Eastgate Street and Exchange Square outside the new Market, before a final display and thanks to everyone involved in Storyhouse.

The performance in Exchange Square was the first official performance to take place there. The display also included a Tai Chi and weapons skills demonstration from the Ji Siu Tai Chi Chuan, a group led by Maria Yuen based in Handbridge. The Hung Gar Kung Fu Academy with Steve Ornelas led the Lions and Dragon dances. Tutors from Wah Lei Saturday Mandarin school based at the University of Chester and volunteers delivered cultural workshops in Storyhouse.

The God of Prosperity, The Emperor of Heaven and The Happy Buddha were on hand to give out lucky red envelopes to the crowds, assisted by volunteers from Bank of America. In Chinese culture, the Lion dance marks the welcoming of spring with the beating of drums to ward off the winter. The green lettuce, which the Lion struggles to collect from a high point, symbolises regeneration and goodwill. The Lion collects and shares the goodwill by spreading the lettuce into the audience.

Mia Tan, Chair and Founder of the Wah Lei Chinese Association said: “I’d like to thank all our volunteers who have made a difference in breaking down racial and cultural barriers in the community. Their commitment and hard work has helped us since 2009.”

Councillor Louise Gittins, Leader of Council and Cabinet Member for Communities & Wellbeing said: “What a perfect way to start the year. A very happy year of the Rabbit.”

Iwona Szmidt, Managing Director, Foreign Exchange & Commodities Operations and Derivatives Confirmation & Settlement and Chester Site Lead at Bank of America, added: “We are delighted to be a part of the Chinese New Year of the Rabbit celebrations and to once again support the Lunar New Year Parade in Chester, in collaboration with our longstanding partner, the Wah Lei Chinese Association. We wish everyone a happy Chinese New Year.”

The complete event was delivered by the Wah Lei Chinese Association supported by Bank of America and Cheshire West and Chester Council with the Mayor of Chester, Cllr John Leather and senior figures from Bank of America present.

The Wah Lei Chinese Association is also supported by Cheshire, Halton and Warrington Race Equality Centre, the University of Chester and Chester Voluntary Action.

Gaia installation at Chester Cathedral

In Greek Mythology Gaia is the personification of the Earth.

From 7 February through to 5 March, Chester Cathedral hosted Gaia, a touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram. Measuring six metres in diameter, Gaia features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface.

The artwork provided the opportunity to see our planet on this scale, floating in threedimensions.

A specially-made surround sound composition by BAFTA award winning composer Dan Jones was played alongside the sculpture.

Holocaust Memorial Day event

Nearly one hundred Wrexham residents and representatives came together on Friday 27 January for the Holocaust Memorial Day event in Tŷ Pawb’s performance space, hosted by the Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW). The event was organised in collaboration with Wrexham County Borough Council’s Community Cohesion Team and the Race Council Cymru North Wales Multicultural Hub. The project was funded by the Welsh Government Anti-racist Wales Culture, Heritage and Sport Fund.

The theme of the event was ‘Ordinary People.’ Thoughts on the theme were shared by some of the city’s leaders, and Martin Daws, Young People’s Laureate for Wales from 2013 to 2016, introduced two Ysgol Clywedog pupils from the gypsy and traveller communities, who performed a poem entitled ‘Gas Mask’ together. Adam Kammerling, an award-winning poet and educator based in London, provided the Keynote speech. Adam, whose grandfather is a Holocaust survivor, performed a selection of poems from his book ‘Seder,’ and spoke in depth about intergenerational trauma, the rituals for telling and remembering stories of survival, and Jewish heritage.

Mayor of Wrexham, Councillor Brian Cameron, concluded the service with some final thoughts and a very poignant minute of silence, while the audience members lit candles of remembrance.

King Charles III visits the City of Wrexham

King Charles III marked Wrexham gaining City status during his visit to St Giles’ Church in December last year. Their Majesties, The King and The Queen Consort, arrived after first visiting Wrexham co-owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds at the Racecourse Stadium.

Wrexham was one of eight places across the UK to gain city status, as part of The Queen's Platinum Jubilee. On their arrival at St Giles’, the Royal pair were greeted by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Clwyd, Mr Lloyd Fitzhugh, as well as First Minister Mark Drakeford.

During the service, His Majesty The King formally marked the conferral of City status on Wrexham with a short speech, in which he commented: “It is thoroughly fitting that we should celebrate the creation of Wales’s newest city in the setting of this magnificent church, which truly deserves its designation as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales.

“Of course, as no fewer than six of the seven Wonders are in North East Wales, we cannot help but think that whoever wrote that famous anonymous rhyme – Pistyll Rhaeadr and Wrexham steeple, Snowdon’s mountain without its people, Overton yew trees, St. Winifred’s Well, Llangollen’s Bridge and Gresford’s bells – must have been from this part of the world!”

During the last part of the Royal visit, The King and Queen Consort met with church representatives and local community groups. The service was rounded off with King Charles signing the document to mark the city status, before being applauded out of the church by those in attendance.

Photograph ©Adam Crump

Moneypenny appoints new Group Chief People Officer

Moneypenny, a global leader in call answering and live chat services with offices in the UK and US, has appointed a new Group Chief People Officer, Fiona Armstrong. Fiona brings a wealth of experience from a career in largescale people leadership roles, most notably LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy) and The LCap Group.

Fiona’s expertise lies in leading the people agenda and she is passionate about supporting globally-based diverse teams full of fantastic talent. Her role at Moneypenny will be all-encompassing, with a focus on attracting, developing and retaining the talented and diverse individuals who make Moneypenny what it is today. Fiona will leverage her extensive knowledge, to support the businesses and talent processes to enhance all aspects of the Moneypenny experience. She will ensure the continuation of the happy and award-winning culture that Moneypenny has become synonymous with since its foundation in 2000.

Joanna Swash, Group CEO at Moneypenny commented, “We are delighted to welcome Fiona to our fast-growing team and are excited about the fantastic experience she will bring to Moneypenny. Since day one of Moneypenny, our people have always been, and will always be, our most important and most powerful asset. I am so impressed by Fiona’s passion for the impact that brilliant talent has on the success of every business. She’s an excellent addition to our team and her experience and expertise will be invaluable, as we continue to strengthen the Moneypenny brand and position the company for continued growth in both the UK and US.”

Fiona comments: “I am thrilled to be joining Moneypenny at such an exciting time, particularly with the expansion plans in place for both the UK and US. People are at the heart of Moneypenny’s business strategy and I am really looking forward to taking the lead on the ambitious people and culture agenda, scaling the people strategy in line with Moneypenny’s growth.”

WGU officially opens state-of-theart Heath and Education Quarter

A special ribbon cutting event took place at Wrexham Glyndŵr University at the start of February to mark the opening of the Health Simulation Centre, which is housed within the groundbreaking Health and Education Innovation Quarter (HEIQ) at Wrexham Glyndŵr University.

The HEIQ will transform healthcare education provision in the region, by ensuring that Wrexham Glyndŵr University is at the forefront of technology-led learning experiences and training the region’s future workforce, to be experts in their chosen profession.

The facility will provide a physical home for the delivery of a range of both pre-registration and postregistration Nursing and Allied Health Professions courses –including Physiotherapy, Paramedic Science, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Nutrition and Dietetics and Operating Department Practice.

The university was awarded the contracts for the delivery of the health programmes, following a competitive tendering process run by the Welsh Government, via Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW). The build of the HEIQ forms part of the University’s Campus 2025 strategy – an £80 million investment project to revamp and revitalise facilities across the university’s three campuses.

Wrexham AFC KOP development update

Following the disappointing and as yet, unexplained decision by the UK Government to reject Wrexham County Borough Council’s application on behalf of the Wrexham Gateway Partnership (‘Gateway Partnership’), positive discussions have commenced around alternative funding options. The grant application to the Levelling Up Fund was for financial support towards the proposed Kop Development at the Racecourse Ground, that would see the stadium able to host senior Wales internationals, bringing the national team back to North Wales.

All stakeholders of the Gateway Partnership, along with the Club, remain committed to deliver the Kop Development. Shaun Harvey, Strategic Advisor to the Board said: "The decision to reject the grant application was disappointing, but we always had a plan B and that is now being progressed with the Gateway Partnership. We are working to a deadline of 1 June 2023 for construction work to commence on the Kop, so as not to put completion for the start of the 2024/25 season at risk.

With the support of the Gateway Partnership, Morgan Sindall has been appointed as the preferred contractor for the Kop Development and the company is now fully engaged with the project’s design team, to prepare for construction work to commence.

Local Tourism Leaders make a stand against proposed Welsh Tourism Levy

An open letter from the Chairs of two local tourism partnerships is calling on Welsh Government to rethink proposals for a new levy on tourism operators in Wales. Sam Regan (This is Wrexham) and Jo Smith (Flintshire Tourism Association) have issued a joint open letter to Welsh Government, following a period of consultation on the proposals prior to Christmas.

Under the proposals, Welsh Government states that a visitor levy will represent a small additional charge that will apply to stays in overnight, commercially-let visitor accommodation. Any final decisions on how the levy is applied will be taken following full consideration of consultation responses.

They go on to say that a visitor levy is not intended to put people off visiting Wales. Instead, Welsh Government propose that the levy would be a small contribution by overnight visitors that will generate additional revenue for local authorities to reinvest in local communities. This would enable them to address some of the costs associated with tourism and encourage a more sustainable approach.

However, having gauged views from operators in the local area, Mr Regan and Mrs Smith feel that this is not a proposal that either tourism partnership would be prepared to support, for a number of reasons.

Speaking about the open letter, Jo Smith, a local bed & breakfast owner and Chair of the Flintshire Tourism Association, said: “With many hospitality businesses in this area just a short drive or closer to their English neighbours, imposing a levy would be detrimental when trying to compete with accommodation rates nearby. It has been pointed out by some that other areas of Europe successfully manage with a tourism levy in place. However, many of these areas are not subject to the level of existing taxation that we face here in Wales. There has been no reduction in VAT for hospitality, despite many leading voices campaigning for this, whilst many also face far greater business rates than neighbours in European destinations.”

Adding to the argument against the proposals Sam Regan, Chair of This is Wrexham, added: “Both Wrexham and Flintshire are still in the ‘recovery’ phase following the pandemic, with tourism figures for 2021 showing that both areas were still more than 20% short of visitor income generated in 2019, despite a busy year. In addition, the costs of operating many businesses will only rise further, with the energy overheads increasing rapidly. Our businesses are also dealing with staffing shortages, forcing many to pay higher rates than budgeted coupled with the price of produce continuing to climb, which in turn forces tighter margins to operate within.”

The responses to the Welsh Government consultation are currently being reviewed, with full details of the outcome and next steps set to be published in due course.

"The discussions around the funding options will progress over the coming weeks, to find the best possible solution among the options available to us."

market In the

for something new

With over 700,000 people through its doors since it opened on 8 November 2022, the new Chester Market has got off to a flying start. With most units already taken with a range of traders – from food producers, a butcher, a fishmonger, through to a specialist pet store, an optician and a vintage clothes stall – the market is now finalising leases, with a deli and a wool store opening soon.

WE SPOKE WITH COUNCILLOR (CLLR)

Richard Beacham, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration, and one of the people at the heart of the new market steering group, to find out more about the market and what makes it so special.

Breathing new life into the city Cllr Beacham has been involved in the plans for the new market from the start.

As he explains: “We really believe we have created something different with the new Chester Market. Northgate will breathe new life into our city, replacing old inefficient buildings with something that is fit for purpose, both for traders and for customers. It’s also supporting local business and creating new spaces for people to enjoy in the process.

“Town centres are in the midst of change and Covid-19 has accelerated this. If we hope to attract more visitors, would like more people to be living in the city and want the market to become an even bigger part of Chester, then Northgate is the future.”

As anyone living in the Chester area since the 1990s will know, the journey to the opening of the new market hasn’t been an easy one. There has been a number of false starts and aborted plans with different developers. In 2015 Cheshire West and Chester Council

took the decision to lead on the £75 million Northgate project and secured planning permission in 2019 for phase one of the scheme, which includes the new market, with construction commencing in summer 2020.

Cllr Beacham elaborates: “The Council took the bold decision to progress the scheme without commercial backing and during the global pandemic, because its faith in the business case was unanimous. We formed a joint member working group with stakeholders from both the main political parties, to collaborate for the good of the city. Our overriding motivation was to see Chester city centre thrive, creating an inclusive economy in which people can work, play and live.”

“The Council took the bold decision to progress the scheme without commercial backing and during the global pandemic, because its faith in the business case was unanimous”

Faces old and new

With roughly a fifty-fifty split between old and new traders, there are plenty of familiar retailers in the new market, including Geoff Hughes the butcher –who has worked in the market since he was 14 and even met his wife there – as well as Steve Cartridge the fishmonger. However, the new market has also provided a launchpad for a number of start-up businesses too.

When asked about the make-up of the traders and the loss of some of the former Chester Market staples, Cllr Beacham said: “We‘ve developed a modern, traditional market with 60% of our traders stocking goods and providing services, and 40% providing a food offering. Its balance reflects the shift in shoppers’ behaviour. Some of the stalls that haven’t transitioned across have done so due to shoppers buying their online or at discount retailers like B&M.

“While we were sad to lose some of our previous traders, everyone had the option to apply for space in the new market. Some took the decision to retire, while others used this as an opportunity to successfully move onto the high street or onto other ventures.”

Going green

There are plenty of aspects of the new Chester Market that make it unique. The site’s 750 square metres of living wall is filled with different plant species, depending on whether they have been planted on the north facing or south facing wall. This green wall will provide the carbon benefit of planting 39 trees – one for each of the units in the new market. There was also an impressive 60 tonnes of oak timber that was brought in to build the stalls. This provides the traders with a consistent framework throughout the market, which they could then tailor to add personality and signage to during their final fitout.

The communal area also includes a central pot washing area, so that the seating area can be kept clean and welcoming throughout. There is also a piano for anyone to play and stepped seating and stage, as the area doubles as a performance space. In fact, the first live cooking demonstration – courtesy of Chester Market Fishmongers – took place at the start of February.

There will be a diary of demonstrations taking place on the first Tuesday morning of each month, ranging from cookery, floristry and cosmetics, through to many other subjects. Musicians and other performances will take place within the market throughout the year. In addition to the indoor space, Exchange Square, outside the market will also be used as a venue.

The Lion Dance to celebrate Chinese New Year took place there at the end of January, as an auspicious start to

proceedings (see news item on page 12 to read more about this). The market has also developed a physical heritage wall within the seating area, as well as a version on the website, which tells the story of the market since the Victorian era. The clock from the old market also has pride of place in its new edition. The whole site is family-friendly and even dog-friendly, plus the much-loved 'Chester in Lego' display from the old market has now been moved into bespoke cabinets in the Garden seating area.

“Another special feature is the fantastic murals in the car park stairs. We wanted to offer something a bit different to surprise visitors and celebrate Chester’s heritage and parades – they are definitely worth a look! There are seven floors to the New Market’s car park and the two stair-cores feature some spectacular murals by Chester artist Graham Boyd. The north stairs depict scenes from parades and celebrations held regularly in Chester, and the south stairs feature the opportunity to step through time and learn more about the city’s rich history.”

Environmental considerations have also been fundamental to the development of the market. There is built-in irrigation, a secure indoor cycle hub for approximately 50 bikes and an additional 50 spaces for bikes outside. 40 EV charging points are being installed in the car park and the market offers free charging for e-bikes.

Cllr Beacham added: “The market has also made a commitment to zero waste, with nothing going to landfill and no ‘single use’ plastic on the premises. Food mileage is also kept

to a minimum where possible, with much of the meat bought from the butchers on-site and local produce sourced wherever appropriate.”

A modern, traditional market When asked about developing the concept for the new market, Cllr Beacham describes the process as ‘extensive consultation and factfinding’.

“We consulted widely. We wanted to develop a building that met the needs of traders and customers alike. We wanted to take the learning from the old market, keep what was good, but move on, whilst keeping the traditional market concepts alive. I believe we have truly created a modern, traditional market. We have designed it as a destination for residents and visitors. It needed to be the right thing for the city too. We didn’t want to duplicate the offering on the high street. It was important to us that we set the right tone from the start. We visited a number of markets in the UK and globally, to get a sense of what worked and what would have the most positive impact on Chester.”

The architect on the project was Manchester-based AHR, the shell of the market was built by Vinci Construction, the fitout was undertaken by Medlock. There were archaeologists overseen by Historic England throughout the construction,and over 10,000 pieces of Roman artifacts were unearthed, with as much as possible being left in-situ and built around. In fact, in honour of the Roman 20th Legion, which was based at the fortress on the Northgate site, their symbol of a wild boar has been used in the logo for the new market.

What next?

The market required extensive infrastructure work to take place, including the ‘Clockwise’ road system to enable a new drainage tunnel to be built via a pipe jacking process and eight tunnel shafts to be installed over a twoyear build programme. However, less than four months after the market officially opened, all the units are either open or plans are underway for them to open soon. Barring some final snagging, phase one of the Northgate project is complete.

Cllr Beacham said: “Phase one marks the start of a new era for Chester city centre, but this is only the beginning. We have a lot of demolition to undertake now, and we will be going back out for consultation to find out what the city wants and needs from phase two. It is exciting to be involved in the regeneration of such a vibrant place as Chester, which is regularly acknowledged in national polls and was recently voted as the second ‘best high street’ in the UK. We have developed something special with the new Chester Market. It’s a place with no pretension, that isn’t generic and can offer something different to each of its visitors, whatever their expectations and needs”.

“The market has also made a commitment to zero waste, with nothing going to landfill and no ‘single use’ plastic on the premises”

Imposter Syndrome

Have you ever felt unworthy of the position you’re in? Like someone is going to ‘find you out’ and expose you as a fraud? Around 75% of us experience imposter syndrome. When a new promotion began causing a client of mine called Claire daily stress, anxiety and feelings of panic, she knew it was time to seek support.

By CAT WILLIAMS

Claire’s steps to transformation

CLAIRE AND I EXPLORED WHAT THE ‘root-cause’ of her feelings could be, as well as working through these 10 key principles:

1. Feelings are not facts

Just because you might feel stupid at times it doesn’t mean you are. No one likes making mistakes, but the only difference between a person with imposter syndrome and someone who doesn’t have it, is their thoughts. You could call yourself a failure or you could think like Michael Jordan and say: “I’ve failed over and over and over again and that is why I succeed”.

2. Reframing is key

Reframing means looking from more than one perspective. Claire would say, “I can’t speak-up in meetings, everyone is better than me”, but another perspective is, so what! A person without imposter syndrome knows that no one is good at everything – we are all equal but different – and Claire had simply found an area she could develop, not evidence that she was an imposter.

“When we share how we feel, the load is lightened and becomes much more easily managed”

3. Banish shame by talking about it

Feelings of shame keeps us silent and this makes things worse. The fact that most of us feel like an imposter sometimes makes us human. When we share how we feel, the load is lightened and becomes much more easily managed.

4. Recognise your strengths

Claire is a natural thinker and introvert, but she wasn’t acknowledging these as strengths. She learnt to celebrate her qualities and also find the right people to help her develop.

5. Stop strengths going into overdrive

Claire is a naturally detail-orientated person, but in overdrive this is perfectionism, which can be damaging. Through increased self-awareness, Claire was able to find the right balance so that she didn’t get in her own way.

6. Write your own rules

If you’ve been working under rules such as ‘I should always know the answer’ or ‘I mustn’t rely on others’, then it’s time for an update. We explored where these unconscious limiting beliefs had come from in Claire’s past, and she changed them to be supportive mantras that she actually wanted and believed!

7. Choose your own story

Become aware of the conversation going on in your own head when you’re in a situation that triggers your imposter feelings. You might be thinking, “Everyone else is brilliant, they’re going to find me out”, but a better and more helpful story would be, “I’m bound to find it hard at the beginning, I’m going to learn so much!”

8. Visualise success

Do what professional athletes do and visualise what you want, so that your mind has no choice but to move towards it – e.g. visualise speaking confidently and being successful and it will become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

9. Celebrate your wins

How many times has someone given you a compliment and you’ve dismissed it with words such as “Don’t be silly, it was nothing”. When we do this, we are implying the other person is such a total idiot that they would pay us a compliment or thank us.

Learn to let in kind words by simply saying “Thank you” and let go of the negative inner voice by saying to yourself, “I don’t think like that anymore”.

10. Feel the fear and do it anyway

Our body doesn’t know the difference between fear and excitement. When you feel butterflies or stress, it is just your body getting ready. Claire’s favourite mantra, which transformed her imposter syndrome, was to say, “These butterflies mean I’m excited and full of anticipation to show what I can do”. She then went out and did exactly that, and so can you!

Claire Murray explains it as: “I was feeling almost constantly panicky and like such a failure. I would recommend seeking support to anyone, thank you Cat”.

Cat Williams Speaker, Therapist, Author & Coach cat@cat-williams.com

07799 641347 cat-williams.com

Claire’s favourite mantra, which transformed her imposter syndrome, was to say, “These butterflies mean I’m excited and full of anticipation to show what I can do”. She then went out and did exactly that, and so can you!

Networking

VOX networking returned in 2023, with a slice of the January action.

WE KICKED OFF THE YEAR WITH AN evening of animated conversation and a fascinating talk from Phil Kalkwarf, who kindly hosted the event with his wife Helen at their lovely café and bistro, Cleopatra’s in Holt.

Not only did Phil tell us how the duo repeatedly changed their business model to meet the challenges of Covid, but there was also plenty of slices of the couple’s speciality pizza to try – as well as a pizza box for everybody to take home and prepare themselves.

Future dates

We are shifting our focus to Chester for the March networking event. Our quarterly networking runs from 17:00 – 19:00, with the March one taking place upstairs at Chester Beer and Wine

If you are attending the Chester Business Show in May, come and say hello to the VOX team and our artist, Emma Gore

Thursday 16 March 2023

Join us for networking and fabulous refreshments at Chester Beer and Wine on Thursday 16 March. We are excited to welcome Donna Okell as our special guest speaker on the night. Donna is B Leader and founder of UK for Good, and she will be giving us an insight into B Corp and Better Business.

Book your space online at: ezpublishing.co.uk/events

Dates for your diary:

Thursday 16 March - VOX networking

Wednesday 17 May - Chester Business Show

Thursday 22 June - VOX networking

Thursday 21 September - VOX networking

Photography: ©Gavin Priest & ©Vicky Heathfield

DATE: Thursday 16 March 2023

TIME: 17:00 - 19:00

LOCATION: Chester Beer & Wine

PRICE: £15 (includes refreshments)

Future-proofing

a castle

Bolesworth Castle, built in 1826, has been home to the Barbour family since 1856 and is the impressive headquarters of the Bolesworth Estate Company, a leading provider of commercial real estate and world-renowned sporting and entertainment events. As part of a refurbishment of office space within the Castle, Highstream was asked to design and install technology infrastructure, to future-proof the environment for years to come.

PAUL

INSTALLING DATA CABLING AND IT infrastructure in a Grade II listed building is a challenge, requiring forethought and a sympathetic understanding of the building’s structure.

As provider of Managed Services to Bolesworth, we already knew how the team liked to work and understood their existing technology situation.

We spent considerable time on-site during the build-up to the works, considering the requirements of the team and planning an installation which would both deliver on current needs and provide future expansion potential – as well as complying with strict design and aesthetic requirements.

Installation of structured data cabling, Wi-Fi provision throughout and new core network routing and switching was staged throughout the refurbishment programme. At various times, we commissioned equipment to provide temporary working environments for the team and worked out-of-hours, in order to minimise operational impact during key implementation phases.

Bolesworth required the use of modern meeting spaces, providing ease-of-use conferencing facilities within a beautiful yet functional working environment. Building on our success installing Microsoft Teams Rooms equipment with other clients, we specified this solution for a number of spaces as part of this project.

“Bolesworth required the use of modern meeting spaces, providing ease-of-use conferencing facilities”

By

WILLIAMS

Allowing the dynamic nature of Bolesworth to thrive

The Bolesworth team now work fully and effectively from their refreshed office space, benefitting from seamless and robust connectivity and taking advantage of conferencing facilities which are fully integrated with their Microsoft 365 and Teams-based platform. This builds on the Support and Security services Highstream has provided to the team since 2019, allowing the dynamic nature of the Bolesworth business to thrive and cementing the highly-valued relationship between both companies.

Marie Hughes, HR and strategic projects director at Bolesworth said: “Our plans for our refurbished office spaces involved technical complexities which, having worked closely with and trusted Highstream for a number of years on all aspects of IT, we had confidence they could address.

“This project wasn’t just about a final result. Equally, it was about working with us, and our main contractor, to stage the implementation to allow our team to continue to operate throughout the development programme. This required professionalism and lots of flexibility. We were able to count on the Highstream team to be there when we needed them, and to fully understand and accommodate our changing business requirements, as needs arose.

“Our new working and meeting environments have contributed to our ongoing success, and our transition into these spaces last year was extremely smooth. This was down to Highstream’s relentless desire to deliver to us the best solutions and service.”

Paul Williams Highstream Solutions 01244 952500 highstream.co.uk paul.williams@highstream.co.uk

“We were able to count on the

team to be there when we needed

Spotlight

GREEN EXPO 2023: The Green Heart of England?

Holding Green Expo 2023 in Chester for the second year running is great news for the North West and Wales and will help us all focus attention on this important topic.

The three-day event will be held down by the River Dee at Riverside on Castle Drive by the Old Dee Bridge from 15-17 June, Thursday to Saturday. Green Expo 2023 has four ‘experiences’ to it:

• A free exposition for all, on the grass area next to the river, for the three days

• An all-day business conference on the Thursday

• An awards dinner on the Thursday evening and a

• Youth conference, free for schools and colleges on the Friday.

CHASE (Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises) is the community interest company behind Green Expo. It is raising funds to restore the old hydroelectric building by the Old Dee Bridge to be an educational and skills centre for alternative energy. Any surplus from Green Expo will go to restoring the building as a ‘Hydro Hub’.

Jane Harrad-Roberts is Project Director for Green Expo and dedicated to making this happen. Jane says: “We carried out a survey which revealed that 64% of Cheshire residents ‘Don’t know enough about climate change and Net Zero’. 88% said they ‘don’t know enough about local efforts and activities on climate change and Net Zero’ and 84% would ‘like to know more’. We will show all the great things being done locally and help individuals and organisations make their own difference. We need to work together collaboratively to make such a massive change to our lives to achieve Net Zero and reduce climate change.”

Over 100 organisations in the North West and Wales are coming together to illustrate progress on Net Zero in all walks of life. Organisations like Peel NRE, Encirc, Grosvenor, Chester Zoo, NatWest and the University of Chester, and individuals too. They will be joined by community initiatives and charities, electric vehicles and hydrogen transport for the FREE exposition.

Last year’s Green Expo Business Conference tackled topics on each of the UK’s Climate Response strands. This year the focus will be on jobs and skills and how organisations can support the major green activities taking place in the region. This means:

• Giving key investors in the region the opportunity to highlight their projects

• Showcasing the region and its opportunities to a wider audience of investors

• Allowing SMEs to understand the work opportunities that will be created and how they can prepare themselves to participate in and grow with these opportunities

• Giving education and training providers the opportunity to explain and listen to the role they will play in providing the skills and resources required.

Many companies, corporations, organisations, communities and a growing number of individuals are ‘going green’ to reduce energy, consumption and waste, but are we leading the way and moving fast enough as a region?

JUNE 15-17

Save the dates!

More information, tickets and register for updates at greenexpo.uk

Jane adds: “Cheshire West and Chester Council voted unanimously in 2019 to declare a climate emergency ahead of most regions and, like many others, is committed to put the actions in place to be carbon neutral by 2030. Progress is being measured and great strides are being made by some in industry, but it is a particular challenge for how we heat our homes, get from A to B and more importantly make the transition to renewable energy and planet-friendly practices

without the lights going out or unavailability. Green Expo exists to encourage rather than force change and show the big and small steps we all need to take, collectively, to make net zero a reality and stop climate change in its tracks. We should apply the ‘Starfish Story’ philosophy to our own lives and businesses but do it in such a way that others take notice and follow. And that’s where Green Expo has a role to play and why it’s important.”

The Green Expo Awards

Thursday 15 June, 7pm

The awards will highlight great work that is making a difference in renewable energy and innovation in Net Zero for organisations, individuals and communities. Winners could be a worldwide organisation or an individual, but must have some connection to Cheshire and Warrington in terms of their location or effect. Awards categories include: Green Startup of the Year (with a ‘Dragon’s Den’ style pitch), Award for Innovation in Energy, Awards for Innovation in the Built Environment, Transportation, Commercial and Industrial Markets and for Community Engagement and Inward Investment (eight in total). This is your chance to highlight any size of organisation doing great things on the green agenda.

More information, deadlines and entry details at greenexpo.uk/awards

The Green Expo Photo Competition

Many competitions focus on the negative aspects of climate change but Green Expo would like to focus on the positive aspects of renewable energy, innovation, the natural world and positive steps towards Net Zero. It is open to all ages up to 12, 12-18, and 19 and above (for both amateur and professional photographers) with three categories:

• Progress to Net Zero: Energy & Innovation

• Climate Change; Wind, Waves and Weather

• The Natural world’s resilience; Countryside and Coastline Coping.

More information, deadlines and prize info at greenexpo.uk/Green-Expo-2023Photography-Competition

The Green Expo ESG Sustainability Survey

This quick and easy survey will provide an up-to-date snapshot of progress local organisations are making towards Net Zero. Everyone participating will be sent a copy of the findings which will be revealed at the Green Expo Business Conference in June. You can complete the survey and remain anonymous, it’s up to you.

survio.com/survey/d/GreenExpo2023 ESGSurvey

If you would like to feature your event or business as a VOX Spotlight, contact Vicky at vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk for more information. This content is sponsored.

Presentations will be a mix of TED-style inspirational sessions, interspersed by panel discussions led by experts.

A conversation with Ian Bancroft Samantha Jones, & Alex Lovén

Wrexham businesspeople and founding members of the soon-to-be-launched Wrexham Business and Community Awards

For ‘In conversation’ this issue we had the opportunity to interview three influential Wrexham businesspeople. They have come together with other like-minded professionals to become the founder members of a group which is launching some exciting new business and community awards for Wrexham in 2023. Samantha Jones is the head of business development at Moneypenny, Ian Bancroft is chief executive at Wrexham Council and Alex Lovén MBE is the founder and CEO of Net World Sports.

The seed of an idea Wrexham has seen a lot of change over the last few years and with its recent city status, the local business community is keen to up its game. When we asked where the idea for the business and community awards came from, Ian explained: “I met Samantha during Wrexham’s bid for City of Culture and over the time we were working on the bid, we talked a lot about Wrexham’s business community and what it needed to thrive in today’s economic climate. The one area we kept coming back to was the need for more networking opportunities in the area – and the chance for local businesses to celebrate their achievements with a wider audience.”

Samantha added: “As someone who grew up locally, I am passionate about Wrexham. I am working in a continually growing business and it’s important to me individually and within my role to be able to create opportunities for others to grow and develop. After Ian and I discussed the challenges facing local businesses at length, it felt that launching a high-quality awards for Wrexham would be a real step in the right direction.”

City of dreams

Once Ian and Samantha decided this was something they wanted to investigate further, they recognised the need to include more like-minded individuals, to ensure they achieved something special. Samantha explained: “While we both work for instantly recognisable organisations, Ian and I wanted this to be bigger than any one organisation. So, we reached out to some of the business leaders in the area. We were looking for people with good local knowledge, skills and with different views and opinions. We asked them to provide their elevator pitch of why an awards scheme would be a good idea.”

Ian added: “We want to build the foundations of something that will last. It is much more than just the awards night, it’s about relentlessly improving on our core principles and all the good that is already happening in the area. The local perspective is so important. It really is what connects the people together.”

Alex Lovén from Net World Sports was one of the people that was enthusiastic to get involved. He explains his reasons for being keen on the formation of the Wrexham Business and Community Awards: “I want people growing up in Wrexham to be able to dream big about what can be achieved here – and for those dreams to be able to come true. I moved the business to Wrexham eight years ago and it was the best decision I could have taken.”

“It’s not so long ago that you might not have put ‘Wrexham’ and ‘dreams’ in the same sentence, but that is no longer the case. It has always been a proud place and now it has even more to shout about and celebrate. Much like Wrexham, the Net World story is one where everything is hard-earned and so much the sweeter for it.”

“It’s not so long ago that you might not have put ‘Wrexham’ and ‘dreams’ in the same sentence, but that is no longer the case. It has always been a proud place and now it has even more to shout about and celebrate”

He continued: “There is an inner resilience, which ultimately makes people better equipped to succeed. I want to be able to celebrate this. 70% of my team live in the borough of Wrexham and I think it is so important that there continues to be opportunities for people to live and work locally.”

Celebrating great business

In recent years, Wrexham’s stock on the world stage has increased dramatically and as such it is important that it also becomes a global brand for business too. Already boasting the third largest industrial estate in Europe, it has some huge names and some cutting-edge businesses based within the borough. With companies like JCB, Kelloggs, Wockhardt, Ipsom, Wrexham Lager and Net World, along with many innovative SME and micro enterprises, the feeling is that it is time to celebrate businesses large and small. This is in addition to all the charities, community groups and individuals that are playing a part in making the area so special too.

“We want our young people coming through to have the mindset that they can flourish in this area. We want to show our future business leaders and key workers that there are lots of opportunities for them and inspire them to achieve in whatever they want to,” added Alex.

Founding sponsors confirmed

Obviously, an event of this scale and magnitude requires more than time, commitment and passion. It also needs investment. During the interview, the trio were excited to share the news that a number of founding sponsors had already been confirmed and would be announced over the coming weeks. The founding sponsors will have the opportunity to help shape the event, with the aim of making it one of the best in the UK.

Forget the Met Gala, think Net Gala

Once entries have been received and the judging has been completed, the awards are set to culminate with a glittering awards ceremony hosted by Net World Sports at its brand new £25m facility on Wrexham Industrial Estate in November 2023.

Alex explains: “Forget the Met Gala, think Net Gala. We are super excited to showcase our newly-opened, cuttingedge facility for the awards night. Plans for the event are already underway. We promise a spectacle of an evening for an audience of up to 600, some special guests and a few surprises, where 12 worthy winners will be announced on the night.”

Interested in sponsoring the WBCA?

There are still plenty of opportunities to get involved in the WBCA in its inaugural year. To find out more about sponsorship packages available, contact wrexhambca@gmail.com

Ian added: “From the largest to the smallest, the most innovative to the most community-focused, the awards aim to showcase the best of what Wrexham Business has to offer. We want to recognise the social contribution that businesses and their people make. It should be an amazing chance to highlight to aspiring young people that they can achieve their dreams and career goals, right here in Wrexham City.”

Final thoughts

Wrexham has a lot to celebrate, so to finish off the interview Samantha, Ian and Alex shared why the awards were important to them in particular.

Samantha: “The awards will provide us with an opportunity to inspire the local community and show them anything can happen. This is only the start. Wrexham is more than ready for this, are you?”

Ian: “Social growth is just as important as economic growth. The awards are just one more step towards demonstrating and enabling any young person to fulfil their dreams here in Wrexham.”

Alex: “It is also just such an exciting opportunity to showcase everything that is brilliant about business in Wrexham.”

“Plans for the event are already underway. We promise a spectacle of an evening for an audience of up to 600, some special guests and a few surprises, where 12 worthy winners will be announced on the night.”

The Wrexham Business and Community Awards categories

If you think your business has something to celebrate, then get ready to enter the Wrexham Business and Community Awards. Website coming soon…

AWARDS CATEGORIES BRIEF EXPLANATION

Best Business – Micro

Best Business – Small

Best Business – Medium

Best Business – Large

1-9 employees

10-49 employees

50-249 employees

250+ employees

Social Enterprise Award That directly benefits the community of Wrexham

Business Start-Up Award

Established 2021 or later

Diversity & Inclusion Award Can demonstrate a continuous commitment and positive impact for colleagues and customers

Apprenticeship Award

A business that demonstrates an established successful apprenticeship programme

Business-based student led project that has empowered and motivated Green Business Award Demonstration of ongoing commitment around sustainability and environmental initiatives

School/College Business Project Award

Social Responsibility Award

Welsh Language inclusivity award

A business that holds social responsibility at its heart, embodying the spirit of Wrexham and its people in all that they achieve.

A business that recognises the value of the Welsh language for its colleagues and customers, creating an environment for the language to flourish.

for life Skills

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2023 is the 16th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships. The week brings together businesses and apprentices across the country, to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.

THE THEME FOR NATIONAL

Apprenticeship Week 2023 is ‘Skills for Life’, reflecting on how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and businesses to develop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.

What are apprenticeships and are they right for your business?

Apprenticeships offer an exciting option for both apprentice and employer. You can employ apprentices at different

levels, from school leavers and university graduates, to people who want to further their careers or change career direction completely.

You can hire someone new or even upskill an existing employee. There are hundreds of apprenticeships to choose from and some include a qualification, like a degree.

As an employer, you can get funding from the government, to help pay for apprenticeship training.

The benefits for your business Hiring an apprentice is a productive and effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

• 86% of employers said apprenticeships helped them develop skills relevant to their organisation

• 78% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve productivity

• 74% of employers said apprenticeships helped them improve the quality of their product or service

Other benefits from working with apprentices include:

• you can adapt their training according to the needs of your business

• they’re motivated to learn new skills

• you can expand and upskill your workforce.

There are also further options available to help you bring new skills into your business and provide young people with the chance to experience your sector. These include Kickstart schemes, Traineeships and T-levels.

You can find out more about them at apprenticeships.gov.uk

“As an employer, you can get funding from the government, to help pay for apprenticeship training”

“Hiring an apprentice is a productive and effective way to grow talent and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce”

The Power of apprenticeships

The surveying profession, like the construction industry, is experiencing a skills shortage. At Powers, we are growing our team by championing geospatial apprenticeships, to encourage people to seek a rewarding career in land surveying.

By LUCY POWERS

POWERS HAS BEEN RUNNING GEOSPATIAL APPRENTICESHIPS SINCE

2021, with our very first apprentice, Joe, starting that year. We worked closely with Dudley College of Technology, as they were one of the few providers of the Geospatial Survey Technician Level 3 course at the time. Joe has since gone on to pass his apprenticeship and become a full-time member of the Powers team.

Providing vital geospatial knowledge

Since Joe joined Dudley, other colleges have started to run the Level 3 Geospatial Technician Apprenticeship and so our apprentices now attend Riverside College in Widnes on a day release apprenticeship. Riverside College is a great location for survey companies and contractors with geospatial requirements in the North West to send their surveyors, to gain vital geospatial knowledge, skills and behaviours.

The geospatial apprenticeship is designed to provide young people with an opportunity to gain a qualification in geospatial surveying, leading to a career in the field – or further study via the Level 6 Geospatial Mapping and Science Specialist Apprenticeship Degree. The apprenticeship scheme combines classroom learning, practical experience

and on-the-job training, allowing participants to gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles of land surveying, land survey technology and processing software. As soon as Riverside opened the Level 3 apprenticeship, Powers employed two further apprentices, Liam Smith and Liam Ashton, who are currently in their second year of apprenticeships. In 2022 our most recent apprentices, Dan and George, joined us and are currently studying the first year of their apprenticeships.

Powers is committed to ensuring all its staff are appropriately trained in their specialist fields. However, the Level 3 Geospatial Technician Apprenticeship (GTA) gives all survey staff the foundation of knowledge that they need to begin their career with the right geospatial theory and methodology. The course also teaches health and safety best practice, alongside equality and diversity and even covers the basics, such as how to prepare for and find a new site.

Lucy Powers Director, Powers UK lucy@powersuk.com powersuk.com

“Riverside College is a great location for survey companies”

About Lucy

Powers Director, Lucy, is Co-Chair of the Geospatial Apprentice Level 3 and 6 Trailblazer Review team. The team is comprised of a diverse group of experts, including geospatial industry professionals, surveyor employers, academics and apprenticeship specialists.

The team is in the process of reviewing the current Level 3 and Level 6 geospatial apprenticeship standards, which include consideration of the current and future requirements of the geospatial industry, as well as what is required of the apprentices themselves. Through this review process, the team will ensure that both geospatial apprenticeships will provide comprehensive programmes in the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours, to create well qualified and experienced geospatial land surveyors.

Lucy explains: “Good geospatial mapping skills are desperately required in survey companies like ours and within contractors in the construction industry. It’s not just about knowing how to use the equipment, capture data and process it in the office – although this is obviously very important. But it’s about equipping new employees with how to work in the construction industry, how to find a site, how to talk to clients, how to problem-solve and be confident in their skills and abilities. This all comes with attending a Level 3 geospatial technician apprenticeship and working alongside senior surveyors within the profession. It is how we will create the surveyors of tomorrow and sustain the survey profession for generations to come.”

Currently the level 6 Geospatial Mapping and Science Specialist degree is available at the University of East London (UEL) but the Trailblazer Review team and Powers hope that both the Level 3 and Level 6 geospatial apprenticeships will be available in each region of the UK within the next three years.

Centres Mock Assessment

At the start of February, the Cheshire and Warrington Pledge Partnership hosted the Chester and Ellesmere Port Mock Assessment Centre at Chester University, Queens Park Campus. The event saw 49 young people from seven schools across the local area, come together to experience a real-life Assessment Centre.

11 LOCAL ORGANISATIONS

SUPPORTED THE EVENT, including Northstone Construction, Grosvenor, NHS and Rage Fitness.

These potential employers gave feedback on the four activities the young people completed throughout the day.

Mock interviews – candidates were asked a selection of questions, taken from across industry, to give them a flavour of what they might be asked at a real-life interview.

Team task – the team task was to create a marble run. This allowed the employers to observe the teamwork and communication skills of the candidates.

Presentation preparation – The group selected an item from a collection of inflatable items to create a presentation on. The collection included a saxophone, a doughnut, a bottle of champagne, a unicorn and many more.

Presentation – The group then had to deliver a four-minute presentation to their peers and a panel of employers.

The Cheshire and Warrington Pledge Partnership puts employers at the heart of informing and inspiring young people about careers and progression. Its aim is to help individuals make informed decisions about gaining qualifications and skills that match the opportunities available locally and to build awareness of employers and sectors within the region.

“To have this event happen during National Apprenticeship week was amazing. The day was a huge success, allowing young people to experience the Assessment Centre process. The core of The Pledge Partnership is to bridge the gap between employers and young people, and this event did just that. The young people who attended were incredible and showed great skills throughout. I would like to thank all of the companies who gave up their time for the event, and to Chester University for being such great hosts.”

Comments from employers of why this day was beneficial “Giving students chance to practice different skills from an Assessment Centre, in a safe environment.’’

“Meeting the students, having the opportunity to talk to them about their aspirations and apprenticeships in general”

If you would like to get involved in The Pledge and inspiring the next generation, please visit the website: cheshireandwarringtonpledge.com

‘’ Worthwhile in helping to prepare for future interviews’’

“Both informative and enjoyable’’

Commented Laura Ferran, Pledge Facilitator:

Office design and layout can play a large part in improving office productivity. A well thought out office space can make it a pleasure to come to work, unhindered by lack of space, a noisy environment or light issues which in turn has a positive effect on health and well-being and allows staff to be fully productive.

Please get in touch to see how we can enhance your workplace.

SARAH

showcase Industry

Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s (WGU) vision and strategy Campus 2025 aims

to enhance the local region and facilities with a £80m investment. Aligning with this, the 2022/2023 academic year has seen the implementation of a new industry showcase series hosted by the Enterprise Team at WGU, to welcome businesses from the region to collaborate with the university.

The importance of knowledge sharing

The industry showcase series aims to support WGU’s strategy in establishing partnerships with local businesses and organisations, as well as the development, transfer and exploitation of skills and knowledge between academic staff, industry partners and business individuals. This is particularly important in sectors including engineering, transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, commercial, renewables and design.

During the year, multiple events have been planned, each with a specific theme specialising in the expertise at WGU, including composite material,

immersive technology (including virtual reality), 3D Design and Print, and more.

The first event was hosted in autumn 2022. It concentrated on composite materials and the importance of light weighting for businesses to improve sustainable practices. With industry experts presenting, the event allowed businesses interested in this field to partner with WGU and experience the innovative equipment available. February 2023 also saw the successful Immersive Technology event, where industry partners featured, with plenty of hands-on activities and demonstrations, using immersive technology kits.

Showcasing expertise

Matt Clark, Business Liaison Officer at WGU, commented, “The benefit of attending events like this is to start that conversation and see what’s on offer at the university. It’s about getting away from the idea that university is just about teaching students and showcasing the huge amount of expertise and knowledge within WGU, in areas like engineering, business school, sports and healthcare to support businesses to grow”

Businesses and individuals hoping to incorporate new, innovative technologies in their business to achieve goals are encouraged to keep a close eye on the Enterprise & Innovation at Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s LinkedIn Page and Twitter (@WGUEnterprise) for information regarding upcoming events in the series and how to book a free place.

Photo 1: Behind the scenes of the filming for the first event, featuring Laura Gough, Head of Enterprise.

Photo 2: Industry Experts - from left to right: Dr Martyn Jones, Ian Winnginton, Dr Nataliia Luhyna and Prof Richard Day

Photo 3: Matt Clark (Business Liaison Officer) at the Composite Industry Showcase Event

North Wales Boosting prosperity in

WITH SKILLS HIGH ON THE AGENDA FOR EMPLOYERS, the North Wales Regional Skills Partnership (RSP) has launched its skills and employment plan for the next three years to help maximise opportunities to upskill in the region. David Roberts, who chairs the RSP, prides the plan on ‘decluttering’ the complex employment and skills landscape by providing a framework for employers, training providers and funders to work as a collective.

Its launch event at Venue Cymru saw more than 160 people attend, with

specialist panel sessions and speakers encouraging an open dialogue between sectors. In addition, Welsh Government economy minister Vaughan Gething endorsed the plan during a keynote address delivered remotely.

David, who also runs the North Wales branch of business advisory service

The Alternative Board, said: “Sharing our vision through a collaborative event really brought the blueprint to life, and if the event is any indication of what the next three years have to offer, there’s really lots to be excited

about. We saw a real appetite for facilitating more work experience, upskilling and retraining, and we hope these meaningful conversations will transform into more opportunities for prosperity. It was fantastic to hear voices from the next generation of the workforce highlight the benefits of greater collaboration from their perspectives, which created an inspiring force in the room.”

To find out more about the RSP Skills Plan for 2022-25, visit rspnorth.wales

A collaborative skills proposal to improve connectivity between education provisions and businesses in the region has been backed by key employers, education bodies and Welsh Government representatives.

“If the event is any indication of what the next three years have to offer, there’s really lots to be excited about”

magic Animal

Equicantis is a Rossett business that provides a software application for equine and canine physical therapists, to design and issue exercise plans for their clients. It has been created by local software development team Titan Webtech, in collaboration with UK equine physical therapist Laura Clinton. It’s aimed at both equine and canine practitioners, and the app has been developed using Umbraco Cloud as a SaaS (Software as a Service) solution.

Road to recovery

As Laura explains: “When a physical therapist treats an animal, it will often need an exercise or rehabilitation plan. This might be after veterinary intervention due to injury or surgery, or to increase the animal’s performance or comfort levels. The road to recovery for many animals can be a long and complex one, with rehabilitation programmes sometimes being a matter of months or years, rather than simply weeks. Equine and canine physical therapists face a variety of challenges when collating and implementing their treatment programmes.

“Several key aspects of their roles needed to be addressed and incorporated into any new software app for the sector. In this way technology will help to transform how practitioners carry out core tasks, such as prescribing exercise, for example. Handwriting or typing out exercise plans can take up a great deal of valuable time. Explanation too can be time consuming, so to improve client exercise quality, it is beneficial to be able to watch exercise videos, to help them perfect the rehab exercises that have been prescribed for their horse or dog. Linking these aspects together into a single solution became the principle thinking behind Equicantis.”

Developing the solution

Working with Titan Webtech, equine sports massage and musculoskeletal manipulation therapist Laura found a solution that would address these issues, and that would be compatible, convenient and intuitive to use. She explained: “The application has been developed using a variety of technologies that enables it to work on all devices – phones, tablets, laptops and desktop PCs etc – and is also compatible across these devices too. The use of SaaS as a method of software delivery and licensing allows the software to be accessed online, via a subscription. This means that both client and therapist are able to work across multiple platforms, whenever and wherever they need to, and the app doesn’t have to be bought and installed on each individual computer.”

By LAURA CLINTON

The Equicantis app can be used to generate a range of professional exercise plans using its library of stock images, videos and exercise descriptions, which can then be emailed to clients with an easily accessed pdf or weblink. Therapists can also tailor the plans, which are fully-customisable, and add their own exercises. The therapists can also edit sets and repetitions, and add documents, notes and x-rays, as required.

Aspects such as the digital exercise plan help to give an additional professional element to any equine/canine therapy business and also provides their clients peace of mind. The programme is straightforward and intuitive to navigate and is available for use via a monthly or annual subscription. It offers reassurance and stability to both therapist and owner, which will obviously benefit the animal itself too.

Realising the concept

Laura, the founder of Equicantis added: “Working with Titan Webtech has allowed me to realise a concept I’ve been thinking about for some time. I’ve been practising for over 10 years and have always worked with pen and paper.

However, I was aware that times are changing and I really wanted to provide my clients with a service that kept everything simple, but was also compatible across several platforms. Clients would often lose the sheet of paper I’d left, so would forget the instructional exercises, or the exercises they carried out didn’t conform exactly to the rehab treatment programme. Having the Equicantis app on a SaaS platform has made a world of difference to my clients and the feedback has been very encouraging and complimentary.”

Fiona Hulme, British Dressage Coach commented: “I have been using the Equicantis exercise plans that my physio sent post-treatment and they've been great. Super easy to use and really handy to be able to access them on my phone, especially to watch the exercise videos and check that I'm doing them correctly, so that they are benefitting my horses.”

Laura Clinton Director, Equicantis laura@equicantis.com equicantis.com

“It offers reassurance and stability to both therapist and owner”

outlook A sunny

As the world becomes more focused on sustainability and companies look for ways to manage their soaring utility bills, it’s no wonder that so many businesses are discovering the benefits of solar panels. Solar energy is not only better for the environment, but it can also potentially save businesses thousands of pounds each year on their energy expenditure. Before we look into other benefits of commercial solar panels, let’s first look at how they work.

By VAUGHN RAWSON

How do solar panels work?

Solar panels work by absorbing sunlight with photovoltaic cells, also called PV cells. These PV cells are made from silicon, a material that can create an electrical current when exposed to sunlight. When the sun shines on the solar panel, the silicon atoms absorb the sunlight and become electrically charged. This charge is passed through wires to an inverter, which converts it into usable alternating current (AC) electricity. This energy can be used to generate electricity or be stored in batteries.

Like any other business investment, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of getting solar panels installed. Here are some of the benefits that solar energy can provide.

Reducing energy costs

Energy expenses can be one of the main running costs for businesses in the UK. The current energy crisis has meant that both households and businesses are looking for ways to manage their soaring utility bills. Switching to solar power will help protect your business from any further rises in energy and will therefore decrease your operational costs significantly. There are grants available for businesses to have solar panels installed and there are no running costs, so it really is a win-win to harness the sunlight’s natural energy to power your business.

Reducing your carbon footprint

As climate change is becoming a much more crucial issue for everyone, responsible companies are taking the initiative to reduce their carbon footprint. If every business worked towards reducing its carbon footprint in some way, it would make a huge impact on whether or not we can collectively meet the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement. Using solar energy reduces your reliance on fossil fuels, which in turn reduces the strain on finite resources like coal, oil and natural gas, which are contributing to global warming.

Increasing your property’s value

If you own a commercial building, installing commercial solar panels will increase its value. RICS is factoring sustainability and environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into commercial property valuation, proving a strong correlation between the environmental performance of an asset to its market value.

Attracting and retaining employees

Employees are increasingly attracted to businesses with green credentials. An IBM survey found a rising interest in workers wishing to apply for and accept jobs from environmentally-friendly companies, with 67% stating that they are more willing to apply for – and 68% more willing to accept – employment from such companies.

Installing energy-efficient heating and ventilation will allow businesses to show a clear commitment to reducing carbon emissions and help to tackle the energy crisis. This in turn, will make a difference to attracting employees to your organisation.

Maintenance free

Solar panels are designed to be selfcleaning, so they require little to no maintenance. You won’t have to worry or pay for additional maintenance costs to keep them running efficiently.

Government funding

There are various schemes available, such as Energy Efficiency Financing (EEF) that offer funding for the installation of commercial solar panels. There is also a super deduction on grants allowing businesses to claim up to 130% of their Capital Allowances back from the Government, for qualifying investments.

Rawson R-EV can help complete your funding application, allowing you to reduce your initial upfront investment as much as possible.

Vaughn Rawson Rawson EV Power r-evpower.co.uk

08081 968338

“There are grants available for businesses to have solar panels installed and there are no running costs, so it really is a win-win to harness the sunlight’s natural energy to power your business”

legislation

anticipated this April

By LESLEY SMYTHE

MANY COUPLES WILL NOT BE AWARE that the timing of their separation and/or the transfer of assets could potentially lead to unexpected tax consequences, with Capital Gains Tax being generally the most important.

Capital Gains Tax, or CGT, is a tax on the profit made when you sell or otherwise dispose of an asset where the value has increased. Currently, married couples and civil partners can transfer assets freely from one another, without incurring CGT and this is known as the ‘spouse exemption’.

The issue with the current tax rules for separating couples, however, is that the spouse exemption can currently only be used up to the end of the tax year of separation and not from the point that the divorce and/or associated financial order is granted. Therefore, under the current rules, a couple who separated in late March for instance, would only have a matter of days until the end of the tax year in early April to implement any transfers, to avoid a potentially large CGT bill.

The changes

The Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) argued that it was ‘unrealistic to expect separating couples to have resolved their affairs by the end of the tax year of their separation’

As a result, from April 2023, the Government has stated that legislation in the form of the Finance Bill is is due to be introduced.

The proposed changes see the introduction of more favourable tax rules and hopefully will give separating couples some breathing space to negotiate and implement a fair financial settlement.

Changes due to come into effect are:

• Couples who separate have up to three years (from the date of separation) to transfer assets to each other as part of an agreement.

• If there is a consent order made by the court formalising the agreement, then there is no limit in terms of when the assets can be transferred. Divorce proceedings would have had to have been issued for this to be the case, to give the court jurisdiction to make a financial order.

There will also be an option for a party who vacates the former family home to allow the other party to continue residing there, with the children of the family perhaps, to claim relief on the eventual sale of the property – even if it is a number of years later.

Other considerations

Whilst these changes should result in the tax being paid by separating couples being reduced significantly, separating couples will still need to consider any other tax consequences of their proposed financial settlement, where other asset disposals are anticipated.

It is always advisable to obtain an order from the court setting out the agreement.

Not only does this remove any time pressure, but it will also provide protection in terms of enforcement.

Divorce is undoubtedly one of the most difficult life events someone can face, and whilst any future tax liability is unlikely to be the first thought upon separation, it does need to be considered in any divorce settlement.

CGT Rates

The Autumn Statement (2022) made by the Government confirmed what many were expecting, in that there would be a cut in tax free allowances. Presently, you are allowed £12,000 per tax year allowance before CGT is triggered. From April 2023, it will be reduced to £6,000 per tax year and the April after (2024) it is cut further, to £3,000 per tax year.

Given the reductions, it can be seen that the changes for divorcing couples are very advantageous.

If you are concerned about reaching a financial settlement and the tax implications, it is best to get early expert advice. Without advice, what may on the face of it be an equal division of the family assets, could leave one party with a hefty tax bill which ultimately skews the net effect of any agreement. Forward planning to make use of any available tax reliefs to either or both parties can mean the tax liability for a divorcing couple can be significantly reduced.

Lesley Smythe Head of Family, DTM Legal 01244 354813 / 07842 310861 dtmlegal.com

“separating couples will still need to consider any other tax consequences of their proposed financial settlement”

Flying high in business

Matt Pyke, 26, is the managing director of Fly High Media, a digital marketing agency he founded in 2015 at the age of just 19, while he was studying full-time for a degree in marketing at Manchester Metropolitan University. He began operating the business from his rooms in the university halls of residence. Last year, Matt's business skills were recognised, when he won the prestigious High Sheriff of Cheshire's Award for Young Business Person of the Year.

Strategy for growth

Matt said: “We initially focused the agency on helping small businesses and individuals build their online presence through website design, social media marketing and branding. We developed a strong philosophy of working closely with clients, getting to know their online marketing needs and providing value for money. This strategy helped our business to grow.”

In 2016, Fly High Media Ltd was incorporated and Matt moved the business into Manchester Metropolitan University’s Innospace, a business incubation space designed to encourage new businesses to thrive.

Balancing his full-time studies with running a business, Matt gradually expanded the services into graphic design, by employing graphic design undergraduate students.

After graduating in July 2018, Matt moved back home to Cheshire and located Fly High Media’s head office at Oaklands Business Park in Hooton near Chester. A small office was retained in Manchester, to maintain the company’s strong connection with its client base and the city.

Integrating analytical and creative solutions

Over the last few years, Fly High Media has grown its client base and developed new services, to meet the needs of clients. In 2019, Fly High Media acquired Wolfden Creative, a small UK-based creative marketing agency. The acquisition enabled the company to provide an even better service to clients, by integrating both analytical and creative solutions. A new business division was also created trading as Fly High Web, to specialise in website hosting and email services.

The company went through a very difficult period during the first 2020 lockdown. Matt said, “Most companies slashed their marketing budgets overnight and battened down the hatches to weather the pandemic. Fly High Media only survived by tightly managing its own costs, staying in regular contact with our clients and increasing our own online marketing.”

As the lockdown began to ease, clients began to return to Fly High Media in even greater numbers than before the pandemic. Matt said: “To pull through the pandemic, we had to become more agile and respond to client needs.

“Fly High Media only survived by tightly managing its own costs, staying in regular contact with our clients and increasing our own online marketing”

We shifted our focus slightly to building e-commerce stores for clients, so they could get online, while other businesses needed search marketing help to increase their online visibility.”

Creating bespoke marketing solutions post-pandemic, Fly High Media’s strategy has been to specialise in helping clients generate more leads and sales, by improving their online presence using search engine optimisation (SEO), Pay-per-click (PPC) Facebook advertising and Social Media Marketing. The company also supports businesses by providing training on marketing techniques, as well as regularly publishing marketing blogs and podcasts.

Matt’s passion for digital marketing shines through in every conversation. He said, “The company’s success is built on providing an excellent service to clients, creating bespoke marketing solutions, and having a highlymotivated team that delivers outstanding results.”

In his spare time, Matt is a keen basketball player, having played for Cheshire Phoenix, a local professional basketball team, in his teenage years. Fly High Media is now a key sponsor of Cheshire Phoenix and the Fly High team regularly attends games.

Matt Pyke Director, Fly High media flyhighmedia.co.uk flyhighweb.com

“The company’s success is built on providing an excellent service to clients”

working Remote

It is an employer’s duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and other people who might be affected by their work activities. Employers must do whatever is reasonably practicable to achieve this. Even with a blended structure, where staff can work from home, employers are still responsible for their employee’s wellbeing.

HERE ARE SOME STEPS THAT YOUR STAFF CAN TAKE, to help mitigate against risks when working from home. However, as it is still the employer’s responsibility to safeguard their staff, and risk assessments and audits should still take place. DSE policy and procedures that already exist in the organisation should reflect these changes in the working environment, to consider working from home.

Workstation set up

Your home working zone should include:

• A table or desk

• Chair

• PC or laptop

• Peripherals such as mouse, keyboard and screens.

By MARTIN GRIFFITHS

Find an area with adequate space to set up a suitable working zone. Ensure there is sufficient light, ventilation and no trailing cables. Check your electrical equipment is still safe to use. Do not overload sockets or daisy chain extension leads. Become familiar with all escape routes, in case of a fire. Are they clear?

Keep regular contact with your line manager and team, to keep them informed you are safe and well. Use platforms like Skype for Business, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, mobile and Instant Messaging to keep in touch.

Reporting Incidents, near misses and ill health should still be reported in the usual way.

Wellbeing

It is important to take regular breaks and maintain positive wellbeing when working from home.

• Take a micro-break (two to three minutes) every 20 minutes

• Take a break (five minutes) every hour e.g. make a hot drink or walk around the room.

• Do simple workstation exercises

• Keep hydrated

• Stay connected and maintain social connections with your team.

If you sit for long periods in front of a computer, here are some tips to help your posture.

Support your back – Reduce your risk of back pain, by adjusting your chair so your lower back is properly supported. Get one that is easily adjustable, so you can change the height, back position and tilt. Your knees should be slightly lower than your hips. Use a footrest, if it feels necessary.

Rest your feet on the floor – Place your feet flat on the floor and don't cross your legs, as this may contribute to posture-related problems.

Place your screen at eye level –A good guide is to place the monitor about an arm's length away, with the top of the screen roughly at eye level. To achieve this, you may need a monitor stand.

Have the keyboard straight in front of you – Leave a gap of about 100mm to 150mm at the front of the desk, to rest your wrists between bouts of typing. Some people like to use a wrist rest to keep their wrists straight and at the same level as the keys.

Keep your mouse close – A mouse mat with a wrist pad may help keep your wrist straight and avoid awkward bending. If you're not using your keyboard, push it to one side to move the mouse closer to you.

Adjust your chair – Your chair height should be adjusted so you can use the keyboard with your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor. This can help prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Use a hard surface – Don’t use an ironing board or use your own lap to lean on when working on a laptop. Using a firm desk or kitchen table helps to keep your workspace organised and also helps your posture.

Make objects easy to reach – Position frequently used objects, such as your telephone or stapler, within easy reach. Avoid repeatedly stretching or twisting to reach things.

Avoid screen reflection – Your screen should be as glare-free as possible. If there's glare on your screen, hold a mirror in front of the screen so you know what's causing it. Position the monitor to avoid reflection from overhead lighting and sunlight. Adjusting the screen's brightness or contrast can make it much easier to use.

Avoid wearing bifocals – It's important to be able to see the screen easily without having to raise or lower your head. If you cannot work comfortably with bifocals, you may need a different type of spectacles. Consult your optician if in doubt.

Martin Griffiths Acton Edocs actonedocs.co.uk

“Don’t use an ironing board or use your own lap to lean on when working on a laptop. Using a firm desk or kitchen table helps to keep your workspace organised and also helps your posture”

Venue finding

Chester and Wrexham have a wealth of great venues of all capacities, for all types of events. If you are thinking of taking your meeting or event off-site, here are some suggestions for venues.

Crabwall Manor Hotel is an amazing venue on the outskirts of Chester in Mollington. If you don’t fancy heading into the city centre for your meeting, then this might be a good option. There is a range of rooms suitable for training meetings, conferences, meetings and presentations. This is a quiet and peaceful place to host your next meeting. It is also an ideal place to head to if you're travelling to/from the M56 and to avoid the city's rush hour traffic.

Cheshire View offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit your style – or your event. The venue has a number of spacious light and airy rooms, and each room can be set up to your personal preference. Seminar rooms with additional breakout rooms can also be booked for group work. The venue offers free parking and Wi-Fi and AV equipment in all rooms. Room sizes vary, with the Christleton catering for up to 50 people seated conference style, while the largest room, the Waterton can hold approximately 200 people.

If you are looking for a unique and versatile venue to host a meeting or event, Tŷ Pawb can offer private meeting rooms, learning studios, large function spaces, a fully-equipped theatre, sound and lighting, as well as great catering options too. The venue offers free Wi-Fi and is fully accessible. The Performance Space has a retractable seating capacity of 109, while the meeting room and the learning studio can both accommodate up to 20 people. There is also the People’s Square, which is more suited to public events.

wrexhamafc.co.uk/commercial/my-racecourse-room-hire

If you're looking to book a business meeting or conference, Wrexham AFC has a choice of rooms to hire, many of which have been recently refurbished. With free parking and Wi-Fi, all the business meeting rooms also have AV input facilities, ample electrical sockets and ADSL inputs/Ethernet Ports. From the Centenary Club, which can cater for up to 500 people, through to the Aviation American Gin Suite, catering for up to 40 guests or the eight Macron Stand Executive Rooms, which can cater for 10-15 people, there is plenty of choice.

Do you have a venue you would like to see featured?

If you have used a hotel or other venue for a business meeting, conference, seminar, training or team building event and you think it should be featured in a future issue, please contact us with your suggestions.

Crabwall Manor Hotel, Chester legacy-hotels.co.uk/hotels/crabwall-manor-hotel -spa-mollington-chester

Cheshire View, Christleton cheshireview.co.uk/corporate-events

Tŷ Pawb, Wrexham typawb.wales/venue-hire

Wrexham AFC, Wrexham

What’s on

A round-up of some of the business event happening in and around Chester and Wrexham from March to June 2023

WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH

09:00 – 11:00

Networking at Moxy Hotel Chester West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Moxy Hotel Chester, Boughton, Chester CH3 5AF https://bit.ly/3U1nrc7

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

12:00 – 14:00

Getting comfortable with public speaking

This workshop will help you feel more comfortable with public speaking Wrexham Enterprise Hub, 11-13 Rhosddu Road, Wrexham LL11 1AT thetownsquare.co.uk

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

17:00 – 19:00

VOX Networking

Join us and guest speaker, Donna Okell for an evening of interesting conversation

Chester Beer and Wine, 20 Handbridge, Chester CH4 7JE ezpublishing.co.uk/events

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

12:00 – 14:00

How to pitch your business

This workshop will prepare you for different situations where you will need to promote your business

Wrexham Enterprise Hub, 11-13 Rhosddu Road, Wrexham LL11 1AT thetownsquare.co.uk

If you have an event taking place between July and September 2023, please let us know, so we can include it in our next issue. email: clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

TUESDAY 21 MARCH

09:00 – 12:30

Aaron & Partners Employment Law Roadshow 2023

Free to attend and CPD accredited –find out about important changes to employment law

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa, Warrington Road, Chester CH2 3PD https://bit.ly/3k9PhWP

THURSDAY 23 MARCH

09:30 – 11:30

West Cheshire Women’s Network

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Cheshire View, Plough Lane, Christleton, Chester CH3 7PT https://bit.ly/3HrQoJl

THURSDAY 24 MARCH

17:00

Chester GAS launch event Garret Theatre, Storyhouse, Hunter Street, Chester CH1 2AR https://bit.ly/41cYCht

TUESDAY 28 MARCH

12:30 – 14:30

Networking Lunch at Ramada Plaza

Wrexham

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Ramada Plaza Wrexham, Ellice Way, Wrexham LL13 7YH

https://bit.ly/3fvBwiV

WEDNESDAY 29 MARCH

19:00

Refresh your wardrobe clothes swap event

SHARE Shop, 30 Pepper Street, Chester CH1 1DF shareaid.co.uk/collections/events

THURSDAY 6 APRIL

10:00 – 11:30

Network She Netwalking

Aldford and the River Dee – meeting at the Grosvenor Arms

Grosvenor Arms, Chester Road, Aldford CH3 6HJ networkshe.co.uk

MONDAY 17 APRIL

09:00 – 11:00

Networx4Business

Sergio’s Restaurant, St Werburgh Street, Chester CH1 2DY networx4business.co.uk

TUESDAY 18 APRIL

09:00 - 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Cheshire College – South & West West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Cheshire College – South & West, Ellesmere Port Campus, Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF https://bit.ly/3j38Dwe

WEDNESDAY 19 APRIL

11:20 – 14:00

The Business Network, Chester DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa, Warrington Road, Chester CH2 3PD business-network-chester.co.uk

THURSDAY 20 APRIL

17:00 - 19:00

Thursday Is The New Friday

Networking

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Moxy Hotel Chester, Boughton, Chester CH3 5AF

https://bit.ly/3Df5VLf

22 – 29 APRIL

Wrexham Carnival of Words

Author talks, story telling, poetry, writer’s carousel and the murder mystery.

wrexhamcarnivalofwords.com

TUESDAY 25 APRIL

09:30 – 12:00

Sales Club

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

North Wales Science, 17 Henblas Street, Wrexham LL13 8AE https://bit.ly/3HayDOg

WEDNESDAY 26 APRIL

12:30 - 14:30

Networking Lunch at Chester Football Club

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Chester FC, Deva Stadium, Bumpers Lane, Chester CH1 4LT https://bit.ly/3Rd1sOU

FRIDAY 28 APRIL

10:00 – 12:00

Square Networking

Wrexham Enterprise Hub, 11-13 Rhosddu Road, Wrexham LL11 1AT thetownsquare.co.uk

FRIDAY 28 APRIL

11:00 – 15:00

‘Meet the team’ Open Day SHARE Shop, 30 Pepper Street, Chester CH1 1DF shareaid.co.uk

FRIDAY 12 MAY

19:00 – 23:30

North Wales Dinner

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Quay Hotel & Spa, Deganwy Marina, Deganwy, Conwy LL31 9DJ https://bit.ly/3ZWsXjL

MONDAY 15 MAY

09:00 – 11:00

Networx4Business

Sergio’s Restaurant, St Werburgh Street, Chester CH1 2DY networx4business.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 17 MAY

09:00 – 11:00

Round the Table Networking at Wrexham Glyndwr University

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Glyndŵr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW

https://bit.ly/3DecehY

WEDNESDAY 17 MAY

10:00 – 15:00

Chester Business Show

Exhibition, seminars, workshops and networking

Crown Plaza Chester, Trinty Street, Chester CH1 2BD chesterbusinessshow.co.uk

THURSDAY 18 MAY

18:30 – 21:00

Charity Fashion Show

SHARE Shop, 30 Pepper Street, Chester CH1 1DF shareaid.co.uk

TUESDAY 23 MAY

12:30 – 14:30

Networking Lunch

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

The Quay Hotel & Spa, Deganwy

Marina, Deganwy, Conwy LL31 9DJ https://bit.ly/3kL0Rrh

THURSDAY 25 MAY

11:30 – 15:00

Chester Business Club

Ladies, lunch and laughter

The Old Palace, Little St John Street, Chester, CH1 1SN hello@eventure.ltd

MONDAY 29 MAY

09:00 – 11:00

Networx4Business

Sergio’s Restaurant, St Werburgh Street, Chester CH1 2DY networx4business.co.uk

FRIDAY 2 JUNE

10:00 – 12:00

Summer Social – Enrichment

networking: Women’s networking group

The Kitchen, Storyhouse, Hunter Street, Chester CH1 2AR https://bit.ly/3Ii1EIi

WEDNESDAY 14 JUNE

11:20 – 14:00

The Business Network, Chester DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Spa, Warrington Road, Chester CH2 3PD business-network-chester.co.uk

MONDAY 1 MAY

09:00 – 11:00

Networx4Business

Sergio’s Restaurant, St Werburgh Street, Chester CH1 2DY networx4business.co.uk

THURSDAY 4 MAY

09:30 – 17:30

Chamber Golf Day

West Cheshire & North Wales Chamber of Commerce

Macdonald Portal Hotel Golf & Spa, Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley CW6 0DJ

https://bit.ly/3HwqANl

THURSDAY 18 MAY

13:00 – 17:00

Cheshire Sportswomen’s Lunch

Hear from Karen Bardsley, former Man City and England goalkeeper

Chester Racecourse, New Crane Street, Chester CH1 4JD cheshirelunch@eventure.ltd

THURSDAY 22 JUNE

17:00 – 19:00

VOX Networking

Join us and a special guest speaker for an evening of interesting conversation

Venue TBC ezpublishing.co.uk/events

While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned

Networking

There is a whole host of networking opportunities across Chester and Wrexham – from groups that you have to join and attend a structured weekly meeting, through to one-off events that you can ‘pay as you go’. Most membership groups offer you the chance to attend as a guest – often for the first one or two sessions – to allow you the time to work out if it is a group that suits you. If you are new to networking, try a few and see if you can find a group that works for you and your business. If you have an event you would like listed in a future issue, please get in touch.

Networx 4 Business

networx4business.co.uk

Networx offers membership networking at locations in Chester and Wrexham. Membership cost is £600 for 12 months, per venue and includes breakfast. Sessions take place fortnightly at each venue. With just one business type per group, you’ll have the opportunity to talk about your business and what you are looking for.

Network She Netwalking – Chester networkshe.co.uk

Netwalking is free to attend and was set up to help Network SHE’s members with their mental and physical wellbeing, business and personal development, as well as about building great relationships.

West Cheshire and North Wales

Chamber of Commerce

wcnwchamber.org.uk

West Cheshire and North Wales

Business NetWalkers,

Chester

businessnetwalkers.com

Business NetWalkers helps you improve your wealth and wellbeing, whilst growing your network. It does this by enhancing mental performance and wellbeing, improving physical fitness, talking and collaborating with likeminded people.

It has been documented in many studies that walking while talking has many benefits with regards to mental wellbeing, focus, ideas generation and it’s generally good all round to get to know new people.

Chamber of Commerce is the leading organisation representing the business community across the whole of West Cheshire and North Wales. As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, its’ objectives remain clear: to promote and encourage business for members and others regionally, nationally and internationally to improve commercial growth and prosperity.

BNI

bninorthwales.co.uk

bnicheshire.co.uk

BNI provides a positive, supportive, and structured environment for the development and exchange of quality business referrals.

FSB fsb.org.uk

Tarporley Business Club

tarporleybusinessclub.co.uk

The Tarporley Business Club was set up in the pandemic as an online network for local business owners to generate connections.

Now it’s a purely face-to-face meeting held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at The Swan in Tarporley from 9:30-11:30 am. It is a not-for-profit group aiming to develop the local business community, resulting in maximising growth and success. Memberships available, £10 fee for first time visitors.

Serving the business community in these diverse regions for over 100 years, the Chamber aims to support every type of business – from sole traders to large corporations. It tailors its' service to suit its' members, developing an enviable portfolio of member benefits, business advice, export knowledge, events and training opportunities to help make your business a success.

Institute of Directors (IOD)

iod.com

FSB membership means inclusive support, market-leading benefits and a voice heard in governments at all levels. If you are self-employed or own a small business, membership is built from the ground up, to help you achieve your ambitions. Together, we are stronger.

Join virtual events, including networking and business surgeries at: fsb.org.uk/event-calendar.html

The Institute of Directors was founded in 1903 and within three years was awarded a Royal Charter to support, represent and set standards for business leaders nationwide. It is the UK's largest membership organisation for business leaders, providing informative events, professional development courses for self-improvement, networking and expert advice. IOD is the only institute in the world to offer internationally recognised qualifications designed by directors for directors, specific to the core competencies required of directors and senior leaders.

360 Networking Group bit.ly/details—networking

360 Networking monthly meetings are run by Wrexham County Borough Council’s Business and Investment team. All meetings, together with annual membership are now free of charge. Each meeting takes place within the Redwither Tower on Wrexham Industrial Estate between 17:00 - 18:45..

Chester Business Club

chesterbusinessclub.co.uk

One of the principal activities of Chester Business Club is its’ Speaker Dinners. The aim of these Black Tie events is to provide an impartial forum for leading commentators to speak on a topic of their own choosing, as a positive contribution to increasing public awareness of the important issues of the day.

The Business Network Chester businessnetworkchester.co.uk

The Business Network Chester is a diverse membership group of around 100 companies, sharing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help grow each others’ businesses. The ethos behind the group is "know, like, trust" – a belief in building long-lasting relationships with other senior decision makers. Meeting at lunchtimes, in prestigious venues around Chester, it provides a highly-structured event, which enables attendees to meet senior decision makers in a relaxed and enjoyable environment. Attendees may also attend a free, highly-educational seminar, which runs prior to the event.

Real5 Networking — Chester

real5networking.com

Real5 Networking is a business venture focused on local business networking for mutual commercial gains. The idea is that all members agree to give a minimum 5% profit share back to the referee, so there is a real incentive to maximise the network.

VOX Networking ezpublishing.co.uk/events

VOX Networking events take place quarterly following the publication of each issue.

The two-hour sessions provide the opportunity to meet and talk with other local businesspeople, and each one will have a special guest speaker.

Numbers are limited and tickets cost £15, including refreshments.

Bitesize

Cleopatra’s coffee shop and bistro

This quaint, quirky coffee shop and bistro in the heart of the beautiful village of Holt, in the borough of Wrexham, is getting a lot of attention lately for a number of reasons.

Having become a firm favourite with Wrexham AFC’s manager Phil Parkinson to eat and drink, (and a number of the team players too), it has also appeared in episode 11 of the much talked about ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ TV show, created by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

The café, owned by husband-and-wife team, Phil and Helen, opened its doors in Holt in June 2015 and brought some amazing flavours to the table.

Phil explains: “Our food ranges from some interesting South African dishes as well as some very tasty Mediterranean meals, with flavours that will leave your tastebuds begging for more. Our fresh hand-stretched pizzas, which I personally make, are one of the talking points with many of our customers.

“I ran a successful customer service company in South Africa for a number of years, and I have instilled this same approach at Cleopatra’s. A warm, welcoming smile and attentive service from all the staff is the norm here, on any day of the week.”

The coffee shop and bistro is open seven days a week, 364 days a year – allowing its customers plenty of time to enjoy this gem of a shop. Pop in for a delicious coffee and spend time looking at the quirky décor around the shop.

For bookings - which is always advisable, especially on weekends - call 01829 270030 or email info@cleopatrasbistro.co.uk to reserve your table.

Photography: ©Gavin Priest

What has in the last 12 months?

inspired you

“Last year, I was fortunate to be part of the Wrecsam 2025 City of Culture bid team. The national spotlight shone once again on Wrexham and highlighted many of our unsung heroes who make the area tick. The bid allowed me to engage with different individuals and groups, all of whom volunteered countless hours for others, or had a business that was proud to call Wrexham home. These included volunteers at a Dementia-friendly art class at St Margaret’s Parish Centre and a wonderful group at the Erlas Walled Garden project – a hidden gem.

Despite not winning, the bid brought people from different backgrounds together and helped strengthen the recovery from the pandemic for many.”

Joe Bickerton Wrexham County Borough Tourism Manager

“I have been inspired by Donna Okell from Cheshire For Good (now UK for Good). Donna set up Cheshire for Good as a responsible business community in Cheshire. The community works together to create positive change in Cheshire and for the world. Its goal is to create a cleaner, greener, fairer future through taking action on sustainability and by supporting businesses to become B Corp certified. Its ethos is about how businesses can make a profit whilst doing good for people and the planet. To find out more visit ukforgood.com ”

Councillor Richard Beacham

Cabinet Member for Inclusive Growth, Economy and Regeneration, proudly representing the ward of Newton and Hoole in Cheshire West and Chester

“Anyone that is doing the best they can with limited resources, managing to juggle a complex home:work life balance.

Individuals like Steve Bartlett, Donna Okell, Graham Phillips, Alex Siddell, Leonie Hallam, Helen Tandy, Tony Barton, Paul Askew and Adam Dandy.

Technology like LinkedIn, ChatGPT, Pexels and Gousto. Places like Singapore, the Suez Canal and Oman.

Friends and family, the resilience of youth and age, Cheshire countryside and sunsets. Green and carbon reduction innovation, particularly when it wins awards and comes from our region.

And finally Storyhouse, Cheshire Military Museum, the Mystery Plays’ plans for 2023 and Steve Wundke’s book on David Pickering.”

Jane Harrod-Roberts Project director Green Expo

“Since starting VOX I have had the opportunity to interview a lot of fascinating people and hear their business stories. I can’t pinpoint one businessperson in particular, because it’s the passion these people have – whether it’s for their business, their team, or the community or sector that they work in – which never fails to inspire me. I think if you are in need of inspiration or motivation, just start a conversation with someone. You will be amazed at what you find out and where that can take you.”

Clara Hughes Editorial director at VOX

“I am continually inspired by our local community. Originally from London, I moved to Wrexham 13 years ago. It never amazes me how friendly people here are, and how willing they are to generously give their time and/or money, for the greater good of the local community. In every corner of the region, there are groups, clubs, associations, organisations who make life a little bit better for those that need it.”

Vicky Heathfield Creative director at VOX

Charity round-up

Our charity pages are an opportunity to highlight the good work local charities are undertaking, promote fundraising success and future events.

School pupils in North Wales raise more than £100,000 for children’s hospices

School pupils across North Wales have raised more than £100,000 for Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith’s children’s hospices, by taking part in the charity’s Dragons’ Lair Challenge.

The Welsh Baccalaureate-accredited scheme not only helps to raise money to support seriously ill local children, but also helps students across the region to use creativity and teamwork, enhance enterprise and employability skills, as well as counting towards their qualification.

Small groups of Year 10 pupils are given the opportunity to create a fundraising idea to grow £10.00 into vital funds for Hope House and Tŷ Gobaith and then pitch their idea to a panel of local business dragons. If they win the investment, the pupils use their skills to grow the money. Since being introduced in 2015, students from over 20 education settings have raised more than £100,000.

The challenge is only possible thanks to the local business leaders across all industries, who offer expert advice on how to make their ideas blossom into amazing fundraising schemes. In addition, this year, Principality Building Society have decided to sponsor the programme, as they were impressed with the opportunity to support young people develop financial skills.

Fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: “It’s a really simple way for local businesses to support both our hospices and the students at the same time. The opportunity to share life skills and experiences is invaluable and the Year 10s benefit immensely from this challenge. We are thrilled to achieve this milestone and cannot thank enough all the schools, colleges, teachers and dragons for wanting to be there for the children we care for.”

To learn more about how your local school can get involved in the Dragons’ Lair Challenge please visit hopehouse.org.uk/schools and if your organisation would like to support the lair by becoming Dragons, please contact 01691 671671 or email fundraising@hopehouse.org.uk

Launch of Therapy Stars Foundation

Therapy Stars Foundation was officially launched on 27 January 2023. This new charity offers awards of £500 to families living in Shropshire, Cheshire or North Wales, for them to access therapy for a child with a long-term or life-limiting condition. The grants can also be used for siblings of these children. Therapy may include more well-known professions such as Physiotherapy, Occupational therapy and Speech therapy, but also ones lesser known, including Music Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Equine therapy, Hydrotherapy, Aquatic Therapy and counselling.

High Sheriff of Clwyd Community Awards 2023 Scheme

Nominations are now closed for the High Sheriff of Clwyd’s Community Awards 2023 Scheme and the winners will be announced in March.The awards were launched in 2013, to recognise individuals and voluntary or community organisations or groups (with charitable aims), which have made an outstanding contribution to their respective communities.

There are three awards categories, with two awards for individuals from each of the principal areas – Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham – that form the preserved County of Clwyd, and one award for a voluntary or community organisation or group (with charitable aims), operating within each of the same principal areas.

Children’s Air Ambulance set to help save more lives with England’s first helicopter incubator

The pioneering Children’s Air Ambulance (TCAA) has introduced England’s first incubator on a rotary-wing aircraft, to assist specialist NHS transport teams during lifesaving flights.

The national transfer service provides the only intensive care aircraft in the country dedicated to transferring critically ill babies and children, at a high and safe speed, from local hospitals to specialist paediatric and neonatal treatment centres.

Thanks to the support of public donations, the charity has designed and developed three bespoke Neonatal Transport Systems, which have been provided to specialist NHS transport teams free of charge across England, to enhance patient care.

The charity, NHS Clinical Partner Teams at Embrace Yorkshire, plus Humberside Infant and Children Transport Service (Embrace, which is part of Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust), Bristol’s Newborn Emergency Stabilisation and Transfer (NEST), Southampton Oxford Neonatal Transport (SONeT), International Biomedical and Gama Aviation all collaborated on a bespoke design. It brings three Neonatal Transport Systems onboard its brand new AgustaWestland 169 aircraft, which are now provided by Sloane Helicopters Ltd.

An incubator is an apparatus used to maintain environmental conditions suitable for a newborn baby and is used in preterm birth or for some ill full-term babies. The ability to maintain the temperature, humidity and oxygen levels provides a safe environment for the young patient.

The new and bespoke TCAA Neonatal Transport Systems have been designed with input from leading neonatal transfer clinicians, to ensure they are able to provide outstanding care in the air. In addition to the incubator, the system includes a Patient Monitor, Ventilator, Suction Unit, four Infusion Devices, Oxygen, and specialist Nitric Oxide Therapy.

Warm up while you wait at Shopmobility Wrexham!

Over the winter months, Shopmobility Wrexham has been offering the public the opportunity to come in out of the cold to get warm. While they are there, they can enjoy a hot drink and if they’d like conversation or company, speak with friendly staff from the Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW) – while waiting for their transport, or just taking shelter for 10 minutes from the winter weather.

Charity round-up

Dion Dublin gives Dynamic Fundraising an £8000 kick start

At the end of September last year, over 100 guests were treated to an evening with ex-Manchester United, England legend and TV presenter, Dion Dublin, at the Maesgwyn Hall, Wrexham – all in the name of charity.

Dynamic Trustee, Simon and Karen Evans, along their team at Monopoly Buy Sell Rent, organised the event to help raise much needed funds for Dynamic – Centre for Children and Young People With Disabilities. Guests were entertained by Dynamic Signing Sensations Choir, whose performance included ‘Wrexham Is the Name’ and a rousing rendition of the Welsh National Anthem. Then, prior to Dion’s talk, guests were invited to take part in several fundraising games and activities, and had the chance to bid on sports memorabilia and other items in a silent auction.

Sharing with local businesses

Did you know, SHARE moved to new premises in Pepper Street, Chester in September 2022? It now offers free internet access, free charging points for laptops and mobiles, a meeting room that companies and groups can hire, and a coffee shop which serves hot and cold drinks and delicious sandwiches, cakes and snacks.

The charity also has a programme of in-house events coming up this year and offers event space for hire. To find out more about how you can help SHARE tackle homelessness in Chester, visit shareaid.co.uk

Dion also made a visit to Bradbury House to meet some of the staff, volunteers and young people who access Dynamic services. He answered the many questions posed to him by some of the young people. Everyone at Dynamic was thrilled with their surprise visitor.

Marie Gibson, Liaison Officer at Dynamic, said “We are incredibly grateful to Simon and the team over at Monopoly for all their hard work organising the evening. It was a soldout event and a fabulous evening. Dion’s stories were captivating and he had the audience in the palm of his hand. “£8000 was raised in total and we are blown away by this figure. Whether you were involved in the organising, donated auction lots, provided your services on the evening, or dug deep to help raise this impressive amount, thank you so much, we are incredibly grateful.”

We want to hear your charity news

If you have charity news you would like to see included in the next issue, please send details to clara@ezpublishing.co.uk

Chester Bluecoat Charity on the lookout for local good causes

Chester’s oldest charity is looking to transform lives in and around the city. It wants to create new partnerships with organisations in the city and the surrounding area, who carry out deserving work. Last year, The Chester Bluecoat Charity, a grant giving charity, awarded local good causes over £240,000. It hopes to have an even bigger reach and impact in 2023.

The Chester Bluecoat Charity is seeking local charities and voluntary organisations working to support the disadvantaged and those living in poverty. It is particularly keen to hear from organisations working with children and young people.

Organisations can apply for strategic funding or small funding. The strategic funding programme provides grants of at least £2000 to schemes that aim to make a lasting difference in the community over several years, while the small funding offers a single grant of less than £500.

In 2022, The Chester Bluecoat Charity supported a wide range of organisations including KidsBank, Platform for Life, Chapter and Chester Zoo.

Hydro Aluminium employees volunteer to support Wrexham Mines Rescue Station

A coal mining disaster left his great-grandad buried underground – now Richard Tarran and his Hydro colleagues are helping restore the Wrexham Mines Rescue Station, honouring his great-grandad and the 266 men that lost their lives.

As a response to weaker market demand and some reduced activity at the plant, Hydro Aluminium in Wrexham decided to offer work hours to support a local community project. What they found was a historical building in dire need of repair and with a strong family connection for one of their workers, Richard Tarran.

“This project is special for me and my family, because my great-grandad was one of the 266 men that lost their lives in the 1934 Gresford Disaster. I was moved when I found out that his name is on the wall in the Mines Rescue Station, which was recently installed as a memorial for all the families that lost someone that day,” says Richard, Shift Supervisor at Hydro Aluminium.

The local recycling business, Hydro Aluminium, has enabled Richard and a task force of volunteer employees to work on the maintenance of the Rescue Station. Their first project has been to clear and renovate the garden at the rear of the building. The Hydro task force has also been supported with this project by local businesses BD Performance and Travis Perkins Wrexham.

The annual Duck race is back!

Stepping out for charity

An inspiring college worker, spurred-on by the death of her uncle, hiked more than 870 miles over 295 walks for charity. Kate Muddiman, a Work-based Learning Manager at Coleg Cambria, has completed the Wales Coastal Path, raising up to £1500 for Cancer Research UK. Kate, from Chester, took on the challenge to mark her 50th birthday and support the organisation, which is dedicated to saving lives through research, influence and information.

Kate said: “It took almost 300 walks and several pairs of trainers, but I’ve done it – to complete 870 miles just feels unreal! My uncle sadly passed away from the condition and I have other family and friends who have fought this cruel disease. My uncle was always determined to help others and that really struck a chord with me. In fact, before he died, he was planning a fundraising event for Cancer Research UK on his birthday, which shows what a remarkable man he was. I’m so pleased to have done it and again thank all of those people who gave so generously and others who kept me company along the way.”

To support Kate’s fundraising campaign, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/KateMuddiman50

The Countess Charity is extremely excited to announce that its Duck Race is back for 2023. Sponsored by Hickory's Smokehouse, the Duck Race will take place on Saturday 1st April at the Groves River Dee in Chester. Corporate ducks are available to sponsor for £275 each. You can personalise the duck with your company logo or a design of your choice.

If you would like to adopt a duck, your business can expect:

• Local press coverage

• Regular social media posts

• Your duck displayed in a prominent city centre shop

• Your duck featured in our Facebook Favourite album on The Countess Charity page with over 8,000 followers

• Prizes, including Fastest Duck, Best Celebrity Lookalike, Facebook Favourite & Best Dressed.

Donations from this event will be going to our Blue Skies Balcony appeal. This is to build a balcony onto the Intensive Care Unit at The Countess of Chester Hospital. This will allow our most poorly patients access to an outdoor space in a safe and infectioncontrol supported environment.

Indicators Key Performance

The business leaders who will thrive in the year ahead, making the right strategic decisions and coping best with any economic headwinds, will be those who understand every aspect of their businesses and finances, as close to real-time as possible. And yet, many company leaders still don’t really know what key metrics they should be tracking in their businesses. To make the best-informed strategic decisions possible, it’s critical to have management information – based on relevant KPIs – that is accurate, timely, relevant and visible.

By STEVE HARVEY

HERE ARE SOME OF THE CORE FINANCIAL AND NON-FINANCIAL KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs) you should be tracking, to have a clear picture of your business’s performance and to make the most effective decisions possible. But first…

What is a KPI?

A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is a measurable value that demonstrates how effectively your company is achieving its business objectives. KPIs are used to track and evaluate the success of specific business goals and strategies.

What makes a good KPI?

Your KPIs will be unique to you and depend on your goals, business type, industry and customers.

A good KPI should be:

Aligned and Relevant: Your KPIs should be directly related to your business’s strategy, goals and objectives.

Time-bound: You should set a specific timeframe for measuring your progress and achieving the desired outcome.

Achievable: Your KPIs should be realistic and achievable within the set timeframe and with your current level of resources. If a KPI is unachievable, your team could lose motivation and your credibility could be damaged.

Actionable: Any KPIs you choose should provide insights that influence your decision-making and support your strategic planning.

Clear: Your KPIs should be clear and easy to understand if you want your people to effectively monitor their progress and to use them to make informed decisions.

Measurable and Comparable: Your KPIs should be quantifiable, otherwise you won’t be able to monitor your performance over time and compare your KPIs against external standards. Critically, you should also determine how you’re going to track progress and who is responsible for measurement.

What financial KPIs should your business track?

Your key financial metrics should include figures such as revenue, profit, gross profit margin and operating margin. But in an uncertain economic climate, you should also be aware of some other financial metrics that can indicate your financial position and level of stability: headroom and runway.

Critical to understanding these metrics is an up-to-date and accurate cashflow forecast. If you don’t have a cashflow forecast in your business, then you must create one now.

Headroom

Headroom is the difference between your required cash resources and your available cash resources, or the ‘cushion’ you have against any unforeseen circumstances. If your headroom is tight, you should be looking to increase your ‘buffer’.

There are many ways you can do this, including increasing revenue, increasing prices, reducing costs and expenses, negotiating better rates with suppliers, securing additional funding, improving efficiency, extending payment terms with suppliers, reducing client payment terms, or improving debt collection.

Runway

Runway is another financial metric you could use as a KPI, particularly for earlystage businesses. It refers to the amount of time you can stay afloat without extra capital. If your runway is disappearing fast, you will need to source additional finance, reduce your costs, or increase your revenue quickly.

Non-Financial KPIs

Your non-financial KPIs will depend on your specific business context and your goals. But critically, you should measure these non-financial metrics with as much diligence and effort as your

financial metrics. Examples of nonfinancial KPIs might include customer satisfaction, churn-rate, on-time deliveries, productivity, employee satisfaction, lead conversion rate and innovation.

Are you getting the information you need to lead your business effectively? To have a clear picture of your business’s health and performance, to make the most effective management decisions possible, and to give your business the best chance of success in the next 12 months, now’s the time to identify – or review – the core financial and non-financial KPIs for your business.

Steve Harvey Director & Head of Strategic Advisory The Uncommon Practice theuncommonpractice.com

0333 242 3743

“Your KPIs should be quantifiable, otherwise you won’t be able to monitor your performance over time and compare your KPIs against external standards”

“Your KPIs should be directly related to your business’s strategy, goals and objectives”

Across

Take five

Grab a cuppa and clear your mind of work for a short while with our puzzles.

1 Killer whale (4)

3 Came into possession of (8)

9 Two lines of verse (7)

10 Clod of turf (5)

11 Dictatorial (12)

13 Make certain of (6)

15 Of the eye (6)

17 Showing total commitment (12)

20 Hurts (5)

21 Vent for molten lava (7)

22 Picking (8)

23 Eat like a bird (4)

Down

1 Dweller (8)

2 Waterslide (5)

4 ___ acid: lemon juice constituent (6)

5 Not discernible (12)

6 Restoration to life (7)

7 Facts and statistics collectively (4)

8 Decomposition by a current (12)

12 Severe traffic congestion (8)

14 Fast musical composition (7)

16 Havens (anag) (6)

18 Historic nobleman (5)

19 Stylish (4)

If you would like to showcase your business by offering a competition prize for future issues, contact us to discuss options

vicky@ezpublishing.co.uk

Check your answers

Crossword Classic Sudoku

Coming up next issue...

Shhh! Something new is coming… Look out for some big changes in issue seven – due out at the start of June. Our Summer issue covers June to August and forthcoming features include:

• A conservation with – Guy Fennell, founder of Tattenhall-based Pura, an eco-friendly babycare business founded in 2020 and now valued at millions, stocking stores including Asda, Spar and Superdrug.

• Tech trends – Pete Hanlon, CTO at Moneypenny looks at what businesses need to think about tech-wise and what the future looks like in terms of communication advances.

• Summer fun – check out the latest diary dates for networking, conferences and events this summer, including our VOX networking in June.

We will also be including interviews, articles and advice from local businesspeople, along with more business news and charity updates.

What’s in the Get in touch

Advertise your business in the next issue of VOX

We offer value for money advertising opportunities, and we are keen for you to see a return on your investment. We will work with you to identify the best package to meet your needs. As well as advertising, we offer sponsorship, competition and leaflet opportunities too.