SBT issue 451 by Life Media Group

r Hole in One

7 GOLF DAY MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

SBT POWERED BY:

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

One Prizes:

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• Great prizes for nearest pins and longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash, a new car, an all-inclusive holiday, a set of golf clubs or a UK golf break • Lunch included • Sweepstake, raffle and more

FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• Great prizes for nearest pins and longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash, a new car, an all-inclusive holiday, a set of golf clubs or a UK golf break • Breakfast & Lunch included • Raffle & Sponsor Sweepstake

#S7LOVESCHARITY

ISSUE 451

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

FREE

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY POWERED BY

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 202

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLIN

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHD

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE7

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

Holiday in Europe, 000 cash, Golf UK Golf break of clubs and

PART OF

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

ONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

WHY ENTER?

• Great prizes for nearest pins a longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash, car, an all-inclusive holiday, a golf clubs or a UK golf break • Lunch included • Sweepstake, raffle and more

Sponsorship opportunities ava

search marketing & conversion specialists

UPPORT OF:

r Hole in One

ENTRY INFORMATION • £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

One Prizes:

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY POWERED BY

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 202

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLIN

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHD

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE7

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

Holiday in Europe, 000 cash, Golf UK Golf break of clubs and

PART OF

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

ONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• Great prizes for nearest pins a longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash, car, an all-inclusive holiday, a golf clubs or a UK golf break • Lunch included • Sweepstake, raffle and more

search marketing & conversion specialists

UPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020 MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

Star Hole in

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

MEET THE DIGITAL MARKETING COMPANY WHICH MADE IT BIG BY GIVING BIG SEARCH SEVEN ON ITS 10TH BIRTHDAY CHARITY SEARCH SEVEN CHARITY ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

7 GOLF DAY

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

WORKSHOP

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

S E RVI NG TH E SUSSE X BUS I N ES S COM MUN ITY S I NCE 197 5 SPONSORED BY

XI search marketing & conversion specialists

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FOR

FRIDAY

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities ava

with

Sam Thomas

The podcast that talks about the highs and the lows of running a business and being an entrepreneur. We hear from Sussex based Business owners about their journeys, discussing the good, the bad and everything in between.

Kaplicky, 19/08/2021

AppleUser121212, Fri

Love the authenticity of this podcast

Inspiring and relevant business podcast

I love a business focussed podcast and this is a great one, so fascinating to hear the stories of how the owners started their businesses. A really authentic discussion as well, it’s so important that the low points of the journey are discussed as well as we all have them.

This podcast is a great listen for any business owner. Lots of wisdom from business people who have been there and got the t-shirt, with a great story to tell along the way. The passion of guests and the superb presenter, Sam Thomas, comes through every step of the way.

Listen on

County Business Clubs Content Hub

LISTEN

2 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

WATCH

SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to the final, bumper issue of SBT for 2021.

Where has the year gone? It started with another lockdown but, as the last 18 months have shown, a strong sense of community has strengthened us - we have pulled through together. It has been so amazing to return to live events - especially the Best of British with 500 in The Grand which, at one point, we thought would not be possible. This is always my favourite issue of the year, our Charity Special. I am delighted to have good friend Gavin Willis and the Search Seven team as our cover feature. It’s great to celebrate their 10-year anniversary and congratulate them on raising a phenomenal £77k for 10 local charities. What an amazing achievement. We also celebrate many other charities from across our county and hear what they have been up to this year and a little more about the great work they do. Last month, we saw the official launch party of County Business Clubs and - WOW! - what a night it was. A huge ‘thank you’ from me to all our sponsors and all those who attended and supported the event - not to mention for your ongoing support for County Business Clubs. As always, this issue is packed with insights, advice and great content across a variety of sectors, written by the Sussex business community for the Sussex business community. Thank you all, as always, for your continued support and I hope you enjoy the issue. Sam Thomas, Managing Director

VALUE ADDED PARTNERS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

Issue 451

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WORKSHOP

SBT POWERED BY:

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY XI

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

ISSUE 451

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

FREE

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

SUSSEX BUSINESS TIMES ENTRY INFORMATION • £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY POWERED BY

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020 MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

Star Hole

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

in One Prizes:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

ENTRY INFORMATION

CHARITIES 6TH MAY XI

Sponsorship opportunities available

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

WHY ENTER? • Great prizes for nearest pins and longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash, a new car, an all-inclusive holiday, a set of golf clubs or a UK golf break • Breakfast & Lunch included • Raffle & Sponsor Sweepstake Sponsorship opportunities available

County Business Clubs Launch Party

Monthly News

SBT Finance

SBT Legal

SBT Property

SBT Cover Feature

SBT Start Ups & Entrepreneurs

SBT Good Business

SBT Sales & Marketing

SBT Tech

SBT Charity

SBT Motor News

Chamber News

SBT Networking & Events

101

SBT Sport

107

SBT Lifestyle

111

SBT Ask the Expert

SBT 2021 Roundup

A round up of news and good news stories from across the County

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

Star Hole in

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION • £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY POWERED BY

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020 MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

#S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WORKSHOP

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN PART OF

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

MEET THE DIGITAL MARKETING COMPANY WHICH MADE IT BIG BY GIVING BIG SEARCH SEVEN ON ITS 10TH BIRTHDAY CHARITY SEARCH SEVEN CHARITY ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

ENTRY INFORMATION

CHARITIES 6TH MAY

Sponsorship opportunities available

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

WHY ENTER?

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

7 GOLF DAY

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

PRESENTS

WORKSHOP

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

DIGITAL MARKETING

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

SERVI NG T H E SUSSEX B USI N ESS C OM MUN ITY SI NC E 1975 SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FOR

FRIDAY

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

Autumn Budget 2021 By Carpenter Box

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

Cover 451

Joint Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 07894 762304 Joint Managing Director Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production & Design Kim Butler kim@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Licenced to TBG by Pixel Publications Ltd Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print Group 1A Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea West Sussex BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

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. 2020 ©

4 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Menopause at Work By Mayo Wynne Baxter

The future of commercial space in Coastal West Sussex

Magnificent Seven – We talk to Search Seven on the 10th Birthday

Meet the New Business & IP Centre Ambassador

How the Bevy Does Christmas | Hisbe: A Rebel Supermarket on a Mission

So That Was 2021 – What comes Next? | 5 Marketing Trends for the New Year and more

Windows 365 will change your world again – Extech Cloud Our Bumper Charity Special as we hear from some of Sussex’s amazing charities and the work they do The most promising concept cars - Rivervale

We hear from Sussex Chamber & Brighton Chamber

Network My Club Don’t Go Networking to get Business | Jackie’s Networking Adventures continued...

Laurence Elphick Asks – A round up of sport from across the County and much more…

The New Community that is Connecting Brighton | CBC Wine of the Month

Elwood Wine Selections | 5 Tips to Present like a Pro

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

County Business Clubs’ official lift off In May 2020 during

Monthly News

the global pandemic, we launched County Business Clubs. The

premise of the club is

to help support local businesses within

the amazing Sussex community at each stage in their commercial journey. With collaboration at the core of our values

we quickly established some amazing

partnerships such as local Chambers of Commerce, Love Local Jobs, Network

My Club, FSB, Plus X to name a few and began to help support businesses. We grew to over 300 members in the first

few months during our beta stage and

thanks to your feedback and support we relaunched our new all-encompassing platform in April 2021.

By bringing 4 different platforms

together we have created a single

business eco system that can support

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

all businesses with different needs

at different times in their commercial

journey. Members can connect in our

community, share in our content hub,

save, and sell in our Marketplace and

grow using our business academy and jobs portal.

The growth of County Business Clubs

over the past 18 months is a testament to the fantastic community we aim

to support and bring together. It was therefore amazing that on Thursday 18th November we held our official

live launch party at the amazing British Airways i360.

The evening was in aid of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and the SOLD

OUT event was a huge success. We

welcomed over 170 of the movers and shakers from the Sussex Business

Community and thanks to your support

raised over £3,500 for the charity. I was genuinely overwhelmed by the support

- not only on the night but over the past 18 months.

The event, however, would not have been possible if not for our amazing

sponsors, Preston Insurance Brokers,

ICP Search, Whitespace and Structured Communications, to whom I am so

grateful. I would like to also thank my business partner Lee Mansfield, our

amazing community manager, Jackie

Ashwood who continues to go above

and beyond, James Johnson, Picture Book Films, all those that donated

raffle prizes, The Grand Brighton, Gars, Malmaison, Ridgeview, Elwood Wines

and Rivervale. Finally, all our members, partners and supporters, we look

forward to growing and supporting our amazing local community.

CBC L AUN CH PA RTY

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

C B C L AUN C H PARTY

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT 2 0 2 1 R O U N D U P

SBT 2021 round up

Although 2021 has been a year of unprecedented challenges, it has also been one of resilience with some standout business success stories across Sussex. Firms have innovated and evolved to harness growth. This features looks back on some of those success stories and celebrates the positives that will serve as a springboard to future prosperity as we head towards 2022. The Sussex Business

SBT Round up

Times has produced eight issues during the year as well as

numerous podcasts.

Here are some of the highlights.

significant change has to be the rise

of digital technology. When I started at Wynne Baxter Godfree, there was no

internet – incredible but true. It is almost

impossible to imagine any business now, no matter how traditional, that does not use digital technology in one way or

another. Plus, of course, there are whole swathes of businesses that would not exist at all without digital technology,

and Sussex has many clusters of worldleading companies in that sector.”

Sussex Cricket launched a ground-

breaking Mental Health and Wellbeing

Hub with support from cricketing great In January, we introduced readers to

Dean Orgill following an announcement that he was the new Chief Executive of one of the South East’s most

prominent regional law firms, Mayo

Wynne Baxter. He succeeded Chris

Randall, who had been at the helm for

well over a decade. As well as giving a brief overview of his life and career, he

spoke about the changing commercial

landscape. Mr Orgill said: “The biggest

on how to get your business through a global pandemic and, in a Charity Special, we paid tribute to Ryan

Heal who stood down as CEO of

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity after

a remarkable 8 years. We also checked in with Brighton Gin, which was

celebrating success by claiming the

Business Pivot Award. In technology, Extech Cloud asked businesses if

they were being held to ransom by IT managers and explained how to get

tech right for growth. We also threw a spotlight on women who work in IT.

Sarah Taylor. The NHS-backed initiative was the first of its kind and devised in response to the fallout of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

MHA Carpenter Box gave us an

overview of what the Brexit deal meant

for business in Europe and we revealed that industrial development Brighton Works was such a success that it

was almost at capacity. Meanwhile,

Creative Pad gave some great pointers

In March, we threw the spotlight on a

small Shoreham-based business making

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

S BT 2 0 2 1 ROUN D U P big moves in the automotive industry.

67 Degrees is a specialist in developing impactful websites and offers creative

cash was still the biggest problem for businesses still trapped in lockdown.

marketing services exclusively to the

state of the mortgage market and, in

director Laura Coleby explained: “We’ve

HR news, six experts talked about best

been fortunate enough to win this

practice in hybrid and flexible working.

award for three consecutive years now,

Also on HR, Business Doctors told us

however, this year’s win feels particularly

about the Kickstart Scheme. We caught

special given the global situation we find

up with the latest positive developments

ourselves in. When Justin and I started

at Whitespace as well as Agency

fantastic customer service teamed with

In April, our cover feature was about

are extremely passionate about what

With sectors emerging from lockdown,

have worked in the automotive industry

activity. We spoke to Bradley Hatchett,

desire to see our customers and the

Network My Club, who explained:

we do here at 67 Degrees. Many of us

some points to consider for hospitality areas. Mortgage Medics outlined the

another Car Dealer Power Award, co-

hands-on support and guidance. We

Bank and Mayo Wynne Baxter explained businesses in respect of outside seating

automotive industry. After winning

the business, we pledged to provide

We also took a closer look at Metro

the future of business networking.

networking was still limited to online

53. Adapting to the reality of remote

working was the topic of a feature from NWT and, in charity news, we learned from Turning Tides how the economic

fallout of the pandemic was impacting homelessness locally.

for many years now and we have a real

founder and Managing Director of

wider sector performing well.”

“We’re running all kinds of online

In the same issue, it was revealed that

exhibitions, awards ceremonies,

expanded its portfolio and Acumen

demonstrations, Q&As, pub quizzes,

the Top 50 Fastest Growing Businesses

events, webinars, networking and

news with the launch of the Table Talk

own virtual pub, Network My Pub,

children about food. Our contributors

be saying over a year ago. This has

with Co-Founder and Managing Director

by the pandemic - tackling everything

afternoons when we open it and has

re-branded from Cobb Digital, 2021

Carpenter Box explained how the Spring

in a fun way during lockdowns.”

for the 18-strong team who deliver

Stephanie Prior gave us an insight on

In the same issue, Acumen Business

a wide range of clients. On the topic

marketing can challenge perceptions.

Growing Business in Sussex with a

marketing needs he said: “It has

platform TruChallenge and found out

multiple sectors. We updated readers

year has unfolded for our clients. We

Brighton’s Edward Street Quarter and

no two clients have faced the same

through a fascinating topic - the value of

co.uk, talked about how businesses

on our toes as we look to re-think

business also explained new changes to

than before Covid-19 struck. Meanwhile

and build new strategies. For example,

My Club outlined how to be an effective

and Servo Private Wealth broached the

of sales as a result of our Facebook

Chamber of Commerce explained how

for the rest of your life.

Google campaigns, we’ll divert spend to

events for clients, including online

Midnight Communications had further

charity fundraisers, live cooking

Business Law launched a bid to find

company social and team-building

in Sussex. There was more good

many others. We even opened our

Foundation in Sussex, which educates

last year. Not a sentence I thought I’d

For May’s cover feature, we sat down

had plenty of advice on issues caused

proven extremely popular on Friday

of Fox&Bear, James Dempster. Having

from redundancies to evictions. MHA

helped people stay connected socially

marked a significant period of growth

Budget may impact businesses and

integrated marketing campaigns for

the topic of racism and explained how

Law officially named its Top 50 Fastest

of how the pandemic had changed

We also introduced you to interactive

plethora of success stories across

been really interesting to see how this

more about the Sussex Cancer Fund.

on significant progress being made on

work across a number of sectors, so

Meanwhile, Rivervale Leasing talked us

Richard Freeman, SEO of alwayspossible.

challenges and it’s certainly kept us

Britain’s most popular car colours. The

could emerge from the pandemic fitter

marketing campaigns, change tactics

the Electric Company Car Tax. Network

the Culture Recovery Fund was launched

if we’re seeing a much larger number

networker of the future and Sussex

topic of how much money you will need

advertising campaigns, rather than our

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT 2 0 2 1 R O U N D U P Facebook ensuring that we’re efficient

with investment, delivering the strongest returns. We look at this across all

marketing channels so that we can be

sure we’re delivering the strongest return on investment.”

County Business Clubs Sussex revealed the winners of its Virtual Business

Awards. Meanwhile, Sussex brewery Hepwroth & Company offered free

beer to pubs to celebrate the launch of its light ale Tier Drop. Carpenter Box

offered valuable advice to businesses

welcoming employees back to the office and we met the co-founders of award-

winning currency specialists Spartan FX. Mayo Wynne Baxter offered some sage advice on whether or not a business

should be a limited company and 365

Employment Law talked about Covid-19 vaccinations in the workplace.

In charity news, Rockinghorse

announced plans for its Charity Golf

Day. Back on the pandemic front, HR

Dept. answered some of your questions in a troubleshooting feature for

businesses re-opening. Stephanie Prior explained how listening to business

leaders is an empowering experience and Consortium offered advice for

businesses thinking of entering awards competitions. 67 Degrees marked its

fifth anniversary and we met ‘Charity of the Year’ Chestnut Tree House.

innovation hub brought to a county like Sussex and how the pandemic

had changed the way people work.

Mat explained: “We had a short golden period between the two lockdowns

but last winter got much tougher. We

interview with Plus X Brighton cofounders Mat Hunter and Paul

Rostas. We wanted to know what the

Brighton. To celebrate English Wine

Week, County Business Clubs’ Wine

of the Month came from the Plumpton Estate in East Sussex.

were working with people who made physical things and the government guidance allowed us to stay open.

In fact, during the first lockdown we were making PPE for the NHS. So

when we came to open this place, we had a lot of experience of operating

during the pandemic. Month on month people continued to come and said

psychologically and practically, they

needed that. And here we are towards

For our August cover feature, we spoke

in the building.”

Paul Britton. He said: “When people ask

In the same issue, an urban cricket

two answers: the lawyer’s answer, and

Brighton & Hove and Shoreham-by-

None. Not because the answers are

the best places to work in the UK. In

matter what the answer is. What matters

announced £11.8m funding for the

can be, how compelling your story is

Designate was celebrating success

narrative. And 9 times out of 10, that’s

VisitBrighton campaign. We celebrated

“As we’ve eased out of lockdown, what’s

start-ups and also took a look behind

adapted to the challenges it presented.

we reported that former CEO of

all, some were faltering and were dealt

Heal was made Honorary Patron in

through sheer determination and good

the end of lockdown with 300 people

to the founder of Britton & Time Solicitors, me why I got into law, I usually give them

plan was announced for Greater

then the real one. What’s the difference?

the-Sea was announced as one of

the same, but because it really doesn’t

more good news, the Government

in this profession is how persuasive you

new Lyminster bypass. Meanwhile,

and how strongly you can evidence the

after scooping a major award for its

also the law.” On the pandemic, he said:

innovation with a special section for

struck me most is how businesses have

the scenes at Whitespace. Meanwhile,

Some haven’t been able to operate at

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity Ryan

a death blow, and others have thrived

recognition of his outstanding work.

strategic planning.”

launched a new service to help local

In the same issue we discovered how

Sussex Chamber of Commerce

Our cover feature in July was an

new Tapas Revolution was opening in

businesses that import or export.

sales had taken off following a revamp

In-person networking was back in

reported that demolition work was

Best of British Members Club at

of redevelopment. Kreston Reeves

revealed the five books that will help

rise and, in legal news, Simon Baillie-

Our Lunch Review was back and we

Baxter, explained why you should

offer in Hove. We also revealed that a

in the loop. In marketing news, we

at Eastbourne Car Auctions and we

vogue and we caught up with the

under way at Sackville Road ahead

its launch event. Network My Club

explained probate fees were set to

anyone become a better networker.

Hamilton, partner at Mayo Wynne

sampled some of what Nostos has to

always keep your business advisors

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

S BT 2 0 2 1 ROUN D U P learned how new estate agents

Hamlyn Smith developed a brand. The Business and IP Centre Sussex gave some sound advice to start-ups and told them to do their research.

We threw the spotlight on new

Worthing business Bare Cacao and

Coastal West Sussex explained how

innovation it cutting carbon emissions across the county. In charity news, we met Little Lifesavers. Brighton Chamber was back to in-person

meetings and Sussex Chamber of

Commerce was announced as a pilot

for the Skills Accelerator Programme.

In September, we interviewed Best of

British Events founder Ryan Heal, who was flying the flag for the return of live events. The well-known and award-

Elsewhere in the magazine, we

about. It gives people support and

was the new director charged with

women who may not have thought

in Eastbourne. Meanwhile, Ardingly

services should be available as part

and we highlighted Startup September.

people are aware of their ‘fertility

diversified in the pandemic - moving

and choices.”

order sweets. We featured Seofon

Bonners celebrated the launch of a

entrepreneurs were named among

we were thrilled to bring back Ask

40’. Meanwhile, 365 Employment Law

mark Mental Health Awareness Day.

end of the furlough scheme.

spoke about his successful work with

Bruce Williams was announced as

award for its hand-crafted brandy

Brighton’s Edward Street Quarter

initiative to address inequalities in tech.

announced the return of its Bonfire

to turn a side hustle into a career and,

the best and worst vehicles for the

Watch This Sp_ce, talked about future

introduced you to James Roberts who

choice especially to career minded

overseeing future growth at The Beacon

about this.Fertility checkups and

Football Club marked its 125th year

of a corporate benefit package. Once

Andy Scowen revealed how he had

status’ then they can make decisions

from print and distribution to mail

Business Services and Sussex-based

new flagship store in Eastbourne and

Servo Primate Wealth’s ‘Top 40 Under

The Expert with s special feature to

shared some legal insights following the

In the hot seat was Yaron Engler, who

the artist set to create new work for

and Silicon Brighton launched an

and, in charity news, Rockinghorse

Entrepreneurs shared secrets on how

Night Quiz. Rivervale Leasing revealed

in HR news, Mo Kanjilal, Co-Creator of

environment and Sussex Chamber

proofing businesses in an inclusive way.

2021 business awards. Network Albion

Multigenerational workplaces and

sell-out event.

feature with Loch Associates Group

of Commerce opened entries for its

returned to the Amex stadium with a

winning businessman said of the events

remote working was the topic of a

and Mayo Wynne Baxter touched on the thorny topic of doubling ground

organisation’s first six months of 2021:

rents. Michael Gietzen was included

“Due to the restrictions, the first couple

in the UK’s Top 50 Most Ambitious

of BBMC (Best of British Members Club)

Business Leaders for 2021 and we had

meetings were very much Members

a special feature on what growth looks

only due to the guidelines at the time.

like for small businesses following a

Thankfully, our Members can now bring

year like no other.

guests to our meetings which is great.

As far as Membership is concerned, we are at full capacity until 2022. Despite

men. Spirit of the Downs won a top

All issues of the magazine are available

the demand for Memberships, I had to

Our October cover feature marked

BBMC which was that we will never be

We met Kuljit Moore-Juneja, owner

provides genuine exclusivity for our

She explained: “Recently a number

directors, who can now experience

and Centrica, have included the cost

hearing from the best speakers in a safe

wider employee benefits package.

to read online for free. You can access

back issues and our latest podcasts at http://thebusinessgroup.co.uk

stay true to the original vision for the

National Fertility Awareness Week.

more than 50 Members…For me, this

of the Sussex Downs Fertility Clinic.

From all of us here at SBT, we hope

members, who are all business owners/

of key employers, such as Natwest

Happy New Year.

the best hospitality at the best venues

of fertility treatments as part of their

space environment.”

This is something that I am passionate

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

you have a Merry Christmas and a

Thank you for being a part of our community.

SBT MONTHLY NEWS

SBT MONTHLY NEWS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

MO NT H LY N E WS

Eastbourne Sports Park

Eastbourne Borough Council, Wave Leisure Trust and East Sussex College Partnership welcome Technogym Gym and Group Training Equipment to Eastbourne Sports Park. Wave Leisure Trust,

Monthly News

Eastbourne Borough Council and East Sussex College

have been working

together to bring a new gym and two new studios to Eastbourne Sports Park. Current facilities include the

Athletics Track, 3G All Weather Pitch, Grass Pitches, Indoor Tennis and Sports Centre.

The new facilities bring the latest gym and group training equipment, and digital support from sector leading

“Technogym”, designed to cater for a

range of potential customers from those looking to return to exercise, as well as those who’ve never been active and

want to make positive steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Eastbourne Sports Park will enable the enthusiast to meet and enhance their physical training requirements, and

amateur and professional athletes to prepare for success.

In addition, by working closely with GP surgeries and health service referral

teams, it will offer appropriate physical, mental and/or emotional support for those in rehabilitation.

In short, it will be a community resource serving all ages and abilities.

Duncan Kerr, CEO Wave Leisure Trust,

said “We are delighted to bring these new facilities to Eastbourne Sports Park. By

working in partnership with Eastbourne

Borough Council and East Sussex College we’re able to bring the latest state of the

art gym and group training equipment to the Eastbourne Community.

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

“We are acutely aware of the physical,

College, added: “We are thrilled to

our communities have faced over the

this fantastic new facility that will

to make this new facility accessible to a

experiences, career aspirations and

mental and emotional health challenges

be working with Wave leisure on

past 20 months and as such we want

really revolutionise our student’s

broad range of community user.

work readiness. This partnership

“We want our customers to feel

will learn within a real working

new types of exercise to support active

Leisure team and one that we are so

is truly unique in that our students

encouraged to explore traditional and

environment, integrated into the Wave

lifestyles which, as we all know is

excited to develop moving forward.

communities moving forward. Customers

“The next stage of this development is

have fun, try new things and in doing so

and develop our curriculum to ensure it

fundamentally key for maintaining healthy will be encouraged to be curious, to

looking at working together to adapt

embrace active living.” Duncan said.

provides the skills needed for a career in

Cllr David Tutt, leader of Eastbourne

Borough Council, welcomed the new

health, sports science and fitness.”

The new gym and group training studios

fitness facilities coming to the town. He

are due to open on 6th November 2021.

welcome new addition to the existing

Wave Leisure Trust is promoting early

Park. Our physical health and mental

campaign. New members who sign up to

through these challenging Covid times.

will receive November for free.

of Eastbourne and further afield.”

For more information, please visit

said: “The gym and studio space are a facilities at the Eastbourne Sports

well-being are so important, especially

an Eastbourne Sports Park membership

This is a great new offer to the people

Rebecca Conroy, CEO at East Sussex

www.sporteastbourne.co.uk/were-back

MON T H LY N E WS

Groundsure releases new research to warn of the mining risk to homebuyers Groundsure has

Monthly News

today released new research to alert homeowners of

the hidden hazards

associated with disused mine shafts in some of the UK’s major cities.

In Groundsure’s latest white paper, the

research identifies more than eight million

residential properties nationally that could

be affected by disused mine shafts, due to how close to the surface and foundations

in a sinkhole that has

engulfed their garden. Climate change also

poses an additional threat

to the number of sinkholes appearing. Warmer

summers and wetter

winters will make the soil more unstable, causing ground movement and

collapses to accelerate.

of a home the mines were dug.

Additionally, due to a

An average 30% of properties in

the need for more homes,

major cities have been identified by

Groundsure as “at risk” of significant movement, with properties in York

and Leeds recognised as the worst affected. Many other cities such as Norwich and Bristol are also at risk

due to an extensive history of chalk and stone mining.

growing population and developers have built

new housing estates on top of disused mineral and mine shafts. With many of these mines

dating back hundreds of years, they have been forgotten about and

built over as cities have

conveyancers must be alert to this

homeowners to not take any risks and

intensifying these risks. The breadth and

ahead of buying a property or adding

backed up by our expert team of

grown. As such, it is important for

for their clients and climate change is

ensure comprehensive research is done

detail of our mining features catalogue,

new assets.

geologists, means that we can bring

characteristics and complications. Sink

Groundsure is committed to not

conveyancers and homebuyers.”

but insurers no longer cover the costs

feasible solutions for the home buyer.

Groundsure’s latest research should

stability reports in terms of coal mining,

to examine all types of mining risk. For

insignificant. Groundsure’s unique mining

that Avista can address all the main

points to produce comprehensive reports

of mining search covered in a cost-

Conveyancers historically have focused on coal mines, but they are not as

widespread, nor the biggest risk. There are an additional 60 types of disused mineral and metal mines throughout

England and Wales, all with differing holes are the most common threat,

only spotting hazards but finding

clarity to the degree of risk for both

Conveyancers already advise on ground

compel conveyancers and their clients

but beyond this the risk is perceived as

the conveyancer, they can be confident

records archive collates 110 million data

environmental risks and have all types

on all major non-coal mining types.

efficient way.

market leading Avista report.

To find out more, visit www.groundsure.

pools to their garden. Furthermore,

Malcolm Smith, Chief Operating

To read the white paper, visit www.

charges in excess of £10,000 to fill

mining risk affects many homes and

press-release.

caused by them unless they directly affect the house.

Ground collapses have previously been rare, yet with 32,000 natural sinkholes

currently appearing in the UK, disused mines add potentially thousands more sinkholes nationwide. This affects a

homebuyer’s ability to add assets such

as garden offices, hot tubs or swimming homeowners could be faced with

These are included in Groundsure’s

Officer at Groundsure, said: “Non-coal

com/avista.

groundsure.com/hidden-hazards-

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

MO NT H LY N E WS

Good Life Sorted wins Best SE Disruptor at National Awards Sussex business Good Life Sorted has been named as Disruptor of the Year for the South East at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. The home help

Monthly News

company, operating

across Sussex, Dorset and Hampshire,

connects older adults

with hand-picked, vetted, caring Helpers from their local community, who provide their services for a reasonable hourly fee - building a new friendship and alleviating loneliness.

Good Life Sorted was inspired by

founder Constantine Karampatsos’s

grandmother Zoe, who stayed active and independent in her own home until she

was 96 thanks to the help of her caring

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards

little help with the daily chores. There are

best of British enterprise, inviting

are often lonely, according to Age UK.

with their entrepreneurial success

this and there are almost 200 Helpers

Bank, the awards ceremony was held

providing companionship and daily help

November and saw 159 entrepreneurs

neighbour who provided company and a

launched in 2012 to celebrate the

1.4 million older adults in the UK who

founders from across the UK to apply

Good Life Sorted aims to help combat

stories. In partnership with Starling

already operating across the region,

at Grosvenor House in London on 22

to older adults.

across the UK recognised for

Co-founder Verity Batchelder says,

achievements over the last year.

recognition of our different approach.

Over the last decade, the Awards has

empowerment, as our customers want

including Julie Deane OBE of Cambridge

just need a little company and day to

Grenade and Shaun Pulfrey of Tangle

care. There is huge demand for our

grabbing success story is its previous

several councils, so we have rapid

event, Steven Bartlett, who in May was

success of the southeast region and

on BBC’s Dragons Den.

wonderful Helpers, we plan to launch in

The awards were judged by a panel of

“We’re delighted to win this award in

their entrepreneurial stories and

This is about company, respect and

celebrated some household names

to remain in their homes and might

Satchel Co, Alan and Juliet Barratt of

day support - not personal or medical

Teezer. Its most recent headline-

service: we are being approached by

winner, and speaker at this year’s

expansions plans, and based on the

announced as the youngest ever Dragon

the professionalism and warmth of our

more regions over the next six months.”

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

industry experts and leaders of influential

UK businesses, including some of the prize winners from previous years.

Francesca James, founder of the

Great British Entrepreneur Awards, spoke highly of the entrepreneurial talent coming out of this year’s

cohort: “It was fantastic to hear so

many inspiring business stories after a difficult few years, and even better to have been able to invite all of our finalists to the in-person ceremony and celebrate together.

“With more than 1,200 attending, the

evening was a real snapshot of the UK

economy. The winners were thoroughly deserving, overcoming some stiff

competition from their fellow finalists, and we look forward to welcoming

them into our alumni community and

seeing what they do next. It’s always

exciting to watch our previous winners go on to achieve amazing things and I don’t expect any less from this year’s

award recipients, who we will support all the way.”

Carpenter Box enhances employee wellbeing with major refurb Leading accountancy

Monthly News

and finance firm

Carpenter Box has carried out a full

refurbishment of its

Worthing office in response to the shift in working trends brought about by Covid-19.

The 3-storey building has been fully revamped by Sussex-based interior

fit-out and refurbishment specialists,

Warnes Projects, with the wellbeing of

the firm’s 140 Worthing employees at the heart of the design.

Features include spacious food and

drink preparation areas, stylish break out zones with funky banquette

seating and a breakfast bar, integrated USB charging points and acoustic rafts throughout, as well as a new

soundproof meeting room complete

a more flexible space on each floor.

with the latest tech.

This has created a more welcoming

An eclectic mix of industrial furniture,

come together for informal meetings and

environment, perfect for staff to relax or

quirky artwork, and pops of Carpenter

team projects.”

modern minimalist look.

Alan Edwards, Managing Partner at

Employees have also been treated

pandemic has changed the world of

to cup’ coffee machines on every

take our learnings from this experience

perception that office space should

environment suited to the needs of

collaboration opportunities.

create a space that reflects our people-

Marc Sagoo, senior designer at Warnes,

forward to visiting, and we couldn’t be

Box’s blue brand colours, create a

Carpenter Box, commented: “The

to deluxe additions, such as ‘bean

work as we know it. So, we decided to

floor, in support of the hybrid-model

to reconfigure a positive workplace

be maximised for conversation and

modern-day life. It was important to us

centric culture that employees can look

said: “Carpenter Box wanted a more

happier with the finished result!”

to its growing team. Our approach

For more information about Carpenter

traditional fixed desks to make way for

www.carpenterbox.com

contemporary workspace better suited was to reduce the overall number of

Box, please visit:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

MO NT H LY N E WS

Sussex vineyard produces the world’s finest glass of bubbly Mayfield-based

Monthly News

English sparkling

wine producer Fox & Fox has won the

World’s Finest Glass

of Bubbly trophy for its newly released 2015 Brut English Sparkling Wine, a

special own-label wine produced for the Royal Warrant holding cheesemonger, Paxton & Whitfield.

This is the first time in the Glass of

Bubbly awards’ history that the top

trophy, which goes to the wine which

has received the most points over two

rounds of blind taste testing, has been presented to an English producer.

Since Fox & Fox’s vineyard was planted

in Mayfield, East Sussex in 2004, owners Jonica and Gerard Fox have adopted a careful and imaginative attitude to

viticulture and winemaking, ensuring

that each vintage English sparkling wine

is respectful and reflective of both the

We hope that cheese lovers across the UK

season and place.

will enjoy the unique, now award-winning

Last year, Fox & Fox was also the first

appreciate a multitude of English wine and

blend, and more importantly will be able to

English wine producer to feature in the

cheese pairings.”

producer of the year awards, after

The first English wine to be launched by

on-trade wine competition.

2015 Brut English Sparkling Wine has been

Fox & Fox co-founder and viticulturalist

Pinot Noir grapes grown in Fox & Fox’s

2020 Sommelier Wine Awards (SWA)

picking up three gold medals in the UK’s

the 200-year-old British cheesemonger, the produced from a blend of Chardonnay and

Jonica Fox said: “We really are incredibly

vineyard in Mayfield, East Sussex.

judged as the world’s finest glass of

Released in response to “a growing

proud of all the wines we produce, into

Wine to pair with the Paxton & Whitfield’s

When it came to developing a special

Paxton’s particularly recommend it paired

our approach was no different. To have

goats’ milk cheese, which is also produced

Glass of Bubbly Awards makes the hard

wine and cheese are perfectly in balance,

England’s marginal climate all worthwhile.

fudge-like texture of the cheese.

honoured to have had one of our wines

bubbly. Both Gerard and I are incredibly

demand for a first-class English Sparkling

which we put so much thought and effort.

range of exceptional artisan cheeses”,

own-label blend for Paxton & Whitfield

with the award-winning Golden Cross

received recognition like this from the

in East Sussex. The acidity of both the

work which goes into growing grapes in

while the bubbles cut through the dense

“We are delighted to be working with the boutique English grower and award-

winning producer Fox & Fox to bottle, for the first time ever, our very own, English

sparkling wine,” said Suzanne Kennerley, Buying Manager at Paxton & Whitfield.

“Our cheesemongers have selected this

traditional method, sparkling wine for its

versatile pairing with artisan cheese. It is a delightful “anytime” English fizz. Light and effervescent, this wine has notes

of gentle hawthorn, citrus, white peach, and freshly baked bread.”

The World’s Finest Glass of Bubbly

trophy winning English Sparkling Wine (£35.00/75cl) is available online from

www.paxtonandwhitfield.co.uk and

from its three stores in Jermyn Street,

London, Cale Street, London and Bath.

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT FINANCE

AUTUMN BUDGET 2021: WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR BY CARPENTER BOX

WHEN YOU ARE TOLD YOUR TEAM IS GREAT! BY SEOFON BUSINESS SERVICES

SBT FINANCE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

Autumn Budget 2021: What to look out for Throughout the

Finance

pandemic, the

government has been paying out unprecedented

amounts of support to employers,

businesses, and self-employed people

to protect the economy from collapsing, at the same time as incurring all the

costs of supporting the health system

through its greatest crisis. We have been waiting for the bill to arrive – the tax increases that will pay for it all.

Instead, Chancellor Rishi Sunak spent most of his speech at the 27 October

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Autumn Budget spreading more money to every corner of the United Kingdom.

He spoke of billions here, millions there,

freezing duty on fuel and alcohol, cutting business rates for small businesses,

supporting families, building houses. Although he started by saying ‘we

have challenging months ahead’, he

moved rapidly on to what he called ‘an

economy fit for a new age of optimism’. Key Points 1. Temporary Business Rates Relief

To reduce the burden of business rates in England, the government will:

• freeze the business rates multiplier

for a second year, from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023

• introduce a new temporary business

rates relief for eligible retail, hospitality and leisure properties for 2022/23, giving 50% relief up to a £110,000

per business cap, extend transitional relief for small and medium-sized

businesses, and the supporting small

business scheme, for 1 year, restricting increases in rates bills,

• subject to subsidy control limits The government will reform the system of business rates by increasing the

FI NA NCE

frequency of revaluations from 5 years to 3

earnings above the secondary threshold.

2024/25. General partnerships will not

it will introduce reliefs where occupiers

Self-employed people will pay 10.25%

April 2025.

£50,270 and 3.25% above that. The

At the same time that MTD for ITSA is

levels from 6 April 2023 when the

and late payment will apply to those

years, starting in 2023. At the same time, incur certain types of expenditure on

improvements, including eligible plant

and machinery used in onsite renewable energy generation and storage 2. Corporation Tax

As announced in March 2021, the

Corporation Tax rate will remain at 19%

until 31 March 2023. It will then increase to 25% for companies with profits

over £250,000. Since 1 April 2015, all corporate profits have been taxed at

the same rate; the ‘small profits rate’ that was familiar before that will be

reintroduced at 19% for companies with profits of up to £50,000.

Between £50,000 and £250,000 there will be a tapering calculation that

produces an effective marginal rate of

26.5% on profits between these limits, but an average rate on all profits of

between 19% and 25%. The limits will be divided between companies under

on earnings between £9,880 and

rates will revert back to their previous

introduced, new penalties for late filing

separate levy is introduced.

within the new system.

The increase in the rates is offset to a

7. VAT default surcharge replaced

thresholds below which no NIC are due.

rules for late payment of VAT will

employee with a salary of £50,000 will

beginning on or after 1 April 2022.

and from £5,680 to £6,155 (employer’s)

interest on late payment and separate

very small extent by the increase in the

As announced in March 2021, the

For example, the contributions for an

be reformed for return periods

rise from £4,852 to £5,316 (employee’s)

Default surcharge will be replaced by

4. N ational Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) increases

per hour from 1 April 2022. Other rates

be extended until 30 June 2022. The

different percentages, as recommended

made from 1 January 2022:

from the impact of the pandemic, will

of NMW will rise from the same date by

following changes will apply to all offers

by the Low Pay Commission.

Since 2015, non-UK residents have

dwarfing most of the other figures in the

Budget policy decisions. In 2022/23, this

The Recovery Loan Scheme, which was introduced to help businesses recover

3. NIC and Health and Social Care Levy

be charged to raise £13 billion a year –

8. Recovery Loan Scheme extended

individuals aged 23 and over to £9.50

5. C apital Gains Tax for UK property

a new Health and Social Care Levy will

penalties for late filing of returns.

The NLW will increase by 6.1% for

common control.

As announced on 7 September 2021,

be required to join the system until 6

sales

been required to report the sale of UK

residential property, and pay any CGT due, within 30 days of completion of

the transaction. This was extended to

• The scheme will only be open to small and medium-sized enterprises

• The maximum amount of finance

available will be £2 million per business

• The guarantee coverage that the

government will provide to lenders will fall to 70%

non-residential UK property in 2019 and,

How we can support you

residential property on which CGT is

Hub which includes our Budget Summary

from April 2020, to UK residents selling

We have created a dedicated Budget

payable. The deadline is extended to

as well as comments from our team.

both UK and non-UK residents, where a

We will review the new proposals to

October 2021.

advice to help them remain as tax

From 6 April 2022, Class 1 NIC paid

6. M aking Tax Digital (MTD) for

at Carpenter Box Financial Advisers

Class 4 NIC paid by self-employed

As announced on 23 September 2021,

will be achieved by raising the rates of

NIC; in 2023/24, the levy will be formally separated from NIC and collected

separately by HMRC, and will also apply to earnings that are not charged to NIC (principally earnings of individuals who are above State Pension age).

by employers and employees, and

people, will increase by 1.25%. This

means that employees will pay 13.25% from the primary threshold up to the

upper earnings limit and 3.25% above that; employers will pay 15.05% on all

60 days for reporting and payment, for

transaction is completed on or after 27

Income Tax delayed

ensure we offer our clients the best

efficient as possible. And our colleagues are always on hand to help manage investments and pensions in these

the government has decided to delay

turbulent times.

landlords with income over £10,000 to

For more information, please visit www.

information using MTD until the tax year

01903 234094.

the requirement for sole traders and

file income tax self assessment (ITSA)

carpenterbox.com/budget2021 or call

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

FI NAN C E

When you are told your team is great!

All of our staff at Seofon Business Services work as a team We work together to

Finance

support our clients by providing a

professional, timely and informative

service. And this was strongly

confirmed in an email from a client, who shared her thoughts, saying:

“Once again the Seofon team have gone over and above to assist me

with my business needs. No-matter

who I have spoken to, I have always received curtesy, humour and some

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

excellent advice; which is always coupled with a fast and efficient

service. I originally asked Seofon

to help with my bookkeeping and

accounts, and although I had believed I was doing them well myself, your

expertise has enabled me to improve my cash flow and save money too.

Seofon have also put me in contact

with other businesses that I now work closely with and I just wanted to say a big, big thank you. Please, please share this email with your wonderful team too.”

Wow! Needless to say as Seofon

directors, Caroline and I were thrilled.

It was amazing to receive; and it really sums up everything that everyone at

Seofon works so hard to achieve. So

now I am going to introduce you to our talented and amazing team!

Starting with Vicky, she has been part

of our team for five years. Often a first point of contact, she integrates new

clients into our processes and systems, discusses their needs and ensures that

we deliver! She sees that all necessities,

FI NA NCE

ranging from basic bookkeeping through to regular reporting requirements, are specifically formatted to suit each business or private client need.

Vicky is a whiz at ensuring the unique processing factors for each company are met; and that we have a full

understanding and knowledge of a

client’s business needs. She trains clients how to use their systems

more effectively, and how to read and understand the reports they

produce. And always on the go, Vicky volunteers at a local autism charity

and excels at drawing, water colour painting and crafts.

A keen gardener who enjoys floristry, jewellery making, ballet classes and watching live music; you would not immediately suspect that Lucy’s

specialty is international businesses! Working on clients with business

interests across the globe and dealing with multiple currencies, she ensures

that every reporting intricacy is covered. In addition, Lucy regularly works on

many ad-hoc requests; whether it is simply reviewing what clients have

done themselves, the completion of

business accounts to get ready for a

sale as a client retires or the building of a spreadsheet to help a client manage contract work and client reporting.

Claire is our longest serving member of staff, providing support for many of our

established clients. Brilliant at delivering a very effective credit control service, she also overseas our ‘new client’ internal procedures.

We must comply with all regulatory

requirements regarding the Anti-Money

Laundering ID checks, and she certifies all pre-work ID compliance responsibilities. Many of our staff develop their skills

and experience during their time with

us and Mari started as the person who

quickly grasped the procedures and

Often a laborious task, she is

more complex clients. Lindsay’s strength

are correctly added to the appropriate

diligently maintains clients’ business

got the data ready for processing.

processes we have for some of our

meticulous in ensuring that receipts

is her efficiency and organisation as she

package for processing.

records to make certain we keep

Recognising her business strengths -

everything up to date.

(out of the office she is a keen musician

So as you can see, the Seofon

with a number of specific clients to

accomplished, welcoming and always

With bespoke reports created to enable

help or advice on bookkeeping and

their cash flow; figures are prepared and

588639, email info@seofon.co.uk or

and loves live music) - she now works

Business Services team is

ensure their reporting deadlines are met.

ready to help. If you need some

some clients to keep a tight watch on

accounts, please call us on 01403

presented along with our own business

visit our website www.seofon.co.uk.

performance observations.

Finally, Lindsay is our newest member

Written by Chris Cooper – Director At Seofon Business Services.

of staff and she is also an experienced Travel Counsellor with a great source of information for those travelling in the UK and around the world.

Swift to find her feet at Seofon, she has

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

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For help and advice on your bookkeeping and accounts, please call our friendly team

T – 01403 588639 24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

E – INFO@SEOFON.CO.UK

W – WWW.SEOFON.CO.UK

SBT

LEGA L

LEGAL

MENOPAUSE AT WORK BY MAYO WYNNE BAXTER

ACCIDENTALLY STEALING FROM YOUR OWN COMPANY: A REMARKABLY COMMON SME CRIME

SBT LEGAL SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

Menopause at work In the last four years there has been a significant increase in Tribunal claims for unfair dismissal and/or sex discrimination in which menopause has been cited as a key underlying factor. According to the

Legal

Menopause Experts

Group, in 2018 there were only 5 cases in

the Tribunal that made

reference to the menopause, whereas

in the first half of 2021 there has already

been 10 cases. This sharp rise may partly be explained by the increased media coverage regarding the menopause

which had until recently been a taboo

subject, and also because an increasingly larger percentage of the workforce

are likely to be personally affected by

menopausal symptoms. The Office for National Statistics has reported that

women aged between 50 and 64 years of age are the fastest growing economically

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

active group, accounting for almost 4.5 million of the UK’s workforce.

It would also appear that an alarmingly high percentage of employees who go through the menopause are adversely impacted in the workplace. In 2019

BUPA and the Chartered Institute for

Personnel and Development conducted a survey which found that three in five menopausal women in the UK were

negatively affected by symptoms at

work and almost one million women left

their job due to menopausal symptoms. Although the Equality Act 2010 does not make specific reference to the

menopause, an employee can potentially

bring a claim for discrimination arising from unfair treatment due to the

menopause under three protected

characteristics – age, sex and disability. Age discrimination can occur because the menopause typically affects

employees within a certain age bracket. Sex discrimination may occur where an employer treats a woman who is

suffering from menopausal symptoms

less favourably than a male employee.

This occurred in the first case involving the menopause to be heard in the

Tribunal – Merchant v BT. In this case, the Claimant had been suffering from

menopausal symptoms at work which

affected her performance. Her manager

LEGA L put her on a performance management plan and refused to consider whether her poor performance was due to

health reasons and instead relied on his own perceptions and beliefs regarding the menopause.

In relation to disability discrimination,

the Equality Act 2010 defines disability as a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial long-term adverse effect on the individual’s

ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. The Tribunal has accepted that severe menopausal symptoms

can amount to disability. In the case of Davies v Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service the Claimant was suffering

from a range of symptoms, including

memory loss. Following her dismissal, she brought a claim in the Tribunal

and was awarded £14,000 for unfair

dismissal and reinstated to her job. The Tribunal also found that she had been

subject to disability discrimination, and

In view of these developments, what can

£5,000 for injury to feelings.

surrounding menopause at work?

Claimants suffering from menopausal

•c arry out risk assessments to ascertain

she was therefore awarded a further

symptoms have also successfully

brought claims against employers for

harassment and constructive dismissal

due to their treatment in the workplace.

an employer do now to tackle issues

whether there are any health and safety issues that need to be addressed

• make reasonable adjustments to

Employers should also bear in mind that

support an affected employee – e.g.

may also experience the menopause.

employee’s desk closer to a window,

On 23 July 2021 Parliament launched an

to take more frequent toilet breaks.

non-binary employees and trans men

enquiry into issues involving menopause in the workplace. The purpose of the

inquiry is to review current employment legislation and workplace practices to

ascertain whether enough is being done

providing a desk fan, moving the affected accepting that the employee may need

• consider including menopause at work policies in the staff handbook

•c onduct a review of existing workplace

and the impact it can have on affected employees

• raise awareness and understanding among the general workforce. This could perhaps be achieved by

encouraging employees to attend seminars and courses about the

menopause and pointing affected employees in the direction of appropriate support groups

Businesses that have yet to consider how these issues may affect their workforce should consider seeking professional legal advice to review their existing

policies and identify any weaknesses that may need to be addressed.

to protect employees from suffering

policies to ensure that they are not

Marika Monaghan

to their menopausal symptoms. It is

with menopausal symptoms

Telephone: 01342 310600

• offer training to employees in

mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

adverse consequences at work due

therefore possible that an employee’s rights not to suffer less favourable

likely to adversely affect employees

treatment due to the menopause will

managerial and leadership roles

more Tribunal claims.

issues concerning the menopause

be further strengthened leading to even

Associate Solicitor

Email: mmonaghan@

regarding how to raise and address

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

L EGAL

Accidentally stealing from your own company: a remarkably common SME crime By James O’Connell, Commercial Lawyer, Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors

It’s amazing how many

Legal

people think that they understand the key

concept of a company, but don’t really get it.

In some ways, incorporating a company is like adopting a baby. Yes, you have effective control over the child, but a

baby is its own separate person with its own rights and (eventually) obligations.

You may have effective control, but not absolute control - and there are clear lines that you cannot cross.

It’s the same with a company you create.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

You direct it on a day-to-day basis as a director, and you have transient control over it as a shareholder (shareholders come and go, but the company

remains). But, like a child, the company is a separate legal entity with its own

rights and obligations. Rights are owned, and obligations owed, by the company; not the by directors and not by the

shareholders (each group has its own specific sets of rights and obligations under the law).

Being a separate legal entity means that all the money in a company’s

bank account and all the assets on its

balance sheet, and all the debts owed to it by customers – they all belong to the entity that is the company,

and not the directors/shareholders

(which is why the company and not the shareholders have to pay the corporation tax on profits).

Obviously, the law allows the directors

to empty the vaults by taking payments for their services and the shareholders are free to access the company’s

money and assets via dividends and

asset distribution on winding up, BUT these things must be done properly, formally, and legally.

LEGA L

James O’Connell

In the same way that you can’t just

pocket aunt Jane’s pearl earrings upon her death (you have to inherit them via probate), so you can’t just dip into the

company’s current account if your home boiler needs replacing. You need to

withdraw the money in a lawful way. If

you don’t, then that “dip in” is actually

you taking money that does not belong to you – and that’s potentially a crime. Whether you helping yourself

constitutes theft is usually down to

a mixture of timing and the financial

wizardry practiced daily by the UK’s accountancy profession.

Many an unlawful dip in (or worse) is

saved from being theft by accountants (acting like some form of professional after-the-event insurance policy) relabelling and re-framing otherwise

unlawful spending (where and whilst it is lawful to do so I hasten to add!).

The reckless spending of company

money on a night out with friends might be re-frameable as ‘client entertaining’ (depending on who the friends were); paying the school fees becomes an

approved directors’ loan and going to the Canary Islands (not Las Palmas,

obviously) on holiday is re-framed as an interim dividend.

The legitimacy of such after-the-event reframing is, of course, sometimes debateable. Grey areas abound. Inevitably sometimes dubious

spending is merely hidden, without transubstantiation from unlawful to

lawful. But even then, although HMRC might still want a quiet word, people

rarely band around allegations of theft. It all goes wrong when the ripping of

funds from the company is too big or

too serious or too public for the soothing balm of relabelling to work: it can’t be an interim dividend because the company hasn’t made enough profit to issue a dividend, it can’t be a director’s loan

because the money was taken without consent by a shareholder’s husband/

wife, and it can’t be called entertaining because the UK GAAP standard

(accounting rules) doesn’t allow buying cocaine while attending an illegal dogfight to be reclaimed as entertaining (although not being an accountant I

stand to be corrected on that point).

when family-run businesses fail

because of divorce proceedings

between the principals. There’s no

money, no flexibility, no compassion and every spend is subject to

hostile scrutiny. In a recent case the Official Receiver went after the wife (a director/shareholder) who used

company funds to feed herself and her children whilst all (including income)

was in deep freeze because of a nasty divorce. That lady learned the hard way that her children were not the company’s children, and therefore the Official Receiver was stoney-

hearted on hearing that money from

the company bank account had been used to feed them.

The moral of the story is that owning the shares in a company is not the same

as owning the assets. You don’t. The

company does. So, unless you follow procedure and withdraw the money

lawfully using correct procedure, then

you are at risk of being taken for a thief if the accounting Dumbledores can’t work their magic.

It may not surprise you to know that this issue surfaces most frequently

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

Does your business need a helping hand? During these unprecedented times, many businesses are struggling so we would like to help. We are offering free general guidance on: • Unpaid invoices & contract disputes • Commercial landlord & tenant issues • Professional Negligence • Commercial insurance claims

• Trading Standards & consumer complaints • Shareholder & Partnership disputes • Employment claims & settlement agreements • Franchise disputes

Call us on 01273 223290

or visit www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk/here-to-help

Offices across Sussex

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT PROPERTY

THE FUTURE OF COMMERCIAL SPACE IN COASTAL WEST SUSSEX

BY CAROLINE WOOD, DIRECTOR OF THE COASTAL WEST SUSSEX PARTNERSHIP

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICES UP 10% IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS

BY SAM MURPHY, MORTGAGE MEDICS

SBT PROPERTY SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

The future of commercial space in Coastal West Sussex

By Caroline Wood, Director of the Coastal West Sussex Partnership The pandemic has

Property

had a profound

impact on the way

we work. For many

employees, the home

office and video meetings are here to

stay, and businesses are reconsidering what they need from an office. On the industrial side, demand for space has grown as the move towards internet sales accelerated during Covid-19.

The Coastal West Sussex Partnership

aims to help businesses grow and attract new companies to the area, reducing the

need for long commutes and boosting our coastal economy. So how will changing work practices affect the landscape

of commercial space – and how can

space be used more creatively to benefit business and the wider community?

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

David Martin, Partner and Head of

Sussex Coast at property specialists SHW, says flexibility is now the

top priority for businesses renting commercial space.

He said: “What we’re seeing is

companies that have a lease expiring

soon taking the decision to downsize. “If you’re a landlord it’s about offering

flexibility – maybe having a break clause, for example. We have to be much more

creative. Rents have not really dropped, but flexibility is really key now.”

While many companies have opted to downsize on office space, co-

working hubs have seen demand

increase since lockdown restrictions

were eased, in part due to the flexible contracts on offer.

Freedom Works, which has workspace hubs across Sussex, from Hove to

Worthing to Chichester, saw its biggest

growth across its coastal spaces this year, following the third national lockdown.

Founder and managing director Jon Trigg believes that after months of working at home during lockdown, shared

workspaces now have greater appeal

due to the opportunities for collaboration, networking and knowledge-sharing.

He said: “Not everybody has a house that’s conducive to working. We

position Freedom Works as more than

a roof over your head: somewhere you can work, but importantly somewhere to collaborate.

“The key USP is those coffee table conversations.”

P RO PE RTY

On the industrial side there is

also a pressing need to develop new spaces, as demand has

exceeded supply. David added: “The industrial sector is one that has really blossomed throughout all this.

“All across coastal West Sussex rents for these spaces have

climbed. But there’s very little

physical availability and until new sites are developed, that’s going to put pressure on the market

which will affect local businesses. “With retail, landlords have had Caroline Wood

to readjust the level of rents

and that has definitely helped

businesses. Often it’s the small

local ones which have replaced

Jon added: “There’s a higher chance

the big retailers which have gone.”

around peers giving you support

To support companies’ future growth

provide a better chance for start-ups to

attractive to employers, Jon argues we

of success when you’re working

and encouragement. These spaces

and make the Sussex coast more

succeed because it’s a better incubator

must transform dormant units on the

Hub coworking space in Brighton,

space to grow.”

coast into modern workspaces.

the sense of community in a shared

Despite the rise of the home office and

He said: “It’s the unlocking of these

but increasingly want to access business

says rents for office space are unlikely to

Shoreham hundreds of new houses are

an attractive space. At Plus X Brighton,

are needed to attract new or expanding

Mat Hunter, Co-CEO at Plus X Innovation added that companies not only value workspace - especially after lockdown –

flexible co-working spaces, David Martin

buildings that could make a difference. In

support and specialist facilities inside

change in the short term, and new spaces

being built, but there’s nowhere to work.

companies can connect with academics

businesses to the coastal strip.

“We’re not going back to segmenting,

support programme, a collaboration with

He said: “Probably what you’ll find

retail space somewhere else and another more homogenous now, and that’s the

and access research through the BRITE

with the office space over there, the

area for where you live. Communities are

the University of Brighton, and facilities

is some office buildings will go to

also include a podcast studio.

residential use.

Mat said: “For establishing businesses

“That’s no bad thing as it means

but also the best support programmes

buildings, which is what companies

understanding the different needs of

floors and good connectivity.

is the carefully designed infrastructure,

way people integrate.”

to grow, they need flexible office space

developers will build brand new

Mat added: “I think it’s about

and facilities.

want now – air conditioning, raised

work. Really what the flexi-space offers

“It’s that wrap-around support that’s really important – seeking support

“You need to have the infrastructure to

be normal. People come into the

between the likes of local authorities,

knowledge-sharing.”

businesses is key.”

but also the flexible business model.

for growing your business should

attract new businesses. Communication

“It’s space as a service.”

space and are very energised by the

economic development officers and

For more information, visit

https://coastalwestsussex.org.uk.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

PRO PE RT Y

Average house prices up 10% in the last 12 months - so where next? According to the Nationwide Building Society’s latest House Price Index Report, annual house price growth was 10% in September 2021, down slightly from 11% the previous month. Overall house prices are around 13% higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic. Delve a bit deeper into

Property

the statistics though

and it becomes clear the increases aren’t uniform across the

country. Growth has been stronger in

the North of England than the South, and stronger in Wales (15.3%) & Northern

Ireland (14.3%) than anywhere else in the UK. Meanwhile London has seen the

smallest increase – around 4.2% – over

the last 12 months, after years of being the region where prices were rising fastest. Why are prices still rising despite

a pandemic and all the uncertainty

surrounding it? Well we’re hearing

similar stories from many homeowners and would-be buyers at the moment. Some are only now starting to feel

confident about their financial future,

so have started to try and buy or move,

and some are still looking to leave urban areas in favour of a more rural location with more space and the hope of a better quality of life.

What everyone seems to agree on at

the moment is that housing stock is in short supply, and when a contender for ‘dream home’ appears, there’s

competition for it, which pushes the

price up and sets the precedent for the

next similar property. These are normal

market forces, but they’re intense at the moment and forcing prices up.

We’re often asked “Are house prices

going to fall or crash?” Well it’s a brave economist who predicts the future with

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

any certainty, but

barring something unexpected it’s

hard to imagine prices crashing all the while

mortgages are at record low rates,

lenders are keen to

lend, and demand it outstripping supply. As we enter the

final 3 months of 2021 the

outlook remains uncertain. Many have brought their

moving plans forward due

to the savings offered by the government’s Stamp Duty holiday, so demand may

subside and at the same time unemployment may creep up as government support tails off. But unless the balance of buyers vs. available

properties shifts in favour of more property coming

to market, competition for

desirable homes will remain tough and prices high.

If you’re looking to become a homeowner, move house

or get a better deal on your

existing mortgage we’d love to hear from you. Get in

touch and we’ll be help you

understand what’s possible, or sign up

By Sam Murphy

finger on the pulse.

house-prices-up-10pc-in-12m/

to our monthly newsletter, to keep your

https://www.mortgage-medics.com/

SBT COVER FEATURE

MAGNIFICENT SEVEN

SEARCH SEVEN ON ITS 10TH BIRTHDAY

SBT COVER FEATURE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

Magnificent Seven

Meet the digital marketing company which made it big by giving big – Search Seven on its 10th birthday. Famous for its popular

Cover Story

fundraising events – there have been 16

memorable ones so

far - and for donating

the equivalent of seven per cent of profits to charity every year, founder Gavin Willis

spills the secrets of an innovative business which mixes SEO with CSR, and has

raised £77,000 in its first decade with the

help of fundraising events and donations. There are plenty of businesses with

extensive CSR strategies, but there aren’t many which embed their

commitment to ‘giving back’ right there in the company name.

Brighton & Hove-based Search Seven,

a successful digital marketing agency, is an exception.

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The ‘seven’ in the title is an in-your-face promise to donate the equivalent of

seven per cent of annual profits to charity, and it has been there from the start.

The business achieves this through a

mixture of organised fundraising events and donating money from its profits to

ensure it meets the target of seven per

cent every year. In fact, over the last ten years Search Seven has managed to

generate the equivalent of 10 per cent of its profits for good causes.

That decision was an ahead-of-the-curve brainwave from founder Gavin Willis

because it came in 2011 – long before

businesses realised that company ethics and culture were not just a ‘nice to have’ but a ‘must have’ if they were going to

survive long term and bring Millennials

and Gen Z customers and employees on board with them.

Fast forward a decade and Search Seven is still growing, serving local, national

and international clients, and still giving

back. In fact, it is almost as famous for its popular fundraising events as for its SEO and PPC expertise.

This last year has seen record income and record staff numbers despite the

pandemic, and when the team enjoyed a 10th birthday party at Brighton’s

Malmaison they were also celebrating reaching £77,000 raised for good

causes – the culmination of a successful #share77k campaign.

In total £50,000 of money raised has gone to the company’s flagship charity, the

COVE R STO RY

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, which

improves the lives of the most vulnerable children in Sussex.

So, what drives Search Seven’s passion for fundraising? How else are they

innovating in terms of company culture?

What does the future hold? And, just why has the number seven proved so lucky?

We asked Gavin, founder and Managing

Director, to provide the answers. You may find some of them surprising….

Let’s start at the beginning, Gavin. Why number 7? You could have gone for any number!

“Believe it or not, it was just a number I

liked. It was 2011, I had been working for Propellernet in Brighton and was playing

football with the number seven on my back - and I guess I thought it was lucky and

that it sounded good. Literally, that was it! “When I left to start my own business, I always knew I wanted to make

sure it gave back to the community. So, having that commitment in the company name made sense.

“The important thing was we based that

promise on profit and not turnover. I know there are businesses out there offering up 1% for the planet based on revenue, but if you don’t make a profit that can leave you in trouble – and a lot of tech-based

businesses fail in the first two years. It’s

a bigger incentive for staff to know that if they make profit then they contribute to the community too.”

Did it become a major driver for you to build the business?

“It did. It’s been my driving force and even more so in the last year during the pandemic. You need something

to keep you going - and doing it for

charity helps you crack on and keep on pushing as a business. Maybe I

wouldn’t have been as productive if we didn’t have that 7% commitment.” What is it in the life story of Gavin

Willis that made you so committed to

something happen in their lives which

prompts the same reaction, and for me it came later. In the second year of the

business, my godson Ted Macdonald was born and that’s when the Rockinghorse

Charity, and specifically the Trevor Mann Baby Unit at the Royal Sussex County

Hospital, became very meaningful for me. “Ted is my close friend’s little boy and

when he was born he was scoring 0 out

of 10 on the Apgar scale, which tests how

ready a new-born is to meet the world. He had swelling on the brain and they had to

freeze it and warm it back up again, which was a hugely difficult time.

“Thinking back, there’s a connection for me, too. A few months after I was born, I had pneumonia and was seven weeks premature, so I was in The Trevor Mann Baby Unit too.”

charity and giving back?

Can you remember your very first

I’ve always been very driven and

“It would be one of the businesses we

“I don’t know is the honest answer! once I decided that I needed to give

something back to the community, it became my focus.

“But you’re right that many people have

customer?

brought with us from Propellernet, with

the blessing of their owners. In fact, one of the founders there, Jim Jensen, is

still a mentor for me and a good friend.

I can think of two particular customers.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

C OVE R STORY

The Leadership Team

One was Tilsun, a car leasing business, and then Loucas, an accountancy firm based in Maidstone.

“The business really took off when I was invited to talk about SEO and PPC at

a meeting with large media agency in

London shortly after, and it went down well. Suddenly we had lots more new business coming in.

“Even in that pitch it wasn’t only about Gavin Willis, Managing Director and Founder

the core business. We presented Search

Seven as a unique offering that could help a business bring the community together

as well as look after your SEO expertly. To this day we talk about being a company

that offers ‘digital marketing with meaning’. It’s incredible how much money you have raised over a decade. Do you

have to pinch yourself sometimes?

“I do! I never thought at the start we would be where we are now. When we launched the #share77k campaign in 2020 to raise Dave Hatton, COO

£77,000 by our 10th birthday it hit home

– but getting to the finish line hasn’t been easy. We had six events lined up which

had to be cancelled or postponed during the pandemic and we’ve had to pivot to

host things online. But we’ve got there – and that’s hugely exciting.”

Are there any other events you’d like to stage in future?

“There are loads! We are always having ideas. One thing I really want to do is a Harley Andrews, Head of Digital Marketing

dodge-ball style table tennis event where you come along and there’s a DJ and

music and you get given your own colour

headband as a team. Table tennis is great

Recently our new paid media executive Amber bravely embarked on a skydive

and we donated £250 to The Children’s Respite Trust.”

If you fast forward to the current day, are you finding that the culture of Search Seven is winning you business?

“It’s a big selling point because a lot

of companies like to be aligned with a business that gives back.

“Around 67% of businesses are

now purpose-driven or based on a

sustainability agenda, so we have been ahead of the curve.

“But we’re still different. Our events are innovative and engaging, they bring people together, it’s not just about handing money over to charity.”

How can you stay ahead of the curve? “A lot of businesses are going down the B-Corp route and that’s something to

consider. But the important thing is we’ve been involved in this sphere for a long time and we need to keep innovating.

“We’ve put a model in place which made us unique but there are many other

businesses now which can talk about

their own efforts, too. One of the things that interests me is telling our story to

other people – entrepreneurs for instance – and helping them to start their own

journey with purpose at the heart of it.” What about recruitment? Does your

up my sleeve! Some of the staff are also

easier to recruit?

talking about Three Peaks challenge – we’re open to all ideas.”

Do your employees get involved in fund raising?

“Definitely. When people join, we match

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

charities which mean something to them.

because anyone can play it and you have mixed teams. That’s one I’m keeping

Becky Henderson, Operations Manager

encourage them to raise money for

£250 of their fundraising in the first year and £150 a year after that. We always

business model of giving back make it “It really does. Whenever we interview anyone for a position it’s always led

by the difference we can make in the community and how employees can

make a difference for their own choice

of charity, too. It adds a totally different dynamic that you won’t get elsewhere.

“People want to come and work for us.

In fact, sometimes the demand is hard to keep up with!”

When you are so heavily focused on organising events, is there ever a

concern that messages about the core business could get lost?

“It’s a valid question and one we’ve

customers love you and your company is generating a lot of positive word-ofmouth from their referrals.”

employees, they already know what

we’re about. Certain types of company

want to work with us, ones that share our values and our ethos – and that makes

Financial stats during the pandemic • 36% increase in turnover year on

year between 2019-20 and 2020-21

relationship building easier.

“It’s also why our retention stats are so good. Our clients come and they

thought about because sometimes

• 126% increase in monthly revenues

an events business! We’re very much a

• 500% increase in monthly operating

What was the pandemic like for

together a leadership team to ensure our

• 300% increase in new business

through it?

people do believe mistakenly that we’re digital marketing agency and we’ve put client offering is strong.

“We regularly survey our customers to get feedback – including the key NPS

(Net Promoter Score) question ‘would you recommend Search Seven to a friend or colleague?’

“Our current NPS is 88%, which is

great. An NPS over 70 means your

May 2020 to March 2021

profit April 2020-March 2021

enquiries April 2020 to April 2021

•S ize of team doubled since January 2021

want to stay.”

the business and how did you get “Well, a lot of our clients are in the

travel and hospitality industry, so at one point in March 2020 we lost 50% of our revenue overnight.

When it comes to new business, do you look for clients that share your culture?

“We do, and the good news is that these days when people come to us, whether they are potential clients or potential

“At that stage we made a decision not to

hold clients to their contract. We just said ‘don’t worry about it’ – in fact we even

continued to support some of them for

free when they needed it. It was a gamble

What have been your three favourite events of all time during the 10 years of Search Seven?

3. Trip to Uganda, 2017 2. Charity football match at the

“If I had to pick a third it’s not really

“I’d have to include the first time

with my girlfriend, who is now my

“The first one, in 2014, is still up

with Ted as my mascot. During our

we support a student called Allan

was a football match at Shoreham

turnover in total and the game was

and covering his school fees.

September and we had around 200

Baby Unit XI. Walking out onto the

“That trip was unbelievable, the whole

prizes. We raised £5,500 which

both Ted and I might not have been

dance as well as the rest of the village.

Charity. Ted was about two at

received as babies. I was wearing

pitch in the second highest point

pregnant, too. There were some great

the first goal! It was a day when we

occasion and we also donated a water

event made it even more special.”

which is what we aim for.”

Search Seven logo on it.”

Amex, 2017

1. Shoreham FC charity football

an event at all, but a trip I made

we organised a game at the Amex,

wife, to the school in Uganda where

there because it meant so much. It

sixth year we had passed one million

Mubangizi. We’re supporting him now

FC on a beautiful sunny day in

Search Seven XI v Trevor Mann

people watching and lots of raffle

pitch was very emotional, after all

school came out to greet us with a

was donated to the Rockinghorse

there if it hadn’t been for the help we

We ended up on a bumpy football

the time and his mum Claire was

number seven – and I even scored

in Uganda which was an incredible

pictures and being the first community

really engaged the community, too,

tank while we were there, with our

match, 2014

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

but it’s one that paid off because almost all of the companies we lost have since

returned. If they could come back, they

did – and the relationship is now stronger than ever before. On top of that, our

business has grown – both in terms of staff numbers and turnover.”

Innovative internal culture: unlimited annual leave, no timesheets, flexible hours

It’s not only in its giving-back model

that Search Seven has proved different and innovative.

Under the eye of new COO David Hatton, the company has embraced a range of

initiatives to transform its internal culture, improve client service and make it a

place where employees love to work. David said: “We’ve had a big refresh of everything that we do from a cultural point of view.

“We wanted to set new standards of

best practice to make sure that clients were being looked after properly and

that our staff had a good experience of working here.

“Part of the solution was giving them more autonomy to shape their role, knowing they are trusted.

“The results have been remarkable

because productivity has skyrocketed and the feedback is amazing.”

One of the headline changes has been to offer staff unlimited annual leave.

“That policy will probably make other

businesses raise their eyebrows, but it’s been a big success,” said David.

“It shows that we have ultimate trust in

our staff and that we treat them as adults.

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

If you need to take time off, for whatever

to achieve £600,000 turnover for the first

make sure that other team members are

think that’s do-able. So, we’re very pleased

reason, then that’s fine with us. Just

time – and £750,000 by 2023 - and we

not going to be snowed under.

with where we are – especially considering

“It’s been a year since we implemented

the challenges of the pandemic.

the policy and there have been no issues.

“Achieving the £77k target for fundraising

“Probably the most anyone has taken is 30

direction, too. The next target is £100,000

or 32 days across the year – and that was

shows we are heading in the right

and that would be a magical one.”

me. That was deliberate because I wanted to make sure that people knew it was ok.”

Current annual turnover: £500,000

It isn’t the only innovative policy in place, either.

Looking ahead to 2022, what’s next for

The company has just signed up to HEKA,

you personally?

a scheme which provides everyone in the

because that’s what I like to do – bringing

spend on wellbeing activities.

progress. I’m keen to do even more in the

David added: “We also have a flexible

that is not sports related – getting business

timesheets. Our employees know how

hub, raising money for charity together.

it’s up to them how to deliver the service.

“I’d also like to go into colleges to speak

“Sometimes they might do a bit less but

for digital marketing skills so it would

may need more time to get results. We

team, and help people along that route

The challenge now is how to maintain

Maybe we’ll even end up hiring some of

a digital wellbeing assistant, and launched

“I’d like to spend more time networking,

team with a £50-a-month allowance to

leads back to the team for them to

time policy and we’ve done away with

many days our clients are paying for but

community, perhaps something this time

owners together and creating a community

to students. There’s a gap in the market

still get results, on other occasions they

be good to do some mentoring with the

trust them to make the right choices.”

and get through their Google exams.

company culture when the business

the best ones.”

grows, as it looks destined to do.

Where does Search Seven go from

“We know that growth is going to

here?

do it responsibly and carefully,” said

and growing in the right way. There’s a

sustainably at the right rate to ensure that

and I believe there’s still so much more

But we’re ready for it.”

extra special is knowing that every time

Search Seven is not only about charity.

charity. That’s the beauty of the model

continue, and we’re ambitious, but we’ll

“Well, it’s all about evolving, learning,

Dave. “Growth needs to be achieved

lot of untapped potential in the business

nobody is overwhelmed in the process.

to come – and, of course, what makes it

You also have a reputation for helping local, national, and international

brands improve their online visibility on search engines. Do the financials look good in that area too?

“It’s going well. The target for next year is

profits go up, so do our contributions to and it works to inspire everyone in the

business. We’re very proud of it. It’s been a very exciting 10 years and we hope there are many more to come.” www.searchseven.co.uk

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

START UPS & ENTRPRENEURES

MEET THE NEW BUSINESS & IP CENTRE SUSSEX AMBASSADOR

BY BIPC SUSSEX

SBT START UPS & ENTRPRENEURES SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

N EW B US I N E S S

Meet the new Business & IP Centre Sussex Ambassador

Starting up? Award-winning local business leader and new BIPC Sussex Ambassador, Claire Mason, explains how the Centre can help

BIPC Sussex is

How do you feel about your

entrepreneurs in creating a more

that Claire Mason,

I am excited and honoured to help

engine of our economy – making up

& IP Centre Sussex and its terrific

we benefit from so many purpose-led,

for entrepreneurs, start-ups and

work for our local community and develop

information services, business support

keen to support the BIPC in its mission to

entrepreneurs. The BIPC was first

our many SMEs to innovate and grow.

and has since been expanded across a

A whole new generation of small

that entrepreneurs in Sussex will now

the pandemic, with new company

to supercharge their success.

2021, and Brighton & Hove boasting

a few questions about her ambassador

Why is it important for you to support

companies in the region. The BIPC

own entrepreneurial journey.

I am passionate about the role of

New Business

delighted to announce Founder and CEO

of Brighton-based

global thought leadership consultancy,

Man Bites Dog, has been appointed as Ambassador for the Centre.

As BIPC Ambassador, Claire will help

inspire and guide users of the Centre by sharing her own advice and business

experiences and will also be advising on how the Centre can develop and

expand by raising the profile of its work across Sussex.

We took the opportunity and asked Claire role, her thoughts on the BIPC and her

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

ambassador role?

prosperous society. SMEs are the growth

raise the profile of the new Business

99% of our business base. In Sussex

team. This is an incredible resource

innovative SMEs that create meaningful

SMEs in our region which offers

characterful products and services. I am

and opportunities to learn from other

give start-ups the strongest start and help

established by the British Library in 2006 network of public libraries. I’m delighted

businesses was created during

have access to this invaluable resource

registrations up 40% between 2020 and

the BIPC?

the highest number of newly registered can help them set themselves up for success. Indeed, the track record of

N EW BUS I N E S S

the BIPC network is that start-ups who get BIPC support are twice as likely to succeed beyond three years.

In this region we’re great at starting businesses but it’s challenging for those businesses to grow – the

BIPC also provides vital support in helping entrepreneurs scale their

businesses to build stronger and more resilient companies that create more

your own business

and the Centre gives

entrepreneurs a place to meet and support each other in the

company of people

who really understand your business

challenges and can

share their learnings.

employment opportunities.

Do you think libraries

What are the key benefits of the BIPC

to have a business

for local start-ups, SMEs, economy?

The BIPC is a hub where entrepreneurs can come together to learn, network and access free and low-cost

information and support to protect and commercialise a business idea. The Centre can help aspiring

entrepreneurs develop and stress test a business idea from that first spark

of inspiration and support established entrepreneurs to step up to the next

level of growth. It’s common for SMEs

to get stuck on their growth journey and the BIPC can help them unlock the big levers of growth, like new markets and digital enablement.

The BIPC is an unparalleled resource of business and intellectual property

information and expertise – there is simply nothing like it. The BIPC service includes

free access to high-quality UK and global

market intelligence, customer insights and company data combined with intellectual property advice and guidance, support, mentoring and training plus inspiring

talks and networking events featuring role model entrepreneurs.

BIPC Sussex also has a ‘human library’

of business experts (lawyers, marketers, accountants and business advisors) offering one-to-one sessions and a regular series of practical webinars

and workshops on various business-

related themes. It can be lonely running

are a great place centre?

The regional centre of BIPC Sussex is based in Jubilee

Library in Brighton, right in the heart of

our community. It’s a fantastic space

to meet, work and

network, but what’s really special about the BIPC is its

accessibility in the

with a disability have higher levels of

BIPC local at Crawley Library and more

part necessity entrepreneurship due to

in the near future.

presents a great opportunity to help these

Impact assessments show that by

Currently just 1 in 3 UK entrepreneurs is

libraries, the British Library’s Network

million missing businesses. If women

people who are underrepresented in

men, we could add £250bn of additional

broadest sense of the word. It also has a

self-employment , and while this is in

locals in select Sussex libraries to come

the disability employment gap, this also entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

delivering business support through our

female: a gender gap equivalent to 1.1

of Business & IP Centres is reaching

started businesses at the same rate as

business: on average, over half of those

value to the UK economy every year.

are women, a third are from under-

Having business centres in libraries

nearly two-fifths had a disability.

highly scalable and offers excellent

Democratising entrepreneurship is vital

existing public library infrastructure and

As a woman entrepreneur I really care

to bring business and innovation

gaps. There is enormous untapped

strong economic recovery.

just 5.1% of UK SMEs led by ethnic

Why do you think start-ups need

who use a BIPC to set up a business represented ethnic backgrounds and

means that the BIPC network is

value for money, capitalising on the

for our community and our economy.

knowledge resource, with the potential

about closing these entrepreneurship

support to every high street to support a

potential in diverse communities with minority entrepreneurs. Men and women

reliable business information?

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

N EW B US I N E S S Year award or when the United Nations endorsed our work on the Sustainable Development Goals. Now it’s the day

the Man Bites Dog team were reunited

in our office after pandemic lockdowns. Through this really difficult period for

everyone, our team have shown each other such kindness and support and

achieved incredible things – I am so lucky to have such a fantastic team.

How important is Intellectual Property (IP) in your business? Is it important for start-up businesses?

Without IP, do you have a business? It’s so important to protect your intellectual property – whether it’s your company name or your products, services and

processes. In a knowledge economy,

your IP is your value. We have so many innovative businesses in our region, it’s critical they protect their IP and

it’s remarkably simple when you have

Claire Mason

someone on hand to show you how. Starting a business is a huge risk – you

sustainability and global trade to digital

What’s the best piece of business

and we have just collected our 80th

I am going to offer two pieces of advice.

transformation and the future of work

advice you can give to start-ups?

global award.

Firstly, just do it. As my husband said

Information helps you mitigate those risks

What would you do differently now?

happen is that if it doesn’t work out you

research before you take the plunge. The

One thing we got really right was being

have to make decisions about your

product or service, your market and

how to run your business when you’re

doing everything for the very first time.

and avoid costly mistakes by doing your BIPC offers vital information with people to guide you and offer support.

How did you start your business?

I think there’s a perception that you need to raise capital to start a business, but in many cases you can just sit at your

kitchen table and start, which is what I did. I saw an opportunity in the growing

knowledge economy for a marketing communications consultancy that specialised in building intelligent

What have you learnt?

will have to get another job.”

born global. Too many businesses start

Secondly, start right. Use the BIPC to do

regional, national and international,

the mistakes of other entrepreneurs who

have always done global work for very

support you.

start confidently as you mean to go on.

Find out more about Claire Mason and

Something I might do differently is

www.manbitesdog.com

scalable by building more digital

Find out more about the BIPC at www.

local and then move in stages through

your research, get advice and learn from

reinventing their business each time. We

are keen to share their knowledge and

large global clients. I think it’s important to

consider how we could be more

technology into our business model.

brands for companies in financial and

What’s been your proudest moment

Today Man Bites Dog works with

It used to be when the company I started

professional services and technology. exciting global business brands to

help them lead change on issues from

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

when I started up, “The worst that can

in business?

with a £200 overdraft on my kitchen

table won the New Consultancy of the

Man Bites Dog at

brighton-hove.gov.uk/bipc or email bipc@brighton-hove.gov.uk.

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

GOOD BUSINESS

HOW THE BEVY DOES CHRISTMAS! THE BEVY: THE ONLY COMMUNITY OWNED PUB

HISBE: A REBEL SUPERMARKET ON A MISSION

BY RUTH ANSLOW FROM HISBE

SBT GOOD BUSINESS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

How the Bevy does Christmas! We hear from Chris Llewellyn

“Simply having a wonderful Christmas Time.” It’s pretty much impossible to avoid Paul McCartney’s song over the festive period. The spirit behind

Good Business

it is exactly what motivates the

Bevy and other

community focussed

organisations at this time of year. There is so much value in people coming

together and celebrating - whether they are motivated by religious feelings or

just the delight of congregating. This is especially true at the moment when so

many yearly events and opportunities for celebrations have been disrupted. The Bevy is the only community

owned pub on a housing estate in the UK and we are never prouder to be

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

more than a pub than at Christmas. The pub we now operate has been

running since the estate was built in

the 1930s. Unfortunately, it was closed by the police in 2010 because of

its recently acquired record of antisocial behaviour. A group of locals

recognised the real value that the pub

had previously brought to the area and decided to set up a community benefit society. After more than 700 local

people had paid £10 + for a community share, and crucially with the help of

supporters like the East Brighton Trust, the pub was reopened in Christmas

2014 under community management. Since then we have been focussed

on our dual mission of running a

welcoming local and at the same time delivering a wide variety of socially

impactful projects. The classic example is our Meals on Wheels Service which

we launched when the pandemic hit to combat food shortages and loneliness in those who would normally come to our lunch clubs. It’s expanded

hugely and recently won the National

Association of Care Catering award for providing the best Meals on Wheels in the whole of the UK!

This is why the Bevy will put in so much effort over Christmas, we have recently worked out that we will be delivering

GOOD BUS I N E S S

1,590 meals via our community projects over the period, not to mention the

many roasts and other delicious treats that we’ll be serving our customers!

The Friday Friends Seniors group will stage a special Christmas lunch in

addition to running their normal clubs on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. This is especially important for those people

who don’t have large supportive families, who are given the chance to come

together and enjoy bingo and some of the best turkey in Sussex! As David

Gibbons, the Friday Friends Chair says:

“This is the time of year where everyone

needs family and friends. A lot of people have not got this. Other clubs close for the holiday when it’s most needed . It

gives us personal joy to spread a little

cheer & happiness and involve others to help and do the same.”

We will also be putting on a free

children’s party on the 18th December, which will be a great chance for

children across the estates to have a dance, hotdogs, a Christmas jumper

competition and of course a visit from

Father Christmas on his horse and

sleigh! The reason that we are able to

put this on is because of the support of local businesses like Custom Pharma. This year we are particularly grateful for the involvement of City Fibre. As Anne Krausse, their Brighton and

Hove Manager has said “As part of our

commitment to the community, we want to leave our legacy here by building

something that’s futureproof and can last generations. That’s why we’re

so eager to engage with and support local residents and businesses. This year, The Bevy has been a fantastic

hub for communicating with people in

Bevendean & Moulsecoomb. The team has been welcoming, proactive and

brimming with community spirit. That’s why we’re really proud to be helping

them make their Christmas children’s party even more special!”

This sums up just how the Bevy likes

to operate, in collaboration with a wide variety of partners from every different

sector. Unfortunately because of Covid

regulations this year we won’t be hosting

all the different churches of Bevendean

and Moulsecoomb for their carols at the Bevy, but look forward to getting back to that in future. The Brighton Swing

Choir will be with us this year though,

treating our Christmas Market attendees to some Holiday classics and lesser

known works too. We are also really

pleased to work with a wide variety of

different grassroots community groups (including the Brighton Lions), hosting their Christmas parties and much

more- if you are in the area you will see our wonderfully illuminated windows

on the 23rd December for the Higher Bevendean Advent Trail.

So in short, if you have any ideas about

how you want to get involved with your

local area, or if you want some tips, then the best place to go is the bar of your local community pub! There you will

find a friendly smile, a well poured pint

and the best connected way to engage with people in your neck of the woods. There’s no better way to spread the Christmas spirit!

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

GOOD B US I N E S S

HISBE: a rebel supermarket on a mission

Ruth Anslow from HISBE talks about the challenges of managing a small food business during the coronavirus pandemic and the impact you can have when you shop from small, local businesses. Good Business

HISBE is a rebel

are no big pay-outs for directors or

mission to transform

staff, bills and debtors.

supermarket on a the food industry.

shareholders, so what’s left pays our

Our whole ethos is about making good

HISBE Food exists to challenge the

food that’s sustainably sourced and

industry. We do things very differently

affordable as we can. We think through

out to prove that a sustainable future

have to, we find the most sustainable

you reinvent the way supermarkets do

good stuff under one roof, to make it as

unsustainable and exploitative food

responsibly traded as accessible and

to the average supermarket and we’re

the issues so our shoppers don’t

for food and farming is possible, if

solutions we can, and we put all the

business. Food retail can be part of the

accessible as possible.

solution, it just needs to evolve...

Facing the challenges of Covid.

We’re a social enterprise with a different

During a health pandemic, access to

spend £1 at our supermarket, we pass

ever! Our biggest challenge over the

type of business model: when you

good food is even more important than

68 pence back to the suppliers. There

last 20 months was simply to keep

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

our shop in Brighton open... we had a

responsibility to keep good food flowing, keep our customers served, our staff in

their jobs and protect the income of our many small suppliers.

Our supermarket relies on hundreds of hardworking people - and I don’t just mean our own store team, I

mean the people who make the food and the people who shift it, from the

farmers, producers and suppliers to the

warehouse and distribution guys and the truck drivers. Suddenly, like us, these

people were “key workers”, they were all under a lot of pressure and all our livelihoods were at stake.

We also rely on a steady stream of

GOOD BUS I N E S S

customers who value what we do and want to vote for sustainable food and

farming with their patronage and their

wallets! But last year tens of thousands

of people in Brighton & Hove were stuck

in their homes and started to get all their grocery shopping in one go, online, from one of the big supermarkets. So, as for

countless other high-street businesses,

the drop in customer numbers had a big impact on our shop.

Protecting our customers, our staff, and our business.

In the years before the Covid-19

outbreak, the HISBE leadership team

had been working on expansion and we had just taken a lease on a new shop in Worthing (signed just days before, on

28th February). But in March we had to

put that aside and focus on the safety of

our Brighton store and the survival of our social enterprise.

We implemented new risk assessments,

social distancing, and cleaning protocols to protect our staff and customers. Then we put a breakeven model in place and reduced the trading day accordingly, to react to the drop in customer numbers. We ran one shift and, at first, we were

only open from midday to 6pm, which

made the extra protocols manageable

and the store job as straightforward as

possible for the staff. We furloughed six of our staff and, for a time, our

leadership team, so that we could afford to safeguard everybody’s jobs.

We’re very proud of our store team

– they really pulled together and did a great job of managing the social

distancing, extra cleaning and customer queues at the door. Not only did we

achieve a safe environment, but they were able to maintain a friendly and

relaxed vibe, which is so important to

people. The world may have been going nuts, but our shop was to be a little oasis of calm in the craziness! And slowly everyone became

accustomed to our Covid measures. It

became normal to follow daily hygiene and safety protocols around maskwearing, handwashing, sanitising

surfaces, and safety screens. Now, in November 2021, we are very grateful that we made it through this difficult

time, returned to normal trading hours

and successfully brought all the staff out of furlough. And we’re grateful to every

single customer who was able to support our shop, through all the uncertainty, the restrictions, and the lockdowns.

During this period, many of our suppliers faced huge challenges with staffing,

production, and distribution. And our smallest suppliers are kitchen table

businesses run by one or two people. But we have been absolutely blown

away by the resilience of people and

how well our hundreds of suppliers kept going, doing what they do, even under these strenuous conditions. It makes

you appreciate more than ever that the

people who make and move our food. It’s their passion, commitment and resilience that makes the UK “good food” supply

chain work and we depend on them more than ever, in the face of Covid, future pandemics and, of course, Brexit.

Opening a store in the middle of a pandemic.

Good things can come out of struggle - and our good thing was our long-

anticipated, brand-new second store, on Portland Road in Worthing. In

September the leadership team made the decision to go ahead with the

investment in the second store, despite

the uncertainty over what would happen to high street businesses, and we launched it in January 2021.

It may have been eight months later

than planned, it may have ended up

opening on a rainy day in the middle

of another lockdown, but it was open – and hundreds of locals came out to

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

GO OD B US I N E S S

support us. The store was a dream five years in the making and it was such a

glorious, positive day and a testament to what we could achieve, even under immense pressure.

Worthing is a great town, with both a wonderful old history and a buzzing

new vibe. There’s a thriving independent

business scene there, a dynamic council

committed to local economic stimulation and a lot of great work going on in

sustainability - and we’re so happy to be part of it all.

Appealing for people to go ‘Back to Better’.

It’s still hard out here and many

thousands of independent high street

businesses continue to feel the impact

of Covid… but people are drifting back to our shops, emerging from these

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

life-changing months into a time of

transition. Because we all find ourselves at a crossroads, where we can choose

to go back to normal, or we can choose

to go back to better. A sustainable future for British food and farming is possible we just have to choose it.

So, we encourage everyone to choose what they want to see more of in this

world. We ask you to support the many

small food brands and shops genuinely creating solutions to our unsustainable, carbon-guzzling, over-industrialised, wasteful and polluting food industry. We ask you to make small habit

changes and swaps in what you buy.

We ask you to buy less stuff from the

big supermarkets and more stuff from HISBE and shops like ours.

When you shop at HISBE you’re choosing

real food and real farms, that are better

for you and better for the planet. You’re choosing values-led brands, local

suppliers, UK-grown seasonal produce, high animal welfare, sustainable fish, plastic-free shopping, pesticide-free

and organic standards. You’re voting for working with (not against) nature, zero to landfill, ditching packaging, plasticfree shopping and zero food waste.

You’re supporting people with proper

employment contracts, fair pay for staff

and suppliers, ethical trading - and you’re

keeping your money in the local economy. Everyone can help shape the future of food, it’s not about doing everything

perfectly, it’s about taking small actions, every time you buy your groceries, for

a better future. To quote the inimitable Anita Roddick, “Next time you go

shopping, demand more change.”

SBT SALES & MARKETING

SO THAT WAS 2021 - WHAT COMES NEXT?

BY BEN BENNETT, SECOND VOICE

5 MARKETING TRENDS FOR THE NEW YEAR BY STEPHANIE PRIOR

RECRUITMENT AND HOW TO GET THE APPLICANTS YOU WANT BY CONSORTIUM

THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD PROJECT MANAGEMENT BY WHITESPACE

SBT SALES & MARKETING SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

So that was 2021 - What comes next?

It feels like only yesterday that I was gearing up for a fast-paced end of the year to maximise all revenue opportunities, before closing out 2020, and here we are, looking at the finish line of 2021 already! It might be the

Sales & Marketing

pandemic, it might be that video calls

have sped everything up, it might be that

we are commuting less, or I might just

be ageing!? Whatever it is, time seems to be flying by!

So what have we noticed this year in the world of sales?

There is no shortage of people selling

you lead generation services. Software to offer shortcuts to sales success.

LinkedIn inboxes full of the ‘spray and

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

pray’ of selling tactics, most of which are diabolical, preying on people wanting a quick fix to winning more customers.

I look at almost all of these individuals

and I want to teach them, but alas, for

them, it’s a numbers game. If they kiss

enough frogs they will eventually find a prince. How very 1990s!

Poor tactics and desperation to one

side, I have also noticed a phenomenal amount of freelancers and small

business owners taking control of their personal brands in a big way, and this is awesome in more ways than one.

First of all, I am seeing deliberate and

confident action being taken to add value to their target audience. This is how it should be done. Build trust by giving

away your knowledge and experience. What I am seeing is people turning

themselves into mini media houses. Writing content, running webinars,

promoting networking events, building communities, posting videos, sharing tools and frameworks.

The way we access knowledge and

experience is now easier and cheaper

than ever before. We are being enabled

SAL ES & MARKE TI NG

by these individuals, and the honesty and value of it, is empowering.

It seems that the word ‘competition’ is reserved for the larger companies that

have things to hide. Collaboration seems here to stay. Certainly in my small corner of the county, and I love it!

So what will we see more of in 2022 when it comes to business growth and sales?

Technology will play a part, of course

it will. Tools and systems will become

more sophisticated and accessible to

all and what was previously reserved for

those companies with huge budgets will reach the hands of the many.

Employers will find it harder to recruit and retain good salespeople, and

commercial vacancies will remain

unfilled for much longer than expected. The rise of outsourced sales teams will continue. Individuals will back

themselves to deliver instead of taking

comfortable salaries with an employer, as they have the experience and the

knowledge to maximise their skill set

for multiple clients with great rewards. In much the same way as marketing

agencies have delivered for decades. LinkedIn will continue to be the

dominant platform in B2B business

development strategies. With millions

of daily users, it has never been easier to get in front of your ideal customer,

and learning how to grow your personal brand and deliver value for those

prospects will be more crucial than ever. Telesales is still not dead and it will continue to survive through 2022,

although its part in the sales cycle

has evolved, it is still one of the most effective channels for winning new

business when used alongside email and social media.

What can you do? Don’t underestimate just how much you know. However many years of

experience you

have in your role or industry, you will have knowledge and perspective that others will value.

If you want to

win more new

customers next

year, then one of

your tactics should

include giving away

your knowledge and experience for free. Yes, I said free!

Ben Bennett

Share your thoughts on LinkedIn. Seek

guest spots on podcasts. Write blogs. Record short videos on your phone.

Tips, tricks, ideas, opinions, failures, hopes and dreams. Give it all away

and watch your network and pipeline

grow as you organically build trust with new connections.

They say that knowledge is power and I believe that is still true to this day,

however, when that quote was coined, the intention was to demonstrate that by having the knowledge you could control outcomes.

Using this quote in your business, the more knowledge you have, and the

more you share it, the more you can control outcomes.

resilient, and through our network and communities, empowered.

Have a wonderful end to 2021 and ensure you are in control of your

outcomes for the next 12 months! Ben Bennett is Managing Partner of Second Voice (secondvoice.

co.uk) a Brighton-based consultancy focused on enabling founders of

B2B companies to accelerate growth through sales and operations. Ben is

also a business growth mentor for the

NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator and Partner at Plus X, Brighton.

If you’re looking to grow your own

company and want impartial advice

or support, please reach out to Ben at sbt@secondvoice.co.uk

The game is changing. Collaboration over competition. Trust and

transparency over cloak and dagger. Whatever 2022 throws at us, we are

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

SA L E S & MARK E T I N G

5 marketing trends for the New Year

One of my favourite aspects of the Christmas season is getting an opportunity to be thoughtful, reflect and consider ways to approach a new year. It’s important to give

Sales & Marketing

yourself kudos for all

that has been learned and achieved over

the past 12 months.

If you’re like me, you will have been presented with some ‘sink or swim’

dilemmas. From scrapping and creating new business and marketing plans,

to finding new ways adapt, maintain presence and explore new skills. In many ways the pandemic has

enhanced competition – it has created

an opportunity for innovative businesses to lead on technology, invest in talent and take business from competitors

who have failed to keep up and maintain

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

their position. As some businesses have risen, many longstanding brands have fallen on a local and national level.

As we approach a new calendar year, there is no better time to grab a pen,

pad and a glass of wine to consider your goals and strategy for 2022.

Here are 5 marketing trends for you

to consider adding to your marketing plans for the New Year:

1. Customer Experience

Marketing is more than selling – it is increasingly focused on providing

consumers with great experiences and

products that encourage retention. More

businesses are focusing on building and maintaining a positive working

culture to support quality service and great PR. The rise in technology has enhanced customers’ demands for

accessibility and efficiency – customers want to be provided a smooth service from the beginning to the end of their customer journey. Marketing experts are constantly exploring ways to use personalised messaging to connect

with prospective customers as well as to support them in making a decision to purchase. Now is a great time to

consider new ways to coordinate your marketing strategy with sales and

customer service to execute the best service for your customers.

SAL ES & MARKE TI NG 2. Employee Engagement

some, the thought

efficient and friendly service, you need

a camera and using

Marketing Insider Group suggests

can be a little

likely to remain loyal to brands who

a new year just

positive attitude towards customers.

there is no better

brand’s identity. Therefore, exploring

challenges that have

employees and customers should

create confidence

strategy. The goal should be for your

externally. Product

be as successful as you do. Initiatives

webinars, virtual

consider ways to align your employees

video events are

professional development of staff and

you could consider

skills in marketing can also support

marketing plan for

In order to provide the ultimate

of getting in front of

a reliable workforce. Research from

video technology

that 46% of customers are not

daunting. But with

fail to showcase knowledge and a

around the corner,

Employees represent a part of a

time to set yourself

ways to improve interactions between

the opportunity to

be factored into your marketing

internally and buy-in

employees to want your business to

and service demos,

to consider could be, taking time to

events and live

with your brand values. Investing in the

just a few examples

actively encouraging them to enhance

adding into your

employee engagement.

the 2022.

3. Visual Story Telling Content

5. Consumer Ethics

exploring a new product or service to

are more mindful of buying habits

has been suggested that people favour

our society. Consumers are more

just one of the reasons many people

To reduce impact to the environment,

platforms such as Pinterest, TikTok and

to make changes internally. But

Marketing Psychology, the human brain

article ‘Freedom of Social Activism

faster than written content. Considering

has become an important factor. The

content into your written content can

example that highlights consumers are

Stephanie Prior

What captures your attention when

Current trends suggest that consumers

buy? In recent marketing studies, it

that can impact the environment &

visual content over written. This is

considerate of the brands they buy into.

increasingly use image focused digital

many businesses have already started

Instagram. According to Venngage

as I have highlighted in a previous

processes visual content 60,000 times

& Social Media’, social responsibility

ways to enhance or implement visual

Black Lives Matter movement is an

enhance customer engagement.

increasingly attracted to brands that

4. Video Marketing

practice what they preach.

Implementing video into your marketing

Whether your business is finance, law,

if it has not already. Videos are more

opportunity for your brand to be

rankings in comparison to other SEO

your company is contributing to make

that 84% of consumers have used video

be just as valuable as advertising and

strategy for 2022 should be considered

property or retail etc., there is always

likely to support first-page SERP

ethically responsible. Promoting how

tactics. Marketing research suggests

positive changes in the community can

content before making a purchase. To

other marketing tactics.

As we have witnessed in recent years, we cannot predict the future with certainty. But we can explore insights and trends that provide some useful possibilities

and exciting new developments for your business explore.

A new year provides a fresh start; new challenges, opportunities and goals.

Where there are lessons to be learned, new knowledge to be obtained and

goals to be reached, there is always something good to look forward to!

So begin your new year with a positive

vision, some great objectives and a plan outlining how you aim to achieve them.

A new year… a new marketing strategy! Thank you to everyone who has read and engaged with my monthly blogs via SBT Magazine this year. I really appreciate all the comments and

feedback, but most importantly, having

the opportunity to share my content via this leading Sussex based magazine.

Have a wonderful Christmas & an even happier New Year!

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

SA L E S & MARK E T I N G

Recruitment and how to get the applicants YOU want

Recruitment across many sectors, and particularly for professional services firms has become more competitive since the pandemic. We are currently

Sales & Marketing

experiencing a

‘candidate market’. The unemployment rate nationally fell

to 6% unemployment through the end of March 2021. What is interesting to note, is unemployment for degreed

professionals is now under 5%, and

1.5% away from hitting its all-time low that was achieved in 2019.

During the pandemic, firms were forced

Harvey John, a recruitment firm in the

fancy office or a quirky recreation room

are currently rethinking their future flexible

longer rely on a stocked pantry, or bean

different approach. Most candidates I

culture and lasting company values. Now

from home. They realise they are more

their company culture and begin defining

give their firms more of their time due

operate, and they need to show how they

Southeast says, “Many firms I speak to

may be a thing of the past. Firms can no

working policies – each taking a slightly

bags, to replace cultivating healthy work

deal with have enjoyed this time working

is the time for employers to focus on

productive from home, and in fact can

the successful values under which they

to not needing to factor in the time they

will look after their staff.

would usually take to commute.”

Whether you are a professional services

For many candidates, remote working is

firm or not, some or all these factors

hunting. Employers can no longer ignore

right talent. You also need to stand

remote working.

seekers. Whilst this has always been

As time has progressed and businesses

What else is important for job-

now is more important than ever before.

will start to recruit again. What the

In addition to flexible working, the

How do you get candidates to apply in

has had on businesses is also

Whether you have flexible working or not,

consider in their job search.

need to be put in the bin. If you don’t

“With the uncertainty that the

never get the top pickings. Think about

likely to look for jobs in sectors that

makes you different, unique, ‘better’ than

greater security.”

with the outside world. Share these with

Flexible working, stability, health and

the opportunity to meet with, share them

for when employees need to care for a

them on your social media!

increasingly important for Job-seekers.

Gone are the days where you advertise

Firms also need to consider that physical

start rolling in. In fact, you need to market

culture. Enticing job applicants with a

you would market to your clients. Use the

to transfer parts or all their operations

online. A few months into the pandemic

and geography became less of an issue for many firms which meant they could look for customers much further afield. start to focus on their recovery, many pandemic has done is:

●m ade many candidates take a step

back, take stock and assess what they want from their future, and what worklife balance looks like to them

●m ade location less of an issue for firms when recruiting talent.

For employers that have embraced

flexible working on a permanent basis,

their pool of talent has suddenly become much bigger.

For firms that have decided to phase

their staff’s return to the office, many are

going to continue experiencing significant demand on them to consider how

flexible working features permanently in their workplace. Hayley Rose from

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

now a primary consideration when job

may impact your ability to recruit the

the option of implementing permanent

out, to actively ‘sell’ yourselves to job-

seekers?

the case, the ability to do it successfully

economic impact that the pandemic

the first place?

something candidates are likely to

some old school recruitment approaches change your approach, then you will

pandemic has created, candidates are

your USPs and company values. What

are more established, stable. and offer

your competitors, and then share those

wellness packages, and sick leave policies sick family member, have all become

perks can’t replace genuine company

your recruiter, the candidates you get

through your marketing, and even put

for a role and sit and wait for the CVs to to your candidates similarly to the way

SAL ES & MA RKE TI NG available communication and marketing

flexibility you offer, what benefits you

You need to use recruitment marketing

firm (use staff and their stories to back

channels that you have and get creative. to attract talent and stand out from the crowd as an attractive option.

So, if are looking for talent, you could

hire a head-hunter, but it’s not cheap.

Alternatively, you could leverage marketing to help promote your firm and your

vacancies to attract the right talent for your firm. This comes with the bonus that you will raise your firms’ profile at the same

time. Here are some marketing tactics you could use to attract talent to your firm:

How to use recruitment marketing to

have and how great it is to work for your up what you say).

Use employee stories to promote

Most candidates are using social media,

prospective applicants to find out

about your culture is by hearing from people who already work there.

Either through staff case studies or video, you can entice applicants to your firm before they even attend an interview!

that interested applicants can peruse,

typically, job descriptions can be

they should want to work for you and what you want from them.

● Break experience down into “musthave” and “nice to have~.

● Give your words personality, and don’t be afraid to be fun!

Flexa has made a job description

checklist that helps Hire Managers to ensure their job descriptions are well written.

Use your firms’ website

Have you got a careers page on your

website? Use it to tell your applicants

your story so they understand what life

you are to work at!

Candidates are more informed than

and how they responded to clients (and

staff) during the pandemic or challenging times will make a big difference.

People remember what a firm does. How they respond to clients, staff, and their

communities during tough times will be

remembered forever. During difficult times

Whether your clients use social media or

not, you can be assured job-seekers are,

so regardless, you should make sure you have a presence on social media.

you can use

industry awards – both mainstream awards and carefully selected

employment/HR awards. Whilst this route is a longer-term option, the benefits will

be that your firm becomes recognised as an employer of choice.

You can also consider industry event

stands and sponsorships. These will have an associated cost, or you can use virtual or in-person networking events that you

and your existing fee earners can attend where you can promote your firm. So, what is next?

and how firms lead their team through

marketing. It is where you use targeted

the social safety net for many employees, a crisis will determine retention and the ability to attract talent in the future. Use free ‘advertising’ portals

All the tactics above classify as recruitment digital marketing strategies to promote the value of working for your firm to attract, engage, recruit, and retain talent.

If you use recruiting sites and job

As a marketing agency, we can provide

for Jobs, you can reach job-seekers

generate interest in your firm and help

listing sites that integrate with Google that search for jobs using keywords in their Google search.

By structuring the job posts properly and

creating an in-depth careers page.

outlined by Google (or the job listing sites),

And don’t be scared to talk about what

to show what life is like at your firm.

like the pandemic, employers become

is like at your firm. Don’t just rely on

Indeed or job vacancy sites. Consider

so think about using your social accounts

Other tactics include submissions to

discover and realise what a great place

Firms with well-written job descriptions

● Use plain English – tell applicants why

follow firms that match what they want,

and for the wider social network to

ever before about working conditions,

working advocates Flexa:

specifically LinkedIn, to research and

Other available marketing tactics

Talk about your values

really). Some top tips from flexible

social media

promote your video and blog content

unbelievably uninspiring.

get up to 10x more applications (yes,

LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, etc.

people, and the best way for

Rethink your ‘normal’ job descriptions

is through a job description, but

Some of these sites include Facebook,

Promote your firm and vacancies on

People love hearing about other

You can use your social channels to

applicant comes across your firm

search for related keywords.

your firm

attract talent

For many firms, the first time a job

Jobs and displayed when job-seekers

using the proper HTML coding syntax the jobs will be indexed by Google for

the strategic and tactical capabilities to you attract the talent you need.

If you would like to find out more about what we offer, click here,

alternatively contact Lara to find out how we can help you find the talent you are looking for.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

The importance of good Project Management

Any new client that comes on board needs to feel confident that their project will be delivered on time and hassle free. Good project

Sales & Marketing

management should alleviate any stress to the client so it’s

important to get the

initial brief right, set expectations on

timings and keep in regular contact for peace of mind all round.

For any new enquiry that comes our

way, we need to ensure that we fully

understand what the client is after, be it a brand-new bespoke website or

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

a user journey and design overhaul. Asking the right questions from

the beginning is essential in pulling together a thorough and detailed

proposal which outlines everything

the client needs and the added value from working with our team. General questions we need answers to from

the off are the client’s likes and dislikes of their current site, how an improved site will better serve their business, design aspirations and must-have

features. This allows us to figure out

the level of work involved and an

approximate timescale for all of the scope needed.

As a Project Manager, it’s my job to get the ball rolling and get as much detail

from the potential client as possible so I can brief the team and make sure all

bases are covered. On submitting our

proposal, I like to give the client or their representative time to digest all of the

information and see what their feedback is. Not everyone who approaches

SAL ES & MA RKE TI NG

Jo Jensen

us is tech savvy so it’s crucial not to

alienate anyone with too much ‘tech

talk’. As someone who isn’t from a tech

background who has learned on the job, I find it easier to explain certain aspects of a build in a language that both they and I understand so that it doesn’t

become too overwhelming or daunting. Another key aspect of project

management is managing expectations and making sure a client understands that we work on multiple projects

at a time and that timelines need to

remain flexible (to a point) for anything unforeseen. Delays in receiving

feedback can have a knock-on effect of an agreed launch date so putting dates against different parts of the

project is necessary. It is a solid team

effort from both the agency and client

The majority of my time is spent

end result and is working towards

has its challenges but when things slot

websites which are top notch with no

off the list, there is great job satisfaction

moving forward.

themselves on their attention to detail

The development side of the business

all over it and that expectations are met

side as everyone wants the same

managing the dev studio schedule which

the same goal. We want to deliver

into place and tasks are being ticked

compromises and that’s what keeps us

for me. As someone who prides

and organisation, I like to know that I’m

is always busy with the ever-patient

across the board.

the call of duty to ensure our clients

If you have a project that you’d like

that after a long search we have now

with me as I’m always happy to chat

the team which will really open up the

how we can help.

his time to more client work and also

Jo Jensen

make to our own website and the CRM

jo@whitespace.studio / 01273 258000

Steve Elford going above and beyond are well serviced. I am thrilled to say

to discuss, please do get in touch

welcomed a new Junior Developer to

through ideas or initial thoughts to see

dev studio and allow Steve to dedicate the technical advances he’d like to

Account Director

he’s developing. Now that the team is

whitespace.studio

expanding, it’s even more important

that we have a solid system in place for keeping on top of the workload.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

Digital, design & branding

We are a full service creative agency specialising in design, web and marketing. Founded by three passionate creatives.

whitespace.studio 4 St. Georges Place, Brighton BN1 4GA 01273 258000 / hello@whitespace.studio 60 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT

COVER FE ATU RE

TECH

WINDOWS 365 WILL CHANGE YOUR WORLD AGAIN EXTECH CLOUD EXPLORES HOW IT AFFECTS YOUR BUSINESS

SILICON BRIGHTON: SUPPORTING DIVERSITY IN TECH DIVERSE SUSSEX

SBT TECH SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 61

Windows 365 will change your world again Extech Cloud explores how it affects your business Whether another work

Tech

from home order is

on the horizon or not, many businesses

are still looking for a

reliable and secure IT System to support workers in the office and at home.

Andrew Hookway, Director of Sussex

based Extech Cloud, shares three ways Windows 365 benefits hybrid working. Around the world and across every

for many businesses is ensuring that their IT Systems can support their day-to-

day operations, enabling collaborative

working, and appropriate levels of security. The timely release of Windows 365 (not

to be confused with the Microsoft 365 or Office 365) earlier this year is what most Sussex and southern based businesses should now be looking for. Here are just

three of the ways it can help a business.

industry sector, we have had to adapt to

1. What is Windows 365 and what

working is here to stay and the challenge

efficient and secure hybrid working.

new ways of working. It seems hybrid

62 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

does it do? It helps to facilitate

Windows 365 is Microsoft’s complete

software-as-a-service (SaaS) solution, that streams a personalised Windows

experience, including apps, content, and settings, to any device. Windows 365

is built for remote and hybrid working,

enabling the user ‘anywhere access’ to

their personalised Windows desktop, or Cloud PC, across multiple devices.

This means that a worker could begin

a task on their office PC, continue it on

an Android tablet, and finish on a home

Mac computer. They can pick up where

they left off on any device, for seamless

TECH

hybrid working no matter what size and type of file the user is working on. Operating in the Cloud also offers

the benefits of workers being able to

collaborate in real time with colleagues and clients, and it comes with

required will be minimal.

The user simply needs the device to connect to WiFi, and everything they need to work on is stored and accessed on the Cloud.

Microsoft’s security Defender software

3. What value and

knowledge that Cloud IT Systems tend

Windows 365 bring to

built-in. Everybody can be secure in the to rely on more robust cybersecurity measures, continually developing to keep a step ahead of ever-evolving cybercrime methods.

2. What is the return on Windows

365? It enables significantly reduced hardware costs.

With Windows 365, the entire IT System is hosted in the Cloud, resulting in little to no cost outlay when it comes to

hardware. You don’t need a server and the associated cabling, for instance, which can be very costly. With the

incorporation of voice calling as well,

it means there is no need to purchase expensive telephone systems either. Another benefit of having everything

stored in the Cloud is that the hardware that does need to be purchased

(computers or tablets for example), can have a far lower spec than previously, as the amount of memory and power

experience can

your business? It easily

accommodates change.

Businesses can go through changes rapidly and a

tricky IT System should not be a reason to hold

Andrew Hookway

up developments in the

organisation. Whether it is

If you’re thinking about making the

user, per month cost model makes it

Extech Cloud today. Extech Cloud

workers at any point in time, allowing

specialist, supporting businesses

expanding or streamlining, the pay per

transition to Windows 365, talk to

easy to accommodate more or fewer

is an award-winning IT services

business owners to scale confidently.

in Sussex and the South East in the

It is also useful to be able to quickly

to the Cloud. A team of strategic IT

caused to a machine (which is arguably

certified engineers provides day to

well as purchasing low-cost models, if

sized businesses. You can talk to us

gives you the power to buy, provision,

extech.co.uk or fill out our contact

transformation of their IT Systems

recover in the event that any damage is

consultants, project managers and

more likely in a hybrid work situation). As

day support to small and medium-

they need to be replaced, Windows 365

on 01444 443200, email us on info@

and deploy in minutes, with automated

form for a call back.

where they left off immediately.

Visit www.extechcloud.com.

OS updates, so the worker can pick up

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 63

TEC H

Silicon Brighton: supporting diversity in tech This year at Silicon Brighton, we unveiled our most ambitious project yet, Diverse Sussex; a community initiative to help Sussex’s tech sector better understand and address issues around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the region.

Increasingly over the

Tech

years, there has been a lot of talk about the lack of DEI in

the tech community

and what can be done to tackle it.

But, despite many businesses’ desire to improve, you only need to look

around you (and at the multitude of

reports there are online) to find there

is some way to go until it is a fair and hospitable place for everyone.

Our aim with Diverse Sussex is

to support organisations on their

DEI journey, raising the collective awareness so that we can work

together to bring about positive change locally.

64 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

No matter where you are in your

By signing up, you will also contribute

in Sussex or have a tech team, we

where challenges and imbalances lie,

Sussex signatory. Doing so solidifies

of resources packed with advice and

diverse and inclusive workplace and

events designed to inform your DEI

and commitment to progress.

is coming up on Friday 4th February;

You will be joining businesses such as:

the workplace, what it is and why it’s

Theory, Psydro, Codebar Brighton,

high-performing team.

Company, Healys LLP, INSHUR,

More information can be found at www.

15below, Buff Motion, Azura Earth,

workshop on Friday 4th February, head

journey, if you’re a digital business

to annual reports helping us pinpoint

encourage you to sign up as a Diverse

gain access to our exclusive library

your business’s desire to create a

guidance, and be invited to regular

feeds into our shared understanding

knowledge and practices. Our first event

Make Real, Tillo, Afrori Books, Blast

OneFamily, The Mindlab, Green Lemon

a workshop on psychological safety in needed to guarantee an inclusive and

Datacove, Alison Jones Coaching,

diversesussex.com. To register for our

Ideal, Watch This Sp_ce, Isla Collective,

to bit.ly/DiverseSussexWorkshop.

BrightLocal, Storganise, Plus X, and more.

SBT

CHA RITY

CHARITY

DASAKI DELIVERS ON AUCTION PRIZE LOOKING BACK ON A YEAR OF FUNDRAISING AT ROCKINGHORSE CHILDREN’S CHARITY THE STARR TRUST CHARITY RELAUNCHES WITH NEW MISSION TIME IS PRECIOUS. AT MARTLETS WE VALUE YOURS. ROY’S REHABILITATION SUCCESS WITH CARE FOR VETERANS THE SUSSEX CANCER FUND’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR GIVING HOMELESS YOUNG PEOPLE A SAFE NIGHT’S SLEEP WITH SUSSEX NIGHT STOP SUPPORTING PEOPLE WHOSE CHILDREN ARE STRUGGLING WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH THE CLOCK TOWER SANCTUARY GLENN HODDLE JOINS GUESTS TO RAISE OVER £40,000 FOR SUSSEX CRICKET FOUNDATION

CHOSEN CHARITY PARTNER:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 65

Dasaki delivers on auction prize

In November 2019 at the Best of British Gatwick there was a very special auction prize donated by the team at Dasaki, to cook for 8 guests at the fabulous Blanch House Boutique hotel in Kemp Town, accompanied with wine tasting. The prize raised

Charity

an amazing £4,200 for the amazing Rockinghorse

Children’s charity,

but due to Covid, the team was unable to host the guests until this year. The

auction prize was won by Steve Pearce,

former MD of Southover Food Company Ltd, Now Co-owner of Westmeston

Holiday Cottages, and Brent Kearney, Group Director at Woodhams. They

were accompanied by 6 other guests on Saturday 13th November 2021.

The guests were welcomed at Blanch

House in the private dining room, where the Dasaki team of Sam Thomas, Uncle George and Kris Thomas (Sam’s Mum) explained a little about the history of

Dasaki and where their traditional recipes

66 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

originate. They were then left in the

XC Photography in the images shown.

expert Michael Yeoman, Brighton & Hove

Thank you to everyone that supported

them through a variety of different wines.

looking to host a private dining

The guests enjoyed a Greek Cypriot

ticks all the boxes.

Grilled Halloumi, Keftedes (meatballs),

To find out more about the Dasaki

capable hands of award winning wine

Wine Club and Spirit of the Downs to talk

feast starting with a mezedes of Tzatziki,

the event and for any of our readers

experience then Blanch House certainly

Lounza, Olives and Pitta Bread. This was

team visit www.dasaki.co.uk.

with Greek Cypriot Sausage) before the

Venue – Blanch House Hotel - https://

followed by Pasta Bastourma (Pasta

main event, the famous family Kleftico

blanchhouse.co.uk

not enough, the diners left a little room

Wine – Michael Yeoman - https://

custard filled phyllo pastry, drenched in

brightonandhovewineclub.co.uk

(slow cooked lamb shank). If this was for dessert of Galatboureko (creamy spiced syrup).

The evening was captured by the

brilliant photography from Xavier Clarke,

spiritofthedowns.co.uk https://

Photography – XC Photography https://xcphotography.co.uk

CHA RITY

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 67

C HA RI T Y

Looking back on a year of fundraising at Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

Despite the year starting in lockdown, Rockinghorse has managed to fund 50 projects to support children across Sussex since January.

After the upheaval

Charity

we all experienced

in 2020, the charity was hopeful that 2021 would see

the world getting back to normal. But unfortunately, January started off in

lockdown so they weren’t sure exactly

how the rest of the year would pan out. However, an amazing grant of £120,000 from the Camelia Botnar Foundation at the start of the year kicked off a great

year that saw the team at Rockinghorse

HQ and all their supporters working hard to make 2021 a success.

Support through the community

Rockinghorse relies on support from

the local Sussex community, whether

that’s businesses, community groups or

individuals, and throughout the year they didn’t let the charity down.

68 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Throughout the year they had hundreds

of fundraisers organising and taking part in individual events and challenges. This included marathons, half marathons,

virtual cycles, head shaves and endurance challenges like Josh Braid, who pulled a tyre along 50 miles of the South Downs

Way and Dan Cassidy who ran four miles every four hours over 48 hours. Between them they raised over £5,500.

Rockinghorse also teamed up with More Radio for their Early Morning Mission

campaign that saw breakfast presenter Jack ‘the lad’ Hayes walk the South

Downs Way. Despite the wind and rain,

Jack managed to complete his mission and raise £10,000.

The Bears Big Bash, the popular

banger racing team, did their eighth

charity meeting at Arlington Raceway in

Eastbourne in August, raising over £23,000

and in May the boxer Chris Eubank Jnr donated £10,000 to Rockinghorse. The return of events

Thankfully as lockdown eased

Rockinghorse were able to organise

some face-to-face fundraising events,

something they had been missing over the previous year.

In July they welcomed 27 heroes to the

British Airways i360 on Hove seafront to drop the 450ft to the ground, raising an

amazing £16,000. Then in September it

was a golf day at Mid Sussex Golf Club

with golfers enjoying the 18-hole course and raising over £8,000. And November saw the welcome return of the famous

Rockinghorse quiz night, this time held on

Brighton Palace Pier, which raised £6,000. But of course, Rockinghorse weren’t the only ones organising fundraising events.

CHA RITY

Donna Holland

The charity were the recipients of a range of other events held by their supporters, including golf days organised by Search Seven, Morgan Sindall and Jamie

Westley, and the wonderful Best of

British event with guest speaker John Barnes in September. The Projects funded

Thanks to all this amazing support,

Rockinghorse has been able to fund a

wide range of services and equipment this year.

They have provided ongoing funding

for a specialist oncology psychologist to support young cancer patients,

the hippotherapy project at Chailey

Heritage Foundation in Lewes, and the activity programme at Chalkhill Child

and Adolescent Mental Health Unit in Haywards Heath.

They also supported Downs View school in Woodingdean to fund a wonderful

new sensory room, Drove Road respite and residential service now has a

wonderful new trampoline to enjoy and children living with long-term medical conditions benefitted from weekly art therapy sessions in Brighton. A new CEO

In November, Rockinghorse welcomed a new CEO after they said farewell to

Ryan Heal after eight successful years at the helm.

The new CEO, Donna Holland, began in November after working in the

charity sector for the last 20 years,

bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.

Donna is really looking forward to

taking Rockinghorse into its 55th year and is enjoying the new challenge:

“As someone who lives and works in

Sussex, I’ve seen first-hand the impact the charity has and I’m really looking

forward to continuing their vital work.”

And whilst Donna has only been in her role for a few weeks, she already feels

part of the team: “It’s been great to make a start and get to know all the work

that happens behind the

scenes at Rockinghorse. We have some big plans

for the next year and we’re excited to develop our support so that we are

really making a difference to the lives

of children and young people and their families in our community.” Thank you

Donna has been impressed at the

level of fundraising that Rockinghorse

has achieved despite the difficult start to the year: “The world has been an

unpredictable place over the last couple of years, but the support that we have

continued to receive has been amazing. None of these amazing projects would have happened without the help of

hundreds of people across Sussex. “What the local community has

done for Rockinghorse, despite the difficulties that we have all

experienced, has meant that doctors, nurses, support staff and project

organisers have been able to provide babies, children and young people

with the support they need to thrive, be happy and enjoy being children. “So, we would like to take this

opportunity to thank all the businesses and community groups, challenge

participants and individuals who have

taken so much of their time and effort to help support us this year.”

www.rockinghorse.org.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 69

The Starr Trust Charity relaunches with new mission to remove roadblocks for young people and extend reach beyond Brighton The Hove based

Charity

charity, established in 2008, hosted an exclusive relaunch

event at the very top

of the Hilton Brighton Metropole for

selected VIP guests including Mayor of

Brighton, Councillor Alan Robins, TV Vet, Dr Marc Abraham OBE (aka Marc the

Vet), Adventurer, Neil Laughton and Big Brother Winner, Jason Burrell.

The special event marked the official

70 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

unveiling of a brand new identity and

mission as a charity, alongside a pledge to extend their reach beyond Brighton

alone. Guests heard from the Starr Trust Founder & Chairman, Rob Starr, about

his commitment in the coming years to provide support to even more young

people. “Our ultimate aim is to remove

roadblocks that a young person may be facing, in order to help them succeed

in life. We will help them achieve their

goals, encourage independent thinking and fill them with self-belief.” Rob

continued… “With the generous support of businesses and individuals, we can

help young people overcome huge life

challenges and thrive in whatever they put their minds to.”

Guest speaker Hannah, a Starr

previously supported by the Trust,

bravely spoke alongside her mother to tell her story of how the the Starr Trust

has supported her over the years, telling guests “By the Starr Trust believing in me and helping with funding for my

CHA RITY

passion of kayaking, at a time when I

felt life wasn’t worth living, it has quite

literally saved my life.” Hannah is now a

confident senior lead kayaking instructor running lessons of her own.

In attendance along with other special guests was Dr Marc Abraham OBE,

media vet, author, and animal welfare campaigner, who said, “I’m really

proud to support the Starr Trust and all the opportunities it provides for

young people, often from less fortunate backgrounds, to fulfil their hopes, dreams, and aspirations.”

The Mayor of Brighton, Councillor

Alan Robins said: “I was so pleased to

attend the Starr Trust event at the Hilton Brighton Metropole, as the work that

they do supporting young people to

to take a look at what they do and get

heart-warming. Both as an individual or

Experience at BAi360.

to support young people, who may

You can watch the short film here:

further their potential. The work that the

watch?v=nC5YcF5vDus

reach their potential in different ways is as a business, there are opportunities otherwise not have had a chance to Starr Trust does is commendable.”

involved!” said Simon, Head of Guest

https://www.youtube.com/

For more information, please visit:

Guests enjoyed a brunch together,

www.starrtrust.org

charity and were invited to enter a

The Starr Trust removes roadblocks for

kindly donated by Fortnum & Mason,

and thrive in whatever they put their

term supporter Simon Haffenden of

individuals and groups with financial

event and charity, BAi360 will continue

encouraging success.

watched a new short film about the competition to win a luxury hamper,

young people to help them succeed

with the deserved winner being long

minds to. We do this by supporting

British Airways i360. “What a fantastic

grants, sharing connections and

to support this worthy cause however

we can and encourage other businesses

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 71

C HA RI T Y

Time is Precious. At Martlets we value yours.

Terri’s daughter Jess was cared for by Martlets before she died at the age of 21. Terri tells us about the care Jess received and the appeal she runs every Christmas in memory of her daughter. “Jess was diagnosed

Charity

with a very rare form of cancer in 2011 when

she was just 15. After years of chemo,

invasive treatments and a massive

operation, she beat cancer twice, but

relapsed in 2015. She lived bravely for 22 months knowing she was terminal.

72 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

During that time, she was an inspiration for so many young people with cancer and chronic illnesses.  Care at Martlets

“Jess looked forward to going into

Martlets; the physiotherapist would give her an amazing massage that

helped take some of her pain away. All

the staff there were incredible – I just can’t speak highly enough of them.

“Towards the end, when Jess started to decline, Martlets arranged for nurses to come and look after her at home. But

when Jess woke up that Friday morning, she said, ‘Mum I think we need to go

into Martlets now’. I knew things weren’t

CHA RITY bit differently at Christmas because it’s so painful otherwise.”

“Jess loved getting new pyjamas on Christmas Eve. We’d all get into our

PJs, make hot chocolate and watch a

Martlets is a local charity that helps

patients and loved ones make the most of the time they have left together, be part of a team that changes lives.

Martlets’ Memory Christmas trees Christmas is a special and poignant time of year, and many people have traditions around Christmas trees

that remind us of the loved ones we

miss: always decorating the tree with

Christmas Trees across our community,

from Portslade to Newhaven. During the

at Christmas; she bought some new decorations which we’ve put on the

tree every year since she died. One is an angel that goes on top; it reminds me of that last Christmas we had

together. We’ve kept Jess’s decorations and some traditions she loved. But as a family we’ve also started doing things a

each year across our community in their

own homes and at our hospice, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We look after our patients for months, weeks and even years. We help to

manage their illness, providing pain relief and symptom control, offering respite care, physiotherapy and professional counselling for both them and their

families - and much more. None of this is possible without your support.

#TeamMartlets community. You might

This year Martlets has placed Memory

me. Jess loved decorating the house

our work. We care for over 3,000 people

angel at the top of the tree to be

memories are to be cherished, always.

“Christmas is a bittersweet time for

us raise much-needed funds to continue

There are many ways your business can

the first decoration placed. These

Remembering at Christmas time

from the NHS and as a charity we rely on

grandparents on Christmas Eve, or knowing that mum would want the

as I was in pieces.”

will provide comfort in the years to come.

the support of business partners to help

we’re doing this in her memory.”

not just in caring for her but for me too

have special memories to treasure, that

that really keeps me going. We always time and I know Jess would love that

unit. The nurses were just incredible –

have left together. We want people to

Only a third of Martlets’ funding comes

deliver some to Martlets at Christmas

and took her straight into the inpatient

about making the most of the time they

movie – our favourite was ‘Elf’. I set up

a pyjama appeal to remember Jess and

looking good, so an ambulance came

a terminal illness and their loved ones is

busy run up to Christmas, these trees

give people the opportunity to spend a few moments remembering their loved

get involved and become part of our

want to bring your team along to volunteer at an event, sponsor a Memory Christmas

Tree, nominate Martlets as your company’s Charity of the Year, or become a sponsor of our Halloween Ball.

You and your business can be part of a team that changes lives.

ones. Over 20 local businesses are

To support Martlets this Christmas visit

including Waitrose, Brighton Fringe, Big

or contact susi.owusu@martlets.

supporting this community initiative,

Beach Café and The Old Ship Hotel. If you want to support a Memory Tree and add your business to the online trail contact fundraising@martlets.org.uk today.

Follow the Martlets Memory Christmas Tree Trail at martlets.org.uk/

martlets.org.uk/remember-together org.uk to talk about ways your

business can partner with Martlets this Christmas and beyond.

You can read Terri’s story in full at martlets.org.uk/blogs

remember-together

Help Martlets Keep Caring

At Martlets we know that time is precious. Everything we do to care for people with

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 73

C HA RI T Y

Roy’s rehabilitation success Roy had recently

Charity

come to the area from London to be closer to his

daughter and was

looking for a new home. On Christmas Day 2019, he suffered a stroke which put him in hospital and left him with limited mobility.

Roy explains: “I’d never been in hospital in my life before, then I ended up on the stroke ward.”

He had also been recently diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which causes breathing difficulties.

Roy came to Care for Veterans in

February 2020, just before the first

Covid lockdown. One year and one month later, he left the Worthing-

based charity to live independently in a supported living apartment not far away in Worthing town centre.

He gets his own breakfast and dinner,

with his main meal provided at lunchtime by the in-house catering.

Roy, past resident at Care for Veterans, said: “There’s no doubt that I needed

the time at Care for Veterans to recover from my stroke. I wouldn’t have been able to come home straight after

leaving the hospital. I saw a lot of

people worse off than me on the stroke ward, so I feel very lucky. I enjoyed the

physiotherapy with Emma three times a week, and I liked the carers; they were all very good.

I’m really pleased that I’ve found this place, it’s a nice flat, and it’s very

quiet, which is great! The people are good, and my daughter comes over

74 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

several times a

week and takes

me out. I like to sit outside with a cup

of tea and watch the

squirrels and foxes.” Lead Physiotherapist at Care for

Veterans, Emma

Curtis, worked with Roy three times a week during

physiotherapy sessions. She

said: “Roy is a very independent man, and the sudden

decline in his health was quite a shock.

He would say, ‘All I

wanted was my own place; how did this happen?’ He really

wanted to get back to the point before

his stroke where he was going to find

a nice place to live near his daughter. “At Care for

what he wanted, and it is lovely to see

Veterans, we work with an individual

how well he is doing in his new home.”

achieve then set realistic goals. For

Care for Veterans provides residential

could live independently again and

end-of-life care for anyone over 18 who

involved building up the strength to

their families. The charity must raise

his wheelchair safely. We also worked

to provide these vital services. To find

to understand what they want to

Roy, this meant working on ways he

nursing care, rehabilitation, respite and

assessing how he progressed. It

has served in the armed forces and

allow him to transfer from his bed to

over £1.5 million each year to continue

on his balance and cardio.

out more, call 01903 213458 or visit

“When Roy was looking at places to live,

we went with him to assess whether they would be suitable for his needs. I am so

thrilled that we were able to help Roy get

careforveterans.org.uk

Christmas Carol Concert Sunday 12 December 2021 Lancing College Chapel 2pm until 3pm Join us for this fantastic festive celebration and help support disabled veterans.

£10 per person

Book now to avoid disappointment

01903 218444

careforveterans.org.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 75

Registered Charity No. 1072334

The Sussex Cancer Fund’s 40th anniversary year

The Sussex Cancer Fund’s 40th anniversary year is drawing to a close and as in previous years the charity has been extremely busy supporting patients and cancer services throughout Sussex. It is likely that every

Charity

Cancer Patient in

Sussex has benefitted in some way from

something the Sussex

Cancer Fund has provided.

The Sussex Cancer Fund buy

equipment, additional patient services, carry out refurbishments and building projects, and fund cancer research,

76 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

essentially everything the major national charities do but the money we raise stays here in Sussex.

This year despite the restrictions

imposed by the pandemic we have

continued to provide the charity’s core services to patients. Having cancer treatment is tough both physically

and emotionally; we try and make the

process a little more bearable. Gestures

like providing decent tea and coffee,

music in the radiography suites, an up to date glossy magazine to read right through to having your own patient gown to preserve dignity are small

but appreciated touches we provide

patients. One of the most recognised

patient benefits is the provision of the

Sussex Cancer Fund car park, receiving daily treatments is stressful enough

without having to worry about where

CHA RITY

freezing at night, but were warmer. The massage feels like ‘heaven’.” - 58 year old with Pancreatic cancer.

to park. Each month, we provide 500

parking permits. Some of those permits will be used up to 20 times which

equates to approximately 2500 parking spaces a month.

One of the patient services we fund is Massage Therapy, as well as the

obvious benefits that massage brings

in terms of relaxation there are hidden benefits of human contact which can mean a lot to some of our patients

that may be living alone. It can also

help relieve symptoms of treatment

and provide pain relief. “The peripheral neuropathy – numbness and tingling in my feet was noticeably less for the

next two days after my foot massage,

and I also noticed my feet no longer felt

site but we hope to open more satellite clinics as funds allow.

As well as equipment and services

To build on our patient services, this

the Sussex Cancer Fund is continuing

extension campaign to extend our

number of projects running, examples

Sussex. Our Acupuncture service helps

recurrence’, ‘research into the gut

historically based in Brighton. But

‘improving the care and experiences of

have a long waiting list, even longer now

our research studies have the ultimate

raise £23k to extend the service to other

of cancer to create better more efficient

year we launched our acupuncture

its work in research. We have a

service to more sites throughout

include ‘how stress can effect tumour

ease treatment effects and has been

micro-biome and anal cancer’ and

demand for the service is high and we

older women with breast cancer’. All

due to COVID. Our campaign aims to

aim of gaining a better understanding

areas providing satellite clinics so people

treatment programmes.

some group work where patients can

If you would like to read more about our

through similar experiences, receive

cancer patients in Sussex, please visit our

don’t have to travel so far and also

gain support from other patients going

work or help us to support even more

treatment and learn some self-treatment

website www.sussexcancerfund.co.uk

techniques. The campaign has reached

60% of its target and we are pleased to say that the service is now operating in Eastbourne as well as at the Brighton

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 77

C HA RI T Y

Giving homeless young people in Brighton & Hove a safe night’s sleep

Brighton and Hove has a long history of homelessness and rough sleeping, with an ever-changing street population and even larger, less visible numbers sofa-surfing. Government data

Charity

the concept of homelessness feels

reported some

even more wrong.

in England

Thankfully, there’s a citywide network

541,000 households accommodating

helping homeless people and Sussex

someone in 2018-19 who’d otherwise

Nightstop is part of that. A small but

acute in London and the South East.

ensure that young people in particular

2016 suggests that 26% of young

night and, crucially, find a secure and

be homeless and the problem is more

vital charity, they’re on a mission to

Cambridge University research from

have the opportunity to sleep safe every

people aged 16–25 had slept rough at

sustainable home.

‘sofa surfed’.

Their model is unusual, but part of a

At some stage or other, we’ve all met

accredited by the larger youth charity,

either given them some spare change,

community collaboration that addresses

some point in their life and 35% had

growing national network that’s quality

or seen someone on the streets and

Depaul UK. It’s a simple concept rooted in

had a chat or avoided them and felt

the problem both short and long-term.

particular, when we gather together

Sussex Nightstop recruits, checks

family in our warm offices and homes,

volunteer hosts; enabling them to open

remorse. And at Christmas time in

with business colleagues, friends and

78 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and trains local people to become

up their homes and provide a safe,

warm place to sleep for young people experiencing homelessness.

A safe night’s sleep can change a life It’s amazing how well this collaborative model works. The warm welcome and home comforts provided by Sussex

Nightstop combine with local services (mostly via the referral agency, YMCA

Downslink) to support young people into

more permanent, suitable accommodation and the impact is huge. With a safe night’s sleep behind them, it’s easier to develop a road map to the life they want. Key facts

• 90% of young people who stay with

Sussex Nightstop go on to find a more suitable home, re-uniting with their family where it is safe to do so.

• 42% of young people staying with

CHA RITY

Sam Murphy

Richard Zinzan

If you’re a business, here’s ten ways to help:

Host Family

• Adopt Sussex Nightstop as your inSussex Nightstop are in work,

education or training. The provision of this vital emergency accommodation enables them to maintain these

essential activities, laying foundations for their future.

What can we do as a business, or an individual?

Sussex Nightstop works with local businesses who want to make a

contribution to the homeless problem. This ranges from pro-bono work and

one-off donations to adopting the small

but impactful charity longer-term, which: •C overs placement expenses including

safe travel to and from the host home.

•R ecruits, trains and supports a pool of committed volunteers.

•M aintains a safe, high-quality service that deploys skilled staff in the

support of vulnerable young people in complex situations.

Richard Zinzan, director of Archangels Architects, got involved with Sussex Nightstop in 2019, by asking all

clients who benefit from a free design

consultation to donate £30 to the charity. He has since become the charity’s

Business Ambassador and is keen to

grow collaborations within the Brighton and Hove business community.

“As an architectural practice that

designs homes to improve everyday

living, it was a natural choice to support a homeless charity and we liked the

fact that Sussex Nightstop is all about working together to solve a problem.

It’s an intelligent solution, run expertly,

that results in a powerful service offer.” Sam Murphy of independent mortgage and insurance brokers Mortgage

Medics chose Sussex Nightstop as their community charity partner in

2020 with an aim to support their fight against homelessness by offering a

regular funding commitment and raising the profile of the charity’s work to clients and the general public.

“We’re passionate about advising

our clients in what can be a complex and costly process and accessing

permanent housing when you’re in

crisis is undoubtedly exponentially more challenging. All our staff are behind this partnership and they identify with the

tangible benefits the service provides.

We’re proud to support their hardworking team of staff and volunteers.”

house charity

• Sponsor a community campaign –

they’re always recruiting volunteers

• Nominate Sussex Nightstop for your industry’s community grants

• Promote Sussex Nightstop through your website and social media channels

• Link a business service or sale to a Sussex Nightstop donation

• Introduce employee payroll giving

• Organise a fundraiser: auction, gala, quiz night, sports event, bingo night or cake sale

• Donate a gift or service we can use to thank our amazing volunteers

• Donate toiletries for young people to use during their stay

• Make a donation

If you’re an individual, here’s three things you can do:

• If you meet someone who is

rough sleeping and in need of

accommodation, please share the

details with national service Streetlink which routes all reports through to outreach workers who can help.

• Consider becoming a trained volunteer if

you have a spare room – visit the charity’s website to find out more and apply

• Organise a fundraising event or make a donation

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 79

C HA RI T Y

Holding Space

Supporting parents and carers across East Sussex, whose children are struggling with their mental health. When your child

Charity

suddenly becomes ill; depressed, anxious,

suicidal, with low self esteem and shuts

down from you as a parent, you don’t

know what to do. Your world gets turned upside down. You are meant to protect your child, make them happy. But you

can’t seem to get any help; find out what’s wrong; who can offer you support. As a parent you beat yourself up wondering where you went wrong. You feel guilty. And you ask yourself why? Because there is such a huge stigma around

mental health. And especially when it

comes to children and young people. You see it in the eyes of your friends,

your family. They don’t mean to judge

you but they do. The professionals tell

funding and fundraising to enable us to

you they can’t help you and that it’s your

mental health. We have no age criteria and

a parenting course!

We believe that educating, supporting

There is no support for parents. The

mental health of the next generation, along

with you and you need support? Or you’d

need to stop this. We need to provide

do this by providing families with a safe,

fundraising, sponsorship? Please get

them know that they are not alone. That

where they can share, connect with others

about our work and to work with you;

And they will be supported.

child’s mental health and know that they

back and make a difference.

This was me; a parent with lived

journey alone and in silence. We offer

Know that you are never alone

talk to; nowhere I could get support. So in

and face-face parent coffee mornings,

Further details can be found on our

Holding Space in the hope that we were

walk & talk sessions.

https://www.holdingspace.org.uk/

there does not need to be a diagnosis.

do the work we do.

and empowering families is crucial to the

How can you help? Maybe this resonates

voice of the parent is not heard. And we

with early intervention and support. We

like to support us through volunteering,

support for parents and carers and let

non-judgmental, confidential safe space

in touch! We’d love to talk to you more

it’s okay and their child has an illness.

and talk about everything regarding their

let’s give the next generation their lives

parenting style and advise you to go on

are not alone. No parent should walk this

experience with no support, no one I could

a range of support and services; online

September 2019 I launched and founded

telephone support, low-cost counselling,

not the only family experiencing this.

Holding Space is a volunteer led

website:

about-us

Holding Space is a not-for-profit registered

organisation of 30 people made up of

Or contact me directly:

parents and carers across East Sussex,

carers, qualified therapists and mental

hansa@holdingspace.org.uk

charity whose primary ethos is to support

local parents with lived experience,

Hansa Raja-Jones

whose children are struggling with their

health practitioners. We rely on grant

07922851207

80 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

CHA RITY

The Clock Tower Sanctuary I’m sure that

Charity

you, like

so many,

are looking forward to

Christmas – an opportunity to

gather with family and enjoy the most special time of the year,

exchanging presents by the tree

and enjoying dinner in the warmth of your home. For a young

homeless person, Christmas isn’t such a happy occasion. They

tell us it can be a time of deep

uncertainty and fear. They may be living on the streets, sleeping in

the cold and wet and enduring the constant threat of violence and

abuse, or sofa surfing, constantly on the move with no permanent place to call their own.

At The Clock Tower Sanctuary, we usually help between 180 and 200 young homeless people in a given year. In

addition to emergency council accommodation, they need

extra support too – particularly during

December, when it’s cold and dark, and Christmas, with all the emotion that

day brings, draws closer. For so many different reasons, these vulnerable

young people often can’t be with their families. For them, The Clock Tower

Sanctuary’s staff and volunteers may be the only ‘family’ they can turn to.

This was how it was for Theo, who’d

been sleeping on the streets for three years, since he was 16 years old. It

was December 2019 when he walked through the door at The Clock Tower Sanctuary. Hungry and cold, Theo

was given a hot meal and a shower

and, from that day on, his life began

to change. We provide hot meals,

With your support, we can raise

support and an opportunity to think

open for the month of December.

from day to day. For many young

give the young people who come in

lives around. All the young homeless

shower and essential toiletries, and

Tower Sanctuary’s drop-in centre

importantly, we can provide a space

for whatever reason, they can’t be

worker, receive emergency support,

cared for. Like other vulnerable young

Thanks to you, there’ll also be a

finally felt safe again. With the help of

unwrap, so they feel cared for at what

a chance to do laundry, emergency

£12,000, enough to keep the centre

about the future, rather than living

During that time, we’ll be able to

people, it’s an opportunity to turn their

a nutritious meal, as well as a hot

people who come to The Clock

a place to do their laundry. Just as

receive a Christmas present. When,

where they can meet with a key

with family, we make sure they feel

and begin to think of a way forward.

people who come to the centre, Theo

present under the tree for them to

his key worker, he found temporary

can be a very lonely time of year.

that followed, instead of surviving day

www.thects.org.uk

accommodation. And over the weeks

to day, he began to think of the future.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 81

C HA RI T Y

Glenn Hoddle joins 400 guests to raise over £40,000 for Sussex Cricket Foundation

Sussex Cricket

Charity

The money raised will go towards

“To raise in excess of £40,000 is a

initiatives and programmes, including its

a big difference in supporting the

Foundation welcomed

supporting Sussex Cricket Foundation

guests to its gala

disability cricket programme, women’s

a record number of fundraising lunch,

‘Where Cricket Meets… Glenn Hoddle’ at the Hilton Metropole, Brighton on Friday. After a year off in 2020, 400 guests

were in attendance for the annual event, beating the 300 that attended ‘Where Cricket Meets… Kevin Keegan’ in November 2019.

‘Where Cricket Meets… Glenn Hoddle’

raised over £40,000 for Sussex Cricket’s

and girls’ programmes, its Champions Fund and its Urban Cricket Plans.

the Foundation all the very best and

hope they continue their fantastic work.” Reflecting on ‘Where Cricket Meets…

Glenn Hoddle who was interviewed by

Community Director, Gary Wallis-

enjoyed stories from footballing legend former Crystal Palace manager, Alan

Smith. Other speakers provided insight into the work of the Sussex Cricket

Foundation and the difference it makes to people across the county.

There was also a presentation of the

both live and silent auctions.

Wellbeing Hub by event sponsors and

Highest bidders in the auctions went

Foundation’s work in the future. I wish

As well as a sumptuous lunch, guests

charitable arm through ticket sales, onthe-day donations and proceeds from

fantastic achievement and will make

Glenn Hoddle’, Sussex Cricket’s

Tayler said: “The event was hugely successful and exceeded all our expectations. The money raised

will go a long way to supporting the

Foundation’s aim of actively changing lives through cricket.

Sussex Cricket Mental Health &

“I would like to thank all our sponsors,

the Hub’s developers, Frog Systems.

that generously provided auction prizes

all of our guests for attending, those

and to Glenn for sharing stories from his

away with items such as a box at

Speaking directly after his appearance

against South Africa, a painting of Ollie

and manager Hoddle said: “It was an

If you’re interested in finding out more

Foundation and learn about their many

and the work the team do across the

Lord’s for next summer’s Test match Robinson taking his first Test wicket

for England painted live at the event by artist Bryn Sutcliffe, hospitality

packages at Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United and tickets to the Goodwood Qatar Festival.

82 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

on Friday, former England midfielder

honour to support the Sussex Cricket

initiatives that they run across Sussex that actively change lives. The stories heard during the day were heartwarming and inspiring.

glittering playing & managerial career.”

about the Sussex Cricket Foundation

county, please visit www.sussexcricket. co.uk or contact foundation@ sussexcricket.co.uk.

SBT MOTORING NEWS

THE MOST PROMISING CONCEPT CARS

WITH RIVERVALE LEASING

REVEALED: UK AREAS WITH THE MOST WINTER ACCIDENTS

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR TOP TIPS

SBT MOTORING NEWS SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 83

MOTO RI N G N E WS

The most promising concept cars

Cars aren’t just about convenience; they push the boundaries of technology and design.

And nothing is a

Motoring News

better example of that than a concept car. Concept cars

demonstrate the huge

strides we’ve made in technology. Often futuristic in appearance and technically impressive, concept cars seem miles

away from the vehicles we are used to

seeing on our roads. Yet simultaneously, they give us a glimpse of what ordinary cars could look like in the future. What is a concept car?

Concept cars are built by manufacturers to demonstrate their technical and

design capabilities. Usually unveiled at

motor shows, concept cars are exciting

to see because they test the usual limits of the automotive industry.

Even though the majority of concept

cars will never make it to production (at least, not as they’re initially presented),

a keen-eyed observer can watch certain

84 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

elements of concept cars translate into a manufacturer’s latest releases. Concept cars, in addition, help to predict a

manufacturer’s direction in terms of their brand and design.

Manufacturers will pay attention to

how their concept cars are received.

Elements of the cars that are positively

received, where practically possible, can actually make it into later releases.

In the rest of this blog, we’ll explore

some of the most promising concept cars released in recent years. Renault Morphoz

Last year, Renault revealed the Morphoz, a ‘shapeshifting’ conceptual vehicle

designed to be at once a city car and a long range cruiser.

While not intended to be a self-driving car, it’s still an autonomous vehicle,

which is one of its most enticing features. Drivers would be able to take their eyes

off the road, hands off the wheel, and

lose their focus for the periods of time

in which this mode is activated - which is a more realistic glimpse of what ‘self

driving cars’ are likely to look like, at least in the near future.

In terms of design, the Morphoz breaks the mould of what we imagine a car’s

interior to look like with seats capable of swiveling to face each other, including the front passenger seat. Impressive tech includes an in-built system that

completely immerses occupants in an interactive way through video game challenges or musical playlists. Rolls-Royce 103EX

The 103EX, the first ever autonomous

vehicle conceptualised by Rolls-Royce, was unveiled in 2016. A vision in

advanced tech and futuristic design, it seems to embody the intentions they have for their brand’s future wherein

‘each and every RollsRoyce will be a

MOTOR I NG N E WS

Renault Morphoz

Rolls-Royce 103EX

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

Volvo Polestar Precept

unique work of art.’ In fact, Rolls-Royce

sustainable materials and no animal

model they produce of this vehicle is as

panels to minimise energy consumption.

are looking to a time wherein every

unique as a person’s own fingerprint.

It certainly promises an exciting future for them as a manufacturer, and the

103EX is just about everything you’d

expect from the modern concept car: autonomous, with an in-car assistant

the car is promised as a ‘sanctuary’ - an

products, as well as integrated solar

If Volvo managed to pull this off, with such

car itself looks pretty alien, futuristic,

solidify a place for them as one of The

other-worldly influence comes in; the minimalistic and clean, with no sharp edges. Its wheels draw the main

of each other creating a ‘crab like’

ambitious. Its front grille would house

movement for the car.

you can see they’re heading in the

VISION AVTR from Mercedes-Benz pushes the boundaries of what modern technology could someday achieve. Looking vaguely

to what Mercedes are doing right now, correct direction with the likes of The

autonomous, with certain modes giving a driver more or less control.

The VISION AVTR would be completely

electric, emission-free and created with

responsive. It would recognise its driver

and when they approach, the car would

react and begin preparing itself to drive.

might be a long way off, it’s clear to

down the line...

viewed not just as a concept car,

the car would primarily be intended to be

would also be highly personalisable and

AVTR concept might be a little further

latest all-electric option. Although this

and machine, lacking traditional control

console that is sensor-reactive. That said,

sensors known as a ‘smartzone’, while it

While the kind of technology we’d need

Volvo Polestar Precept

features and instead opting for a central

goals, but that doesn’t make them less

New Mercedes-Benz EQE,the brands

out of this world and futuristic, VISION

AVTR aims to blur the lines between man

Greenest Car Manufacturers in the future! The Polestar Precept sets achievable

wheels that can be driven independently

whiling away the time driving.

Loosely inspired by the 2009 film Avatar,

a great focus on sustainability, it should

attention, these are spherical bubble

If you’re looking at this in comparison

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

fifty years from now.’

Design-wise, you can see where the

opportunity to make use of the time spent travelling, rather than simply

‘we’ve borrowed from tomorrow. Not

The Volvo Polestar Precept is

but a commitment to building more sustainable vehicles in light of the

climate crisis. The Polestar Precept

to properly facilitate these vehicles

see common themes: sustainability,

advanced technology, AI-powered tools, and designs that are clean, minimalist, and perfectly futuristic. And while

these models themselves will likely

never reach production, innovative car technology is developing all the time.

would be made from recycled materials

If you’d like to contact our team on

sustainable cork. While futuristic in

a time that suits you.

such as bottles, fishing nets and

its design and tech features, it’s also

realistic and logical, with Volvo stating

01273 433480, or request a callback at

www.rivervaleleasing.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 85

MOTO RI N G N E WS

Revealed: UK Areas with the Most Winter Accidents Mapped: Top 10 UK Areas with the Most Motoring Accidents in Winter News Weather Condensation on the windows, a snowcovered roof and de-icer at the ready – winter weather is inconvenient for most motorists. Driving in wintry conditions can also be very dangerous, which is why you should be extra careful in the colder months. Rivervale has analysed the Department for Transport’s Road Traffic Statistics to reveal which UK areas have the most road accidents in winter conditions. We studied five years of data from 206 local authorities, looking at the number of accidents during snow, ice, floods, fog and darkness. ● One road accident happens every hour in snow, ice, floods, fog and darkness ● 44,783 accidents in wintry weather occurred 2016-2020 ● Kent has the highest number of road accidents in winter conditions (2,010) Top 10 UK areas with the most accidents in wintry conditions Kent revealed to have the highest number of wintry road accidents The Department for Transport’s statistics show that out of 206 local authorities, Kent has the highest number of road accidents recorded in winter conditions. A total of 2,010 accidents occurred between 2016 and 2020, averaging 402 accidents per year in snow, ice, floods, fog and darkness. Looking at each of the adverse conditions in isolation, Kent has the highest number of incidents for all bar one. The only exception is flooding, with Nottinghamshire

86 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

recording the most accidents. Lincolnshire comes second for most accidents in winter weather After Kent, Lincolnshire is revealed to have the most wintry accidents at 1,606 between 2016 and 2020, or an average of 321 per year. With 1,135 accidents in darkness, 284 in ice and 115 in fog recorded in total, Lincolnshire drivers should be extra cautious when it comes to driving in winter weather. Surrey drivers at risk in winter weather with the third-highest total accidents Surrey follows with the third-highest number of accidents in winter conditions. With 1,546 accidents from 2016 to 2020, or 309 per year on average, Surrey drivers may want to take extra care during the colder months. The statistics show that in total, Surrey has recorded 1,120 accidents in darkness, 272 in ice and 64 in snowy conditions. Top 10 UK areas with the fewest accidents in wintry conditions We also uncovered the top 10 local authorities with the least number of accidents in winter conditions between 2016 and 2020. 1. City of London – one accident 2. Isles of Scilly – two accidents 3. Heathrow Airport – three accidents 4. Torfaen – 15 accidents 5. Dundee City – 17 accidents 6. Blackpool – 21 accidents 7. Trafford – 27 accidents 8-9. Islington – 29 accidents 8-9. Reading – 29 accidents 10. Kingston upon Hull – 31 accidents Blackpool, Reading and Hull make the top 10 for fewest accidents The City of London has had the least

accidents with just one caused by snow, which is unsurprising as it’s such a small area. However, larger local authorities like Blackpool (21), Reading (29) and Kingston upon Hull (31) also make the top 10 for the fewest accidents in winter weather, each with less than 40 accidents in five years. 5 top tips for driving in winter conditions Bud Johnston, Group Marketing Manager at Rivervale Leasing, gives his five top tips for staying safe when driving in common winter weather conditions. 1.  Keep your windows extra clean in darkness. Light on dirty glass causes glare, decreasing your visibility of the road. Make sure to keep your windows clean to reduce the glare from other driver’s headlights. 2.  Pull away in second gear on icy roads. Make sure to do this gently to minimise wheel-spin while pulling away. 3.  Avoid a £50 fine and turn your fog lights off when visibility improves. Fog lights are useful but should only be turned on ‘unless visibility is seriously reduced’, according to The Highway Code. You could risk a £50 Fixed Penalty Notice if you don’t comply. 4.  Keep a spare pair of shoes in your car for snowy conditions. Driving with wet, slippery shoes on after walking to your car in the snow could be dangerous. Keep a spare pair in your car to ensure you can stay dry while driving safely. 5.  Don’t open your bonnet if you break down during a flood. The rain can ruin your car’s electronics and can be very expensive to fix. www.rivervaleleasing.co.uk

SBT CHAMBER NEWS

WHY GETTING TO NET ZERO IS AN IMPORTANT ISSUE FOR BUSINESS BY BRIGHTON CHAMBER

SUSSEX CHAMBER BUSINESS AWARDS WE ANNOUNCE THE WINNERS

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Why getting to Net Zero is an important issue for business

Why is getting to Net Zero an important issue for business and why do people care? by Sarah Springford, Brighton Chamber

Chamber News

So much more about

Taking the first step towards Carbon

These are amongst the many topics that

our consciousness

Common themes that I have noted as

about right now in Brighton & Hove,

Chamber members over the last few

there’s an opportunity for us all to find

Climate Change is in now - even more so than a year

ago; legislation is coming; owners

and managers do not want to get left

behind especially when customers are

demanding sustainability practices; and there are clear benefits for businesses,

whether it’s gaining a USP, or increased productively from shaking up the business model.

88 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Net Zero

people running businesses are talking

we’ve been discussing with Brighton

and with the recent COP26 conference,

months include: renewable energy

out more, get help and make a plan.

footprint; carbon footprint; ethical

Join other businesses

procurement; planting trees; B-Corps;

about businesses wanting to get to

involve employees; customers’ views;

of Brighton Yoga Foundation in February.

suppliers; how to travel, digital

pension providers; circular economy

One of the first conversations I had

electric and hydrogen vehicles; how to

Carbon Net Zero was with Davy Jones

suppliers ethos.

We talked about it being ‘mainstream’,

CHAM BE R N E WS

help other businesses get going along the journey towards Carbon Net Zero and beyond. The idea of an interest group was born…

What we’re doing about it – with the

steer and help of Chamber members Fast forward a few months and

thoughts started to translate into

actions. Brighton Chamber held our first Q&A on ‘Getting your business

to Carbon Net Zero’ with the inspiring

and knowledgeable Sam Zindel, MD of Propellernet and Steve Creed, Circular Brighton & Hove. We had a Bite-

sized Learning session on ‘Reducing your digital carbon footprint’, led by Bek Kimber of Create.net, and our

November Construction Voice panel event was on reducing carbon and environmental issues.

With so many Chamber members

interested in reducing their carbon footprint, we organised the first meeting of Net Zero Business

Champions, where members shared their goals and ways to help reach others and the wider business

community. Our second meeting will

be in January 2022, and we’re looking the target of 2030, and the question of ‘how do you do it?’

Many other Zooms followed over the

next few months with School of the Wild, who are designing workshops using

nature and the outdoors; Southcoast

Bikes who are powering our Brighton Bike scheme as well as repairing and selling bikes; Brighton-based Alirity

who have set themselves the goal to be

carbon negative this year; Happenstance who are using their documentary film making skills to help us understand

complex issues; Chie Consulting who built their own eco house; and Lucy Walsh who is a sustainability coach

providing sustainability and well-being advice to businesses.

All of these businesses and

organisations are unique, but what

they have in common is that they are

all on a journey and are making time to make progress. It’s been exciting and

energising to see what can be done in

a short space of time, sometimes with very small resources.

There’s lots of help here in Brighton

forward to bringing more events and

initiatives around helping businesses

to understand and achieve net zero in the new year.

If you have something that will help businesses in Brighton looking to

reduce their Carbon Footprint or want

to get involved, get in touch with team at brightonchamber.co.uk.

I quickly discovered that there is

a huge amount of activity around

environmental sustainability going on here in Brighton, with lots of people working towards more sustainable

living. And what’s great is that many

of these early adopters are more than

willing to share what they have learnt,

the successes and the challenges, and

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C HA M B E R N E WS

Sussex Chamber Business Awards The awards are the perfect opportunity for us to celebrate the achievements of our business communities, to

Chamber News

take stock of the outstanding performances of UK businesses, and to encourage and inspire others to follow in their footsteps. This year we had entrants from organisations of all sizes and sectors.

Businesses are the backbone and driving force of the UK economy. Even in the face of uncertain times, they

continue to show their resilience and strength – creating opportunities for employment, investment and growth.

Recognising and rewarding excellence in British business, the Chamber Awards is one of the UK’s most contested and

prestigious business award programmes. Each year, organisations of all sizes and from all sectors compete for the coveted titles. It is fantastic news that four Sussex Chamber members have been recognised and we wish them all the very best in the finals. The Planet Saver

Bola Lafe, Managing Director, Opus Innovations “Opus Innovations is a sustainable personal care and eco living company and our ethos is to only get involved in activities that are kind to

People, Animals & the Planet. We do not deviate from this ethos and therefore stay focused on our priorities and mission. Due to Coronavirus, we were forced to pivot the business to survive, and

in 2021 we launched 3 new sustainable products that challenge the status quo by using a lot less

plastic or using 100% recycled plastic. Opus is a small certified Ethnic Minority Business and firmly believes that small and diverse companies can make a difference in the world, as it’s not only the

responsibility of the large global companies to make the planet more sustainable. We are naturally (excuse the pun!) delighted to have won the Sussex Chamber Business Awards ‘Planet Saver

(Green Business of the Year)’ and also the Regional Chamber Business Award in the same category for the South East region for 2021. We are now hoping to win the overall British Chamber Business Award for our category, and who knows, even the Winner of Winners award too!”

The Problem Solver

Jo Hunter, Managing Director, Piglets Pantry “We are delighted to have won both the Sussex Chamber’s Problem Solver along with Regional Award for the same. In March 2020, like many

businesses, we were faced with game-changing, unprecedented challenges. It is to the credit of our dedicated, wonderful team that we were able to pivot our business direction, by delivering

afternoon teas direct to homes in lockdown. We’re now enjoying serving our hot pies and sausage rolls at events across the country, including at the American Express Community Stadium, as well as delivering to homes - brightening the days of loved-ones and turning gatherings into memorable occasions. We’re excited for the next chapter and the next challenge!”

The Young Innovator

Anthony Mellor, Director, White2Label Manufacturing “We’re delighted to have been

nominated and won the Young Innovator of the Year. This is a great piece of recognition

to all the investment we have put into continuing to deliver our clients an amazing service

throughout the global pandemic and alleviating teething issues after Brexit. We saw it as an opportunity to increase investment into our infrastructure, equipment and staff.”

90 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

CHAM BE R N E WS

The Equality Trailblazer

Marketing Team, ICS Industrial Construction (Sussex) Ltd “We are delighted to have won the Equality Trailblazer Award. We are pleased that our staff are from the Sussex area, 40% of the

senior management team are female and 20% are under 30 years old. ICS are proud supporters of Women in Construction and have five amazing women in the team. Our staff are employed

from various backgrounds which have many transferable skills. We are incredibly proud of every member of the ICS team, for their contributions to the success of the company.”

The Game Changer

Ryan Welmans, CEO, Sopro “Sopro are delighted to join the Sussex Chamber in congratulating Rob Harlow, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer for the Chamber Business Awards, South

East Regional Winner for the 2021 Game Changer category. Rob’s expert leadership and hugely positive impact on the world around him has been far reaching in the business community for years. The team at Sopro, wholeheartedly congratulate Rob and all the 2021 finalists on their success in gaining national recognition for their exceptional achievements. Bravo.”

The Global Player

Chris Willis, VP Marketing, Rayner Intraocular Lenses Ltd “Rayner designs and manufactures

intraocular lenses (IOLs) as well as other ophthalmic solutions for use across the cataract patient clinical pathway. With over 70 years of continuous growth and experience, we remain at the

forefront of innovation, focused on providing the best visual outcomes for clinicians and patients.”

Regional Chamber Award Winners

The winners from all categories were put forward to the British Chambers Awards which are in two parts, firstly the Regional

Chamber Awards followed by the National Chamber Awards. Four Sussex based companies were successful in winning their

category in the Regional Chamber Awards! They will join me in the prestigious showpiece event recognising and promoting the best of British business through a virtual Chamber Business Awards ceremony in December.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 91

R E M E M B E R TO G E T H E R

Thank you for your support

Text REMEMBER to 70480 to donate £10 to help fund life-changing hospice care in our community Find out more at:

martlets.org.uk/remember-together 92 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Registered Charity Number 802145

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS

DON’T GO NETWORKING TO GET BUSINESS WITH NETWORK MY CLUB

JACKIE’S NETWORKING ADVENTURES WITH COUNTY BUSINESS CLUBS

PROPERLY CAPTURE THE PARTY SEASON AND CORPORATE EVENTS

BY XAVIER CLARKE, OF BRIGHTON-BASED XC PHOTOGRAPHY

SBT NETWORKING & EVENTS SPONSORED BY:

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N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

Don’t go Networking to Get Business By Bradley Hatchett, Founder of Network My Club

OK, fundamentally

Networking & Events

that’s why most people do. But hear me out.

This post was inspired

following a conversation with leaders of another networking organisation.

We spoke about businesses we see get

the most from networking. And what traits and methods they share.

And unsurprisingly (to us) but perhaps surprisingly to some, a common trait

we unearthed is those who approach networking with more than going to get business.

For most that’s the end goal. Of course, you want a return from your investment

and time (which can come in other forms other than new business – but that’s another post).

But don’t go into it with that mindset at the forefront of why you’re networking.

Doing so sets an expectation and a

conscious agenda. You’ll always be 94 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

thinking of how you can achieve that goal

networking event, stop and ask yourself

of getting new business.

questions like:

Instead, approach with the mindset of how

• “ How can I improve the day of the

you can add value to other attendees and members to help them.

With this mindset it immediately removes

that urge you might feel to sell and pitch to people at events.

You won’t look at people as targets. Or

write people off you don’t think are ‘useful’ or ‘valuable’ to you.

Networking forms part of your marketing plan. It’s a much more personal and relationship driven approach.

But that shouldn’t mean it’s any faster

people I meet as a result of meeting me?”

• “Who can I learn from?” • “ Who can I help?”

• “How can I add value to this room?” Go to help others, listen intently and be

curious. And probably most important – attend consistently.

Then watch as more people try to help

you, and your network and new business flourishes as a result.

If you’re a networker that likes to help others and add value to a room, we

than other forms. It’s a slow burn.

welcome you to try an upcoming event.

and offline marketing, and you have the

View upcoming in-person and online

Team it up with other forms of online perfect mix.

Where can you start to begin employing this mindset to networking?

Next time you’re about to step foot into a

events by visiting

www.networkmyclub.co.uk.

N ET WOR K I N G & E V E NTS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 95

N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

Jackie’s Networking Adventures

Nyetimber harvest festival - 13th October For over 30 years,

Networking & Events

Nyetimber has had

a single aim: crafting exceptional English sparkling wine that

rivals the very best in the world. A

true pioneer, Nyetimber was the first

producer of English sparkling wine to

exclusively grow the three celebrated grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Regarded

as England’s finest sparkling wine,

Nyetimber is made from one hundred percent estate-grown grapes.

I feel very lucky to have been invited to

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the Nyetimber harvest festival, I could

not have pre-empted what a spectacular day was ahead.

Along with approx. 30 other people I was collected by minibus from Billingshurst train station and taken to the vineyard.

The views on arrival were incredible, we were greeted by a wonderful team of

Nyetimber ambassadors with coffee in the gardens.

Next off we go by tractor and trailer exploring through the vineyards,

watching in detail every step of making

this fantastic wine, I even got to cut my

own grapes: somewhat disappointed to learn I didn’t even pick enough for one glass!

On returning from the tour, we were

greeted with the most amazing outdoor

harvest festival, a beautiful marquee with the most wonderful laid tables, burning heaters and fantastic food. It was like

being at a wedding, it was simply just perfect, and we were hosted by CEO Eric Heerema and his lovely wife.

To top it off a trio was playing music

in the open space, they were so good they are now playing at my wedding

N ET WOR K I N G & E V E NTS

(the trio are Super tenants should you wish to have a google, lots of great videos on You Tube).

Following on from this day, I was

delighted to hear that Nyetimber won

two industry awards in the same week. •W inery of the year Great Britain 2021 – Anthony Rose, The Real Review

•W ine Producer of the Year – Tom

Hewson & Tim Atkin MW, England 2021 Special Report

English sparkling wine producer Nyetimber

has been named ‘Winery of the Year Great

CEO and Owner of Nyetimber, Eric

Real Review in their first Top Wineries of

strive to produce the best quality

Nyetimber was awarded ‘Wine Producer

are given based on producers’ full

Report commissioned by Tim Atkin MW

endorsement of our efforts - we are we

Britain 2021’ by Anthony Rose for The

Heerema commented: “We always

Great Britain 2021 awards. Also this week,

sparkling wine and these two awards

of the Year’ in the England 2021 Special

portfolios, so represent a great

and authored by Tom Hewson.

are very proud of these results. This

In the ‘Brut Blend’ category of that

the middle of harvest, our busiest time

(2010 vintage) and Tillington Single

give our team a real boost during this

wonderful news comes as we are in

report, Tom awarded Nyetimber’s 1086

in the vineyards, and this will definitely

Vineyard 2013 the top two places

pivotal period for Nyetimber.”

rated best Demi-Sec.

www.nyetimber.com

respectively. Cuvee Chérie was also

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N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

CBC presents MythBusters in association with Inside stories - 20th October

Not only was this

Networking & Events

County Business Clubs’ first ever event, it was a

sell-out. An evening

hosted by the man himself, Sam

Thomas, of County Business Clubs, alongside Terry Bower and Gareth

DImelow, of Inside Stories, held at

Barclays Eagle Labs in Preston Circus. The night was capped at only 30 guests to ensure the intimate style of the

intended workshop to be held. The night covered everything you wanted to know

98 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

about Business Story Engagement (but we’re too afraid to ask).

In a workshop format the team set out to answer all/many of the common

(and recent) myths about Marketing & the art of attracting the right kind of attention for your market sector.

This would help attendees reflect on

lessons we’ve all learned over the past

year and form a legacy attitude and joint knowledge pool.

It covered the value of creating

and incorporating ‘Story’ into each

industry sector to articulate and evoke emotion and empathy to their chosen audience. By whatever medium they choose to use.

The key to this evening was always to have attendees leave the event with

takeaway real-world tips which I truly believe was achieved.

The success of this event was very apparent by the great feedback we

had from our attendees and the nature of the topic covered.

N ET WOR K I N G & E V E NTS

The Big Business Breakfast Club 15th October at Hotel Du Vin

Hosted by Jim Cunliffe, Steve Darby, Heather Barrie and Janella Merritt Always a favourite of mine, where zoomers meet roomers! This month saw a particularly good line up of guest speakers:

Kathy Caton, Brighton’s Gin founder and MD, Louise Stevens: Communications Coach, Author, Businesswoman, Speaker and Comedian and Andrew Murphy from the FSB.

Alex Ryan with his top marketing tips, I am literally his biggest fan - he really does

share insightful tips every month, so do check him out or come along to the next one at the Grand hotel on December 17th at am. Tickets available here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bigbusinessbreakfastclub

Acumen Business Convention 9th October at The Grand Hotel

Running for over 10 years, with more than 3,000 Business leaders and 50

inspiring speakers, The Acumen Business convention return on October 9th at the Grand Hotel. Although not in attendance, I heard the day was quite

spectacular, with dancing zebras, salsa, drumming and nearly 300 hundred esteemed businesspeople.

The day was absolutely packed with inspiration, motivation and expertise from the fantastic speakers including Momma Cherri sharing her inspirational story, from

overcoming prejudice in 1970s United States to working with Gordon Ramsay to

create her beloved soul food, Olympic silver medallist Leon Taylor sharing his story

and tips for elite business and competitive mentalities and Justine Roberts through the ups and downs of her business mumsnet.com

Best of British – Bond Gala Dinner 25th November at The Grand Brighton

The Grand Hotel, Brighton witnessed a very special event last Thursday as the Best

of British Events / Best of Bond Gala Dinner was FINALLY delivered having first been scheduled for 26th March 2020. The Charity Bond Night starring Samantha Bond, Colin Salmon and the amazing Dame Judi Dench (virtually) was said to be one of

the ‘Best’, Best of British events yet. The night raised a whopping £43,000 for Best of British charity partners - a phenomenal amount which will have a huge impact

on their grateful beneficiaries. That takes the total raised at Best of British Events to £118,000 in just 5 months since the return of face-to-face events.

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N ETWORK I N G & E V E N TS

Properly capture the party season and corporate events Xavier Clarke, of Brighton-based XC Photography, talks us through the importance of properly capturing the party season and corporate events in this thought-provoking feature. Currys PC World

Networking & Events

nailed it with their

current TV advert, reminding us that

it is always best to

get a professional in. You are not just

paying for a service, you are paying for years of experience and training. You

wouldn’t attempt to buy a house or try your hand at being a DJ during a big

gathering without much knowledge so you definitely need a professional photographer to cover your event.

Every year, we seem to be surprised at just how quickly the party season has crept up on us - this year more than most. In spite of all the uncertainty,

people are starting to book caterers,

venues, entertainers, DJs, bands - and many other things that need to be in place before invites are sent out to colleagues, friends or loved ones.

Some people still question the value

of a professional photographer. With mobile phones getting better and

better, you might be wondering if there is still a need to hire a professional. Yes, there is! To properly cover an

event you have to be ready to shoot anything - from speeches, candid

shots, people wanting portraits, and group shots, as well as capturing people in action.

Depending on the event and venue,

you won’t be able to use off-camera

flash and your equipment will struggle in very low light conditions. You may also be unable to adapt quickly. Are

100 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

you really up to waiting for that

‘perfect moment’

candid shot or those times when you will be tapped on the

shoulder and asked for a portrait?

A professional

event photographer gets everywhere

- to ensure every

important image is

captured while never getting in the way or interrupting the flow

of an event. They are there to do it justice. And you get more than just photos.

You get an expert

who can speak to

everyone - from the those in postroom to the boardroom. They blend in and make people feel

doesn’t finish at the end of the night.

their night.

Need an event photographer? Take

comfortable because, after all, it is

After an event ends, I dedicate hours to importing and editing images, a

crucial part of the service. Most events have changing lighting, so each image is corrected and adjusted accordingly. I understand that everyone will want to look their best and take time on

each image. So, when you book your

photographer, remember that their job

a look at what we have to offer.

Whatever the event - from corporate parties, awards nights, burlesque, engagement parties, surprise

birthdays, welcome home or just an

excuse to get together with your close friends - I have you covered.

Email: xavier@xcphotography.co.uk Website: xcphotography.co.uk

SBT SPORT

WHAT MAKES A WINNER PROFILE OF CHRIS ADAMS

SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS OF 2021… AND WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2022

GOLF COURSES IN SUSSEX (PART ONE)

SBT SPORT SPONSORED BY:

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What makes a winner Profile of Chris Adams

Chris Adams was

Sports

captain of Sussex

Cricket throughout the greatest era in

the county’s history,

winning a first Championship title in

2003, and again in 2006 and 2007, but

where many people dream of becoming a successful sportsperson, I started by asking him when did he decide he was going to be a professional cricketer?

“It came completely out of the blue. I dreamt of a career as a professional

sportsman, but football was my first

love at 15. I had finished my O-Levels at Chesterfield Boys Grammar school and had signed what was then a YTS

contract with Chesterfield Football Club to pursue my dream.

“During the summer, whilst playing

cricket for Derbyshire U17’s, my parents were approached by the team coach

and Cricket Master at Repton College where I was offered a full scholarship.

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Repton were regarded as a strong

footballing school so my dreams to

play pro football were buoyed by the

potential to get into the England Schools team. However, on the eve of the trials I was Ill, performed very poorly and missed the cut.

“Fast forward to the cricket season

where I had a dream start. My first five

innings recorded four centuries and on the Tuesday evening after the last one, my housemaster knocked on my door

and asked me to follow him to his study,

where I was greeted by the Chairman and Captain of Derbyshire CCC! Apparently,

they had been trailing my performances

and the scouts had been watching - both Lancashire and Worcestershire had put requests in to approach me and that

night, I had an offer of a three-year pro contract with Derbyshire!”

Adams made his first-class debut for

Derbyshire in 1988 at eighteen and stayed

there until 1997 before leaving to become captain of Sussex. Despite leading from the front in helping to turn a club of

perennial underachievers into a successful side, Adams recognises that the feature of Sussex’s success, whilst including stand

out players to win the Championship, also needed every player to make important contributions along the way.

“Mushtaq Ahmed was of course the

standout performer, on and off the field. Over 500 wickets across 6 seasons

speaks for itself but his impact extended way beyond that. His desire and thirst to bowl so many overs, often at the more difficult end meant our talented seam

trio of Kirtley, Lewry and Martin-Jenkins bowled less overs and fewer spells resulting in fresher legs, less injury,

and more potent spells from them - a

winning formula. With the bat we had some amazing talent, Montgomerie,

Yardy, Prior, Cottey, Ambrose but the

standout for me was Murray Goodwin.

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Not consistent week in week out but he always turned up for the big occasion

and when he did get in, he often went big, sometimes very big.”

These players clearly contributed to the success of Sussex in the 2000’s but is

it more important to have the skill or the

right attitude and how important is having the right level of confidence?

“I have seen many a talent lose their

way through a poor attitude and being

unable to accept or see this. On the flip side I have seen examples of players

with limited skills completely max out

on potential and extend their careers by sheer desire to work hard, learn, adapt

and evolve. In all those cases resilience stood out and if I could impart just one

attribute into any young aspiring cricketer it would be that. Having said that, I’m a firm believer in confidence being a by-

product of preparation and belief. Peter Moores, my first Sussex coach used

to talk about belief being the enemy of

doubt. I can link the times in my career to when I began to doubt my ability to a drop in preparation standards so it’s

important to work hard and prepare well. I always took the field with confidence and belief both individually and as a team.” However, despite winning the County

Championship in 2003, it was another three years before the team could

emulate that feeling again and Adams

acknowledges they probably spent far

too long enjoying that win and failed to

recalibrate for the next two campaigns.

“I call it Everest syndrome. For those that successfully reach the peak of Everest

many elements need to come together.

Firstly, months of training and preparation are required before you even reach base camp, key personnel are identified and

given specific roles, you need all the right equipment and a mindset so rigid on

reaching the top despite huge challenges and difficult conditions along the way.

Once you reach the summit, you have just

seven minutes to enjoy the moment before you must descend, otherwise you die,

simple as that. To be able to successfully climb the following year everything

must match the year before and due to evolution often it must be better. If you

don’t, you often meet with failure therefore it’s very difficult and challenging to stay at the top for any length of time.”

In his decade long first-class playing

career, Adams scored 19,535 runs, with

an impressive forty-eight centuries and a highest score of 239. Adams announced

he was stepping down as Sussex captain on 14 September 2008, guiding Sussex

to the Pro40 Division One Title the same day. He subsequently announced his

retirement from first-class cricket, upon his appointment as cricket manager of

Surrey County Cricket Club after which

he became Head coach. So, I asked him what was his proudest achievement?

“There were many, thankfully: my debut for Derbyshire aged just 18, winning a Lords final with both Derbyshire & Sussex as a player and with Surrey as Head Coach, being part of the Sri Lankan coaching

team that beat England in all formats in

the 2014 series, coaching Netherlands to an incredible World League 1 champions and ODI status. All these were incredible moments, but I cannot separate the top two. Making my Test debut for England in South Africa fulfilled an ambition that

was embedded in me on my first day as a professional at Derbyshire. Of course, as Captain being the first to ever lift the

County Championship for Sussex ranks as high as representing my country, an incredible moment not just for me but

for every Sussex supporter of any age. A truly memorable moment which will always be with me.”

If you could offer three pieces of advice to be successful, what would they be? “Environment and culture are so

important. Get the right people in the right roles and empower them to be

the best they can be. Clarity is hugely important for any player and coach.

Finally know your destination, if you don’t know where it is you want to get to, how on earth can you plan your journey.”

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S PORT

Sporting highlights of 2021...

and what to look forward to in 2022 Sports

Football – June saw

2021 saw the inaugural Hundred series

by Italy after beating

(men’s) featuring Sussex players, George

in the host nations

Surrey), while in the women’s competition,

the delayed Euros won

which was won by the Southern Brave

England on penalties

Garton, Tymal Mills and Chris Jordan (now

first major final in 55 years. Manchester

the Oval Invincibles featuring Sussex’s

Liverpool while Brentford were promoted

Southern Brave side featuring Sussex’s

City regained the Premiership title from

Georgia Adams were victorious over a

to the Premier League for the first time

Danni Wyatt, Tara Norris and Carla Rudd.

could end in an enthralling climax as

Tennis - the men’s player of the year

appear to be in a three-way battle

winning three out of the four Grand Slam

the astute stewardship of the former

year surely goes to Great Britain’s 18 year

Thomas Tuchel.

feat in lifting the US Open title after being

Cricket – with the much-anticipated

to win a Grand Slam singles title and

in their history. The 2021/22 season

the aforementioned Liverpool and City

was undoubtedly Novak Djokovic,

with a resurgent Chelsea team under

tournaments, but the headline of this

Borussia Dortmund and PSG coach,

old star Emma Raducanu for her amazing the first qualifier in the tennis Open era

Ashes series between England and

become the first British woman to win

Gabba in Brisbane, England will be

Wade 44 years ago at Wimbledon.

being knocked out of the T20 World

Rugby Union – March witnessed Wales

them and regain the urn after the last

and Triple Crown, but they were denied

holding the bragging rights after a

to France in their final match. The more

tourists were Down Under.

seen Ireland overcome the All Blacks

Australia getting underway at the

looking to put the disappointment of

a Grand Slam singles title since Virginia

Cup semi final to New Zealand behind

winning the Six Nations Championship

series was drawn 2-2 with the Aussies

a Grand Slam after dramatically losing

convincing 4-0 series win last time the

recent Autumn Internationals have

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and England defeating the Wallabies at

Twickenham, good signs for the Northern Hemisphere teams ahead of the World

Cup in New Zealand in October next year. Horse Racing – April this year saw

the 173rd Grand National horse race

at Aintree won by 11-1 ‘Minella Times’ ridden by Rachael Blackmore who

became the first female rider to win the world-famous steeplechase.

Olympics – July saw the beginning of the month-long Tokyo Olympics and while the United States dominated with 113 medals, Great Britain

finished fourth in the medals table after securing 22 golds, 21 silvers

and 22 bronze medals. Amongst the

many highlights, Adam Peaty became the first British swimmer to defend an Olympic title after winning the 100-metre breaststroke.

Paralympics – the 16th Summer

Paralympics began in Tokyo at the

end of August and resulted in Team

GB ending with a haul of 124 medals,

including forty-one golds, second in the table behind China.

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Boxing – While Anthony Joshua lost

The year begins with a date that may

October saw Tyson Fury, aka The

League as the Africa Cup of Nations

dog” in the heavyweight division by

meaning some of the top stars in this

to retain his WBC Crown after being

lose some of their star players, though

in what many have described as one

with trio Sadio Mane, Mohammed

Dillian Whyte is the second top boxer

Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy and Hakim

Fury’s next opponent.

Mahrez, along with four from Arsenal

Moto GP – November saw the

nation’s participation in the tournament.

his three belts to Oleksander Usyk,

affect the destiny of football’s Premier

Gypsy King prove his status as “top

takes place in Cameroon, effectively

overcoming Deontay Wilder again

country will be missing; most clubs will

knocked down twice by the American

Liverpool appear to be the most affected

of the classic fights of all time. Briton

Salah and Naby Keita missing, although

in the WBC rankings and is most likely

Ziyech and Manchester City Riyad

retirement of nine-time world champion

will also be away for the duration of their

Valentino Rossi after his 10th place

Staying with football, the year will end

as the greatest superbike racer ever, the

Qatar in November, while the Women’s

where he won the Premier Class World

this country in July.

Honda and is also the only road racer to

Women’s Cricket will see England

finish in Valencia. Quite rightly regarded

with the FIFA World Cup taking place in

Italian bowed out after twenty-six years,

European Championships will be held in

Championships with both Yamaha and

have competed in over 400 Grand Prix’s.

compete in the World Cup in New

… and what else to look forward to

England men will follow the Ashes with a

in 2022

Zealand from March to April, while

tour of the West Indies between January

This year will be jam packed full of sport

and March before welcoming the visits

due to the pandemic taking place, so

India in July followed by South Africa.

sport, there is no doubt you will be spoilt

Meanwhile the Winter Olympics

with many of the rescheduled events

if you appreciate and enjoy your fill of for choice in 2022.

to the UK of New Zealand in June and

and Paralympics is scheduled to

take place in February and March in

Beijing, China, while for all golf fans, the Masters at Augusta USA gets

underway on 7 April and the 149th

British Open Championship begins on 14 July at St Andrews.

In Athletics, the Commonwealth Games

will be in Birmingham, getting underway in July, while the same month will see the Women’s Hockey World Cup take place in both Spain and Holland.

World Equestrian Games will be in

Denmark in August and now includes eight new disciplines – combined

Driving, Vaulting, Dressage, Show

Jumping, Endurance Riding, Reigning, Eventing ad Para equestrianism.

The Rugby League World Cup will

take place between 15 October and

19 November in England with the first

match scheduled at Newcastle United St James Park and for the first time

in RLWC history, the men’s, women’s, and wheelchair tournaments will take

place together. While in Rugby Union, England’s opening fixture is on 8

October against Fiji before two huge matches against France and South Africa, respectively.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 105

S PORT

Golf courses in Sussex (part one)

East Sussex National With Sussex boasting

Sports

some amazing

countryside and

knowing that many of

you out there are keen

golfers with many of you actually being

quite good, whilst some of you are more proficient in ‘military golf’, namely left

right left right, I thought it might be helpful to detail some of the recommended (not

all!) private and public courses in our fair county, starting in East Sussex.

West Hove Golf Club Royal Ashdown Forest

West Hove Golf Club

18-hole, par 68 (5606 yards), private,

yards), private, downland golf course

Ashdown Park, East Sussex is an

parkland golf course and it’s known for not featuring any bunkers.

“Golf courses in East Sussex can be challenging, but few are as beautiful

to play as the stunning 18-hole, par 3 course at Ashdown Park.”

The golf course is open every day from 9am - 4pm with a special rate of £15

East Sussex National

per person, per round.

National. The East has hosted the

www.ashdownpark.com/sussex-golf-

There are two courses at East Sussex European Open but essentially this is a 36hole course with an 18 hole (7138 yards)

East course and (7154 yards) West Course. “Robert E Cupp, an American course architect who was regularly hired by

Jack Nicklaus, designed the 2 courses together with the 3 hole academy

course with USGA specification... since opening, the club has attracted a host of championships, which include the European Open in 1993 and 1994, 5 European Challenge Tour Events, 4

PGA European Tour Qualifying Schools

between 1994 and 1997 plus numerous other golf tournaments, including Open Qualifying and the Sky televised, 2016 PGA European event.”

course

Crowborough Beacon

Crowborough is located at the highest

point in Sussex and boasts superb views of the surrounding countryside and this

Club is an 18-hole, par 71 (6319 yards), private, heathland golf course.

“Founded in 1895, the dramatic

heathland setting of Crowborough

Beacon Golf Club has an unrivalled

position on one of the highest points in Sussex, enjoying far-reaching views to

the sea 22 miles away. The golf course has been influenced by two legendary

golf course Architects, Harry S.Colt and Dr. Alister Mackenzie.”

“West Hove is an 18-hole, par 70 (6253 established in 1910. The course is laid out over rolling chalk downland and

is a challenging par 70. Being in one

of the warmest and driest parts of the

country, coupled with the chalk terrain, the course is almost always playable.” In 2006 West Hove was proud to be

the first Club in Sussex, and only the

second in the country, to be awarded the prestigious GolfMark Award. Green fees: from £45 www.westhovegolfclub.com Seaford Golf Club

Seaford overlooks the English Channel

and offers great views across the South Downs with an 18-hole, par 69 (6546

yards), private, downland golf course designed by J H Taylor back in 1907.

“Seaford Blatchington, as the club is

referred to locally, is a Sussex gem and one of the finest downland courses in the country set in a particularly

beautiful part of the South Downs. A

delight to play and always a challenge but never too daunting, it will reward accurate ball-strikers who maintain

concentration and treat every hole with respect.”

Green fees: from £60

Green fees: from £50

Green fees: from £35

www.eastsussexnational.co.uk

www.cbgc.co.uk

www.seafordgolfclub.co.uk

106 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

SBT LIFESTYLE

THE NEW COMMUNITY THAT IS CONNECTING BRIGHTON

BY LYNDSEY CLAY, FOUNDER OF ‘CONNECTED BRIGHTON’

COUNTY BUSINESS CLUBS WINE OF THE MONTH

WITH BRIGHTON & HOVE WINE CLUB

SBT LIFESTYLE SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 107

The NEW Community that is Connecting Brighton

In this month’s lifestyle special we caught up with Lyndsey Clay, founder of ‘Connected Brighton’, the new community that is bringing people together in our city. Lyndsey tell us

Lifestyle

about you and

how you came to

children and became single. And it

was tough to not fit in and feel left out.

my business in lockdown - Connected

Brighton. Helping those who also need connection, in singles or couples, it

start Connected

Fast forward (almost) ten years and

In my 30s I discovered I was highly

I’m happy with the road my life has

IVF twice, had a miscarriage and my

freedom has allowed me to travel,

Tell us what Connected Brighton is

the stress of it.

skills, meet brilliant people and live by

Connected Brighton is an inclusive

Brighton?

I’ve embraced being the odd one out!

unlikely to have children, went through

taken and I wouldn’t change it. The

marriage broke down a year later from

work where I’ve wanted, learn new

My friendship circle changed

exponentially when I didn’t have

108 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

my own rules.

Being different helped me to create

brings together like-minded people

and gives back through events that support local businesses.

and what you offer your members? community dedicated to connecting

men and women and supporting our local businesses.

L I FE STYLE

Whether you are single, in a couple,

new to the city, been here forever, just

want to meet new people, expand your

network or try new things then we have something for you! Date

Connecting city singles looking for a new

wingman or wingwoman, a plus one, new

friends or true love. Small groups doing fun things across the city. Ditch the apps and meet new people IRL (in real life!). Network

Our city is full of bright and brilliant business minds, nowhere is more

entrepreneurial than sunny Brighton! Join us to share ideas and create a

support network for local businesses to flourish post lockdown. Socialise

Our social club brings small groups

together to meet new people, make

new connections and enjoy the best

hospitality the city has to offer. Single,

coupled up, local or new to the area, be part of our club!

Tell us when you started Connected Brighton and why you launched

a social events business during a global pandemic?

I started Connected Brighton officially

in April this year, registering as a limited

Brighton, featuring in The Argus,

event. Crazy right? A social events

Shows and being asked to speak at an

company before I’d even held a single

interviewed on Podcasts and Radio

business in a pandemic?

event on Female Founders. It’s been

But I passionately believed it would be

learning so much and working hard to

was, and still is, my attitude (channeling my

we can give you more!

successful. Build it and they will come

inner Kevin Costner from Field of Dreams)!

brilliant and at times overwhelming. I’m improve and develop what we offer so

With a packed events calendar in

Because there had to be other people

December for Connected Brighton,

to meet new people and do fun things

2022 we have so many brilliant new

business. Coming together after so

dinners at brilliant restaurants like

in the city who, like me, were looking

what does 2022 have in store?

together that would support local

events to add to our portfolio with

much time apart in this crazy pandemic.

the Salt Room, Murmur, Wild Flor

And you have come. And I can’t tell

cookery classes as well as escape

meet you, hear your stories and feel the

We are also launching our membership

events programme, is building and I’m

local businesses with member only

and Copper Clam. Walking tours and

you how validating it is every time I

rooms, pub quizzes and dance classes!

connection. This community, and our

which will enable us to support more

loving watching it grow.

discounts and offers.

From not being allowed to hold events

To find out more about the amazing

of six indoors to getting groups of us

community visit https://www.

at all, to being outside only, to groups

events and join this growing

eating out, kayaking, treasure hunting,

connectedbrighton.com

escaping from escape rooms, taking tours and tasting the cities best

food and drink. Overcoming every

challenge to bring people together. I’ve loved being partnered with Visit

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 109

WI N E OF T H E MON TH

County Business Club Wine of the Month December 2021

So we are now in the build-up to Christmas festivities and down time with family and friends. This month we have chosen a wine from Dermot Sugrue who is widely regarding as one of the most influential and proven wine makers currently in the UK. Background to Sugrue

of the best that I

and moved onto making wine at the

Neal Martin -

Dermot started brewing beer at 15

have tasted.”

age of 16. This passion continued

94/100 points

in Champagne, head winemaker at

Key facts for

for English wine. He moved to Wiston

GRAPE: 100%

for many local vineyards including

VINEYARDS:

and his own boutique brand Sugrue

Vineyard,

wines which have been lauded

planted 2004

produced in the UK. Dermot uses ex

Greensand with

the maturation of his wines.

approx. 100m

This year Dermot won Wine GB

YIELD: 2015

2021 and Wine GB Trophy 2021 – 2021

VINIFICATION: 100% fermented

with Dermot working multiple harvests Nyetimber as it was setting the scene

Cuvee Boz

Estate in 2008 where he creates wines

Chardonnay

Digby, Jenkyn Place, Black Dog Hill

Jenkyn Place

which has been producing wonderful

Hampshire,

as being some of the best wines

SOIL TYPE :

burgundy barrels to add complexity to

fractured chalk, above sea level

Boutique Producer of the Year 2020 &

vintage - 6,200 bottles produced

for the second year running

in stainless steel, with malolactic

The wine commentators notes for this

MATURATION: Bottled July 2016. Just

“The 2015 Cuvée Boz, released at

DRINKING WINDOW: 2023 - 2036

Chardonnay from the Jenkyn Place

Sugrue wines can be

light mousse and a greenish tint. The

sugruesouthdowns.com or on request

nose unfolds to reveal green apples,

Social - @sugrue_south_downs @

wine are;

the end of February 2021, is 100%

fermentation

under 4.5 years aging on lees.

Vineyard in Hampshire. This has a

purchased directly from www.

well defined, complex and harmonious

from Brighton and Hove Wine Club

crustaceans and subtle hints of

dermotsugrue sugruesouthdowns

balanced and poised, quite weighty in

Wine insight - Blanc De Blanc

zest and faint traces of strawberry

the wine maker only uses the white

outstanding English sparkling wine

be other varieties such as Seyval Blanc

lemon thyme. The palate is very well

the mouth, offering citrus peel, orange

The term Blanc De Blanc is used when

toward the elegant finish. This is an

grapes typically Chardonnay but can

from Dermot Sugrue, certainly one

and Pinot Meunier grapes. Chardonnay

110 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

is particularly good for aging and so this

wine is recommended to be laid down in a cool dark place for further aging and

development of the flavours. This wine

can be drunk at its best until 2036, if you can leave it until then! Michael Yeoman,

brightonandhovewineclub.co.uk Michael Yeoman owns Brighton and Hove Wine Club and also creates

a range of Sussex spirits using the

pomace from English wine production. He specialises in working with small

batch wine producers in and around Sussex and the South Downs.

SBT ASK THE EXPERT

ELWOOD WINE SELECTIONS

WITH KARL ELWOOD

5 TIPS TO PRESENT LIKE A PRO

BY LOUISE STEVENSON, CEO OF SPEAKEASY COACHING AND BRIGHTON COMEDY COURSE

SBT ASK THE EXPERT SPONSORED BY:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 111

Elwood Wine Selections When Karl established

Ask the Expert

Elwood Selections in 2008, he drew upon the inspiration and

experience he gained

over 20 plus years in the wine trade to uncover the little-known estates that

offer truly exciting wines that represent great value.

There are so many exciting wines from lesser-known regions and smaller

112 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

estates, but their production levels are

too small for the supermarkets to ship,

so very few wine drinkers will hear about them. Unlucky for them, but good news for Elwood Selection’s clients.

Karl looks for the personality behind the label – the growers who make excellent wine with a history, small batch estates whose livelihood depends on the

sustainability of their product. He works with modern winemakers who are not

stuck in tradition, but make the wine

that is true to themselves and loved by their buyers.

“Wine is for everybody,” says Karl. “There’s no right or wrong, it’s just

opinion.” So Karl gets to know his your personal tastes, he suggests the wines he thinks you’ll love, never pushes

wine and works in partnership to make sure the wine you spend your money on is everything you wish it to be.

ASK T H E E XPE RT

is no need to have lots of different

3. What’s the correct temperature

should be all you need. Tip: If you

answer to this, but it is really

by hand, they will be fine in the top

can. The old adage that “room

include a detergent and leave them

reds is not very helpful. The point

alone. Works well for me, especially

was coined pre-centrally heated

sized glasses on the table and this

to serve wine. There is no simple

don’t fancy washing your glasses

important to get it right if you

tray of the dishwasher, but don’t

temperature” is sound advice for

to be washed in the hot water

to consider here is that this phrase

if I have lots of glasses to wash!

homes. Given that many homes are

2. How do I know I will appreciate a

Here are three of the most frequent questions that Karl gets asked:

1. D oes glassware make a difference? This can make an enormous

difference to your enjoyment of a

wine. There are so many options available these days, but if want

a really decent all-rounder that is reasonably priced, then I would

recommend the Spiegelau Authentis White Wine Glass, which is usually

around £35-40 for a box of 4. There

heated above 20 degrees during

the winter, that won’t be doing your

more expensive wine? Once you

reds any favours. The ideal serving

bottle - think packaging, duty, VAT,

style of wine, but as a general

so on - the more you spend on the

served around 7 degrees, white

the wine within. Once you start

with fuller bodied whites and lighter

are some really interesting wines

and medium to full-bodied reds

price range. Here is a great way

like to chill my reds in the summer!

factor in the dry costs of a single

temperature does depend on the

shipping costs, retail margin and

guide, sparkling wines should be

bottle, the more value you get from

wines and roses about 12 degrees,

spending over £9 a bottle, there

reds about a degree or so higher,

to be had, especially in the £15-20

about 18 degrees. That said, I do

to test this out with your friends or

family. Buy a minimum of 3 wines,

For more information or to see our

at three distinct predictions points.

website www.elwoodwines.co.uk

preferably from the same region and

full range of wines, please visit our

For example, choose 3 Malbecs at these price points - £8/£13/£18.

First try them in ascending order of price and then again in descending order. It’s a great way to discover how the quality compares at each price point.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 113

AS K T H E E X PE RT

5 Tips to Present Like a Pro

Louise Stevenson is the CEO of Speakeasy Coaching and Brighton Comedy Course. This is coaching with

Ask the Expert

personality. Louise started a career in

stand-up comedy in

1999 and has worked

alongside Jimmy Carr, Alan Carr, Rich Hall and Russell Brand. Louise uses

techniques from the world of comedy to

help others create engaging content and deliver it with confidence and style. Speakeasy Coaching provides

practical tools to transform the quality of your communications so that you no longer approach public speaking with dread and anxiety. With expert advice and encouragement, your

confidence will increase so that you’re calm and ready to deliver a talk, pitch or presentation that makes an impact and gets results.

If you want to be an Authentic and Powerful speaker, here are 5 Top Public Speaking Tips.

1. K now your material. Pick a topic you are interested in. Know more about it than you include in your

speech. Use humour, personal stories and conversational language – that way you won’t easily forget what you’re saying. Audiences want

a conversational style from their

speakers. The trick is to make it feel like a conversation.

2. Practice. Practice. Practice!

Rehearse out loud. The more you do,

the more you’ll remember your talk as well as gain a natural rhythm to your

delivery. It’ll also become clear which parts you should put emphasis on. Edit and revise as necessary.

3. B e organised. Know your content

114 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and arrive at the venue early.

Greet some audience members

as they arrive. Listen and observe the audience, compere and other

speakers. This will give you an extra

edge in that you won’t repeat content and you can add, comment or avoid (if necessary) earlier topics.

4. Relax. Take a deep breath as you

approach the mike. This works in two ways; it’ll make you more relaxed

and it will make your tone of voice

much more natural. When you reach the mike, take a minute to smile get

yourself set up and centred. This buys you time and calms your nerves. It also signals to your audience that you’re confident and calm.

5. Don’t apologise for any nervousness or problems - the audience probably never noticed it. Don’t undermine yourself by saying I’m just, or I’m not very good

at, or I’m not prepared. Have faith in

yourself and deliver your message with enthusiasm and confidence.

I hope these tips have been valuable. If you dread Public Speaking and want to be better at it, then explore our website https://www.speakeasycoach.co.uk/

for 121 or group coaching and see what coaching best suits you. Or to discuss

email Louise@speakeasycoach.co.uk Speakeasy, Coaching for Powerful, Authentic Speakers.

Join our community today SPECIAL EVENT OFFER Annual Premium Individual Membership

ONLY £99

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Your Business | Your Community | Your Platform www.countybusinessclubs.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

115

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

One Prizes:

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

7 GOLF DAY

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

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MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

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MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

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in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

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in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

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• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

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MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLI

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£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

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7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

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FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

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THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

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in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

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PART OF

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in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

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MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10

Prizes: ar Hole in One

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHD

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE

BIRTHDAY

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday 0,000 cash, UK Golf break t of clubs and

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLI

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON TH

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 202

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

PART OF

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

Holiday in Europe, break

PART OF

Golf £10,000 cash, UK Golf and Set of clubs

ONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY

FOR

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON

DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

PART OF

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

WORKSHOP

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY

Star Hole in

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

SEARCH SEVEN

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

Star Hole in

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

SPONSORED BY

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

FRIDAY CHARITIES 6TH MAY FOR

Sponsorship opportunities available

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

#S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities available

search marketing & conversion specialists

IN SUPPORT OF:

IN SUPPORT OF 7 CHARITIES:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

MONDAY 7TH MAY 2018

THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2020

7PM KICK OFF AT AMEX STADIUM, BRIGHTON

DYKE GOLF CLUB, BRIGHTON £77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

PART OF

PRESENTS

DIGITAL MARKETING

WORKSHOP

£77K TARGET - 10 CHARITIES - 10TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

BIRTHDAY

DONATE: JUSTGIVING.COM/FUNDRAISING/SHARE77K

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

SEARCH SEVEN

MID SUSSEX GOLF CLUB, DITCHLING

WEDNESDAY 7TH JULY 2021

17K TARGET – 7 CHARITIES – 7TH BIRTHDAY DONATE: SEARCHSEVEN.CO.UK/S7TEDSTROPHY2018

Star Hole in

One Prizes:

in Europe, Golf Holiday £10,000 cash, UK Golf break and Set of clubs

PART OF

116 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk SPONSORED BY

XI search marketing & conversion specialists

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

ENTRY INFORMATION

WHY ENTER?

• £360 per team • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

Sponsorship opportunities available

WHY ENTER?

• £250 per team or £65 per person • Teams of Four • Stableford Points • 9am shotgun start

• Great prizes for nearest pins longest drives • Chance to win £10,000 cash car, an all-inclusive holiday golf clubs or a UK golf break • Lunch included • Sweepstake, raffle and more

SUPPORT OF:

CHARITY 7 GOLF DAY

ENTRY INFORMATION

FOR

FRIDAY

CHARITIES 6TH MAY #S7LOVESCHARITY

Sponsorship opportunities av