SBT Issue 435

SBT

ISSUE 435

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

CHRISTMAS CHARITY EDITION MEET THE CHARITIES MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE’S LIVES IN SUSSEX – AND THE BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT THEM. WE THROW THE SPOTLIGHT ON ALBION IN THE COMMUNITY, THE STARR TRUST,

ROCKINGHORSE, MARTLETS, CHESTNUT TREE HOUSE PLUS MORE. AND WE MEET IAN POYSDEN, OF IEP

FINANCIAL, HEADLINE SPONSOR OF THIS CHARITY EDITION AND ADVOCATES FOR CORPORATE FUNDRAISING.

HEADLINE SPONSORS

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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SBTWelcome Meet the team

Welcome to our annual Christmas Charity Edition It is at this time of the year that we look back on – and celebrate – the wonderful work undertaken by Sussex businesses for local good causes.

Sam Thomas, Managing Director/ Publisher

Greg Carroll, Partner

What they do makes an enormous difference to the lives of people from across the county; people of all ages and with a diverse range of needs.

In this issue, you will hear about not just businesses but the charities driving change across the health, social and education sectors.

Lee Mansfield Partner

James Morrison, Production

Belinda Bennett, Editor/ Head of Social Media

Stephen Lawrence Photographer Snap it Now

Contributors

Sam Murphy, Managing Director, Mortgage Medics

Nick Hale, UK Director, Engage Health Group

As well hearing about the work of Albion in the Community and Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, we meet Martlets, Chestnut Tree House and the Starr Trust.

I want to thank the headline sponsors of this very special edition – IEP Financial and British Airways i360. Without them, this focus on good causes would not have been possible.

Both set an outstanding example of what can be achieved, and I salute their unwavering efforts to do everything they can for charity.

Through 2019, the Sussex Business Times has been supported by a number of businesses. I want to thank the following for making this magazine a continuing success and for helping us ensure this special charity edition was possible: L&S Printing, Brewers, Pryzm and Stratus Coaching.

In addition to charity news, this issue of the magazine is packed with the latest local and national business news.

For December, we have combined our hotel and restaurant reviews to throw the spotlight on one venue. You will also find travel news and a round-up of networking and other events, plus a wide range of unique and regular features.

Our Spending It features this month is Winter Warmers – ideal for those looking beyond December to the early part of 2020.

There is just one last thing to say…

Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

Issue 435

SBT

ISSUE 435

FREE

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

CHRISTMAS CHARITY EDITION MEET THE CHARITIES MAKING A REAL DIFFERENCE TO PEOPLE’S LIVES IN SUSSEX – AND THE BUSINESSES THAT SUPPORT THEM. WE THROW THE SPOTLIGHT ON ALBION IN THE COMMUNITY, THE STARR TRUST,

ROCKINGHORSE, MARTLETS, CHESTNUT TREE HOUSE PLUS MORE. AND WE MEET IAN POYSDEN, OF IEP

FINANCIAL, HEADLINE SPONSOR OF THIS CHARITY EDITION AND ADVOCATES FOR CORPORATE FUNDRAISING.

HEADLINE SPONSORS

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975 SBT 435.indd 1

12/12/2019 15:44

Cover 435 Charity Edition Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 012 Production James Morrison Web Designer/Developer Tom Alexander Accounts Clare Fermor accounts@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 01323 819 016 Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by L&S Printing Limited Hazelwood Close Worthing BN14 8NP 01903 821005 www.ls-printing.com

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Sussex Business Times Magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisement contained within Sussex Business Times Magazine. All prices featured in Sussex Business Times Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2019 ©

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Local News

A round-up of business stories from across Sussex.

National News

The British Chambers of Commerce reveals how the energy infrastructure needs fixing. We also take a look at the demise of Mothercare and ongoing efforts to look at a potential huge stock value error at Ted Baker.

SBT in 2019

We take a look back at what made our front covers in 2019. Journey with us as we remember the highlights of Sussex business news during the year.

Legal

SO Legal and Lloyds team up to share company law tips and routes to finance.

Charity – Albion in the Community

A four-age feature looking at the work undertaken by Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club’s official charity.

Wellbeing

We meet Anna Golawski, founder of Stratus Coaching Limited, who talks about wellbeing in the workplace and why employers who care benefit.

Charity – Rockinghorse

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity walks us through the projects funded during 2019 and looks ahead to what supporters can do to help over Christmas.

Charity – Search Seven

Gavin Willis, managing director, looks ahead to the company’s 10th anniversary and unveils the #share77k campaign.

Charity – The Starr Trust

How a family-run charity is more than a fitting legacy to Edward Starr. It really does help young people to be the best they can be.

Charity – Metro Bank

Pool league raises more than £20,000 for local charities. Find out how a competition, held in partnership with FirmBalls, is making a difference to Sussex good causes.

Charity – IEP Financial

Ian Poysden, Chairman, talks about the company’s commitment to supporting local good causes and looks back as well as ahead to explain the difference a business can make – and how teams benefit too.

Charity – LoveLocalJobs

A year after its launch, we catch up with LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C.

Charity – Chestnut Tree House

Information about The Snowman Spectacular Christmas Appeal.

Charity – The Network Exposure Group

Networking and marketing specialists The Network Exposure Group talk about the success of their recent Festive Fundraising Bash, staged at the Amex, in support of Rockinghorse.

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SBTLocal News Sussex Builders Merchant Triumphs at Industry Awards ’Training Initiative of the Year’ award having impressed judges with their innovative employee engagement and training app, that has enabled the sharing of best practice, vastly increased the levels of participation in training and has had a positive influence on staff motivation.

Sue McKinney, Chandlers Building Supplies, said: “Winning these prestigious awards is a wonderful way to end the year. These accolades are for everybody in the business who work so hard to contribute to our success.

This recognition, on a national scale, is something that we can all be very proud of.”

Chandlers Building Supplies, renowned throughout the industry for its exceptional customer service, scooped an impressive four awards at the Builders’ Merchants Awards.

Dame Kelly Holmes presented Chandlers Building Supplies with the awards for ‘Independent Merchant Achiever of the Year’, ‘Training Initiative of the Year’, ‘Branch Manager of the Year’ and ‘Best Community Initiative’.

Angela Straker, branch manager of the recently refurbished Chandlers Building Supplies site in Banstead, won ‘Independent Merchant Achiever of the

Victory for the PRG Team at the St. Wilfrid’s Hospice Business Awards

Friday 4th October saw the first ever St Wilfrid’s Hospice Business Awards hosted at the fabulous five-star Grand Hotel in Eastbourne. Local businesses from all over Eastbourne gathered for a night of networking and delectable food and drinks.

PRG Marketing Communications was

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Year’ as well as ‘Branch Manager of the Year’.

Chandlers’ charitable endeavours won the Best Community Initiative award.

The builder’s merchants fundraising efforts included a large family football tournament in Seaford and involvement in a six-person tandem bike ride as part of the gruelling ’7 Port Challenge’.

By leveraging its links to the local community, Chandlers Building Supplies were able to maximise the fundraising potential of the charities involved.

Chandlers Building Supplies won the shortlisted for the ‘Best Corporate Team’ award, having raised over £1,600 when MD Simon Groves took part in St Wilfrid’s Hospice Jail or Bail event. In addition to this the whole team flew to victory in the charity’s superhero themed corporate event ‘KAPOW!’ earlier in the summer.

PRG were joined by 15 great local businesses in the category, however much to their delight they were crowned the winners and received a fabulous glass trophy!

Simon Groves, Managing Director said: “The PRG team are delighted to have won the ‘Best Corporate Team’ award at the first ever St Wilfrid’s Hospice Business Awards. We’ve all been working hard raising money for the hospice in memory of our late colleague Martyn “Leeky” Leek and are immensely proud to have been recognised”.

The awards, hosted by three-time Olympic medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes DBE were held on Friday 22, November in London.

Chandlers Building Supplies Limited and Parker Building Supplies Limited (Parkers) recently announced that they have merged, with the support of strategic partner, Cairngorm Capital.

The new enlarged company has 37 branches operating from the Midlands to the South East, with over 750 employees.

For more information visit https://chandlersbs.co.uk

St Wilfrid’s Hospice introduced the event to celebrate local businesses in their hometown and to say a huge thank you for their unparalleled support for the charity whose expert teams help people to live well until the end of their lives whilst offering invaluable support to their family and friends.

The night included a luxurious raffle which saw a selection of great prizes from champagne to afternoon tea being dished out to the lucky winners, and a silent auction where guests could bid for exciting experiences from a supercar driving blast or sky dive to an overnight spa break.

The whole team would like to thank St Wilfrid’s Hospice for a fabulous evening, and also everyone who voted them to victory!

SBTLocal News Sussex businesses set to grow in 2020 Local business owners are bucking the trend of economic gloom and predicting growth in 2020. Recent research commissioned by The Coastal West Sussex Partnership shows that 67 per cent of business owners in Sussex and the surrounding areas expect their turnover to increase in the next year.

– said they expected their turnover to reduce in 2020.

Funding is currently available from Coast to Capital for SMEs in West Sussex, Brighton & Hove, East Surrey, Croydon and Lewes District. The organisation has allocated £3.5m to go towards match-funded grants to help local businesses purchase innovative assets (like the latest tools or software) to boost productivity and profit margins.

Of respondents based in West Sussex, 65 per cent said their company would grow, while three in ten predicted no change.

Caroline Wood, Director of the Coastal West Sussex Partnership, commented: “These results are encouraging and paint a brighter picture than one might expect – Sussex business owners seem tentatively optimistic despite the potential economic turmoil ahead.

“We encourage any local SMEs that could benefit from a match-funded grant to help boost their productivity and increase turnover to submit an application to Coast to Capital.”

Just six per cent – around one in 20

During September this year, 377

On average, respondents to the Partnership’s survey predicted a 6.3 per cent increase in turnover. Over half – 60 per cent – of respondents said their company would grow in 2020 and that figure rises to 73 per cent for respondents in senior management.

services means that we can provide clients with four distinct advantages, over classical cloud or IT services: • Cost-savings between 20%-50%

Business Innovation of the Year Award Extech Cloud have won Business Innovation of the Year Award at the Sussex Business Awards 2019.

Over the last two years, Extech Cloud have developed the Extech Cloud Methodology. The service digitally transforms organisations by transitioning them to the public cloud, a revolutionary form of cloud computing.

The judges also highly commended Extech Cloud for Best Customer Service Award, following on from our big win at the Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Awards for Customer Commitment.

The company was also a finalist in Professional Services. Our ability to provide best-in-class public cloud

• Reduction of cybersecurity instances of up to 60% • 52% reduction in employees who say IT negatively affects their day-to-day work • Monthly OPEX rather than cash- intensive CAPEX The proprietary process runs through seven different stages, which allows Extech Cloud to revolutionise a client’s IT infrastructure to a modern and innovative technology platform.

To date, Extech Cloud have delivered over 100 cloud migrations of this type.

Richard Phillips, Chief Technology Officer at Extech Cloud, has overseen the research and development of the innovative entry into the public cloud.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to be recognised for our team’s hard work over the last few years. We’ve put hundreds of hours into developing our unique methodology to bring the very best in class technology to our customers.”

people were surveyed for the research that set out to collect the opinions of local businesspeople on the impact of factors such as infrastructure on their companies.

The Coastal West Sussex Partnership is a collective voice for local business and collaborates on economic issues affecting the coast.

For more information about the Coast to Capital Growth Grant Programme 2019-2020, please visit www.coast2capital.org.uk/growthgrant.

For more information about the Coastal West Sussex Partnership, please visit coastalwestsussex.org.uk.

Andrew Hookway, Managing Director, also said: “The team deserve this accolade.

They have deployed some wonderful and innovative solutions for our customers who are benefiting from the incredibly powerful technology that is available through public cloud. Without the smooth process the team have implemented and the tacit knowledge gained along the way, we wouldn’t have been able to deliver over 100 digital transformations.”

Nigel Lambe Interim Chief Executive at Sussex Innovation Centre, Judge said “This year’s winner took the brave decision to refocus its business model well in advance of the marketplace and is now positioned as a market leader in Sussex and beyond…”

Everyone at Extech Cloud are grateful to the judges at Platinum’s Sussex Business Awards for awarding us Business Innovation of the Year.

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SBTNational News Time to ‘fix’ UK’s energy infrastructure says BCC “Access to affordable and reliable energy is critical for businesses. It’s unacceptable that many companies are facing power cuts and interruption to supply, which can damage machinery and leave employees unable to do their jobs.

“Reliance on electricity is set to increase across the economy as we move away from fossil fuel use. Electricity providers, industry, regulators and government must work together to accelerate improvements in generation and supply — with a firm eye on our shared goal of net zero carbon emissions.”

The British Chambers of Commerce has highlighted how power cuts are impacting UK businesses.

It says one third have experienced electricity outages in past twelve months.

Referring to a major new study of the business community’s views on infrastructure and risk, it says firms expect their dependency on electricity to increase.

More support is needed to help businesses make the transition to clean energy and improved energy efficiency, the survey found.

Manufacturing, in particular, is expected to face higher demand, with

Huge discounts as Mothercare stores head towards closure 8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

34 per cent of manufacturers expecting their dependence on electricity to increase. By contrast, fewer than one in ten ( eight per cent) of businesses experienced water outages, and only two per cent experienced gas outages.

The research shows that business is already taking steps to reduce waste and emissions, with the most-adopted measures over the last twelve months being increased recycling (61 per cent), installing LED lighting (54 per cent) and reducing paper consumption (49 per cent).

BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “Our message to policy makers couldn’t be clearer: work with us in business to fix Britain’s energy infrastructure and ensure it is fit for the future.

Drax Group CEO Will Gardiner said: “Electricity demand is expected to rise as the economy digitises and sectors such as heating and transportation decarbonise.

“With weather-dependent wind and solar set to generate more power than ever we’re going to need more fastacting and flexible electricity generation to maintain a reliable grid.

“Businesses across Britain can play their part too by installing on-site batteries, switching their fleets to electric vehicles, conducting energy audits, buying 100 per cent renewable power and taking up smart meters – enabling a zero carbon, lower cost energy future.”

Discounts are said to have reached 50 per cent on some items. Further discounts were applied during the Black Friday event.

Retail experts predict 79 stores are likely to close with job losses expected to hit around 2,800.

Retail Gazette reports gift cards are no longer being accepted and that refunds are not being issued in store.

Mothercare, which went into administration last month, is staging closing down sales at branches across the country.

Meanwhile, some delays have been reported regarding online sales.

SBTNational News CBI on protecting growth after Brexit expenditure and tackling long-term challenges on skills.

“But transforming a lost decade of productivity will only be possible if supported by a good Brexit deal – one that keeps the UK aligned with EU rules where essential for frictionless trade along with protecting the UK’s world-beating services sector, which accounts for 80% of our economy.

“Let’s be clear: a no deal Brexit would put the brakes on UK growth and realise businesses’ worst fears. What’s needed is a clear and committed line of sight to an ambitious deal that will protect the UK’s economy and future prosperity.

According to the CBI’s latest economic forecast, GDP growth for over the next two years is set to remain modest at 1.3 per cent in 2019 and 1.2 per cent in 2020. For 2021, the CBI forecasts a somewhat brighter outlook, with growth picking up to 1.8 per cent.

It says the forecast is based on the assumption that the UK exits the EU by 31 January 2020 and has clear line of sight to an ambitious trade deal, involving alignment with EU rules where essential for frictionless trade along with protection for UK’s world-beating services sector within the existing transition period.

The main risk to the outlook remains continued Brexit uncertainty, particularly the threat of a No Deal Brexit. On the global front, a further escalation in US-China trade tensions would deliver further hits to world growth and trade, with knock-on impact on the UK economy.

Ted Baker grapples with potential stock value blunder

Rain Newton-Smith, CBI Chief Economist, said: “Business continues to show remarkable resilience after more than three years of crippling uncertainty. In that time, firms have continued to go about their day jobs, playing a vital part in driving economic growth. But they’ve been beset by headwinds. Alongside perennial Brexit uncertainty, they are also contending with softer global demand.

“Should these dual headwinds subside, we expect a gradual pick-up in activity.

But the bigger picture is one of fairly modest growth over the next couple of years – growth that should be far better, given the UK’s relative strengths.

“The UK’s potential has been held back by more than a decade of weak productivity growth and stopstart investment. It’s vital that the next government prioritises lifting productivity and living standards by addressing day-to-day business concerns, including reforming the apprenticeship levy, raising UK R&D

Ted Baker, the high-end fashion retailer, has called in law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer to carry out a review after the company said it may have overstated over-stated the value of its stock.

The margin of error could be by as much as £25m.

“If firms can see a close deal with the EU on the horizon, with no further Brexit cliff-edges to worry about, investment will be unlocked.”

Growth is expected to remain largely driven by household spending, thanks to further, albeit slower, rises in real earnings.

Growth also sees an increased contribution from government consumption, following commitments made in the September Spending Review.

The forecast sees a downgrade to global growth, which has continued to disappoint during the first half of 2019, reflecting regulatory tightening in China, slower Eurozone growth and economic stress in some emerging markets. Increasing trade tensions are also weighing on investment and sentiment.

An independent firm of accountants is also to be appointed to investigate.

In a statement, the retailer said: “Ted Baker is committed to ensuring the independent review is completed in an efficient and transparent manner and will update the market as appropriate. Whilst the review is ongoing, the company will not comment further.”

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Winter Warmers With the mercury plummeting, we have pulled out all the stops to find some real winter warmers.

Whether you want to raise the temperature while you are on the go or sit back and relax somewhere comfy, we’ve got some truly hot ideas! Please note: prices correct when we went to press.

Maxi-mum Chic This white maxi coat has a classic silhouette to elevate your outerwear.

Sophisticated looking, it boasts a double-breasted design and is 100 per cent polyester. For a sharp look this winter, you can’t go wrong.

£110

www.monsoon.co.uk

Beautiful Bobble Cover your crown in this beautiful cable-knit bobble hat.

Manufactured by Kusan, it uses the natural warming properties of New Zealand Wool to keep your head protected during cold weather. Stylish and practical.

Super Scarf Lift your look and stay warm with this super-soft scarf. Large and suitable for a range of outfits, it is available in a choice of colours. This scarf also boasts an airy weave and decorative fringes.

£20.

89

www2.hm.com

£9.

89

www.millets.co.uk

Heat Things Up This portable white convector heater (2kW) can be used anywhere. It offers silent heating with built-in safety features. Provides instant heat with thermostat control and three adjustable power settings. www.wickes.co.uk

£19

Home Cinema Bring the feel of the big screen to your small screen with this home cinema system.

It works with any device that has Bluetooth or an OPTICAL or USB port. This system also benefits from a private sound mode so you can enjoy your favourite entertainment without waking the little ones.

£299

Drink Up This compact coffee machine uses barcode technology to guarantee the perfect drink every time. It doesn’t just get the taste right; it also ensures every drink is served at the correct temperature.

www.argos.co.uk

www.currys.co.uk

Soothing Sauna

£64.

89

This sauna is available in a range of configurations to accommodate one to four people. It is fitted with hybrid carbon and ceramic heaters. Perfect relaxation for the end of a long day.

POA

www.infraredsauna.co.uk

Hot Dog

Winter Treat This beautifully presented winter hamper includes wine, speciality olives, luxury shortbread, gourmet fruit and nut slab cake with a marzipan star and dusting, milk chocolate pudding bar and Lindor chocolate truffles.

www.regencyhampers.com

£42.

50

This cute dog can be heated in the microwave to provide warmth you can snuggle up to. Sold in soft cream and brown, it has a fur textured feel – along with a soothing lavender fragrance.

www.dunelm.com

£6

A look back at another year Round-up

With another year almost behind us, we thought we would take a look back at some of the businesses we have featured in 2019.

What better way than to look at our covers and who featured on them?

Through it all we offered free advice in our Ask the Experts pages, a Recipe of the Month, news from Sussex Chamber, a Made in Sussex feature, and a spot of history from James Dempster.

During the year, we expanded SBT’s offer with a new Travel section and launched our very own Wine Club.

Here’s to 2020!.

all-important first milestone. We met Steve Elford, Milly Stone and James Morrison, who talked about their passion for their work and gave us an insight into their interesting back stories.

In the same issue, we launched the SBT Travel section and heard from Ross Edmonds, of Oasis Empire.

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SBT LIFESTYLE

BRIGHTON WINE COMPANY SPONSORS THIS MONTH’S SECTION, FEATURING A WINE AND RECIPE OF THE MONTH, REVIEWS, LOCAL HISTORY, HEALTH AND MORE.

NETWORKING & EVENTS

SPONSORED BY NETWORK U.

NETWORK MY CLUB EXPANDS INTO READING.

MADE IN SUSSEX SUSTAINABLE FITNESS.

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AS PRESTON INSURANCE BROKERS MARKS ITS SIXTH ANNIVERSARY, WE MEET MANAGING PARTNER NOEL PRESTON AS HE REFLECTS ON THE PAST AND TALKS ABOUT THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OF THE BUSINESS.

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SBT TRAVEL WE LAUNCH OUR NEW TRAVEL SECTION SPONSORED BY TRAVEL EXPERTS RED7

Q&A WITH CARL TURNER CARL OPENS UP ABOUT DEPRESSION AND

SBT LIFESTYLE WE ALSO LAUNCH OUR NEW LIFESTYLE SECTION, SPONSORED BY LEVELS WINE SHOP, WITH WINE OF THE MONTH, RECIEPES, HEALTH, HISTORY, REVEIWS AND MORE

WHY HE TOOK PART IN RED JANUARY TO SUPPORT MIND CHARITY

Q&A WITH ROSS EDMONDS OASIS EMPIRE WE INTERVIEW LOCAL BUSINESSMEN ROSS

EDMONDS TO FIND OUT ALL ABOUT OASIS EMPIRE

CELEBRATING THEIR FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY WHITESPACE CREATIVE HAS ALREADY MARKED ITSELF OUT AS ONE TO WATCH IN SUSSEX’S HIGHLY-PRIZED CREATIVE MARKET. WE CHAT WITH FOUNDING DIRECTORS MILLY STONE, JAMES MORRISON AND STEVE ELFORD.

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The founders of Whitespace, the creative agency based in Brighton, were celebrating their first anniversary.

We told the story of the agency’s success – from inception to that

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NETWORKING & EVENTS

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS FOR PRESTON INSURANCE BROKERS

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REVIEW: THE DOYLE CLUB

RED7: FRESH IDEAS TO BUILD YOUR

MADE IN SUSSEX

TEAM AND SUCCESS

STEPHEN D. LAWRENCE PHOTOGRAPHY

REVIEW: AMAZING ITALY TOURS

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Preston Insurance Brokers were marking their sixth anniversary.

Ahead of a celebratory bash, we caught up with the company’s founder Noel Preston. He talked about the insurance industry, past and present, and gave us some useful insights on the future of business insurance. In the same issue, we met Eco Gym and got some great team building ideas from Red 7 Leisure.

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We met Lisa Seymour, the 2018 Digital Woman of the Year, who had just pulled off a massive fundraising coup in Brighton. The founder of agency Spoken, she was the driving force behind The Execs Factors. Lisa explained her motivation for fundraising and revealed the show attracted 239 guests and raised a massive £10,000.

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THE 2018 DIGITAL WOMAN OF THE YEAR, LISA SEYMOUR, TALKS ABOUT HER AWARD-WINNING STUDIO SPOKEN AND THE HUGELY SUCCESSFUL CHARITY EVENT SHE INSPIRED AND HELPED TO ORGANISE, THE EXECS FACTOR.

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FUN IDEAS FOR TEAM BUILDING IN EXCITING DESTINATIONS FROM RED 7.

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Other features focussed on the Edward Street Quarter, car leasing for the selfemployed and global trade.

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Other features included a Q&A with Albion in the Community, a feature on the Russell Martin Foundation and the Rockinghorse 20/20 Corporate Challenge.

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NETWORKING & EVENTS

SBT TRAVEL

RED7: TOP GROUP DESTINATIONS

COUNTDOWN TO BRIGHTON EXPO AN AFTERNOON AT THE BOUNDARY CLUB

TECHNOLOGY HOW TO CHOOSE AN SEO AGENCY

MADE IN SUSSEX HOT YOGA SOUTH

JASON YOUNG TALKS ABOUT HUGELY SUCCESSFUL MANAGED SERVICES BRAND OVERLINE AND SHARES INSIGHTS ON UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONS AND FLEXIBLE DIGITAL SOLUTIONS, AS WELL AS THE COMPANY’S SUPPORT FOR CHARITY

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Jason Young, of managed services brand Overline, talked about unified communications and digital solutions. He introduced us

to some of his team members and explained why a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to customer relationships is important. Overline had just launched successful new branding and was helping businesses meet challenges in the telecoms and tech spheres.

Other features looked at insurance needs for escape rooms, stamp duty land tax and FirmBalls’ annual football tournament at the Amex stadium. We also featured the company culture at D&G, top destinations for groups and much more.

Other features introduced us to the latest news from SO Legal, Hotel du Vin and Search Seven’s #share7 campaign.

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Brighton-born Maria Valentine introduced us to her international event company Yellow Fish. We discovered how the business started and blossomed into something that, 16 years after inception, is going from strength to strength. As well as sharing her story, Maria imparted some useful insights on what it takes to succeed and explained the importance of creating experiences.

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IDEAS IN SUSSEX

NETWORKING & EVENTS NETWORK MY CLUB

BRIGHTON BUSINESS EXPO

FEATURES

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We went to Brighton Racecourse and discovered this iconic venue is so much more than just a racetrack.

Our feature focussed on summer events and the facilities available for corporate clients. They are flexible and suitable for a wide range of events, we discovered – from conferences and trade shows to business meetings and celebratory dinners. We also got a glimpse of the catering facilities available at the racecourse.

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NETWORKING & EVENTS

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ROUND-UP FROM THE LET’S DO BUSINESS EXPO

RED7: IT’S NOT ALL WORK, WORK, WORK

MADE IN SUSSEX WHITEPINE VIDEO CO.

WE DISCOVER WHAT’S ON OFFER FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE IN SUSSEX. AS WELL AS EXPLORING THE COMPLEX, WE DISCOVER WHAT’S ON AT THIS ICONIC RACECOURSE.

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Other features looked at buying the assets of a business, YBrighton, mindful networking and a string of successful events staged in support of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity.

WHAT IS YOUR SUCCESSION PLAN? ALBION IN THE COMMUNITY

BRIGHTON BORN BUSINESS OWNER MARIA VALENTINE SHARES THE JOURNEY OF HER INTERNATIONAL EVENT AGENCY, FROM HER FIRST BUSINESS PLAN TO LATEST RECRUITMENT PLANS

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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She focussed on how the company is meeting expectations in a fiercely competitive marketplace. The passion of Red 7’s people was also highlighted, along with the company’s ambitious expansion plans.

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Other features looked at business succession plans, Airbnb, Rocketmill, and Pier Recruitment.

Issue 434

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ISSUE 434

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SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES

SBT TRAVEL RED7: CHRISTMAS CITY BREAKS

NETWORKING & EVENTS THE BOUNDARY CLUB COBB BUSINESS LUNCH CLUB

FEATURES YBRIGHTON - WHY NOT?

Sarah Chapman, managing director of Red 7 Leisure, talked us through group travel and explained what customers are looking for.

“During the year, we expanded SBT’s offer with a new Travel section and launched our very own Wine Club. Here’s to 2020!”

IN A FIERCELY COMPETITIVE MARKETPLACE, RED7 HAS MAINTAINED ITS HOLD ON A SECTOR IT PIONEERED. WE MEET MANAGING DIRECTOR SARAH CHAPMAN WHO TALKS ABOUT EXPANSION PLANS, WHAT STILL SETS THE COMPANY APART AND THE PASSIONATE PEOPLE WHO MAKE GROUP TRAVEL TRULY GREAT.

SERVING THE SUSSEX BUSINESS COMMUNITY SINCE 1975

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Legal

SO Legal partners with Lloyds to share company law tips and routes to finance Legal

SO Legal partners with Lloyds to share company law tips and routes to finance.

The Corporate and Commercial team at SO Legal Solicitors continued their series of Commercial Law Seminars in October with an event in conjunction with Lloyds Bank.

The seminar, held on Thursday 19 October in the SO Legal Executive Suite at Sussex CCC, focussed on company law issues pertinent to owners of SMEs or anyone who advises them.

Hamed Ovaisi (left) and Alan Harber (right)

Director and Head of Corporate and Commercial Legal Services, Hamed Ovaisi covered aspects of business law including board resolutions, board meetings, general meetings, articles of association, shareholders’ agreements and conflicts of interest.

The seminars give business owners from a diverse sector-base the chance to connect with other like-minded professionals from across Sussex and the wider south east.

Alan Harber, Lloyds’ Area Director for Commercial Banking for the South East presented a range of alternative funding routes open to the small business sector, including working capital, term debt, property investment, card services, vehicle fleets and asset funding.

Solicitor, Nicole Byrne joins Residential Property Team.

“It was another well attended session, full of practical tips for those that own, manage or contribute to the growth of SMEs and we’re delighted to have worked with Alan and the Lloyds team on this event,” says Hamed.

Hamed concluded: “As registered CPD events, the seminars provide an excellent learning and networking opportunity for business owners, directors and professionals to further their awareness of the latest trends and commercial legal considerations.”

For details of future events in 2020, contact Hamed Ovaisi on 01323 407555 or visit www.solegal.co.uk

Property, Jamie Salvidge. “Securing her experience and knowledge of property law will be invaluable as we bolster our Uckfield presence.”

Nicole also deals with general property matters such as freehold and leasehold sale and purchases, new build developments and buy-to-lets.

Nicole can be contacted on 01825 7298400 / nbyrne@solegal.co.uk

Experienced solicitor Nicole Byrne has joined SO Legal’s growing Residential Property team. Having spent 8 years with a reputable regional firm, Nicole joined the Uckfield office in early November.

After gaining experience in a number of areas of law, Nicole now specialises in bespoke property work which includes utility service easements, access agreements and licences, transfers of equity, land purchases and the granting of residential and commercial leases on behalf of landlords.

“We’re delighted to have Nicole join the team”, says Head of Residential

Nicole Byrne

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

Albion in the Community Albion in the Community (AITC) is one of the leading football charities in the UK, with a reputation for delivering pioneering, innovative and impactful programmes across Sussex.

As the official charity of Brighton and Hove Albion, AITC Charity works in some of the most economically and health deprived communities in the UK, using the power of football as a tool to engage young people and make a genuine and lasting difference to the lives of tens of thousands of local people.

A recent independent social and economic study found AITC creates an

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annual impact valued at £28.75million, from an income of just £3.2million; for every £1 of income, the charity creates £8.84 of positive social and economic impact.

It is a charity which fans are incredibly proud of. In the most-recent Premier League Fan Matchday Survey, AITC’s work led the way in how fans of Premier League clubs viewed their community schemes.

The survey found 95% of Albion supporters felt the club made a significant contribution to the local

community, compared to a Premier League average of 77%.

Football can be a powerful catalyst for social change and in Sussex where there are over 20 electoral wards that rank in the 20% most-deprived communities in Britain, the work that AITC is involved with helps to engage and inspire people to fulfil their potential.

AITC’s work is built around a determination to remove the barriers which prevent people from being active or living healthier lives. In schools, AITC runs projects aimed at getting young

people active. With many schools lacking the funding, focus or expertise required to deliver impactful school sport or PE provision, AITC provides opportunities for young people to get active during school hours. More than 2,000 young people take part in school sport sessions with AITC each year.

A further 1,270 primary school pupils engaged with the charity over the past 12 months, with activities raising awareness of health and nutrition.

AITC’s work in health-deprived communities is also helping young people boost their physical and mental wellbeing.

Locally 92% of girls aged 13-15 were not completing recommended weekly levels of activity – something AITC has been keen to tackle. The charity set ambitious targets to increase football participation among girls by 15% each year; in the first 12 months the number of girls attending AITC sessions more than doubled. Now, more than 1,600 girls play regular football with AITC each year.

Young people living in areas of

deprivation traditionally face financial barriers to participation – contributing to health inequalities later in life. AITC offers 40 free football sessions in deprived areas each week, helping more than 1,500 young people get active. These compliment other football sessions run by AITC which are attended by 5,000 school-age boys and girls.

AITC is the area’s largest provider of sporting opportunities to people with a disability, with more than 500 people attending 30 sessions each fortnight – many of whom would not otherwise be physically active.

Working with the local NHS, AITC is also raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of different cancers, meeting face-to-face with more than 17,000 people in Brighton over the course of just 12 months. Local people who have cancer are also helped to stay active during and after treatment through a free ten-week programme delivered

by AITC’s trained cancer rehabilitation coaches, with benefits including reduced risk of cancer progression and recurrence.

The work of AITC is recognised nationally and held up as a model of outstanding practice. At the recent Football Business Awards, the charity was recognised again as the best football community scheme.

AITC was one of half a dozen finalists in the Best Football Community Scheme – Premier League category and was awarded the prize at a ceremony in London hosted by BBC Match of Day presenter Mark Chapman.

It is now the fourth time in five years that the charity has won this award, confirming its status as one of the leading football charities in the UK and how highly AITC is regarded within this prestigious football industry showcase.

Executive director of the football club and AITC Chair of Trustees Martin Perry said, “It feels fantastic for the charity’s work to be recognised in this way and it’s an award for all of our wonderful staff.

“We reach out to so many people in Sussex every year and some of the work Albion in the Community does is transformational and has a real impact on people’s lives.”

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Charity

officer, said: “The overwhelming majority of our sessions are open to anyone, regardless of gender, but as a charity we have made increasing participation among women and girls one of our main objectives.

Bienvenido, El Capitan!

Brighton and Hove Albion legend Bruno has become Albion in the Community’s first-ever patron.

The charity invited Bruno to take up this role following his retirement from first team action at the end of last season. And he was only too-pleased to accept – keen to continue his longstanding support of AITC’s work in the community.

He is now looking forward to getting out into the community and meeting more of the 40,000 people the charity works with each year.

Bruno, who donated a percentage of his wages to charity as a player, said: “I have always loved going to Albion in the Community events and meeting the people the charity is working with; the work it is doing and how many people it’s helping is incredible.”

Tackling re-offending with HM Prison Lewes Earlier this year AITC teamed up with HM Prison Lewes as part of a pioneering new project aimed at tackling re-offending.

The Twinning Project is a national campaign which uses football as a catalyst for change, with a focus on providing opportunities to better prepare prisoners for release, help them find employment and ultimately reduce re-offending.

Charity staff have been visiting the prison to work with groups of prisoners specially selected by prison staff, delivering a range of sporting

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qualifications and workshops, including a course in behaviour change, with theory lessons in the morning and practical sessions in the afternoon.

The hope is that these qualifications will boost participants’ prospects of finding paid employment upon release – something which research shows is a key factor in reducing re-offending and helping prisoners to rebuild their lives.

“We know that historically there have been significant barriers in place which have prevented girls taking up the sport, or continuing to play it as they get older, but I’m delighted to not only see that changing, but to see Albion in the Community and Brighton & Hove Albion playing a big part in driving that change locally.”

Promoting physical activity for people with a disability

Encouraging more girls to play regular football More than 6,500 women or girls played football with Albion in the Community in the last 12 months, and the charity has set itself the ambitious target of increasing that figure by 15% each year.

Local research shows that typically, school-age girls across Sussex are not taking part in the recommended levels of physical activity, something which can result in a range of negative knockon effects in terms of future physical and mental wellbeing.

As with everything at Albion in the Community, football is the key tool to engage young people in activities which can have a significant impact on and off the pitch.

Matt Dorn, the charity’s chief executive

Albion in the community is playing a leading role in making football and physical activity more accessible to a wider range of people and it delivers more than 30 regular football sessions across Sussex for people who have a disability. It actively promotes disability sport and invests in improving the quality of specialist coaching available to local players with a disability.

Just under 500 people take part in AITC’s regular inclusive football

Charity sessions, while the charity is also working with a growing number of local Special Educational Needs and Disability schools to improve PE and school sport provision.

In total AITC runs 18 different teams for players with a disability, including four which compete in national disabilityspecific leagues under the Brighton & Hove Albion banner. These are Brighton & Hove Albion Amputee FC, Brighton & Hove Albion Cerebral Palsy FC, Brighton & Hove Albion Deaf FC and Brighton & Hove Albion Powerchair FC.

Using football to tackle health inequalities in East Brighton

Albion in the Community has recently launched a new project aimed at tackling health inequalities in parts of Brighton and Hove. Almost half of the 18,500 people who live in Moulsecoomb and Bevendean are living in health deprivation hotspots, and it is the fifth most-inactive area in Sussex.

As a result, the charity has begun to focus new activities on addressing these local needs. These include a free men’s health and fitness group at Moulsecoomb Leisure Centre, and a similar group for women at the Holy Nativity Community Centre in Bevendean.

Everyone who has taken part has been invited on a celebratory tour of the American Express Community Stadium.

Sharon Blaskett was among those taking part in the women’s group and was delighted with the changes she noticed in herself and grateful to Albion in the Community for the support.

She said: “I started the group a week after it had started so felt very nervous about going but I needn’t have worried, the coaches made me feel completely at ease and part of the group.

“I was diagnosed with depression four

weeks before joining the group, which was hard, but the coaches have helped me to get some confidence back.

“I have learnt so much and the sessions have helped me change my diet. Their knowledge and kindness have helped me lose weight, which I haven’t been able to do on my own.

“That was one of the things that caused my low mood so not only have the coaches helped me learn about nutrition and diet, but they have also helped my confidence and self-esteem.”

South Downs Albion Challenge - Sun 14th June 2020

In 2020 Albion in the Community is launching a new and exciting fundraising challenge. Join with friends, family, fans and four legged friends for our 25 mile walk from the American Express Community Stadium to the American Express Community Stadium via the South Downs. Walk past iconic landmarks such as the Jack and Jill windmills, Ditchling Beacon and Devil’s Dyke before finishing at the home of the Seagulls in Falmer. Registrations will open soon, but for more information or to register your interest email: fundraising@albioninthecommunity.org.uk

Blue and White Day – Fri 27th March 2020 Help us turn Sussex blue and white on the 27th March – and raise money for our award winning work throughout Sussex.

Whether organising an office bake sale, a fundraising football tournament with colleagues, or encouraging staff to dress in blue and white at work – just make sure whatever you do is fun! To register your

interest or for more information email: fundraising@albioninthecommunity.org.uk

Why we need your support

We are committed to using the power of football to improve the lives of local people across Sussex. From football sessions encouraging children to get active, and projects helping people living beyond cancer; to using football as a tool for learning in schools, we create opportunities for people to move, grow and thrive in our communities.

People like Tate Willis, who was born without part of her left arm and is now a regular at our football sessions for people with a disability.

Tate had previously been forced to twice change schools as a result of bullying.

She was desperate to find a football team to play for; but had struggled in a mainstream setting. Having been given the opportunity to play the sport she loves, she hasn’t looked back.

This is what we are all about: giving people the opportunity to thrive.

Your business can help support this work by donating, fundraising or working with partnership with Albion in the Community.

For more information on how your business can help, please email: Lynsay. josephy@albioninthecommunity.org.uk or call 0127 878246

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Are your teams match fit ready?

When it comes to wellbeing, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure Anna Golawski, Founder of Stratus Coaching Ltd: leading provider for mental health and resilience training and coaching.

Mental health and wellbeing at work continues to be Wellbeing one of the most challenging issues that employers face, with statistics showing that one in four of us will experience mental ill health at some point in our lives. And the financial cost to organisations of poor mental health is estimated to be £42bn a year. This rises to nearer £100bn if you include the cost to the NHS. As well as the financial costs, the adverse business effects of mental illhealth include employee absence, staff

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turnover, loss of skills and legal and reputational risks. All of this makes it an issue worth tackling.

“Anna was very supportive and encouraging and very knowledgeable in this sensitive area.”

In the same way that footballers looks after their physical health in order to perform at their best and win matches, we need to proactively look after our mental health in order to be productive and achieve our full potential at work.

The culture of the organisation has a big part to play in wellbeing at work, with 75% of managers in a Harvard Business

Review reporting poor workplace relationships, excessive demands and lack of feedback cited as the biggest contributors to stress levels.

Many organisations know that a healthy workplace culture is going to help productivity and performance, but just relying on symbolic gestures, such as providing a bowl of fruit on a Friday isn’t going to cut it.

The primary role of managers is to manage their resource, their people, to get the best from them. The question that is often asked is “why is this something that employers need to act upon?” This can be addressed from a number of angles.

Firstly there is the business case: • A third of sickness absence across the population as a whole is mental illness related.

• The financial cost of that absence together with the increased burden placed on other staff.

• The staff turnover and related costs and disruption caused by ill staff leaving.

• The costs of occupational health support for those experiencing mental illness.

• The lost engagement and reduced productivity and wider impact of people who are still at work but are nonetheless experiencing mental illness. So called presenteeism is a significant, but often overlooked, cost.

“Anna was a fantastic presenter. She delivered the content extremely well, kept everything on track whilst allowing time for exploring certain aspects further in response to questions etc.”

Anecdotal evidence suggests that employers who invest in mental wellbeing see a return on investment, in terms of reduced costs, of many times the initial outlay. There are also less visible benefits in terms of staff morale, engagement and resilience.

Secondly there is a legal case and, equally important employers owe a duty of care to their employees. This applies as much to mental illness caused, or exacerbated, by the work

place as it does to industrial injury.

Mental illness may also be a disability under the Equality Act 2010. Where it is, you must not discriminate against someone because of it and you need to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate them in the workplace.

Thirdly, there is the moral case: Employers need to ensure they promote healthy workplaces where people feel comfortable speaking to someone if they are struggling. One of the ways this can be done is through Wellness Action Plans which provide a useful framework for discussing stress and anxiety at work, management skills training and having qualified Mental Health First Aiders in the workplace.

Mental health first aid training is approaching parity to physical first aider training in that it equips those with the knowledge, tools and confidence to recognise warning signs and offer suitable support when someone is experiencing mental health issues. It is not intended to be diagnostic or solve problems, rather it enables them to listen, reassure and respond.

Other cultural factors to consider are: • Mental Health Policy - is this accessible to staff and managers?

Does it clearly signpost people to internal and external resources available?

• Culture of Openness - how often are people asked how they are feeling, not just an update on what they are doing?

• Regular breaks - are employees encouraged and allowed to take regular breaks during the day to restore their mental energies?

to be on call 24/7? Footballers value their rest days as much as training days, we need to recharge our minds too.

• Banter - is this effective and appropriate in building enjoyable workplaces or exclude/offend people (and become a source of stress)?

• Clear objectives & guidance - when people know what’s expected of them, they can better perform to their full potential and use constructive feedback for future success.

• Coaching/mentoring - reflecting on progress and sharing insights pays huge dividends.

Stratus Coaching Ltd are proud supporters of AITC. We regularly hold breakfast seminars on the topic of mental health and wellbeing at work with all proceeds going to the charity.

In 2020 we will be further strengthening the partnership through gifting places on MHFA courses and providing training sessions to the charity and its partners that it works with in the community.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website has lots of information and guides for employees and managers, or contact Anna Golawski for further advice and information or details of open courses in Sussex. anna@stratuscoaching.co.uk 07799 334594 stratuscoaching.com

• Email policy - are people expected

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Rockinghorse roundup 2019 has been a busy year for Rockinghorse as the Charity charity continues its support for the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital (the Alex) in Brighton, as well as supporting neonatal units, paediatric services and children’s centres across Sussex.

Thanks to donations received during the last 12 months, they’ve funded a whole host of projects to improve care for sick and disadvantaged babies, children and young people. Here’s how you’re making a big difference…

Projects funded at the Alex in 2019 Earlier this year, Rockinghorse proudly opened The Blencowe Family Rooms in the Oncology Ward at the Alex. The result is a brand-new play area and respite lounge which are being used by patients receiving treatment in Oncology Day Care, and their parents. The two rooms have been transformed into a colourful and comfortable space away from the medical and treatment areas.

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A new service has been developed to support children with suspected fractures. Rockinghorse has funded the Paediatric Orthopaedic Emergency Virtual Fracture Clinic within Outpatients at the Alex. Added benefits of the new clinic include online information and video, to give young people a visual understanding of what is happening.

The service is already increasing the number of patients who can be seen and reducing the number of youngsters who need support from neighbouring adult hospitals.

Following a two-year pilot scheme, Rockinghorse is funding a pioneering service for children and young people with medically unexplained symptoms.

The Function First Service is a multidisciplinary team of professionals, who specialise in all forms of medically unexplained illnesses, each contributing to ground-breaking research and diagnosis, and it’s a great addition to the Alex.

“Rockinghorse has funded the Paediatric Orthopaedic Emergency Virtual Fracture Clinic within Outpatients at the Alex. Added benefits of the new clinic include online information and video, to give young people a visual understanding of what is happening.”

Rockinghorse has been a big supporter of Chalkhill Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit in Haywards Heath over the years. The charity’s ongoing activities programme at the unit continues to have a hugely positive impact on young people receiving treatment at Chalkhill. Since 2015, the initiative has been in place to benefit inpatients, working alongside the unit’s clinical and education programmes, and has been cited as a hugely positive influence in a young person’s recovery.

Projects funded across Sussex in 2019

The charity is also proud to support Chailey Heritage Foundation and its special school. Rockinghorse funds

Chailey’s therapeutic horse-riding programme for young people. Known as Hippotherapy, the programme integrates physical activities and therapy into the students’ day in a completely unique way. It is very positively received and Rockinghorse aim to continue funding the programme into next year.

Oncology service at the Alex.

Worthing Hospital and St Richard’s Hospital in Chichester are benefiting from a Portable Lung Function Machine, funded by Rockinghorse.

The equipment is being used to treat young patients with Cystic Fibrosis and other chronic chest problems, such as asthma and bronchiectasis and the charity is delighted to be helping young patients in other parts of the county.

Young people at Tudor House and Drove Road respite centres have been enjoying days away and holiday outings courtesy of Rockinghorse. Many of the youngsters have limited social and leisure opportunities, so activity days funded by the charity, enable the same experiences to be enjoyed as their non-disabled peers. Rockinghorse is pleased to be able to provide ongoing support to both centres into next year.

Alice is specially trained to support children of all ages with a cancer diagnosis, supporting their mental health and wellbeing. Alice supports children and their family members to cope with the diagnosis, intensive treatment procedures, emotional and behavioural challenges, and works with families and the medical team to promote resilience and adjustment.

Alice explains why this service is so important…

Support Rockinghorse this Christmas This Christmas, you can help the charity provide psychological support to children receiving treatment for cancer.

Last year, Rockinghorse appointed a paediatric clinical psychologist for the

Dr Alice Emond joined the team in July 2018 as the Rockinghorse Clinical Psychologist. In her first year, she has provided a vital specialist psychological support service for children and young people during, and after their treatment for cancer.

“As the Rockinghorse Clinical Psychologist in the paediatric oncology team, I carry out psychological assessment and provide targeted therapeutic support for patients and their families.

This support is offered from diagnosis and throughout their treatment and post-treatment, helping children and their families readjust and reintegrate back into their lives outside of hospital.

I work closely with colleagues from the play specialist and education teams, social workers and other charities to support families’ holistic needs.

It is well recognised that physical health

difficulties can cause considerable impact on psychological wellbeing.

A diagnosis of cancer can have a significant impact on the whole family.

Helping them to understand and work through the challenges together, is so important in promoting resilience during their journey.”

“A diagnosis of cancer can have a significant impact on the whole family.”

Referrals to the Rockinghorse Psychology Service are continuing to increase, highlighting the need for its vital support. By integrating clinical psychologists into paediatric care, the charity can ensure that the emotional wellbeing of children and families are both assessed and addressed.

Please donate to the Rockinghorse Christmas Appeal and help them continue providing vital psychological support for children and young people during their treatment for cancer.

You can support the charity’s appeal by visiting their website www. rockinghorse.org.uk and making a donation online, or over the phone by calling 01273 330044.

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PRYZM Nightclub Brighton based nightclub, PRYZM, doesn’t just provide Charity nights out for partygoers. This year, they have also focused on the community and supporting local charities. From taking part in a local Santa Run and a ’12 Days of Christmas Kindness’ initiative to supporting the city’s infamous Pride event in the summer, the venue wants to make sure they’re giving to those in need, as well as offering safe nights out for their customers.

Earlier this year, PRYZM donated over £7750 for specialist equipment at a local charity, which aims to improve the lives of sick children across the area.

Rockinghorse, the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton (the Alex), received the funds for life-saving and cuttingedge medical equipment. Last year,

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PRYZM’s donation helped fund ventilators for the High Dependency Unit at the Alex. This year, their donation will purchase specialist equipment for the Urology department to make young patients more comfortable during treatment.

Earlier this year the venue also donated £1 for every customer entrance over Pride weekend, to the Brighton Rainbow Fund, a local grant giving charity for LGBT and HIV/AIDs organisations.

The venue, operated by The Deltic Group, has also signed up to be a City Angel and has committed to the Pride City Angel pledge, a year long campaign promoting a closer relationship with Pride and local businesses.

PRYZM Brighton is the perfect venue for charity and corporate events. The company offers a range of different events, including Christmas parties, awards dinners, product launches, networking events and is now offering

some diverse corporate team building events this summer.

The venue has six rooms, which have capacities varying from 70 people to 900. As a whole, PRYZM has a capacity of 2000! Sales manager, Gemma West has recently joined the team and her broad experience in the events industry across iconic London venues means she can create bespoke event offerings, with food and drinks, state of the art event production and an in house sound and lighting team.

Jon Saunders, general manager, said: “We’re thrilled to have Gemma on board to support our charity and corporate offering. Whilst we strive to ensure our customers have a fun and safe night out, it’s really important to us to make sure we give back to out local community too. We look forward to welcoming customers, old and new, as well as local companies and charities through our doors in the New Year.”

Search Seven Search Seven held an annual fundraising charity quiz night, Charity raising £1,800 for their flagship charity, Rockinghorse to spark the launch of their #share77k campaign, celebrating the run-up to their 10th anniversary.

November’s charity quiz night was hosted by Sussex Business Times’ Sam Thomas, who took to the stage as quiz master, providing the evening’s entertainment. He was joined by Terrina Barnes from Rockinghorse, who shared information about The Trevor Mann Baby Unit – part of the Brighton based Rockinghorse Children’s Charity – and how important fundraising events like Search Seven’s quiz night were to the charity. To date, the paid search and digital strategy specialists have raised over £30,000 for them, through football matches at the AMEX football stadium, golf days and quiz nights, as part of their charity pledge to donate up to 7% of their annual profits to charities and local community projects – an initiative they’ve committed to since Managing Director Gavin Willis founded the company in 2011.

#share7 fundraising campaign To celebrate their 7th year in business they set themselves the challenge of fundraising £17,000 for charity, launching the #share7 campaign. By

December they had surpassed their target, raising an incredible £20,000 for their seven charities; RISE, Group B Strep Support, The Clock Tower Sanctuary, Nkuringo Primary School, The Sussex Beacon, Alzheimer’s Society and Rockinghorse.

This year Search Seven organised a charity golf day which attracted businesses from across Sussex, raising an impressive £6,000, as well as last month’s charity quiz night, sponsored by local agency Clearline Recruitment, with raffle prizes donated by businesses across the city including British Airways i360, Brighton Pier, English’s of Brighton, ROX and Malmaison Hotel.

“It was a great night – everyone was singing along to the music round and getting really competitive,” said Gavin Willis, MD at Search Seven. “The teams were so generous – we raised £700 through the raffle and game of Heads & Tails alone! We can’t thank everyone enough for their support – Rockinghorse is a charity that means a lot to me, and it’s amazing to see so many people help us support them, and raise so much money.”

It’s not just their own events they raise money through – they also actively fundraise through local and national events, too – like Rockinghorse’s brilliant quiz nights, RISE’s #SuperheroesRISEup Initiative, and sponsoring Active Sussex’s Sussex

Sports Awards. Their Content and Insights Manager, Christina took part in a 10k run, raising almost £1,000 for Epilepsy Society, and the team have big plans for the Brighton Half Marathon in the spring. In total they’ve raised almost £14,000 for charity in 2019, and were honoured with the CSR Excellence Award in the Brighton & Hove Business Awards and are shortlisted for the CSR Excellence Award in December’s Sussex Business Awards, as well as the Professional Services Award, and Gavin Willis for Businessperson of the Year Award.

10th anniversary in 2021 In 2021, Search Seven will be celebrating 10 years in business. To mark this momentous milestone, they’ve created the #share77k campaign and set themselves the target of bringing their fundraising total to £77,000 for charity, with £50,000 set aside for their flagship charity, Rockinghorse.

To find out more about Search Seven’s fundraising events, please get in touch with the team. events@searchseven.co.uk 01273 329122 @SearchSeven Photo courtesey George Chinn / Eagle & Beagle

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The Starr Trust The Starr Trust was set up in 2008 in memory of Rob Starr’s father Edward, who was an inspiration to everyone he met.

Rob and his brotherin-law Darren Abrahams co-founded Charity the charity as a way of carrying on the legacy that Ed Starr left behind; a legacy of inspiring young people to be the best that they can be.

Since 2008 the Starr Trust has grown to become one of Brighton’s best loved charities, reaching out and helping over 4000 young people and their families over the past 11 years.

Their financial awards range from £100 up to £5,000 and are given out to 10-18 year olds from low income families who need support to fulfil their potential in Art, Sport or Education.

Nicole Carman, PR Manager at the Starr Trust told us: “we’re a small but very dedicated team made up of members of the Starr family and other staff and we all share the same values. We believe in a world in which young people should be supported to fulfil their potential, despite the difficulties they may face or the financial challenges they may experience. Our mission is to change young lives for the better. The money we raise is given out to the young people of Brighton to help them follow and achieve their dreams.

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“The work we do can be life changing.

Every young person we help has a story. Some have been badly bullied at school and lost confidence, others have a talent but cannot afford the costs to help nurture that talent or they have struggled at mainstream school and need help finding alternative education.

We keep regular contact with all our young Starrs and their families and where possible, continue to support them over a number of years We want them to know there is someone out there who truly cares about them.”

“It’s important to stress the invaluable work we do is only possible because we’re lucky enough to have the backing

of our community and of so many wonderful businesses. We receive generous donations and our fundraising events are bigger and better attended year upon year. This means we’re able to engage with ever more young people and we’ve recently introduced an exciting new Enterprise Award for those aged 18-25. In addition to giving out financial awards, we also offer support and mentoring. Mentoring is incredibly valuable and we’re always grateful to those individuals and businesses who give up their time to share their expertise and offer advice to our young Starrs.”

“There are lots of ways that anyone

can get involved with us at The Starr Trust, we are always keen to chat with potential mentors, sponsors or volunteers. The events we run ourselves are varied, from Golf Days to Fine Dining Evenings but one example is our hugely popular Winter Extravaganza Ball held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole every November.”

and The Hilton Brighton Metropole are always so generous and attend many of our events as does Steve Cropper and his team at Gemini Print who do all our printing gratis. We even had the lovely Kate Carlisle from Blue Monkey Events decorate our ballroom, which looked absolutely stunning. It’s lovely to have this level of support.

“This year it raised an incredible £48,200! So many local businesses were involved in making this happen and we couldn’t have done it without them or our brilliant fundraising team, Tracey and Rosie. We were lucky enough to have John Logsdon from Drum Technologies and Ian Poysden from IEP Financial as 2 of our sponsors.

Many of our business supporters booked tables which totalled almost 300 guests! Some businesses donated fabulous prizes, whilst others bid on them in the Auction. Sascha Koehler

“Coming up in 2020 we already have a packed schedule of events but one not to miss will be our Bike Ride from Nice to Nimes in the stunning South of France! Earlier this year, back in June, we got together with Accordance VAT who were opening their new offices in Amsterdam. We set up a bike ride from Brighton to Amsterdam, cycling over 4 days. Accordance VAT and The Implant Centre were kind enough to sponsor this event and put in teams of cyclists.

Other individuals like Fran Dirand from Virgin Active, generously gave up her

time to lead the ride and apart from everyone making new friends and having fun, the event raised £40,000!

In summary, I’d like to take this opportunity to offer our heartfelt thanks to all those individuals and businesses out there who have been a part of our journey and for anyone else who hasn’t, please come and join us!”

Go to www.starrtrust.com for more information about what we do, to join in one of our brilliant fundraising events or to offer your support as a Mentor. Or you can email: nicole. carman@starrtrust.com or call us on 01273 715882.

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Brighton Businesses Rock By Raising £20,000 For Local Charities Metro Bank in Brighton is the founder of a Charity successful local pool league for professionals. Now in its second year, the league has supported more than 20 different charities in Brighton and the surrounding area.

The final of the league is traditionally a charity competition, organised by Metro Bank in association with FirmBalls, which runs networking events though sport.

In late 2017, Brian Quinton, Local Director of Metro Bank in Brighton, had

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the idea to combine his two passions in life - local business and pool. With this in mind, at the start of 2018, Brian decided to use his network, developed through Metro Bank, to launch a local professionals’ pool league that would raise money for local charities.

He found 11 other businesses to accompany Metro Bank - each donating per game, with the prize money being donated to the winning team’s chosen charity.

After a huge success and £5,000 being donated last year to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, Martlets Hospice and Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice, Metro Bank decided to

host the league again this year, in association with FirmBalls, opening the league to 26 teams.

The teams have been playing every 2nd Thursday of the month since January and the final round was staged at Castle Street Pool and Snooker Club.

Metro Bank and Elliotts Estate Agents won their respective leagues and top prizes of £2,500 for their charities.

Metro Bank’s team chose to donate their prize to several charities including Teenage Cancer Trust, the Bank’s annual charity partner. Colleagues across the country have pledged to raise over £150,000 over 12 months.

Each team in the competition had their

Metro Bank’s pool team

Brian Quinton, Local Director of Metro Bank Brighton and Sam Thomas, Managing Director of Firmballs

own charity of choice and all received charity donation prizes in relation to their league position, with the exception of last place who had a consolation prize courtesy of Metro Bank. The Bank also hosted a raffle alongside the competition to raise even more for local causes.

see the local businesses of Brighton take part in our professionals’ pool league again this year.

Brian Quinton said: ”It’s incredible to

“We’re thrilled to have seen even more

“The league is a fantastic opportunity for local businesspeople to network, have fun and raise money for worthy causes.

businesses join in the fun this year, and we hope this will continue in the future.”

Sam Thomas, Managing Director at FirmBalls, who partnered with Metro Bank on the competition, added: ”It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with Metro Bank to put on a fantastic pool league for local charities. Well done to all the teams involved and we look forward to continuing to run this amazing networking and fundraising event.”

Metro Bank, known for its exceptional customer service, which opened in Brighton in February 2015, prides itself on helping the local communities it serves.

Last year, Metro Bank stores across England supported more than 3,500 community and in-store events, such as business networking sessions, local fairs, charity events, and the bank’s free financial education programme for children, Money Zone.

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Planning to help others - today and tomorrow Business and personal finances aren’t the only Charity thing IEP Financial plans for. The firm of independent financial advisors brings its team together and promotes a great company culture through its work for charity. We meet Chairman Ian Poysden, who shares his passion for supporting Sussex good causes and explains why IEP Financial is the sponsor of SBT’s 2019 Christmas Charity Edition.

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With offices in Hove and Eastbourne, IEP Financial is a business with its roots firmly established in Sussex.

It has 30 staff and a company culture that thrives on teamwork. One of the common bonds is a desire to work together to support local charities. This is a business that really does take pride in giving something back.

Over the years, the company has supported a wide range of good causes.

Chairman Ian Poysden points to fundraising for Chestnut Tree House, the highly regarded children’s hospice for Sussex, Dementia Support in Chichester and the popular Friends of the Elderly Lunch at the Sussex County Cricket ground.

IEP has also supported the longestablished Martlets Hospice and was responsible for the resurrection of a fundraising Halloween Ball.

Founded in 1997, the hospice charity has supported more than 25,000 local

Kanokorn, Tess, Blerina, Enri taking part in the Starr Trust Water Wars day

people to date.

Other causes have included Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, Samaritans and The Starr Trust.

The latter is a focus for next year’s efforts.

Improving life chances “The main thing here is that it supports young people who may be disadvantaged or not had the best chances in life,” says Ian. It helps those in Brighton and surrounding areas, aged ten to 18 to achieve their full potential.

That is something Ian is keen to support and promote over the coming year, pointing out it offers a wide range of opportunities – everything from arts, theatre, sport and a lot more.

“Supporting local charities is important to us,” Ian explains. “We are a Sussex business in the financial planning sector, dealing with businesses and individuals. It says a lot about you if you are prepared to support local charities.

It is something we enjoy.

“As a team, we all get involved. It builds a brilliant atmosphere and culture at work.”

Starr Trust IEP Financial was one of the sponsors of a recent ball which raised as massive £48,000 for The Starr Trust.

“It was a fantastic outcome for a small charity,” said Ian. He personally assists in mentoring three Starr Trust ‘stars’ – a young golfer, a cricketer and a wheelchair tennis player.

The Trust is a family-run charity, founded to provide sport, art and educational opportunities. As well as mentoring and training programmes, it gives young people the chance to build their connections and makes financial grants up to £5,000 for young people in need living in the BN postcode.

vision, which is: “We believe in a world in which young people are supported to achieve their fullest potential; where they flourish as individuals whilst making a positive contribution to their community, and in turn are recognised for their achievements.”

In 2020, IEP Financial will be focussing on the Trust along with carrying out some of its other charity work.

It’s showtime - almost Ian says he is looking forward to charity golf among other events.

In fact, he is likely to become a bit of a ‘star’ himself – he is primed to be one of the entertainers at a charity ball being staged at The Hilton Hotel.

It enables them to develop skills for brighter futures.

While not one hundred per cent sure of his talents, he is determined to put on a great show to ensure the beneficiaries – four charities – raise as much as they possibly can from the event.

Ian, a financial advisor for more than three decades, strongly supports its

Ian is keen to continue his support for Arundel Castle Cricket Foundation.

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Charity Wide-ranging support

pension and general financial advice.

Other charities supported by IEP Financial over the years include St Wilfrid’s Hospice in Eastbourne, Sussex Cricket in the Community Trust, The V Light Project, Preston Nomads Cricket Club, schools initiative Extra Cover, Ditchling Cricket Club, Brighton’s Rialto Theatre, as well as cricket clubs in Eastbourne and East Dean and Friston.

“We are really looking forward to 2020,” says Ian. He points to the difference even single fund-raising events can make. Referring to the recent Starr Trust ball, he said: “It was a brilliant event.”

IEP Financial is the headline sponsor of this Christmas Charity Edition of the Sussex Business Times – because it is passionate about Sussex businesses supporting Sussex people.

Caring about people is at the heart of IEP Financial. Its people are key to its success in helping individual clients achieve and maintain financial independence through professional services.

Patrick Spencer

It works to enhance the development and education of young people aged between seven and 19, with a special emphasis on the disadvantaged and those from inner city communities.

He is full of praise for Dementia Support, describing it as an ‘amazing charity’. It works with a wide range of partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors to enhance the wellbeing and quality of life for local people living with dementia, their family and carers.

It believes in providing tailored support - and that caring element of its expertise makes it particularly supportive of those who may not have the same chances in life as others.

A leader in its field, IEP runs seminars that help businesses and private clients navigate topics such as investments, pensions, auto enrolment and later life planning.

But Ian does not want this feature to focus on the business. He wants to shine a light on the many good causes in Sussex that enhance lives at every stage of life’s journey.

In addition to supporting charities, IEP Financial does a few things to support people and organisations independently.

As well as charity work, it provides free resources on a wide range of important topics. They include Forgotten Pensions, Tax planning for Pensions, Saving for Retirement, and Income at Retirement. It has free eBooks on subjects such as Investing Tax Efficiently, Investment Planning and Asset Allocation, Making the Most of ISAs, and Financial Protection.

IEP in the Community Through IEP in the Community, it works with groups as well as providing its own supportive schemes.

David Williamson

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Apprenticeships and intern training are part of what it does. However, it also runs Local Sponsorship Programmes and the IEP Financial Affinity Scheme, which supports local sports clubs with

Ian Poysden

Sam Thomas, Managing Director of Sussex Business Times, said: “Few businesses have been linked with so many charities in recent years. IEP Financial is an example of what local firms can achieve.

“As Ian has already indicated, it is not just great for good causes – it is fantastic for fostering a brilliant team spirit that enhances the company culture.”

Further information about IEP Financial and its charity work can be found on its website.

Contact information: Website: www.iepfinancial.co.uk Telephone: 01273 208813 Email: info@iepfinancial.co.uk Twitter: @iepfinancial LinkedIn: IEP Financial Ltd

Martlets - At the Heart of Our Local Community Martlets is a local charity providing terminally ill people Charity in Brighton and Hove and the surrounding areas with the very best care and support. Our expert teams help patients live life to the full during the precious time they have left.

At Martlets we are all about helping people to feel good. We know that the simple pleasures aren’t just special they’re essential for our personal wellbeing.

Taking the time to do the things you love, with the people you care about, brings a restorative balance to busy lives. This matters even more when a person is diagnosed with a terminal illness. When you know time is limited, the really important things come into sharper focus.

Life is there to be cherished.

Rebekah Whiteley spoke to us about the care given to her mum: “The difference in Mum’s wellbeing, mental health, mobility and confidence since being in Martlet’s care is extraordinary.

She was in a bad way until they swooped her up in their arms. The compassion, care and love has been second to none.

“Martlets have gone to extreme efforts to make Mum as comfortable, pain free and happy as possible whether in the hospice or home. Mum turned a huge corner, enabling her to do the things she never thought she’d be able to do again.” The care described by Rebakah was made possible with the support of people like you.

Most people receive care from Martlets in their own homes. Outpatients also visit our hospice for pain relief, physiotherapy, counselling, welfare advice and social activities. Others may spend their final days at the hospice, or to stay as inpatients for respite care or

symptom management.

In 2018-19, we helped more than 2,700 local people live life to the full and make the most of precious time with loved ones. It’s an incredible number and we simply would not be able to achieve this without the support of our local community. Every Martlets donor and volunteer makes a difference to the people we help. Your generosity is changing lives and your continued support will help us to reach everyone who needs us.

Only a third of Martlets funding comes from the NHS and we rely on the support of business partners and our local community. We genuinely enjoy getting to know our partners, ensuring everyone gets the most out of choosing Martlets. We’re all about living life to the full and that includes having fun with our fundraising.

There are so many ways you and your colleagues can get involved. Our business partnerships can include, but are not restricted to, sponsoring large events such as the annual Martlets Halloween Ball; your own, business-led

Charity

fundraising activities, setting up payroll giving or being sponsored to trek the Sahara! Our amazing business partners Legal and General have even just put up Christmas decorations at our hospice and In Patient unit and brought smiles to everyone’s faces.

We want everyone to feel part of #TeamMartlets and be part of what we do helping to make each day better for people and their families affected by terminal illness in our community.

Whichever way you choose to get involved, you’ll generate positive PR for your business, engage and motivate your staff, and actively participate in the wellbeing of your city.

Razak Helalat, director of Brighton restaurants The Salt Room and The Coal Shed, had this to say about long term sponsorship of our popular Halloween Ball: “Our staff and customers have really got behind Martlets. We have all felt uplifted by the partnership and had fun in the process.”

We would love you to join our team.

Call Emma Knight on 01273 273 4000 or visit www.martlets.org.uk

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LoveLocalJobs LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C 2019 Round-up.

2019 has been an incredibly year for Round-up exciting the LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C. Launched in October 2018, by ambassador Harry Redknapp, the LoveLocalJobs Foundation aims to considerably raise the career aspirations of our next generations across Sussex. Here’s a look back at the last 12 months.

At the beginning of the year LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C launched two brand-new Be the Change programmes, in Chichester and Brighton, taking the grand total to five programmes across the academic year.

Be the Change is a ground-breaking, inspirational programme, created

by LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C

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Founder, Gary Peters and Graham Moore of Humanutopia. Aimed at Year 9 students who may face challenges and difficulties within the school environment, Be the Change provides a great opportunity for businesses to engage with their future workforce, building awareness of their employer brand amongst young people in their local area and provides an innovative way of providing fulfilling and meaningful personal development opportunities for their employees.

The addition of these new programmes enabled the team to reach 1015 secondary school students over the year, with 600 primary school students also benefiting from the programme this year, as they are mentored by the older students, enabling them to put their new skills into practice. Over the

programme, these young people will have six interactions with their business guides from sponsors such as American Express, Sussex Police, Rolls Royce, The Body Shop and Hasting Direct.

“Be the Change is a ground-breaking, inspirational programme” This year, the Foundation launched two new initiatives. The first is Take the Leap which was launched in April with sponsorship from The Straumann Group. The outdoor employability adventure programme is centred around teamwork, leadership, confidence, trust and grit. Take the Leap provides adventures coordinated by E3 Adventures such as gorge walking and weasling which allow young people

to get out of their comfort zone and develop key employability skills in a new environment, whilst taking part in new experiences. 49 young people have taken part in the Take the Leap trips to Snowdonia with many more trips planned in 2020.

Dare to Dream was officially launched in September 2019 which sees Jack the Lad, previously Heart Sussex Radio Host, visiting local schools sharing stories from his childhood and his career. The programme aims to challenge young people to change the way they think and discusses themes such as resilience, confidence, belief and determination.

As the LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C receives no statutory funding, Dare to Dream is only made possible because of the generosity of local businesses, such as the KSD Group, who sponsor the programme. Approximately 3150 young people have attended a Dare

to Dream talk in the last 4 months, up to the end of 2019, with more talks already planned for early 2020. Jack the Lad said “I am thrilled to be part of something so very special here at the LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C.

“Dare to Dream was officially launched in September 2019 which sees Jack the Lad, previously Heart Sussex Radio Host, visiting local schools sharing stories from his childhood and his career. “

extraordinary year. Dare to Dream has had such a strong start to its life reaching and impacting over 3000 young people in a little over 4 months. I really can’t wait to get out next year and talk to even more young people about the huge potential they have, helping them find a way to tap into it and be the very best that they can be.”

If you would like to learn more about the LoveLocalJobs Foundation C.I.C or want to get involved, go to www.lovelocaljobsfoundation.com.

The work we are doing is genuinely changing lives and to see the messages we deliver having an impact on the young people of Sussex is truly rewarding. 2020 is going to be an

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The Snowman Spectacular

™

Charity

The Snowman™ Spectacular Christmas Appeal 2019 for Chestnut Tree House

Our son Theo lived for 6 weeks and 2 days – and we spent the last month of his short life together at Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice.

It felt like home. There were no sterilised corridors, no tubes, no machines beeping. We were greeted by a lovely nurse who gave Theo a brand-new cot and a blue teddy bear to put next to him.

Chestnut showed us how to care for Theo – and thanks to them we

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can remember the times we fed him, changed him, sang songs, took him to the zoo. Every day at Chestnut became a precious memory.

Today I’d like to ask for your help in bringing a spectacular, magical, Christmas to all the children this wonderful local charity will be caring for this Christmas.

This year, Raymond Briggs’ beloved character The Snowman™ is once again leading the fundraising campaign to find the £116,450 Chestnut will spend on care for children like Theo over the holidays. One hour’s nursing care for a child like him costs £35.70. A gift from you this Christmas could allow another child, another family, to have precious moments together. Moments

that will become the most treasured memories.

Please, support Chestnut Tree House, your local children’s hospice. Because like The Snowman did in Raymond Briggs’s famous story, your donation could transform a child’s life this Christmas.

To donate online visit: www.justgiving.com/ChestnutChristmas-2019.

With every best wish to you and your family.

Chantelle

Charity

Festive networking event raises thousands of pounds for children’s charity Charity

Sussex businesses gathered for a Christmas networking evening in aid of Rockinghorse children’s charity.

The Network Exposure Group hosted its festive fundraiser in the Mayo Wynne Baxter Lounge at the American Express Community Stadium in Brighton, on Tuesday 3 December.

Sponsored by Together Money and Global, the event was organised by Network Exposure Group co-Directors Chris Mansfield and Becky Sharp, and attended by almost 200 people. The evening was compered by Jack the Lad from More Radio, with live music provided by Planet Trousza.

From fundraising events held during the evening, over £4,000 was raised for Rockinghorse, who support sick and disadvantaged children in Sussex.

One of the most popular prizes in the charity auction was donated by Sam Thomas, Managing Director of Sussex Business Times. On behalf of his food brand, Dasaki, he offered a meal for four people to be cooked in the winners’ home. The auction lot was so popular that it was given to two winning bidders.

Guests also took part in a ‘12 Days of Christmas’ prize draw, with one lucky entrant winning a meal for two people at 12 dining hotspots, including; Etch, Mal Maison and Hotel du Vin. Chris Mansfield, director at Network Exposure Group, says, “It was our intention to create an event that incorporated networking, a Christmas

party and fundraising all in one, which we achieved with aplomb!

“There was a great atmosphere on the night created by a wonderful mix of people – the feedback we’ve received so far has been really positive. To have the event supported by Ryan Heal and the Rockinghorse team helped to raise in excess of £4,000, which is fantastic.

Our thanks to everyone who supported and attended the event, we look forward to doing it all again next year!”

The networking event was organised as part of the company’s pledge to support Rockinghorse’s 20/20 Corporate Challenge. Money raised will be used to support the Rockinghorse Activities Programme at Chalkhill Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit.

Based in Haywards Heath, Chalkhill is the only hospital of its kind in Sussex, supporting young people who suffer from mental health illnesses. The charity’s activities programme was

developed in 2015 and complements the clinical and educational work of the unit.

Terrina Barnes, corporate fundraising manager at Rockinghorse, says: “We are so grateful to Chris and Becky from the Network Exposure Group for their incredible support. Thanks to them, we have been able to raise over £4,000 towards next year’s Rockinghorse Activities Programme at Chalkhill.

“It’s place in the recovery of young people suffering with mental health conditions is so important and we’re very proud that the programme has received significant praise. Thanks to the wonderful support of businesses like the Network Exposure Group, we’re able to continue making that difference.”

To find out more about Rockinghorse and the work they do to support young people in Sussex, visit www.rockinghorse.org.uk.

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CREATIVE STUDIOS

A full service creative agency Weweb are a full and service creative agency specialising in design, marketing. specialising in design, web and marketing.

Founded by three passionate creatives.

whitespace.studio Studio 3, The Ironworks, 30 Cheapside, Brighton BN1 4GD 01273 258000 / hello@whitespace.studio 38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT TRAVEL

BEAT THE WINTER BLUES MEET THE TEAM ROB REAKS

SBT TRAVEL SPONSORED BY BRIGHTON TRAVEL EXPERTS - RED7

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Winter Blues?

How can you help your staff beat the Winter Blues? Simple, book them a “Bleisure Trip” (business and leisure)...

Nothing beats a really great holiday, does it? Think about the Travel last time you had a really fantastic trip.

That incredible hotel overlooking a soft sandy beach, the fabulous Ibiza Villa where you BBQ-ed by the pool; nights spent sampling local specialities in tiny tavernas and danced on tables in bars and where your days were spent relaxing by an infinity pool sipping an ice cold beer.

Now contrast that with the long, grey, cold Great British winter, where staff morale - unsurprisingly - hits rock bottom. Chilly mornings, dark evenings, Norovirus, colds and flu and months before there’s a warm ray of sunshine in

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sight. Whether we’re arranging a minibreak to Marbella for a fabulous Hen or Stag do or Big Birthday, orchestrating a small company’s horizon-broadening week away to Portugal, arranging a team-building weekend in Madrid or planning special incentive travel to reward high performing staff we know the power and magic of a great big (or little) trip.

Travel broadens the mind, gladdens the soul and offers new perspectives on business and life. Spending on great global experiences is so much more rewarding than any material thing you can buy. Travel, whether it’s for business, pleasure or a mixture of both (some call it ‘Bleisure’), is simply life affirming. So grab your passport, pick a place and book those tickets. Here are

some travel-inspired tips to help boost your staff morale through the dreary winter months.

Amazing Away Days We’re all spending longer and longer at the office: in fact Britains have the longest working week in Europe and the boundaries between work and play are ever more blurred. As a business owner, use this to your advantage: you know your team is everything to your business, so make your team-building terrific. Ditch that dull ‘Away Day’ building bridges made out of spaghetti in a windowless conference room; instead, take your team to a fabulous villa in Ibiza or Marbella and strategize in the sun. It might sound like a more expensive option, but booked well

in advance you’ll get the best deals and choice on both flights and group accommodation. After a few days away in a refreshing new destination, your team will return completely motivated and ready to go.

There are so many fantastic destinations to try and the Red7 product team works long and hard finding the best new spots for teams to enjoy. For a wellness-oriented group getaway, head for fantastic Obonjan Island off the western coast of Croatia where you can do yoga from sunrise to sundown, listen to inspiring lectures and accommodation is in luxury bell tents.

Hot destinations

5 To Try in 2020 Lisbon

club and hotel and enjoy stunning views of the Barcelona skyline.

As well as fantastic beached and watersports there’s plenty here for sports’ lovers too: try a VIP trip to the home of FC Barcelona or go racing at the Circuit de BarcelonaCatalunya.

Offer Incentive Travel Every wise company owner knows that keeping your staff vibe high will result in business growth. At Red7 we know this is true, and we practice what we preach using ‘ “Incentive’ or ‘Reward Travel’ to send high-performing and long-serving staff members away on fabulous trips. Last year, we sent our Sales manager, Viki Baines (pictured) to Ocho Rios, Jamaica to say thank you for 10 years of hard work, loyalty and dedication.

Help Staff Save for Holidays Over 30 percent of workers say perks and benefits are at the top of their list when considering accepting a new job and these days, competition to retain good staff is tough. So if you’re an SME and you want to offer your employees an extra special perk in their package, then consider setting up a Red7 staff Holiday and Travel Club.

You book the holiday and pay it off with an interest-free monthly payment, that you can take directly from their pay cheque each month. With busy and stressful lives, we owe it to ourselves to have some proper down time. In my mind, we should always make it our job to make time for a holiday.

Cosmopolitan and close to beaches, the sunny Portuguese capital is one of Europe’s most en trend spots for a group getaway.

Europe’s sunniest capital has a wild, oceanic spirit, cosmopolitan shopping and lively nightlife, which gets better and better as they years go by.

Wander around its winding cobbled streets, explore the magical castle on a hill and chill out on one of cafes around its vast seafront square. Explore the city using its bright yellow trams then check out the gorgeous beaches of Estoril and Cascais for some chill out time and a spot of surfing. And, don’t leave without trying the freshest of seafood. Or the divine custard tarts.

Ibiza Life is just better in Ibiza, as any traveller to this stunning island knows and it’s not all about clubbing cliche here anymore (although there are plenty of clubbing to be enjoyed!).

With yoga retreats set among its pine-clad hills, VIP beach clubs, and watersports to enjoy on its sparkling clear blue waters, this island boasts some of the best sandy coves around. Catch the iconic opening parties in May 2020, including Ushuaïa and Amnesia (9th May).

Barcelona Cosmopolitan and cool, Barcelona on Spain’s Catalan coast is almost the perfect city, with culture, history, sports and a stunning nightlife in equal measure. Explore the city’s Gothic architecture,, chill out at the ultra luxe Purobeach

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Travel

Bratislava

Marbella

This little big city is the perfect size for the perfect long weekend.

With its golden beaches, VIP beach clubs and all-year round sun, Marbella is Spain at its most glamourous. The Champagne and fun flows freely, but Marbella is so much more - sitting at a crossroads between old and new Spain.

Discover everything within a few days: venture into the picturesque surroundings of hills, forests, rivers and lakes, where some great outdoor adventures such as quad biking and clay pigeon shooting, will make great memories and the best backdrop for some flawless photo opportunities throughout your trip.

“This little big city is

the perfect size for the perfect long weekend.”

The city thrives from the juxtaposing trends of classic and contemporary. Reside on a ship berthed on the river Danube bank with front row views of the New Bridge and you’ll be steps away from all of the major sites.

“The Champagne and fun flows freely, but Marbella is so much more” The whitewashed houses and pretty cobbled streets of its Old Town contrasts with the blingy Puerto Banus and nearby Malaga is fast becoming a Foodie Heaven.

Add in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop, some of the best clubs in Europe and one of the world’s best microclimates you’ll soon fall in love with Life on Marbs.

Talk to our Travel Experts on 01273 872222 / Follow us on Facebook / Twitter / Instagram (red7leisure)

Meet the Team…

Rob Reaks

Head of Sales and Marketing Having previously enjoyed over 14 years as a Fundraising Consultant for leading charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, Amnesty and RSPCA, Rob moved into corporate sales and marketing in 2013 and, after some time with Proud Group (Proud Cabaret, Stanmer House and Proud Galleries), he now heads up the sales team at Red7.

Rob is responsible for maximising sales through effective and efficient lead generation and direct marketing. Working with marketing agencies, internal product, sales and commercial teams to implement effective Lead Generation, PR, Advertising, Sales Promotion, Referrals and Social media content, growth and engagement strategies.

On holiday, you’ll most likely find him relaxing on a Cunard cruise ship somewhere sunny.

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Add Rob on LinkedIn, https://www. linkedin.com/in/robreaks/

SBT LIFESTYLE

WINE OF THE MONTH MICHAEL YEOMAN

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

COURTESY OF SIMON MARSHALL

SBT Wine Club Join today

SBT REVIEW

FOXHILLS

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WINE OF THE MONTH Michael Yeoman’s Top Ten tips for serving the perfect sparkling wines this Christmas.

As we move into December we start to think about Lifestyle preparations for Christmas dinner, where to host, who to invite and plans to relax in front of the fire and Christmas tree with the family with fine wines and festive foods. One key consideration is the choice of wine, and with over a 100 vineyards in Sussex, some of which are world beaters, we are spoilt for choice this Christmas.

Michael says: “If you are celebrating your Christmas dinner with a local or Norfolk turkey then why not splash out on a lovely bottle of English sparkling wine to toast with. The quality of English wine is now exceptional and well worth the investment for your Christmas lunch.”

1) Choice of sparkling wine - You don’t have to spend a fortune for good wine however English Sparkling wine is the equivalent of a medium priced bottle of champagne. Typical price varies from £25 to £35 a bottle.

2) Storing your sparkling wine - ideally store your wine horizontally as this ensures that the cork is kept moist and does not spoil the wine (corked).

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3) Preparing your sparkling wine - the ideal temperature for sparkling wine is 7 to 10 degrees centigrade. Any colder and you will restrict the smell on the nose or the taste in the palate. If you do chill a bottle of bubbles in the fridge, leave it out for 10 minutes to warm slightly. Never serve it in pre-chilled glasses (or you will lose some of the sparkle).

4) Serving your sparkling wine - ideally serve your wine from cool storage into a sparkling wine bucket with half water and ice. Let the bottle cool between 15 minutes to half hour before serving.

5) The Correct pour - always pour an initial glass of sparkling wine, not too much. Allow the mousse to rise to top and the settle before pouring a second time. In order to preserve your mousse, you should tilt the glass at 45 degrees.

6) The Time of pour - Never pre pour your wines less than a couple of minutes before drinking, leaving your fizz standing will allow your wine to warm and lose it’s lovely mousse.

7) Waiting for the CO2 to dissipate - do not drink your wine as soon as you pour as this is the point where the CO2 is at its maximum level and can irritate the nerve centre in your cheek. Hold

yourself, wait a minute or two!

8) Enjoy the taste - let the bubbles roll over your tongue and around your palate to fully appreciate your wine.

9) Taste your wine over time - take time to savour the way your wine changes with variations in temperature and CO2 level, a bland wine that is too cold can flourish as it warms and develops.

10) For left over fizz - if you have a any sparkling wine left over always secure with a stopper as the old spoon in the top of the bottle is scientifically proven not to work.

Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year to all you all! Cheers.

Michael Yeoman is a local online wine retailer and shares his ideas and thoughts for the festive period. Michael will be launching his new wine business this month in time for Christmas.

Brighton and Hove Wine Club – www.brightonandhovewineclub.co.uk English Wine Box – www.englishwinebox.com Mob 07773766225

Recipe of the Month

CHICKEN SATAY Flint & Flame Executive Chef Simon Marshall is sharing with you the perfect Xmas party recipe. This nutty classic paired with the crunchy slaw is bound to be a favourite with all your guests, and will make you look like a seasoned professional in the kitchen.Â

Ingredients 2 chicken breasts .............................................................

10 bamboo skewers .............................................................

Small piece of fresh ginger .............................................................

1 garlic clove .............................................................

Juice of 1 lime .............................................................

1 tbsp soy sauce .............................................................

1 tbsp runny honey .............................................................

1 tsp peanut butter .............................................................

100g (4oz) peanut butter (crunchy) .............................................................

1 tbsp sweet chilli sauce .............................................................

1 tsp soy sauce ...........................................................

1/4 of a purple or green cabbage .............................................................

1 Granny Smith apple .............................................................

1 carrot

40g roasted peanuts or cashews roughly chopped ............................................................

1tbsp toasted sesame seeds .............................................................

15g mint and coriander chopped ...........................................................

1 red chilli, finely chopped (optional) .............................................................

2 tsp sesame oil .............................................................

21/2 tbsp Soy sauce or fish sauce ...........................................................

While the chicken is marinating you can make the sauce. Put the peanut butter, coconut milk, 5 tablespoons of water, the sweet chilli sauce and soy sauce in a small saucepan. Warm gently, stirring constantly, until everything has melted.

Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens, if you find the sauce too thick add some extra coconut milk until it reaches the desired consistency. Remove from the heat, then stir in the leftover lime juice and set aside. Preheat the grill to medium-high

60ml lemon or lime juice .............................................................

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

Now prepare your Asian slaw. Finely shred cabbage. Now thinly slice apple and then cut into thin matchsticks. Peel carrot, then shred, coarsely grate, or cut into thin matchsticks.

Method

Mix all dressing ingredients together and toss with the shredded cabbage, apple, carrot, nuts, toasted sesame seeds, mint and coriander and chilli (if using), just before serving.

Soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes to stop them from scorching when you grill them.

Mix the satay marinade. Peel and grate the ginger (you should have about 1/4 teaspoon), crush the garlic and put in a bowl along with the lime juice (set 1 teaspoon of the lime juice aside for later use), soy sauce, honey and peanut butter and whisk together.

Put the chicken breasts into a sealable polythene bag or cover with cling film and use a mallet or rolling pin to bash the chicken breasts until they are about 1/2 cm (1/4 in) thick. Slice each chicken breast into 5 strips, add to the marinade and leave to marinate for about 30 minutes.

Thread the chicken strips onto the soaked skewers and put on a foil-lined baking sheet. Grill each side for about 5 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Serve with the dipping sauce and Asian slaw. onion gravy.

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SBT Review: Foxhills For this month’s review - and the final one of the Review year - we have a real treat for you.

After last month’s focus on health and wellbeing at South Lodge, this month we look at corporate away days and an opportunity for colleagues to get away for some R&R whilst either team building or building relationships with clients. What better way to do this than on the golf course?

Therefore, three business associates and I headed to Chertsey in the heart of Surrey to the fantastic Foxhills Country Club and Resort. Voted by The Independent as ‘One of the best resorts in Britain’, it certainly lived up to expectations.

As we arrived and drove up the long impressive path to the entrance, the grounds are extremely well kept and quite palatial. We got there reasonably early on a Sunday morning as we were due to tee off at midday. Greeted at

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tricky tree lined course, not to mention the 1st which is a 408-yard par 4. With it being a busy Sunday on the course we still teed off bang on time, but did have one or two watching us that may have added to the pressure, as we hit a couple of wild drives and didn’t quite make it between the funnel of trees.

reception by Lauren, she welcomed us and informed us that our rooms would be ready after our round and said we could leave any luggage in the storage facility. As we still had an hour before teeing off, she pointed us in the direction of Nineteen, where we grabbed a quick bite from the brasseriestyle menu that is located near the shared 18th green. Three of us decided to go for the bacon brioche bap, which was lovely, but I did have a slight bit of food envy as my colleague had ordered the Spiced Skillet - eggs, with chorizo, spring onions, tomatoes and flat mushrooms. He didn’t rub it in much but informed me it tasted as good as it looked. After a coffee and light brunch, we checked in at the pro shop before heading for a quick practice putt.

“It is surrounded by scots pine, beech and silver birch trees and is one of Surrey’s top tree lined courses and has been named in the Top 100 golf courses in England by Golf World since 2015”

Our first round of our break away was on the Longcross Golf Course. It is surrounded by scots pine, beech and silver birch trees and is one of Surrey’s top tree lined courses and has been named in the Top 100 golf courses in England by Golf World since 2015.

There are some real highlights on this

Despite playing at the end of October, we had truly lucked out with the weather as there was not a breeze in the air and the sun was shining. The few days prior to our visit the weather had been pretty horrendous, but the course was in immaculate condition and the greens beautifully maintained.

My colleagues’, as well as my own golf, was certainly not as first class as the course we were playing that day, although I did hit a cracking drive on the much talked about 14th hole that was voted by BBC Radio 5 Live as the greatest hole ever played. As you stand on an elevated tee as you look down the 507--yard hole, it truly is quite spectacular.

The round finishes on the impressive 18th as you hit a drive--up hill, with a large tree narrowing the fairway for your second shot, where you play a partially blind approach shot to the shared green.

After 4 and half hours, we finished a most enjoyable round and headed back to Nineteen for a well-earned beer.

We had timed the round to perfection as we entered the bar the football was just about to start on the many TV screens around. We found a table situated in good view of the screen and with waiter service we were settled for the next couple of hours having a couple of Peroni’s, watching the football

and discussing our not so impressive golf. Nineteen is very relaxed and on a Sunday afternoon provided a great atmosphere to settle down, it was the perfect way to the finish the round.

Once the football had finished, we returned to reception to pick up our bags and check into our rooms to freshen up prior to dinner. The rooms are ultra-modern and extremely spacious. We had a large lounge area with a sofa, equipped with a desk are perfect for a business traveller. The large bathroom with rain shower really added to the relaxation and a felt fuller refreshed and revitalised ready to head down to dinner.

We were booked into the Fox dining room for 8pm. This stunning new restaurant located in the 19th century manor house was not what I was expecting from a golf break. As you know from my monthly restaurant reviews, I am somewhat of a foodie and the high-quality dishes served were certainly on par with some of London’s and Sussex’s top restaurants that I

have been fortunate enough to dine at. The menu was packed with some mouth-watering choices and to start I went for soft shell crab as did one of my colleagues, served with coriander, lime caviar and crab mayonnaise. The dishes were presented as I have indicated from what you would expect from a fine dinning restaurant and tasted as amazing as it looked. To follow, I was truly torn but went for the Venison Loin with pithivier, sesame turnip and cabbage puree. The meat was cooked to perfection, succulent, tender and almost melted in my mouth. Between us we had a selection of delicious sides such as cauliflower cheese, creamed potato with grated Truffle (wow) and creamed cabbage and pancetta.

To accompany the fine cuisine, there is an impressive wine list. Fortunately, one of my colleagues is somewhat of a connoisseur and chose a lovely deep ruby red, a Chateau Gachon, from Montagne St Emilion, which is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon and complimented our food perfectly.

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Finally, we had all left a little room for dessert, (we had worked up quite an appetite walking round the course that day) a couple of colleagues opted for the Salted Carmel set cream with passion fruit curd, hazelnuts, praline ice cream. Cheese is my biggest vice, as most of you know from previous reviews, and I find it extremely hard not to choose this, so I did and was not disappointed, with a lovely selection.

After what can only be described as a truly amazing dinning experience with fantastic food and service, we retired to the bar area sitting by the open fire and finished off the evening with a warm brandy. Served with the brandy glass resting on a glass of boiling water to warm the beverage it was the perfect end to a perfect day.

I started with a run in the state-of-theart gym before having a swim. Although it was a brisk winter’s morning, my colleague and I ventured to the outside hot tub in the spa gardens, and as per one of my previous statements WOW.

Returning to our rooms feeling pleasantly full, I had a great night’s sleep in my large comfortable bed ready for what the next day had in store.

The sun had just come up and, similar to the previous day, not a breeze in the air. The sun shone through the surrounding trees and I struggle to think of time this year when I have felt so relaxed. I could have stayed there all day. Knowing we had another round of golf to play, and maybe slightly regretting the second brandy

My colleague and I rose early as I was keen to try at the luxurious spa facilities before breakfast and round two of golf.

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the previous night, I had a quick dip in the ice cold outside pool that is one of England’s first natural swimming pools, chemical-free water purified by plants and minerals. This certainly helped to refresh me. The spa also boasts a steam room, hydro pool with massage jets, relaxation room, two Finnish saunas and, of course, the beautiful spa garden. I challenge anyone to visit the spa and not coming out feeling a million dollars.

“my colleague and I ventured to the outside hot tub in the spa gardens, and as per one of my previous statements WOW.” Feeling refreshed and raring to go, and after a lovely breakfast of smoked mackerel with poached eggs in the Manor Lounge, we headed off to the Bernard Hunt course for round number two.

6th hole, which is a par 4 playing 431 yards. On the elevated tee the fairway descends into a narrowing cauldron before rising up over a series of wellpositioned bunkers into the green, that is surrounded by pine trees.

Similar to the Longcross the day before, the course and greens were in immaculate condition, especially considering the time of year.

This course is named after the club’s first professional and former Ryder Cup Captain. Although longer than the Longcross, it is designed to be slightly forgiving off the tee, which is certainly good for me after my previous day’s golf. Despite its length, it still embraces the natural beauty of raised trees and meandering fairways through picturesque parkland. There are again many highlights of this course. We were blessed with good weather and had quite the view of the course on the

After teeing off earlier the second day we came in just after lunch and once again headed to Nineteen where our attentive waiter, Malik, served us each with a club sandwich and a coffee.

From our arrival early on the Sunday to our departure Monday afternoon I am struggling to find any fault with this fantastic resort. Every member of staff from the reception, spa, restaurant, pro shop, golf course was delightful, helpful and could not do enough for us. This was present throughout our stay.

“From our arrival early on the Sunday to our departure Monday afternoon I am struggling to find any fault with this fantastic resort.”

The facilities are top class and I can echo my initial quote from the independent that this truly is one of the best resorts in Britain. It simply caters for such a wide range of needs. From a business point of view, it’s a very impressive place to entertain clients or take staff on an away day/retreat. As a busy business owner, it is so important to take that time out and this is the perfect place to do so, whether with family or friends. Great golf, fantastic food and wine, amazing spa facilities it really has got it all. The hour or so commute from Brighton maybe slightly excessive for me to become a member but it was that good I would consider it. I urge our readers if you have not yet been the please do so, you will not be disappointed.

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Toby Graves Sussex Based Rookie Golfer Talks About Life on Tour

Q&A

How was your 2019 season?

Personally, I feel as if 2019 was a huge season as regards to the development for me as a golfer and as a person. In terms of the golf, it was a relatively decent season, but there is most certainly room for improvement.

It is an exciting chapter in my life and I am definitely learning and improving as I go along. I am a little self-critical, but I having achieved multiple top 5 finishes on both the Jamega and TP Tours, I know I can compete at that level.

I have also had a number of top 3 finishes on the Sussex Professional

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Golfers Union circuit. I am just looking for that winning breakthrough!

What have you learnt from last year and what will you take into next year?

Gaining experience on any tour will stand me in a good place moving forward. The main learning curve has been with the general preparation for each event. Securing full playing rights on tour is key, which enables you to prepare for your full season – mixing competitive events with practice and some personal life. Without securing any playing rights, your preparation can be hampered and receiving a late entry can be difficult. I made some mistakes last year and not being fully

prepared for an event is one major area that I will be working on for 2020.

It is encouraging to hear from senior coaches and fellow players that I ‘have the game’, but I need to turn these abilities into performances.

What are your plans and goals for 2020?

Firstly I am excited with the prospect of playing at a higher level. I start in December, having entered the Alps Tour Qualifying at La Cala Resort in Spain. My next entry is the Europro Tour Qualifying, which is held at Frilford Heath. The goal is to secure full playing rights on either tour and to then focus on that first professional win. It is like climbing a ladder and I think I have a

How You Can Help Toby Achieve His Goals It’s very simple and there are two ways.

OPTION ONE – set up for the private individual.

Join the tpg100 club and help Toby’s expenses whilst on tour. For £100 Toby will add you to his social media, blog updates and messages into your Inbox updating you on his progress on tour.

OPTION TWO – set up for the Company with a Corporate Social Responsibility.

Join the ‘Birdies for Charity’ programme. Donate a minimum of £10 for every birdie that Toby makes in an official tournament and 50% of these funds will be directed into either Toby’s nominated charity, the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity or a charity of your choice.

For example 12 tournaments = 24 rounds = 3 birdies per round = 72 birdies @ £20 per birdie = £1,440 donation split between Toby and the nominated charity.

Toby’s expenses for the year total to approximately £8-10,000, so every contribution helps.

With thanks again to the headline sponsors.

Toby good head for heights, being 6’ 7” – lol.

I have sat down with my coach and team and have come up with some realistic goals, which we are keeping to ourselves at the moment. There is no substitute for hard work on the range and I have some winter training planned in southern Spain so that I can practice throughout the off-season.

“Personally, I feel as if 2019 was a huge season as regards to the development for me as a golfer and as a person” Is the professional life on tour as glamorous as it sounds, travelling Europe and earning a good living?

If you put it like that, it does sound like a perfect lifestyle, but unfortunately that only applies to those on the European and PGA Tours. It is however a level

to which I aspire to in the future. The lifestyle reality now can sometimes be a challenge at this level, but I still believe I am in a very privileged position to do what I am doing. I am ever so grateful to my sponsors who support me professionally as without them I could not pursue my career ambitions.

I have spent many hours during 2019 (thanks Rivervale for the reliable car) travelling on the road from one tournament to another, which can be quite lonely. Fortunately, there is great camaraderie on the tours and we often share travel or hotel expenses.

The satellite tours that I will be playing on do not necessarily earn you a living as the main goal is to progress and get promoted on the next tour above, the Challenge Tour and then who knows?

am fortunate to have had a privileged education for which I am very thankful. I attended Brighton College for five years and then awarded an academic and golf scholarship to Keiser University in West Palm Beach, Florida where I graduated in 2018 with a Bachelor of Business Administration specialising in Sports Event Management. It is an area of business that really interests me.

Either Sports Events or Sports Management to me would be the ideal career path if the golf does not work out. I am currently working on some low profile projects at the moment alongside my professional golf and I would love to have a greater practical insight into this industry.

Is there a Plan B? For sure as I believe you would be silly not to have one. Hopefully the golf career will work out, but if not I

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SBTMotoring Reviews Honda Hybrid

I loved this car I have to say. Simple dashboard, nice and quiet on battery. 42 miles per gallon in eco mode.

Design is always subjective of course but I quite liked it and it at least has its own identity.

On the inside however I’m not so sure about the fake wood inside, I have to admit, but the layout is intuitive and has everything you need.

Whilst driving the car there is adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist, auto emergency breaking and even auto SOS function, there is a reversing camera for those that use it rather than contorting their neck over their shoulder (it’s a generational thing!)- I’m sure millennials don’t know what I’m talking about.

Infotainment is average and does the job - there are better systems out there, but like all these things once you know your way around it becomes second nature so nothing to complain about too much for a car in this class. Comfort is great in this car with lots of storage. Back seats have plenty of space and decent head room and easy to fit a smaller baby seat or two. The boot also has plenty of space in it.

One important aspect of the car is the impact resistance of the car is pretty good as it spreads the impact to the back of the car if there is a frontal impact.

Also, now this is good, the automatic gear box works in conjunction with sat nav using the engine to break when there is something that needs you to slow down for in front, making for a more comfy ride as well as being more economical on fuel.

Other aspects of the car worth noting is that there is a great wide view from the front and out the back. Light steering, sharp breaks and pretty nice suspension for those Sussex potholes we all have to endure.

XF Sportbrake R-Sport

Longer than a regular XF and looks pretty similar which is a good thing as it looks, well good.

The extra length translates to more space in the boot and cabin with the spacious layout in the front facing the same infotainment and drivers display as the saloon.

That being said the version we tried did have a Meridien sound system that can certainly get you dancing in the seat. The 10-way electric front

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seats add an extra level of comfort to an already comfortable ride.

soon get used to it and shouldn’t dissuade you from buying it.

There are the usual bells and whistles that were once very nice to have regarding safety and rearview parking that now are pretty commonplace, that we take for granted. I do like the 36 degree park assist that is still less common.

It’s not economical but not hideously uneconomical either, and the diesel will always help versus a petrol engine.

Now although you can happily sit in the car comfortably blasting out whatever pleasure your ear drums require what about the driving experience?

The steering is great and there is not sense of the car rolling, going around corners and handles bumps very well.

One negative is that the diesel is a little on the noisy side, but you

I would buy one - but then I’m a sucker for ambient lighting which was very relaxing while warming your hands on the heated steering wheel, looking at the heated jet washers and sitting in you comfy heated chair if you have the cold climate pack. (although this lovely sense of warmth will cost you £760).

SBTMotoring Reviews Insignia sports tourer hooks and storage elements. There is also aa 12v.

The boot is not the only big thing, 3 adults can fit in the back with a light airy cabin.

The tourer is an estate by any other name and the first thing to say about it is that is very good value for money.

It looks pretty nice too and looks more expensive than what it is.

The main reason for having an estate is of course the boot in which the is ample room to house whatever you need. Scuff plates and no lip also make the boot easily accessible with some other

The design Is really stylish and well put together with a snug driving position without being at all claustrophobic. There is plenty of storage as well for various bits and bobs.

Driving the car is nice with nice suspension easy gear changing and light steering. Great for motor way cruising and comfortable without being too noisy, its fine without being particularly grippy on country roads but nothing wrong with it either.

Fuel consumption was a healthy 44 MPG - a little less that advertised

by Vauxhall but then that is to be expected I suppose.

In summary, I like it, would be happy with it, and especially happy given the on-the-road price of £29,900 or £32,005 with the extra bells and whistles of brilliant paint, head-up display, winter pack to keep everyone cosy in their snug cock pit like front seats and last but not least a wireless charger – something I personally think should be in every car.

A 200 AMG Line compared to the inside.

The huge display panel with two screens is brilliant. The infotainment system is fantastic and easy to change simply using the button on your steering wheel. It can also be navigated though the pad or directly on the screen.

Looks great with aggressive front bumper and sleek mean look with its narrow headlights.

The voice recognition works and sounds as slick as the dashboard looks.

Let’s start from the back, boot size is reasonable and comparable with a golf with flat folding back seats extending the boot space.

There are some impressive features such as lane change assist that can actual move you into the lane next to yours, but you can drive without touching the wheel for a while before it will slow the car to a stop.

The technology in the car is really quite impressive.

There is decent space for a couple of adults in the back with enough head room and more space than the old A-class. Now, the design outside was pretty good, but that is nothing

The bumps in the road are handled smoothly, and gripping the road is pleasure with exacting steering.

A comparable to drive would be a golf GTI. I have to say it’s pretty quick of a stop start but flooring it you can expect a bit of noise from the engine. Personally, for a car of this size though I can’t say that you should expect anything different.

I am assuming that our readership isn’t into midnight drag races along Eastbourne promenade so is probably a moot point.

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SBTMotoring News Ford expands Mustang range for first time in half a century For the first time in 55 years, Ford is expanding the Mustang family. It says, it wants to bring the famous pony into the electric age. The Mustang Mach-E is an all-new, all-electric SUV born of the same free-spirited ideals that inspired the best-selling sports coupe in the world.

Mustang has long represented freedom, progress, fast performance and a touch of rebellion. Now, Ford is ready to reimagine these ideas for a powerful electric future. Space for customers’ growing needs are fuelling the change.

“At the first-ever Detroit auto show, Henry Ford said he was working on something that would strike like forked lightning,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman of the Ford Motor Company.

“That was the Model T.

It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s freedom. For a new generation of Mustang owners.”

Ford brought the Mustang Mach-E to life through a development process concentrated entirely on customer needs and desires. The result is a sleek, beautiful SUV that delivers spirited ride and handling, with state-of-theart connected vehicle technology that makes Mustang Mach-E even better over time.

“Today, the Ford Motor Company is proud to unveil a car that strikes like forked lightning all over again. The all-new, all-electric, Mustang Mach-E.

When it arrives in late 2020, Mustang Mach-E will be available with standard and extended-range battery options with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel

a conventionally-powered model and well-established as a driver favourite,” said Ron Cogan, of the Journal.

“The addition of a new all-wheel drive CR-V using Honda’s proven twomotor hybrid system is an exceptional move, offering buyers an even more compelling reason to consider this award-winning model at the showroom.”

2020 Green SUV of the Year

The 2020 CR-V went on-sale in October with freshened exterior styling and upgraded features, including standard Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technology for all trims The refreshed 2020 Honda CR-V and all-new CR-V Hybrid have been named (previously EX and above), and a more powerful engine for the CR-V LX— the 2020 Green SUV of the Year by Green Car Journal. It is the second time Honda’s 1.5-liter turbo. The all-new Honda has won Green SUV of the Year, 2020 CR-V Hybrid, launching early and the sixth time a Honda vehicle has next year, is Honda’s first hybrid SUV in America and is expected to be the earned similar recognition. company’s top-selling hybrid model.

“Honda’s CR-V is already efficient as

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drive powered by permanent magnet motors.

Equipped with an extended-range battery and rear-wheel drive, Mustang Mach‑E has a targeted pure-electric driving range of more than 370 miles according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).1 In extended-range all-wheel drive configurations, Mustang Mach-E is targeting 337PS (248kW) and 565Nm of torque.2 Ford also will offer a special performance version.

New Land Rover Defender for commercial buyers Land Rover says its latest Defender Commercial will be available in 90 or 110 body design with two front row seats, and an optional jump seat.

In its commercial configuration, it is described as ‘the most capable Land Rover yet’ and will benefit from a practical, hardworking load space behind the front seats.

The Defender Commercial will be available to order next year. Timing, pricing and full specifications have yet to be announced.

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS

BOUNDARY CLUB GAYDIO NETWORK MY CLUB BRIGHTON EXPO

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS IS SPONSORED BY THE NETWORK EXPOSURE GROUP - INSPIRED BY TWO VERY WELL- CONNECTED SUSSEX BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS, NETWORK EXPOSURE GROUP IS PASSIONATE ABOUT UTILISING OUR OWN PERSONAL NETWORK AS WELL AS CREATING NEW CONNECTIONS TO HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS. www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

Networking

Festive Fun at the Boundary Club After a great year back as a boundary club member, it has Networking as always lived up to expectations.

We have had some truly great events, fantastic, inspirational, humorous, entertaining guest speakers, some very enjoyable cricket and of course some great networking.

This month we had some festive fun with the business community getting in the Christmas spirit with wearing a variety of festive costumes. We had prizes for best dressed male and female as well as some light hearted musical bingo.

Over the year I have strengthened long term relationships as well as meeting many new contacts. Being part of the Boundary Club is for me still one of the best networking events to attend in the county and I for one am looking forward to next year. I urge our readers if you have not yet tried it (where have you been) please give it a go and look into becoming a member in 2020, trust me you will not be disappointed.

To request information relating to the Boundary Club contact theboundaryclub@sussexcricket. co.uk

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Gaydio Brighton Business Mixer

2020 Calendar Lunch Edition - Jan 8th 12-2pm 2 course lunch with wine Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel

Lunch Edition - May 13th 12-2pm 2 course lunch with wine Brighton Harbour Hotel

Brunch Edition - Feb 12th 10-12pm Plated brunch The Old Ship Hotel

Brunch Edition - Jun 10th 12-2pm Plated brunch Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel

Lunch Edition - Mar 11th 10-12pm 2 course lunch with wine Brighton Beach Club

Lunch Edition - 8th July 12-2pm 2 course lunch with wine The Old Ship Hotel

Brunch Edition - Apr 8th 10-12pm Plated brunch The Walrus

Brunch Edition - August 12th 10:00-12:00 Plated brunch The Walrus

Lunch Edition - September 9th 12-2pm 2 course lunch with wine Brighton Harbour Hote l Brunch Edition October 14th 10-12pm Plated brunch Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel Christmas lunch Edition November 11th 3 course Christmas lunch with bubbles The Old Ship Hotel No event in December.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

“Having explored a lot of local networking events, Network My Club stands head and shoulders above the vast majority: a highly professional team, great monthly events with consistently excellent speakers, a senior level membership base from an eclectic range of sectors, and concrete opportunities for new business - there’s no question that membership pays for itself, and more” David Green (Shoot Me Now)

“Had a great networking experience since joining the club with Bagboard. Been able to meet connections across different industries in a friendly atmosphere. Guest speakers provide a varied and interesting perspective. And the Network My Club team have been a great help, and extremely pro-active in creating a valuable experience.

Would highly recommend!”

Shosh Shetty (Bagboard)

“TXM Technology recently joined Network My Club in early 2019 and it is one of the best things I have done this year. We have been introduced to the right KPI of various businesses and as a consequence made some great relationships. If you are looking for a quick list of referrals, Network My Club is not for you. They have a different/better idea on what networking should be. It takes time to build strong relationships, which I am doing and enjoying it at the same time. Rome was not built in a day.”

Richard Johnson (TXM Technology)

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Welcome to New Age Business Networking!

Network My Club uses iconic sporting venues to bring together progressive, forward thinking, professional businesses to form a network in an environment where they can thrive...

Thursday 9th January, 8.00am-10.30am Brighton & Hove Albion FC The Amex Stadium, Brighton Friday 10th January, 12.00pm-2.30pm Hampshire Cricket The Ageas Bowl, Southampton Thursday 16th January, 12.00pm-2.30pm Portsmouth FC Fratton Park, Portsmouth Wednesday 22nd January, 12.00pm-2.30pm Reading Football Club Madejski Stadium, Reading Friday 24th January, 12.00pm-2.30pm Twickenham Stadium London Thursday 30th January, 12.00pm-2.30pm Surrey Cricket The Kia Oval, London

Official Business Club Partners:

01903 898025 | www.networkmyclub.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

Business

Brighton Expo Stage All Set for Fifth Brighton Business Expo

Business

October 22.

Organiser Mike Monk says businesses who took part in this year’s hugely successful event wanted to book again at the earliest opportunity – hence the online booking form going live.

Unlimited tea, coffee and biscuits will also be provided, along with support and pre-event updates.

“We have produced a new information pack for 2020, which outlines a raft of new features for the 2020 Brighton Expo,” said Mike. “Anyone who would like a copy should contact me or visit the Brighton Expo website.

EXHIBITOR ACCESS

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ACCESS TO PREMIER HALL

VISITOR REGISTRATION

ACCESS TO GRANDSTAND

KEYNOTE THEATRE

CAFE SEATING AREA

VISITOR ENTRANCE

BRIGHTON

BUSINESS

expo2020

22 OCTOBER 2020 | 10:00AM – 3:00PM BRIGHTON RACECOURSE, BRIGHTON

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“From past pre-registrations, we have been able to calculate that 10 per cent of visitors represent businesses with a

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He says, previously, those attending the one-day event have come from the travel, banking, finance, construction, advertising, and marketing sectors.

Accountants, solicitors and those in O 2020 FLOORPLAN the hospitality industries have also (ORGANISER SET-UP: WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER 2020, LIVE DATE(S): THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER 2020) prominently featured.

ACECOURSE (BRIGHTON)

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EXHIBITOR ACCESS

EXHIBITOR ACCESS

THE GRANDSTAND HALL (HALL 1) 15

NETWORKING WALL

Multiple sector appeal

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BUSINESS

expo2020

22 OCTOBER 2020 | 10:00AM – 3:00PM BRIGHTON RACECOURSE, BRIGHTON

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Website: www.b2bexpos.co.uk/event/ brighton-expo

MAIN EXHIBITION HALL, BRIGHTON RACECOURSE (BRIGHTON)

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Contact Mike Monk: Mike@ monkmarketing.com

A fee media pack and resources are Twitter: @BrightonExpo supplied helpEXPO exhibitors promote BRIGHTONto BUSINESS 2020 FLOORPLAN BRIGHTON BRIGHTON RACECOURSE, BRIGHTON (ORGANISER SET-UP: WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER 2020, LIVE DATE(S): THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER 2020) their stand.

Mike anticipates next year’s expo will have more than 100 stands and attract up to 800 visitors.

18

Book a stand: www.b2bexpos.co.uk/ stand-packages/brighton

All exhibitors receive a free listing in the printed show guide and a basic listing on the expo’s website.

“To help exhibitors choose the best spot for their stand, we have also published this year’s floor plan.”

3

As usual, the day will start with a networking breakfast. The expo will once again boast keynote speakers, seminars and much more. The main show will run from 10am to 3pm.

A picture gallery featuring scenes from this year’s event is available to view on the Brighton Expo website. Picture Book Films created a widely seen video of the day’s events and featured testimonials from those who took part.

While stand upgrades are available for next year’s expo, all stand bookings will automatically attract an expo stand package that includes a professional shell scheme stand, basic stand furniture, including a 2ft x 2ft display table, personalised company name boards, and free exhibitor name badges.

Adding a new twist to the networking event will be free one-to-one business clinics, run by experts in their field. Slots will be available to book in advance during the run-up to the expo.

7

“It really is a great way of putting yourself out there and making the connections you need to generate leads and grow your business.”

Free with stand bookings

A positive response to the Start Up Village, introduced this year, means the feature will be retained.

E GRANDSTAND HALL (HALL 1)

Mike says: “Exhibitors benefit from their association with the business expo as well as PR opportunities.

turnover of £1m plus or employ more than 50 people,” said Mike. “This is important information, particularly for growing brands that want to extend their reach to bigger companies.

“Stands have already been booked and I would advise anyone thinking of exhibiting to view the floor plan now to avoid disappointment.”

Stand bookings have opened for Brighton Expo 2020. In its fifth year, the business show will take place at Brighton Racecourse on

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FLOORPLAN KEY 1m x 2m Shell Scheme Stand

£495+VAT

1m x 3m Shell Scheme Stand

£595+VAT

STANDS ARE SELLING FAST 02

03

2m x 2m Shell Scheme Stand

04

2m x 3m Shell Scheme Stand

06

£795+VAT

2

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£995+VAT

TO BOOK OR RESERVE A STAND AT THE BUSINESS SHOW, CALL US ON:

4

01273 286133

6

BOOKING DEADLINE: 16 OCTOBER 2020

ABSOLUTE

53 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

Chamber News

Sussex Chamber of Commerce UK road and rail networks not meeting business needs.

Business satisfaction rates fall, underlining need for parties to make good on infrastructure promises.

Chamber News Stagecoach.

UK businesses are even less satisfied with UK infrastructure according to research published by the British Chambers of Commerce and

The survey of 1,200 business leaders finds that only around one third (35%) of UK businesses feel that the UK road network is meeting their needs when reaching customers, suppliers, and employees. This is a reduction from 47% in 2018. 60 per cent had experienced delays resulting in increased travel costs, loss of business or client dissatisfaction across a onemonth period. Satisfaction with the UK rail network is even lower. Less than one quarter (24%) agree that it is meeting their needs. In 2018, the figure stood at 34%.

“Upgrading our road and rail capacity would send a vital signal that businesses are finally being heard”

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The Chamber network is calling on the next UK government to deliver promised investment in road and rail schemes, and to give businesses a greater voice for businesses in local decision making. The majority of businesses do not feel that their views are taken into account when decisions are made about infrastructure.

British Chambers Co-Executive Director Claire Walker said: “This election has generated a barrage of promises on infrastructure spending, but unless we see real action in the early months of the new parliament, our hard-pressed firms will struggle to deliver the economic resurgence we desperately need. Upgrading our road and rail capacity would send a vital signal that businesses are finally being heard, would kick-start business investment across the country and will pay dividends long into the future.”

Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Martin Griffiths said: “Britain’s congestion crisis is getting worse, directly impacting businesses and their employees, as well as causing further damage to air quality in our towns and cities. This research underlines a growing frustration that,

despite transport authorities having powers right now to improve our road infrastructure, there is a lack of radical action to address the problem. If we are serious about supporting jobs and our regional economies, as well delivering cleaner air and healthier communities, we need urgent measures to prioritise public transport and incentivise a large-scale switch from cars to more sustainable bus and active travel.”

In 2020 and beyond, business priorities for the next UK government, the Chamber network is calling for public investment in infrastructure to rise to at least 1.4 per cent of GDP per year – exceeding the funding guideline of 1.2 per cent recommended by the National Infrastructure Commission.

Ana Christie Chief Executive, Sussex Chamber of Commerce sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk

BCC RESEARCH UK Road and Rail Networks not meeting business needs Businesses are even less satisfied with UK infrastructure than they were a year ago, according to research published by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Stagecoach on 26 Nov 2019.

Satisfaction with UK Rail Network

Satisfaction with UK Road Network

24%

of business leaders ‘agree’ that the UK rail network is meeting their needs in accessing new and existing customers, suppliers, and employees.

This is a reduction from 34% in 2018.

60%

35%

of business leaders ‘agree’ that the UK road network is meeting their needs in accessing new and existing customers, suppliers, and employees.

This is a reduction from 47% in 2018.

The majority of businesses do not feel that their views are taken into account when decisions are made about infrastructure

of business leaders said their business had experienced delays resulting in increased travel costs, loss of business or client dissatisfaction.

27%

feel that their business view is taken into account in local decisions.

11%

feel that views are considered at the national level.

"Unless we see real action in the early months of the new parliament, our hard-pressed firms will struggle to deliver the economic resurgence we desperately need. Upgrading our road and rail capacity would send a vital signal that businesses are finally being heard, would kick-start business investment across the country and will pay dividends long after the current crop of politicians are forgotten."

Claire Walker Co-Executive Director “Britain’s congestion crisis is getting worse, directly impacting businesses and their employees, as well as causing further damage to air quality in our towns and cities. This research underlines a growing frustration that, despite transport authorities having powers right now to improve our road infrastructure, there is a lack of radical action to address the problem."

Martin Griffiths Stagecoach Group Chief Executive

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) surveyed 1,245 businesses leaders online from 9 to 28 October 2019. Around 95% of respondents are SMEs. 63% are service sector firms and 37% are manufacturers.

www.britishchambers.org.uk | @britishchambers

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 63

SBT

ASK THE

EXPERTS

WE ASK THE EXPERTS TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS YOU NEED

EXPERT

Sam Murphy | Managing Director, Mortgage Medics 1. Keep your address current with creditors

Four Things You Need To Know About Mortgages & Credit Score in 2020 It probably won’t surprise you to learn that banks and building societies take a keen interest in the credit rating of prospective borrowers when considering mortgage applications. The way lenders assess us, and specifically our credit profile, has changed dramatically over the last decade.

Manual assessment of all elements has diminished, as lenders place ever more reliance on automated processes in pursuit of consistency and efficiency.

At Mortgage Medics our goal is to help get everyone on the property ladder, as cost-effectively as possible, and then get you mortgage free as quickly as possible.

Getting the best deal from a lender is crucial, so here are my top 4 tips to get your credit rating looking as good as possible for lenders:

This is nothing new, but it’s crucial. With most of us going paperless it’s easy to forget to update details when we move, especially as we’re used to receiving little or no post. Lenders don’t like finding multiple addresses when they perform a credit check on prospective borrowers, and if the odd bit of post we do still get goes to the wrong address it could lead to missing something important, or leave us exposed to the risk of identity theft.

2. The past can come back to haunt you

Don’t take your eye off the ball – slip ups such as a default or county court judgement (CCJ) stay on your credit file for 6 years and will cause you problems with most lenders until they drop off. Missing a couple of mortgage payments can be equally damaging, with most lenders not being very interested in why it happened. Minor blips such as the odd missed payment to a credit card or exceeding your overdraft limit occasionally will be forgotten more quickly, but put these right ASAP and at least a few months before applying for a mortgage or other credit.

3. Not all lenders think the same If you do have some blips on your credit report, even some high-street lenders are willing to budge a bit in certain areas.

Defaults from communications providers, low-value CCJs (<£500), sometimes higher value CCJs and defaults over 3 years old, can sometimes be accepted by lenders if the application is otherwise strong. Talk to a whole of market mortgage adviser who knows which lenders will be more accommodating than others.

4. Keep an eye on your credit report There are a number of websites offering free access to your credit report. Personally I use MSE Credit Club www.moneysavingexpert. com/creditclub/ because it’s consumer focused and doesn’t try to upsell. It also sends a monthly email with an update on my credit score and offers pointers for improvement.

Whatever your circumstances, if you’d like to have a chat about your mortgage options we’re here to help. Find out more at www. mortgage-medics.com.

Mortgage Medics Limited is an appointed representative of In Partnership the trading name of The On-Line Partnership Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Delivering an exceptional range of hot and cold hydration solutions | | | |

Bottled Water Coolers Mains Fed Water Coolers Water Boilers | Water Fountains Specialty Taps | Accessories

0344 579 3999

edgarswater.co.uk 64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

enquiries@edgarswater.co.uk

CHEESE AND WINE EVENING At the Old Ship Hotel Wine Cellar 13th Feb 2020 7pm

ÂŁ30pp A selection of stunning wines, courtesy of The Bolney Estate will be served, accompanied by a range of local cheeses from The Cheese Hut.

With parts of the hotel dating back as far as 1559, The Old Ship Hotel is steeped in history and royal connections. You will hear more about this during the evening.

An ideal evening for your colleagues, clients or friends & family, as individuals, small groups or you could even make it an exclusive night by taking all 28 places.

Please contact Stella on stella@rockinghorse.org.uk for more details

EXPERT

Nick Hale | UK Director, Engage Health Group Which benefits are most highly sought?

Health related benefits such as Private Medical Insurance and Health Cash Plans remain some of the most popular amongst staff. More and more employers are implementing mechanisms such as Group Life Insurance, Group Income Protection and Group Critical Illness as a way to show greater value to a diverse workforce.

Why invest in Employee Benefits for your staff?

A well thought out and executed employee benefits strategy can be a great vehicle to make your staff feel valued, protect them when they are unwell, drive employee engagement, improve morale, increase productivity and improve the bottom line of the business.

Larger businesses are embracing technology by way of benefit platforms, which not only drive HR efficiencies and improve benefit promotion, but also house an array of other staff benefits such as voluntary benefits, season ticket loans, salary sacrifice, retail perks, and facilitate reward and recognition tools for managers to deploy throughout the workforce.

Finally, Employee Assistance Programmes and counselling services (which support good mental health for staff) are being widely adopted.

Why should I use an Employee Benefits Consultancy to source and manage our benefits?

Put simply, a benefits consultancy works with all insurers and service providers across multiple benefit verticals, meaning that any advice given will be independent, impartial and unbiased. A benefit consultancy will assist with understanding the needs of your people, the culture of your business and work closely with you to deliver a joined-up strategy, which not only delivers, but can also be measured.

Is it expensive to use an Employee Benefits Consultancy rather than buying directly from insurers/ providers?

No. In fact their services are free of charge in the vast majority of cases and because they partner with all insurers/service providers, is consultative rather than sales focused in approach.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

Made in Sussex: O&G Having just celebrated its 40th Brand anniversary, Hovebased creative focus marketing agency O&G can’t wait to continue to develop the business with a new decade dawning.

Established as a graphic design studio on Church Road, Hove in August 1979 (by David Graimes, father of the current joint managing directors, Gavin and Gareth), the agency has made many changes along the way and continues to embrace technology, innovation, and the latest digital trends to stay ahead of the curve. But they also stay true to their family values and deliver great customer service to their commercial partners. The agency is also very active supporting local charities, particularly Chestnut Tree House, Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and Chailey Heritage.

“There aren’t many agencies here which can boast 40 years in business,” says Gavin Graimes. “We’ve worked with some fantastic clients over the years, including a variety of wellknown household names like Kuoni, Dove, Brighton & Hove Albion FC, and

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the Royal Horticultural Society, and have always been forward-thinking as a business. We started as a small creative advertising and design agency, embraced new technology and innovation, and we’re now at the forefront of the region’s advertising, digital, and branding sector.

Trends continue to evolve and change, but the future is bright as O&G bring new services to their impressive client list in 2020. All of which is built around their ethos ‘Create to Convert’: Create to Convert means inspiring people not just to connect with your offer but to respond in a way that achieves the outcomes you want. We can get more people engaging with your products and services. We can change the way people think and talk about you. We can open new markets and channels. And best of all, we can measure it, track it and prove it, giving you peace of mind and ROI. Gavin added, times have changed, and we all want to know how best to spend our marketing budget and make sure we see a real return on investment.

‘Create to Convert’ makes this happen, and we can give you a real-time

understanding of the expected return on your spend.

In addition to the O&G creative marketing offering, they also acquired respected Brighton and London branding agency VGROUP back in January 2018. Giving their clients access to a very experienced team of branding specialists able to offer a full brand critique and review.

Having just completed the design of the latest ultra modern electric buses for Brighton & Hove Buses, developed a new e-commerce website for Harvey’s Brewery, signed a new two-year creative marketing partnership with Brighton & Hove Albion and a five-year creative marketing partnership with Sussex County Cricket Club - Things are looking good for the next 40 years.

If you’re thinking about a creative marketing campaign in the New Year, it might worth giving O&G a call and ask them to show how they can ‘Create to Convert’ for your business in 2020.

www.oandg.co.uk gavin@oandg.co.uk

UPCOMING FIXTURES: A L B I O N v W O LV E S Sunday 8 December

ALBION v SHEFFIELD UTD Saturday 21 December

M A T C H D AY H O S P I TA L I T Y AT T H E A M E X B R I G H TO N & H OV E A L B I O N ’ S WO R L D - C L ASS A M E R I C A N E X P R E S S C O M M U N I T Y S TA D I U M I S T H E P E R F E C T V E N U E T O WAT C H

ALBION V BOURNEMOUTH Saturday 28 December

A L B I O N v A S TO N V I L L A Saturday 18 January

A L B I O N v WAT F O R D Saturday 8 February

A L B I O N v C R Y S TA L PA L A C E Saturday 29 February

ALBION v ARSENAL Saturday 14 March

P R E M I E R L E AG U E F O OT B A L L .

ALBION v MAN UTD Saturday 4 April

With three matchday restaurants to choose from, all offer premium seating and an unrivalled atmosphere in the build-up to the match.

ALBION v LIVERPOOL Saturday 18 April

Hospitality packages at the Amex include: • Premium seating

• Three-course meal

• Inclusive drinks

• Tea and coffee at half-time and full time

• A drink and snacks on arrival

• Matchday programme

ALBION v MAN CITY Saturday 25 April

A L B I O N v N E WC AST L E Saturday 9 May

To view all Albion’s upcoming fixtures visit BrightonAndHoveAlbion.com

For more information on hospitality at the Amex, please call the hospitality team on 01273 878 278 or email hospitality@brightonandhovealbion.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

AN INSPIRING SETTING FOR MEETINGS

DDR PACKAGES FROM £20+VAT Minimum 30 guests.

Available January - March 2020.

Subject to availability.

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

BOOK NOW: t: 01273 448367 e: bai360events@sodexo.com w: britishairwaysi360.com