SBT issue 478

SBT POWERED BY:

ISSUE 478 FREE

THE NUMBERS STUDIO:

EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS WITH FINANCIAL MASTERY www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 1

SHARING SUSSEX BUSINESS STORIES SINCE 1975

All business is symbiotic in nature.

You can be inspiring your peers one day, learning from them the next.

In the end, people buy people.

That makes sharing our stories the most compelling way to connect with one another.

What’s needed is a platform to embrace and empower our regional business ecosystem.

Where varied backgrounds and perspectives provide new context.

Harnessing potential, enabling growth.

And at the heart of it, a dedicated term of curators unlocking insights for the good of us all.

So we’re changing the way people think of connecting.

Because we believe in self-reflection, rather than self-promotion.

By demystifying the art of storytelling, we deliver authentic thought leadership through events, publishing and broadcast media.

We come together to discover, share and grow.

But we won’t be limited by geography, or our imagination.

Instead, we’ll seek out local leaders, visionaries and experts, wherever great businesses thrive.

Growing communities, in partnership with the businesses that power them.

And nurturing the enterpreneurial spirit in everyone.

2 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY w w w . c o u n t y b u s i n e ss c l u b s . c o . u k

SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to another edition of SBT

Imagine having a dream to run a successful business - only for it to turn into a nightmare. I know, not a good thought, but...

It happens more often than you think and, most likely, because simple problems have been put on the back burner and left to spiral out of control when a quick call to a professional could have had them sorted in no time. The same can be said for missed opportunities.

You’d be surprised how many options become available when an expert gets involved.

Imagine a meme doing the rounds of a cozy bookstore nestled among a plethora of chain stores just off the main thoroughfares in Brighton… An eviction notice sits heavy on the counter. Rent is skyrocketing and the owner’s savings have dwindled faster than a bestselling thriller.

Now imagine the shop door opening and David, a friendly lawyer, walking in.

“Rough day?”

Think of that lawyer explaining the tenant’s rights, encouraging a bit of negotiating and then connecting them with a financial advisor. A strategic budget and grants ideas are just the start there!

It’s a happy ‘Saved The Day’ meme, of course.

Businesses of all sizes benefit hugely from taking professional advice.

Our cover story this month features one such professional services business - The Numbers Studio. Take a look at what it can do for your company. You could well be surprised.

Elsewhere, we highlight the importance of getting the correct legal advice and learn about the benefits of AI adoption in teams.

Of course, it wouldn’t be SBT without a busy networking and events section. Check out what’s going on - including at this Thursday’s Brighton & Hove Business Show.

From charity, the arts and basic, but absolutely essential, business services we’ve got you covered.

After all, what would that meme look like now if a friendly lawyer hadn’t come through the shop door at the exact right time?

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 3

Issue 478

06

Cover 478

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

Monthly News

Discover high-tech solutions for modern-living, how Sussex has launched a world-first in children’s medicine and who will headline the speakers’ list at this year’s DigiFest.

09

Value Added Partner Stories

14

Finance

18

Legal

22

Cover Story

26

Motoring

28

Charity

30

SBT Networking Club Review

32 42 44 58

This month, County Business Clubs Sussex throws the spotlight on Value Added Partner Gareth Kemp from Simpler with Ai.

Carpenter Box explores electric vehicle tax considerations and Preston Insurance Brokers celebrates 11 years in business.

Mayo Wynne Baxter shares an inheritance tax case study and 365 Employment Law solicitors offers information about settlement agreements.

This month, it all adds up for The Numbers Studio.

Meet the all-new Ford Tourneo Custom.

This year’s loneliness awareness week takes place from 10th to 16th June and the theme is random acts of connection. Read the latest from Together Co.

We sample the Business Leaders’ Wine Club.

Networking & Events

Find out why Linford Christie OBE was in Brighton, look back at this year’s ACUMEN Business Convention and look forward to this week’s Brighton & Hove Business Show - plus much more.

AI

How to use Chat GPT to increase productivity.

Lifestyle

We hear from Boxless, a film director who has been involved in this year’s Brighton Fringe, BN1 Arts and motorsport champ Jade Goodwin. We also check out The Howard pub and hear from business mentor Fiona Anderson.

Wine of the Month

This month’s offering from wine expert Michael Yeoman comes from Smock Alley.

Whole of Market Commercial Finance specialists, helping business owners since 1990.

Our expertise will find you the right solution, and the best value.

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Commercial loans

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Commercial mortgages

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Construction and development finance

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Cashflow lending

• Invoice finance and factoring products • Leasing and HP arrangements • Bridging loans • Trade finance

If you are looking to raise capital to expand your business please get in touch to discuss what’s possible on:

Scan to find out more:

03330 063 095 / commercial@seicogroup.com

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 5

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Embracing change - high-tech solutions for modern home living As the world continues to embrace the digital age, the integration of high-tech solutions into everyday life has become more dominant than ever.

Experts at CDMS

Monthly News

Sussex have created a guide on living

sustainably and as part of this, have

explored how smart surveillance and

high-tech solutions can be seamlessly

integrated into your home. From smart surveillance to automated heating and

lighting systems, the latest advancements in home technology offer unparalleled convenience, security, and energy

efficiency. Here we are exploring the

innovations on offer and how they can be seamlessly integrated into your home.

Despite misconceptions, achieving prime energy efficiency doesn’t

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

necessarily require extravagant or

costly changes. Rather, focusing on

smaller alterations can yield significant results, making day-to-day living more

comfortable while saving on energy bills and reducing carbon footprint.

Here are some of the ways CDMS Sussex can help to improve the sustainability of your home through high-tech: Insulation

Effective insulation stands as one of

the cornerstones of energy efficiency.

Addressing areas such as wall, loft, and floor insulation can substantially reduce

heat loss, resulting in substantial savings on heating bills. Additionally, addressing

damp issues, insulating pipes, and

implementing thermal-efficient curtains further enhance insulation and energy efficiency.

Draught-proofing

Even the most energy-efficient

doors and windows require regular

maintenance to perform optimally. By adopting solutions such as weather-

stripping, door sweeps, and high-quality door materials, homeowners can

prevent heat loss and maintain thermal efficiency.

Boiler efficiency and maintenance Investing in a reliable and efficient

boiler is crucial for maintaining comfort

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

levels and minimising energy costs.

Modern boilers equipped with advanced technologies like condensing systems

and modulating burners offer increased

efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.

Regular maintenance by qualified

professionals also will ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Harnessing renewable energy solutions Renewable energy solutions, such

as solar panels and solar hot water

Solar control glass is also an excellent choice to include in your home,

particularly when compared to solar

reflective glass or high-insulated glass.

It effectively reduces the amount of heat entering a building, enhancing comfort during summer and decreasing the

reliance on air conditioning systems.

This reduction in solar heat gain

translates to significant energy savings and lower cooling costs. By opting

Expanding the power supply to accommodate larger superchargers is not uncommon, especially as more households transition to electric vehicles or adopt other high-power appliances. It’s a practical step to ensure that the household’s energy needs are met safely and efficiently.

Incorporating the latest technology

for solar control glass, homeowners

into homes is not just a trend but

environment while benefiting from

efficiency and security. Smart devices

can enjoy a more comfortable indoor

a strategic move towards greater

improved energy efficiency.

for home security, lighting, heating,

implementing eco-friendly water

Expanding power supply for high-

systems offer seamless integration and

efficient heating systems, households

When a household introduces high-

systems, offer homeowners the

opportunity to generate their own electricity and reduce reliance on

non-renewable energy sources. By fixtures and upgrading to energy-

can further enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.

Additionally, even minor adjustments can significantly improve home comfort and efficiency. Solutions like thermostatic

radiator valves and smart thermostats

offer customisable temperature control and energy savings, while learning

algorithms and remote-control features optimise energy usage.

power devices

power-consuming devices like large superchargers for an electric car,

they may exceed the capacity of their

allocated power supply. In such cases, they would indeed need to increase their power supply. This increase

typically involves reaching out to the

kitchen appliances, and entertainment enhanced living experiences.

Energy-efficient homes not only benefit homeowners but also contribute to environmental preservation. CDMS Sussex offer a comprehensive range of services and solutions tailored to meet your energy efficiency needs. To

power network provider to assess the

find out how we can help you, or to

household’s connection or infrastructure

today by visiting cdmssussex.co.uk

situation and potentially upgrade the

download the full guide, get in touch

to accommodate the higher demand.

or emailing info@cdmssussex.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

A world first in Sussex to treat children with asthma Rockinghorse Children’s Charity is working with the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and Brighton and Sussex Medical School to expand access to the world’s first clinic to treat childhood asthma using innovative precision medicine approaches.

Olivia Cottingham, Dr Tom Ruffles and Professor Somnath Mukhopadhyay

More than 1.1 million

Monthly News

children in the UK are currently receiving

treatment for asthma.

The condition is

usually treated with inhalers but,

until recently, this has been generally untargeted, with similar approaches being used regardless of the child’s

individual characteristics or environment.

This ‘one size fits all’ approach may

mean that some children don’t respond

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

to treatments in the most effective way.

When this happens, it can be difficult to know why the same treatments do not work in the same way for every child.

However, this research has found that

there are ways to help target the exact type of treatment that’s right for each individual child.

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity has

previously funded some initial research

by Professor Somnath Mukhopadhyay

and his team at Brighton and Sussex

Medical School, which developed the personalised approach to treatment

based on the genotype of the individual child. This led to the development of a specialist pilot clinic at the Royal

Alexandra Children’s Hospital, using this approach to find the best way to treat children with asthma.

Professor Mukhopadhyay said:

“Rockinghorse’s funding has been

very important in supporting the first

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

ever role out of a personalised

medicine led clinic in children’s

asthma. We hope this will lead to

information that can encourage the NHS to consider adopting these practices nationwide.”

Testing a child to determine their genetic makeup can reveal what

medications won’t work for them

and, crucially, the ones that will. This means that each child has a better

chance of receiving more appropriate treatments for their condition.

This work has resulted in interest at the national level. The NHS is

currently discussing how we can

study cost-effectiveness, with the aim of making these treatments

accessible for children more widely across the UK.

Anyone who has experienced

asthma, whether as an adult or a child,

However, despite the success of

children with asthma will be better

on many aspects of life. It can stop them

personalised medicine treatments

will have access to better, more effective

even doing simple things like walking to

public, and other medical practitioners

will understand the impact it can have

this initial work, the option to receive

supported, and they, and their families,

from playing sports, having a pet, or

remains widely unknown to patients, the

care, support and treatment.

school or climbing the stairs.

outside of these clinics.

“We are so proud to be able to

These new treatments for severely

The next stage of this work’s work is

clinic in Sussex. Rockinghorse

changing. One child who previously

these new treatments. This aims to raise

standing involvement and support of

reported his breathing capacity to

engagement so that more children

implementation for asthma and allergies

after receiving genotype-directed

transformative research.

Brighton. This game-changing project

Donna Holland, Rockinghorse CEO,

available to children and young people

lead the way with this world-class

affected children have proved life-

based on spreading the word about

Children’s Charity has a long-

struggled with controlling his asthma

public awareness and encourage patient

precision medicine research and its

have transformed virtually overnight

and families can benefit from this

at the “Alexandra Children’s Hospital in

personalised treatment.

expands the support and services

Similar improvements have also been

said” “Asthma can have a profound

with asthma all over Sussex.”

personalised care.

enjoying so many of the things that

To find out more about Rockinghorse’s

The research has also been used to

pets and other animals, finding sport

funding, visit their website at www.

treatment options. This is now improving

reactions to something as simple as cut

reported by other children receiving

impact on a child, stopping them from children enjoy. It can mean avoiding

work or other projects the charity is

create a shift in awareness of these new

challenging and suffering from allergic

rockinghorse.org.uk.

clinical practice, informing General

grass or flowers.

formalised within international treatment

“But with more access to this cutting-

Practitioner training in the UK, and is guidelines in Australia.

edge Precision medicine treatment,

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

Lush Cosmetics co-founder to speak at DigiFest 2024 Rowena ‘Ro’ Bird will headline Eastbourne’s digital innovation festival.

DigiFest,

Monthly News

Eastbourne’s premier digital innovation

festival, has unveiled an exciting lineup of

headline speakers for its 2024 event.

Industry legends Rowena ‘Ro’ Bird, co-founder and product inventor at

Lush Cosmetics, and Adam Goswell,

tech R&D and digital principle at Lush, will ignite the stage with insights into

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

groundbreaking technologies, ethical

innovation and a visionary discussion on the future of retail.

“We’re thrilled to host such influential and forward-thinking minds at

DigiFest 2024,” said Joel Fielder, CEO of Switchplane, the minds behind

event organisers Chalk Eastbourne.

“Rowena and Adam embody the spirit of innovation that drives our festival.

Their unique journeys, passion for

ethical practices, and transformative work at Lush are sure to inspire and challenge our attendees.”

The festival’s keynote session,

affectionately dubbed ‘The Lush Hour’, will kick off with a captivating fireside

chat between Rowena and celebrated podcaster and entrepreneur Alex

Chisnall (founder of Podpreneur and

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

host of the top-rated ‘Screw It Just Do

sneak peek at Lush’s first foray

of Rowena’s beauty career, her pivotal

groundbreaking ‘BathBot’ launch.

It’ podcast). Delve into the early days

role in establishing Lush and shaping

into consumer hardware with the

the brand’s ethical foundation. Discover

DigiFest 2024 takes place on

packaging solutions and her enduring

to be an unforgettable celebration

her passion for pioneering sustainable commitment to ethical sourcing.

Following the fireside chat, Adam Goswell will take the spotlight to

deliver a riveting presentation that

offers a behind-the-scenes look at Lush’s remarkable history and its

commitment to pushing boundaries in the beauty industry. Adam will

explore exclusive insights into the

transformative work in AI, machine

Thursday, October 10, and promises of transformative technology and

creativity and its impact on business and society. Join us as we welcome these visionary leaders, explore the

ideas that will shape our digital future,

and celebrate Lush’s unwavering drive to innovate with purpose.

Book your ticket today at

www.eastbournedigifest.com

learning, and augmented reality and

If you are interested in sponsoring

ethics. He’ll also offer a tantalising

hello@chalkeastbourne.com

highlight their commitment to digital

About the event

Eastbourne DigiFest is a not-for-profit event that provides a gateway to the

exciting world of creative, digital, and tech industries.

This one-day event offers valuable

opportunities to network, learn, and explore the latest trends.

Delegates can attend insightful talks and

workshops covering AI, photogrammetry, and e-commerce, discover innovative

businesses at the exhibition, and build connections that could shape their

careers. New for 2024, a special immersive zone will allow attendees to experience cutting-edge technologies firsthand.

or exhibiting, email

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

The RACE IS ON FATHER’S DAY | 16 JUNE th

3 COURSE SUNDAY LUNCH | £34.95PP

BOOK ONLINE AT HOTELDUVIN.COM

01273 855 221 2 SHIP ST | BRIGHTON BN1 1AD

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

VA P STO R I ES SP O N SO R

Value Added Partner Stories This month, County Business Clubs Sussex throws the spotlight on Value Added Partner Gareth Kemp from Simpler with Ai. Tell us your story?

VAP Strories

About 20 years ago I

was asked a question that helped define my direction in life.

“Assuming money was no object, what would you do that would keep you

fascinated, motivated and excited for the rest of your life?”

It was a great question because it

helped me create a north star of what

deeply interested me, so that work never felt like work.

As I searched for an answer, it became clear to me that what I loved was

a mixture of understanding human

psychology, of searching for simplicity in all things, and of helping people

understand the value of their own work.

I was already on the path of business

development for clients, and this helped

many others. When I realised we could

business evolved over the years, even

in minutes rather than weeks, was my

me clarify what I do and why. As our

bottle that work up into AI, and do it

when creating a 100% pivot into AI training

greatest achievement.

that have guided my decision making.

What type of clients do you currently

What has been your biggest business

to meet?

The moment of horror when I realised

businesses where the leaders want to

a $20 subscription to ChatGPT, could

recent survey from Microsoft shows

tears I’d put into my professional

effectively say it boosts their creativity

and consultancy, it’s these three aspects

work with and who are you looking

challenge to date?

We have the greatest success with

that anybody, with nothing more than

unlock the potential of their teams. A

outperform the hard work, sweat and

people who use tools like ChatGPT

experience over the last 20 years.

(92%) and helps them focus on the most

What has been your greatest or

them feel more motivated (91%) and

important work (93%) as well as helping

proudest business achievement to date?

enjoy work more (91%).

services to the senior leadership teams

Tell us a fact or story about yourself

For our clients, we attracted and sold of Etsy, Spotify, Laurent Perrier and

I love to marshal at Brands Hatch. It’s a voluntary role where people from every background come together to share a love of motorsport. I spend long days in the rain or baking heat just a few feet from the track. Sometimes it’ll be old Formula 1 cars. Other times it’s a beat up Clio. I love the camaraderie, the competitiveness, the noise, the people.

How do you define success?

Having enough freedom of time to race V8 cars at Brands Hatch! Joking aside, success is all about collaboration.

We invest our time in long term relationships where everybody wins by doing meaningful work. gareth@simplerwith.ai

that people might not know?

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

Electric car tax considerations for companies

By Andrew Neuman, Tax Director at Carpenter Box.

Finance

The government is

Tax relief on car purchases

the use of electric car

Companies are able to claim tax relief,

aiming to encourage

vehicle ownership to

reduce the damaging

impact of CO2 emissions on the

environment. As part of their strategy, the government offers favourable tax

treatment for the purchase and running of electric cars instead of conventional petrol and diesel vehicles.

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

either 18% or 6% of the cost price per year, on a reducing balance basis.

via capital allowances, on assets

Under current tax legislation, until 1 April

for 100% capital allowances in the

and partnerships), the purchase of a

Investment Allowance (AIA) or First

will qualify for full tax relief as a FYA.

cars do not qualify for either of these

50g/km will be eligible for Writing Down

purchased. Some assets qualify

2025 (5 April 2025 for the self-employed

year of purchase under the Annual

brand new electric (zero emission) car

Year Allowances (FYA). Traditionally,

Cars with CO2 emissions not exceeding

allowances and tax relief is received at

Allowances (WDA) at the main rate (18%)

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

while such cars with CO2 emissions

exceeding 50g/km will be eligible for WDAs at the special rate (6%).

Assets qualifying for FYA do not

reduce a business’s AIA entitlement

which makes a FYA claim particularly

attractive, especially when the AIA can

be utilised for other qualifying plant and machinery purchased during the year.

The full cost price of the car will be

deducted from the business’s taxable

profit in the year of purchase. This will

save Corporation Tax for your company at their marginal tax rate between 19% to 25% or at the marginal rate of 20%, 40% or 45% if you are self-employed.

Self-employed car tax Private use of a vehicle which you use in your business will reduce the amount of

capital allowances that can be claimed, by the business, on the cost of the vehicle.

Likewise, the running costs of a car will also be reduced by the proportion of time that it is used privately.

A travel log is recommended to record

your business and non-business use of the vehicle to support your claim for tax relief.

Company car tax

pay tax on this benefit at their marginal

workplace. This is regardless of private

would result in a personal tax liability

of CO2 emitting cars which are subject

company and used by the employee.

on the employee (and subject to Class

The company would also have to pay

of fuel paid for by the employer.

on the benefit in kind, at 13.8%.

Should the employer pay to have

Further to the Autumn 2022 budget, it

employee’s home:

rates for zero-emissions electric vehicles

• If the car concerned is the employee’s

2024/25, however from 2025/26 this will

kind would arise, equivalent to the cost

2027/28. From April 2025, zero-emission

point (including any VAT).

duty exemption.

• If the car concerned is a company car,

If you were to opt to purchase the

the provision of the charge point.

fund this from personal cash reserves

The company may qualify for a grant

are a shareholder in the company

of an electric car charge-point at work

take a dividend from the company to

Charging Scheme.

dividend taken to purchase the car

In addition, you may also be able to

marginal rate of tax of 8.75%, 33.75%

smart charge point installed at your home.

of the car, the overall level of the

How we can help

reduce, or eliminate, your tax-free

There are currently a number of tax

rate of tax of 20%, 40% or 45%. This

use, which is different to the treatment

for every year the car is owned by the

to additional benefit in kinds taxable

Class 1A National Insurance Contributions

was announced that the benefit in kind

1A National Insurance) for private use

a charging point installed at an

would remain frozen at 2% through till

personally owned car, then a benefit in

raise to 3%, to 4% in 2026/27 and 5% in

to the employer of providing the charge

vehicles will lose their vehicle excise

vehicle personally, you would need to

no benefit in kind will arise in relation to

or take out personal finance. If you

towards the purchase and installation

concerned, it could be possible to

under the voucher-based Workplace

acquire the vehicle. The amount of personally would be taxed at your

or 39.35%. Depending on the cost

dividend required could potentially

receive a grant towards the cost of a

personal allowance.

reliefs available for the purchase

company attracts a benefit in kind

Electric charging points

vehicles, which make them an attractive

use of the car. The company car

The cost of a brand-new electric

However, the timing of purchases can

March 2025 also qualifies for full capital

amount of relief available.

allowance (FYA), saving the company

If you are interested in finding out

between 19% to 25%.

team on 01903 234094 or visit

Purchasing and owning a car via a on the employee who has private

tax calculation is based on the CO2

emissions and the list price of the car when new (including options).

As an extreme example, a high

emissions sports car would attract a

benefit in kind at a maximum percentage of 37%. This percentage is applied to

the list price of the car when new – say £50,000 - giving a benefit in kind of

£18,500. The employee is then liable to

charging point, incurred before 31

allowances tax relief as a first year

Corporation Tax at their marginal tax rate

and use of electric and low emission

option to acquire through a business have a considerable impact on the

more, please get in touch with our tax www.carpenterbox.com

For a company employee there is

no personal benefit in kind charge for a parking space, or the use of

charging point provided to you at the

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Clients, colleagues and char siu bao: Preston Insurance Brokers celebrates 11 years in business It started as an idea on a golf course – and became one of Brighton’s best-loved brokers.

As Preston Insurance Brokers marks its 11th birthday, we sit back to enjoy some contemporary Chinese classics – from steamed scallops to salt and chilli chicken.

Tucked away in the

Finance

tourist-filled Lanes

is Gars restaurant –

this year’s venue for Preston Insurance

Brokers’ 11th birthday. A parade of peers, partners and policyholders

attended the event, all ready to mingle the night away on the restaurant’s polished bamboo floors.

As guests made their way upstairs,

they were greeted with a flute of fizz

and a walking conveyor belt of Chinese classics – from steamed and salted

starters to napkin-needed barbecue ribs.

Shortly after second helpings, Managing Partner Noel Preston welcomed his guests with a few words:

“Thank you to everyone for turning up.

It’s great to get to year 11 and none

of this would be possible without our

amazing team, suppliers and clients –

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

some of whom have been with us from the very start. Here’s to year 12.”

As the night unfolded, we took a break from the banquet to congratulate Noel and get his thoughts on the evening:

“Catching up with some long-standing clients really puts into perspective the journey we’ve had so far. In fact, the first-ever person I gave a business

client handlers joining our team (Archie Preston and Andy Cook), we have the

capacity to manage and arrange more policies for other local businesses.

“In terms of changes in the insurance space, we predict there will be an

increased demand for cyber policies and imagine this trend will continue to grow as the digital sphere changes.”

card to is here, Gordon Roff, owner of

If you want to learn more about

both in a queue at Argos. Don’t ask me

they support businesses across

Phoenix Group Construction. We were what I was buying – it was a long time ago. Probably some drumsticks.”

Before Noel headed for the skewered satay chicken, we asked about his business plans for the year ahead: “More of the same. Our focus will

always remain on our existing clients,

and with the recent addition of two new

Preston Insurance Brokers and how Sussex, London, Reading and

beyond, scan the QR code. Right,

time for some crispy aromatic duck.

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Inheritance Tax case study

Inheritance Tax payments have reached an all-time high of £7.5 billion for 23/24.

By Jessica Partridge, who heads the Trusts and Tax team at Mayo Wynne Baxter.

So what can you

Legal

do to try and save

on Inheritance Tax? Quite a few things actually!

Case study A married couple, Emma and Paul. in their sixties have two children in their late twenties. Their assets comprise: • House £700,000 (main residence) • Rental property £275,000 • Bank accounts £100,000

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

• Life insurance £400,000 • Investments £200,000 Total £1,675,000

Emma has a final salary pension and their joint income levels are around £100,000 per year.

Their wills leave everything to each other and then down to their children equally.

On the first to die there is no Inheritance Tax (IHT) as the assets pass to the

spouse free of IHT. On the death of

the survivor of them, when the assets

pass down to their children, IHT will be payable as follows:

Can any allowances be claimed here?

The nil rate band (tax free amount)

of both parents can be claimed here

which are currently £325,000 for each, so £650,000 in total. In addition, there is a residential nil rate band and again in this scenario it can be claimed

twice, currently £175,000 so another £350,000 tax free bringing us to £1

million. So the executors of the will have £1 million free of IHT but the

L EGA L SP ON SO R

amount poking above that threshold is taxed at 40%.

£1 million IHT free

£675,000 charged at 40% = £270,000 An IHT bill of £270,000 has to be paid to HMRC typically within 6 months of the date of the second death.

Could they have undertaken estate

planning to minimise the IHT bill? Yes,

they could reduce the IHT payable to £0 and here is how.

The life insurance A nice and easy asset to tax plan with

Jessica Partridge

as it will only be paid out on death and,

when it’s given away, it has a tiny value.

Putting this into a trust, so it does

not form part of the estate. will save

£160,000 of inheritance tax. A bespoke

trust can be drafted, or one can contact their life insurance provider to see

if they have a standard document.

Beware of the latter though, as I have

seen an ambiguously drafted standard from trust go to litigation.

The rental property The income from the rental property

is not essential for the client’s income needs and they consider giving this asset away to their children. It was

purchased 20 years ago for £125,000 and it is not their main residence. By

giving this asset away outright to their children there would be an immediate

capital gains tax (CGT) bill of £35,000.

They could pay the CGT, survive 7 years and save £110,000 on IHT.

If they did not want to or could not pay the CGT upfront using a discretionary

trust would be the answer here. By giving away the asset into trust, in their lifetime

and surviving for 7 years, the value would not form part of their estate for IHT. By

using this kind of trust the CGT can be

rolled over and rather than paying the £35,000 the trust inherits the original

acquisition value for CGT. After 7 years a saving of £110,000 in IHT is made.

Note – if an individual gives more than

the nil rate band (£325,000) away into a

discretionary trust there is an immediate charge to IHT at 20% of the amount

over the £325,000 and if they die within 7 years the full 40% is chargeable. On

the assumption that they have a full nil rate band available to them.

Also note - Joint settlor discretionary

trusts, for example for a married couple, have a threshold of £650,000 as both

nil rate bands are counted. This can be

useful for property with a value over the £325,000 held jointly. CGT hold over relief is also available here too.

The income Many people know that one can give

£3,000 away each year and there is no

What many people do not know is that surplus income can be given away without any IHT consequence. This is because IHT is a tax of capital and not income! So, for example, if £100,000 of income was revived but only £50,000 spent in that year the surplus can be regularly given away as a gift out of income. There is a useful spreadsheet used in the IHT400 return, which I always refer my clients to, if they are considering these types of gifts. It’s called an IHT403 and on the last page sets out all of the information HMRC requires in order for the executors to claim the exemption. As with all of these things, it is easier if done in advance!

Every person and family is different in the assets held, their wishes and family complications. This area of law is complicated but there can be considerable IHT savings to be made.

Mayo Wynne Baxter

IHT consequence. More can be given

01273 477071

7 years in order for it to fall out of their

www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

away, but an individual must survive for

jpartridge@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

estate for IHT. If one died within that

period, their nil rate band is reduced by the amount of the gift.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

LEGAL S PO NS O R

Employment law: settlement agreements: What are they? When to use them?

Employment settlement agreements are often used by employers to resolve issues or disputes with employees in a mutually agreeable manner between both parties, writes Alex Jones, Managing Director of 365 Employment Law solicitors.

Whilst settlement

Legal

agreements are not always the solution for every difficult

workplace situation,

when used appropriately, they can be

mutually beneficial to both employer and employee. However, there are a number of points to be aware of and to think

through before entering into discussions.

In this article, we discuss what

settlement agreements are, who can

enter into such an agreement and when it is appropriate to do so.

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

What is a settlement agreement and why would you use one?

can be useful to control costs (legal and award costs, if a case goes

to tribunal), to manage time and

Settlement agreements are legally

organisational reputation, and to

between an employee and an employer.

will not be brought to tribunal.

disagreement or area of concern and can

In return for signing an agreement,

or agreed after employment has ended.

raising future claims, the employee is

binding, written agreements made

They are entered into to settle a dispute,

provide assurance that future claims

be used to bring employment to an end

and preventing an employee from

Less usually, they can also be used

usually offered some form of financial

without bringing employment to an end.

compensation.

In terms of why employers might opt

By signing a settlement agreement,

to use one, settlement agreements

an employee will also have the benefit

L EGA L SP ON SO R

of being able to exit an organisation

quickly and with dignity, avoiding the

worry of lengthy formal action, and often with an agreed reference and agreed organisational communication.

Who can enter into a settlement agreement?

Employment settlement agreements are mainly entered into between employers and employees (or ex-employees). In some cases, they can also be used

between employers and prospective

employees, e.g. job applicants who have a case for discrimination relating to how

their application or interview was handled.

When is it appropriate to use a settlement agreement?

Where possible, a settlement agreement

should be entered into where legal action

under TUPE, the Agency Workers

• the reason for entering into the

and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act

• the potential costs involved if a

out of the right to pay/receive statutory

example the cost of resources required

Regulations 2010, and the Trade Union

settlement agreement

1992. It is also not possible to contract

settlement was not entered into, for

entitlements, such as statutory maternity

to resolve the issue and cost to defend

pay or statutory sick pay.

Confidentiality

Settlement agreements often include

confidentiality clauses, protecting both

a claim at employment tribunal

• the impact on the organisation’s

reputation and staff morale if the concern/issue continued.

Can an employee reject a settlement

the employer’s business interests and

agreement?

This feature is generally not available

Yes, an employee can reject a

which are public and could potentially

until it is signed by both parties.

the employee’s professional reputation. in Employment Tribunal proceedings,

settlement agreement at any point

harm both parties’ reputations.

Additionally , if you are unable to agree

How to ensure settlement agreements

However, careful thought should

are legally enforceable

terms, the offer can be withdrawn. be given by employers about the

implications of withdrawing an offer,

For a settlement agreement to be

and what action would be needed to

legally enforceable:

address the original concern.

• It must be in writing

Employment settlement agreements

• The employee must have received

there is an ongoing dispute, workplace

and effect of signing the agreement

bring the matter to a conclusion in

the agreement

are considering entering into an

claims raised by the employee for loss

either as an employee (current,

settlement agreement?

• The agreement must relate to a

it is important to weigh up all of the

Settlement agreements should not be

• The agreement must state that the

has not yet been taken. Settlement

agreements are commonly used where

the relationship between employee and

employer has broken down. They can be

• It must be signed by the employee

can be extremely beneficial where

independent legal advice on the terms

problem, or potential claim. They

• The legal advisor must be identified in

a mutually agreeable way. If you

• The legal advisor must be insured for

employment settlement agreement,

arising from the advice

previous, or prospective) or employer,

particular complaint or proceedings

options available before proceeding.

requirements relating to the settlement

Employers should always take advice

agreement have been agreed

at the earliest opportunity.

a workplace culture of poor behaviour.

Deciding the right level of payment

365 Employment Law Solicitors

employment relations if it is believed that

Deciding how much compensation

ajones@365employmentlaw.co.uk

used to achieve a “clean break” between employer and employee, leading to

termination of employment. Alternatively, they can be used to bring an end to a

workplace issue or dispute while allowing employment to continue.

When is it not appropriate to use a

used in place of good management

practices. Using settlement agreements

in this way can contribute to, and further, There may be damage caused to

poor performance or conduct is managed and ‘rewarded’ with financial settlement, rather than through good management.

It is important to note that a settlement agreement cannot be considered for

certain types of claims, including those

to offer the employee can be difficult

Tel: 01903 863284

www.365employmentlaw.co.uk

for employers. This will be subjective to each organisation but should take

into consideration the following when deciding the sum offered:

• the employee’s length of service

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

The Numbers Studio: empowering entrepreneurs with financial mastery Let’s face it, the conditions for running a business are tough at the moment, so mastering finances is not just the key to success…but a necessity for survival.

Did you know

Cover Story

that 56% of small and medium-

sized enterprises

(SMEs) have sought

external funding in the last three

years? Additionally, 33% of UK small businesses now have debt over 10x

their cash balances, more than double the rate before COVID-19. However, it doesn’t have to be this way…

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Enter The Numbers Studio, your local financial wizards in Brighton, ready

to transform your business with their

unique blend of expertise, commercial

savvy and a personal touch. If you’re a

business owner who wants to learn how to master your business finances, avoid

sleepless nights and reach new business

heights?....then you’re in the right place…

Know your numbers!

Solid financial management (“managing your money”) is the backbone of

any successful business. Without a

firm grasp on your numbers, you’re

navigating blind through a minefield of low-margins, slow paying customers,

agitated suppliers and “Damn me, how is the VAT due again ALREADY!”. This can lead you to making emotional,

uninformed decisions that risk the future of the business or, worse, you get stuck

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

in a cycle where you’re earning less than an employee, but with all the heartache and hassle of running a business.

Financial management isn’t just

boring-old bookkeeping admin, it’s

about properly looking at what your

numbers are telling you and making

informed decisions to navigate through economic uncertainties and improve your chances of success. By having

these elements in place, businesses can better manage their resources,

plan for the future, and avoid common pitfalls that lead to financial distress.

We all know that cash is King and

they know the challenges and have a simple, age-old process:

Create an annual cash budget

that is straightforward. Keep your

bookkeeping up-to-date, and each

month, compare your actual results with your budget. Investigate any

significant discrepancies between your budgeted and actual results.

Implementing this simple system that works, is like using Google maps

instead of using a paper map; a simple, yet effective way to tighten up your money game.

that poor cash flow management is

About The Numbers Studio

fail… The Numbers Studio gets it –

The Numbers Studio was born in

a primary reason why businesses

Brighton almost 10 years ago, with

a mission to empower entrepreneurs through exceptional financial

management. The Numbers Studio

is a boutique finance agency and the

trusted finance partner for hundreds of

businesses across Sussex and London, offering a unique approach that blends financial knowledge with emotional

intelligence and commercial insight.

The Numbers Studio’s vision is to see

every entrepreneur thrive, free from the

stress of financial mismanagement and

to help decode the numbers that tell the real story of a business.

Our people focused team of experienced professionals are dedicated to providing

bespoke solutions that meet the specific

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

needs of each client, ensuring that every business owner has the support they need to succeed.

Services offered by The Numbers Studio Financial compliance: The necessary evils of the business world. We quietly and efficiently ensure your business remains compliant and optimised

for tax. The Numbers Studio offers

comprehensive financial compliance

services, including bookkeeping, payroll, VAT returns, and annual accounts.

Our expertise ensures that all financial

activities adhere to the latest regulations, helping you focus on growth.

Outsourced finance manager

services: For businesses needing more than just compliance, The

Numbers Studio’s outsourced finance team service covers everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to detailed management accounts. This allows

business owners to have a clear view of their financial health and make informed decisions.

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Finance director services: Strategic financial planning is vital for long-

term success. The Numbers Studio

provides fractional Finance Director

board members who offer strategic oversight and ensure that business objectives are met.

support, offering high-level financial

Success stories and case studies

strategic guidance to drive business

Case study: One client, a tech

planning, performance analysis, and growth and profitability.

Tax schemes: Navigating tax schemes can be complex. The Numbers Studio assists with various tax schemes,

including EIS, SEIS, R&D, and EMI. Their expertise helps businesses

maximise tax benefits and reinvest savings into growth initiatives.

Business planning: Their business planning workshops offer strategic clarity through a structured, two-

day program. These workshops are

startup, struggled with cash flow management and strategic planning.

By partnering with The Numbers Studio, they implemented robust financial controls and secured R&D tax credits, leading to increased operational efficiency. This transformation allowed the startup to attract further investment and scale rapidly.

Case study: Another client, a retail business, faced challenges with tax compliance and financial reporting.

backed by case studies demonstrating

The Numbers Studio provided

businesses thrive.

services and strategic advice, resulting

Non-exec board member: Keeping

reduced tax liabilities. The business

The Numbers Studio provides fractional

and increasing profitability.

their effectiveness in helping

business owners accountable is crucial.

comprehensive financial compliance in improved financial health and experienced a significant turnaround

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Educational insight – tips for financial success Practical tips: Budgeting: Create a budget

that covers all aspects of your

business operations. Regularly review and adjust it to reflect actual life, this should be a

living-breathing document,

not something that’s used so rarely it collects dust!

Cash Flow Management:

Guard your cash flow with your life. Build a ‘war chest’ to fend off unexpected expenses and slower periods.

Tax planning: Stay informed about tax regulations

and deadlines. Ask your

accountant for a heads up on anything new.

Financial Reporting: Regularly review your numbers (ideally

financial projections and always plan for

suite of services tailored to the unique

potential issues. Remember your financial

the unexpected.

needs of each client.

how successful your other actions were

Resource Guide: There are tonnes

Don’t let financial challenges hold

available online, and books like

Numbers Studio today to discover

key measures on a page of A4. If you

“Get a Grip” by Gino Wickman and

business goals.

only this page, you’d still know how the

Geirge S Clason are all solid choices

Want to know more?

generating profit and retaining cash.

For more information about how

to streamline processes and improve

Summary

business, visit their website at

winning combo.

Effective financial management is crucial

Expert advice: Avoid common financial

The Numbers Studio, entrepreneurs

741 or hello@numbersstudio.com

underestimating expenses, and

strategic guidance needed to thrive.

Follow them on social media for the

and annual tax obligations. Maintain

to strategic financial planning, The

consultation today and take the first

monthly) to stay ahead of

reports are a ‘lag’ measure, they weigh in making money.

of forecasting and cash flow tools

your business back. Reach out to The

Build a scorecard: This should be 7-15

“Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz,

how they can help you achieve your

were cut-off on a desert island, with

“The Richest Man in Babylon” by

business was doing

for developing the framework for

Invest in Technology: Utilise software accuracy. Xero + Dext are no-brainer

for business success. By partnering with

The Numbers Studio can help your www.numbers.studio.

You can also contact them at 01273 973

pitfalls such as overestimating revenue,

can gain the financial clarity and

neglecting the cash impact of quarterly

From compliance and tax optimisation

latest updates and insights. Book a

a prudent, conservative approach to

Numbers Studio offers a comprehensive

step towards financial mastery.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

MOTO RI NG N E WS S P ON S OR

Rivervale unveils the all-new Ford Tourneo Custom Calling all Sussex schools, businesses and families! Are you on the hunt for a versatile vehicle that can handle the daily grind and epic weekend adventures with ease? Look no further than the all-new Ford Tourneo Custom.

This isn’t your

Motoring News

average multi-activity vehicle. The Tourneo Custom is a gamechanger, offering a

choice of powertrains to suit your needs, including the groundbreaking all-electric E-Tourneo Custom.

E-Power for a sustainable future

The E-Tourneo Custom is all about

clean, efficient driving. With a powerful electric motor and a 64 kWh battery, experience a driving range of up to

325 km*. Enjoy the serenity of electric

propulsion and never worry about rising fuel costs again. Plus, say goodbye to

range anxiety – the E-Tourneo Custom

can be rapidly charged to 80% in just 39 minutes using a DC fast charger.

Unleash your inner explorer

Whether you’re a business owner

transporting clients, a school taking

smaller groups on a day trip or a family planning a camping trip to the South Downs, the Tourneo Custom offers

unmatched versatility. The spacious interior boasts multiple seating

configurations, thanks to the innovative

track-mounted seating system. Need to haul luggage for a weekend getaway?

Fold down the seats and create a vast cargo area.

Luxury on the move

Comfort is paramount in the Tourneo

Custom. Imagine cruising down the A27 with a panoramic glass roof overhead, letting in natural light and creating a

sense of spaciousness. Relax in the

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

plush seats and enjoy

the premium B&O sound system. On hot days,

the infrared treatment in the

panoramic roof keeps

things cool,

while features

your needs. Alongside the E-Tourneo

hands-free opening add convenience.

EcoBlue diesel options, each with its

like power-operated sliding doors with

Designed for the modern professional

Custom, we offer Plug-in Hybrid and own advantages.

Sussex businesses, take note - the

Ready to experience the Tourneo

comfort; it’s a mobile workspace too.

Visit Rivervale today and explore the

transforms into a handy laptop holder,

friendly team is here to answer your

go. And with a standard 5G modem,

Let’s find the perfect Tourneo Custom

Tourneo Custom isn’t just about

Custom?

The innovative tilting steering wheel

all-new Tourneo Custom range. Our

perfect for catching up on emails on the

questions and arrange a test drive.

you’ll always be connected.

to power your Sussex adventures, be it

Peace of mind with Ford Pro

At Rivervale, we understand that your

for business or family fun!

Contact Rivervale today on 01273

vehicle is an investment. That’s why we

433480 or visit rivervale.co.uk

Ford Pro. Businesses can benefit

*Driving range figures are based on WLTP

solutions, software to manage charging

Test Procedure) and are provided for

monitoring through Ford Pro Telematics.

range may vary according to optional

offer comprehensive support through

from expert advice on home charging

(Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle

costs, and real-time vehicle health data

comparison purposes only. Individual

This helps prevent breakdowns and

equipment, weather conditions, driving

keeps your fleet running smoothly.

habits, and vehicle load.

A world of choice at Rivervale

Charging times are based on ideal

Tourneo Custom that perfectly fits

charging infrastructure and weather.

The best part? You can choose the

conditions and may vary according to

Making Motoring Manageable

Ford Tourneo Custom AVAILABLE TO BUY OR LEASE

Enquire Now For a quote

T. 01869 253744

E. minibus@rivervale.co.uk

W. rivervale.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

Loneliness Week 2024

This year’s loneliness awareness week takes place from 10th to 16th June and the theme is random acts of connection.

Loneliness is a

Charity

universal human

emotion that most

people will experience at some point in their

lives. It goes beyond the physical state of being alone and can manifest even

in crowded rooms or amidst a group of friends. In recent years, loneliness has

gained attention as a significant public

health issue due to its detrimental effects on both mental and physical well-being.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Research has shown that chronic

loneliness can have severe repercussions on one’s health. It has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease,

depression, anxiety, and even premature

death. The impact of loneliness on mental health is particularly concerning, as it

can lead to feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and despair.

What is Loneliness Awareness Week?​ Loneliness Awareness Week is a week

dedicated to raising awareness of

loneliness. It’s all about creating supportive communities by having open, honest

conversations. Loneliness is a natural

human emotion - we are hardwired to need social connections. By talking about it, we can support ourselves and others. ​

The campaign centres on a powerful

message which resonates with many. It’s trended on X, formerly Twitter, reached 271.5 million people in one week with

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

the campaign, and each year we’ve

seen tens of thousands of organisations, charities and individuals get involved, including the Royal Family, the Prime

Minister, Major of London, NHS trusts, and all Government departments.

Who runs the campaign?

The Marmalade Trust launched

Loneliness Awareness Week in 2017

and is one of several charities in the UK which offers support for people who

are lonely and socially isolated. Their campaign has grown nationally and

internationally over the past seven years.

In Sussex, charities tackling loneliness

and social isolation include Together Co and Time To Talk Befriending.

What can the campaign achieve?

Loneliness Awareness Week is vital in

increasing awareness and understanding of loneliness and we can create a more connected society.

By identifying and acknowledging all

the times that we have personally felt and experienced loneliness, we can

start to change our viewpoint, accept it and understand how to take action

to manage the feeling (and our social connections) in the future.

www.lonelinessawarenessweek. org/about

How can we help locally?

Together Co is a charity in Brighton

and Hove which supports people in its community by creating connections.

It operates a network of more than 500 volunteers, who deliver support across the city to people who are lonely or socially isolated.

The issue of loneliness is endemic with 8% of people in Brighton and Hove

saying they often or always feel lonely,

UK and is asking you to help improve the wellbeing of your communities.

Social health is defined by our connections and the quality of relationships which fundamentally impact our well-being.

Get involved Get involved by volunteering and giving your time to connect with others across Brighton and Hove.

Volunteering roles can be flexed around your busy schedule.

Put on an event or take on a challenge to fundraise for Together Co. Not only will you be bringing people together, but you will be helping the charity to reach more people across the city.

Spread the word by telling people about Together Co and the work it does. Talk about social health and loneliness, connection and community.

Whilst we’re seeing an increase in

according to ONS research.

remains and some key misconceptions

But loneliness is a symptom of a far

making a difference.

to picture a lonely person and most will

results from people feeling a lack of

If you are interested in finding out more

discussion on the subject, stigma

All it takes is a conversation to start

still need to be challenged. Ask anyone

bigger issue; poor social health that

imagine an older person living on their

connection or belonging.

about social health and what Together

dismiss feelings of loneliness because

Together Co wants Brighton and Hove to

more about volunteering, visit

own. As such, we often rebuke and ‘that doesn’t apply to me’.

become the social health capital of the

Co does, or you would like to find out https://togetherco.org.uk/

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Business Leaders Wine Club networking with a difference Business Leaders Wine Club is not your average networking event. Its mission is to make discovering new wines an exciting, shared experience that will develop your presence in the thriving Sussex business community. By Jackie Ashwood.

Business Leaders

Networking & Events

Wine Club (BLWC)

launched in September 2022 and was founded

by Sandra Murphy, a

business coach and mentor, Alex Ryan, owner of the agency Marketing 101,

founder of Vermouth Actually and board member for Gaydio, and Karl Elwood, founder of Elwood Wine Selections.

Other co-founders include Chris Mansfield, owner of Fusion, The

Business Catalyst. He is a full-time

professional and dedicated networker

Also Mike Monk, who has mentored and

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

helped a number of small businesses to grow while running successful business

to business shows for the past 35 years.

Together they host regular, exclusive wine tastings at a variety of venues around Brighton, and with some

incredible partners and guest speakers providing some amazing icebreakers,

such as the wines to taste, the cheeses to accompany, some wine industry

education, or even getting hands-on and creative with wine itself.

I had the absolute pleasure of being a

guest at their most recent event, which

was a blind tasting event. For those who don’t know me, cheese and wine are my two favourite things!

Being the wine connoisseur I am, I was

so game for this event. Turns out I don’t know as much as I thought. It was an

interesting and informative event. It’s a great way to not only maintain existing

relationships, meet new people but also learn something new.

I do have to also give a shout out to

Curds & Whey, the food sponsor based in Hove. Some of the most delish

cheese and charcuterie I’ve had. The

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

game changer for me was the Golden Cross goats’ cheese, amazing.

As from 2024, the BLWC chose

Together Co as their charity partner, working with their CEO, April Baker

and her team to help raise their profile in the business community.

Together Co connects people, places and ideas to create a society that everyone can be part of.

They think the human connection

is powerful. They help people make

connections through their befriending, social prescribing and volunteering

services in Brighton, Hove and beyond.

They do this through two amazing ways: Befriending - everybody should have somebody. They match people with people to create friendships that

make life better. They’ve been doing

so for over 20 years. In that time,

they’ve seen loneliness eased and

lives changed – all through the simple power of human connection.

Social prescribing - social

connections are key to wellbeing. They

help people find the people and places they need to be happier and healthier.

This might be having someone they can chat to when you need to, or

someone who helps them navigate

local services that could benefit you. ‘’We connect, and we care.’’

So, what’s next…

Well, get ready for an unforgettable

adventure with the Business Leaders

Wine Club (BLWC) as they embark on

another scenic journey, this time to the picturesque Wiston Estate nestled in

On Wednesday 26th June from 4.15pm- 9pm

After a welcome glass of bubbles,

you’ll get to climb aboard a charming vintage Routemaster double-decker bus, picking you up from outside

WRAP, a co-working space just outside Brighton Station. Enjoy the unique experience of “speed” networking on the bus as you make your way

to Wiston Estate, with our very own

Sam Thomas conducting a series of podcasts on the lower deck.

Savour a curated selection of cheeses and charcuterie, perfectly paired with

a selection of wines at Wistons’ Chalk Restaurant. And then get to enjoy the

summery beats of Alex Ryan, who also happens to be a great DJ.)

the stunning South Downs. Prepare for

Book your ticket here: The Business

and entertainment!

Business Leaders Wine Club

an exquisite evening of wine, mingling,

Leaders Wine Club 26/6/2024 –

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Best of British Events welcomes Linford Christie OBE to Brighton World and Olympic champion Linford Christie shares his story of making history and what it entails to become the best in sport.

More than 500

Networking & Events

business leaders

joined Best of British Events at the Grand Hotel Brighton to

meet athletics legend, and ultimately the most decorated British athlete in history, Linford Christie OBE.

Christie is a Jamaican-born former sprinter and athletics coach who

represented Britain. During the event, Christie shared his story of growing

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

up and moving to Shepherds Bush, in

London, at the age of seven years old.

His career started when he was first

seen by his teacher, who saw him run

across the playground and noticed his

speed. He then went on to train for the

school team - and the rest was history.

Christie revealed: “Initially, I thought

I had all the talent in the world, and I

didn’t need to train. But I was wrong. My coach wrote me a letter and told me if

you can change your lifestyle, you could be really good. After a discussion with my family, I gave it a try. I sacrificed a lot – I gave up chocolate, sweets and alcohol. I increased my training to six

days a week. Within six months I went

from being one hundred and four in the world to fourth.”

Christie went on to become the only British man to have secured gold

medals in the 100 metres at the four

major competitions available to British

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

athletes: the Olympic Games, the

World Championships, the European

Championships, and the Commonwealth Games. Christie was the first European to run the 100 metres in under 10

seconds and held the British record for nearly 30 years.

Christie was also the oldest Olympic 100-metre Champion by four years,

having won gold at the age of thirty-

two. Christie discussed the challenges he faced as a mature runner but firmly believed in the power of mindset.

Despite the limitations others presented to him, while he still believed, it could still be achieved.

He said: “I was told that I was too

old from the age of twenty-six. I was

unbeaten in Europe for eight years. But I was still told I was too old.

“Belief is the biggest thing. If you don’t

Guests included business leaders from

believe in yourself, how can you expect

Rubix VT, Creative Pod, Extech Cloud,

anyone else to believe in you? So I

Bennett Oakley Solicitors, Webtrends

changed my mindset. I never got into a

Optimize, Sussex Business Times and

race that I thought I couldn’t win. And,

Dev Assist.

if I didn’t win, my best wasn’t good enough. That was my attitude.

Ryan Heal, CEO of Best of British Events, said: “Linford’s story was very inspiring,

“I was born to run, there is no doubt in

and it was an honour to welcome him to

my mind about it. But you have to have

The Grand Hotel to explore his story and

the right people around you to help

wins. With his support and the generosity

you and a lot of people just don’t have

of guests and sponsors, we raised

that. I was lucky.”

in excess of £25,000 for the Chailey Heritage Foundation.”

This prestigious networking event was in aid of the Chailey Heritage Foundation

Best of British Events hosts a range of

– a Sussex based charity dedicated

leading business networking events and

to changing the lives of young people

fundraisers across Sussex and London.

with complex disabilities. The charity

For more information please visit:

provides education, care and transition services to children and young adults.

https://bestofbritish.org.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Rocking (and Rolling) - the Sussex Business Landscape at the 14th Annual Acumen Business Convention Drumroll please! The Acumen Business Convention 2024 has yet again aimed for the moon and delivered a rock legend - Kenney Jones of The Who. That’s not all. There was a Games Networking room and, to captivate every delegate, there were phenomenal speakers, headlined by the irresistibly sweet Jamie Laing, of Candy Kittens.

This ground-breaking

Networking & Events

event, held at

the Grand Hotel,

Brighton, exceeded all expectations,

attracting entrepreneurs, industry

leaders and visionaries from around Sussex and beyond.

It would be hard to describe this year’s

Acumen Business Convention in one word.

Exciting? Tick. Extravagant! Tick. Hot?

Double tick. Another successful event with nearly 300 business decision-makers in

the room and plenty already signing up for

next year’s event on the 22nd of May 2025.

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

It will be the 15th event and will no doubt be Acumen’s biggest yet.

This year’s line-up was bound to dazzle, and dazzle it did! Starting with a special keynote, Jamie Laing, co-founder of

Europe’s fastest-growing confectionary

brand, Candy Kittens. With his magnetic presence on social media and TV (BBC

Three’s ‘I Like The Way U Move’, Radio 1 co-host, ‘Strictly Come Dancing finals’, ‘NewlyWeds Podcast ’– to

name a few), Jamie is a true luminary in the entertainment world and an

entrepreneurial powerhouse. He delivered unmissable insights into leadership and

approaching business with a ‘childlike’ attitude. But that’s not all…

The stage was graced by incredible guest speakers, each bringing their

unique insights and experiences to the table. Marc Convey shared his outlook on leadership, wellbeing and dealing

with trauma and recovery. Carole Gaskell demonstrated how to drastically raise performance and grow your business using her three secrets to leadership success and, last but not least,

completing the line up was a successful

business entrepreneur, multiple Guinness World Record breaking adventurer

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

and a former Royal Marine Commando,

helicopter pilot and Special Forces Officer, Neil Laughton, who shared his captivating business and adventure stories!

Now, of course, the Acumen Business Convention would not have been the

Acumen Business Convention without

the spotlight on local heroes who loved

the centre stage at their respective TedXstyle four speaker arenas. Matt Turner, of

Creative Pod, Deborah Worley, of the ZDL Group, Lorraine and Kausar Ali, of Upfix

Appliance Repairs, and Rob Starr, of the

SEICO Group. Each and every one of them truly had a fascinating story - if only we

Jamie Laing, co-founder of Europe’s fastestgrowing confectionary brand, Candy Kittens

could quadruple and attend all four arenas!

In line with the keynote’s encouragement for each and every business delegate to check in with their inner child, the Acumen team

delivered a brand new Games Networking room, on top of the beloved Chill-Out and Speed Networking rooms, all serving to

break-up the day. Fancy a chat over Connect 4? Or maybe you’re more of a Jenga- type of business owner? Networking over a healthy dose of competitive spirit sure brings out

interesting conversations and meaningful

business connections which you won’t find at any other networking event! However if

you are more of a dancer than a gamer, then not a worry. For the first time ever, the room exploded with dance shenanigans when

Zebra dancers with the Convention delegates

Sharon Starr took to the stage with her Zebra dancer accompaniments and delivered the

Super Trouper ABBA medley! Can’t go wrong with an ’80s throwback.

The day concluded with a prestigious

Handelsbanken Reception, which gathered all the delegates for a final networking

opportunity alongside a much deserved and enjoyed a glass of wine and bagels from Brighton’s famous Bagelman.

The convention once more delivered its manifesto, which is to educate, inspire,

connect, and entertain. It certainly did all that sparkled with surprises and Acumen magic

and a solid amount of games along the way!

Kenney Jones, The drummer of The Who, Faces and Small Faces

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Silver Star Cleaning sponsors breakfast networking event The next meeting of the Big Business Breakfast Club is taking place on June 21.

Join the Big

Networking & Events

Business Breakfast

Club’s next meeting on Friday, June

21 from 8am. This

month’s special guest is Paige Collins, managing partner at Warren House Accountants. She will go head-to-

head in a live Q&A with Sam Thomas.

The Q&A will be followed by Alex Ryan, from Marketing 101, who will offer

marketing hints and tips. There will be

plenty of time to meet other like-minded business people in the room.

The sponsor - Silver Star Cleaning When you need a regular, dependable

cleaning service in Brighton, Hove or the encompassing areas, you can rely on a company which has three generations’

worth of experience. Silver Star Cleaning was established in 2003 by Mark

Newman, who wanted to ensure the

high standards set by his grandfather and uncle were continued.

Mark’s family have been providing

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

specialist cleaning services in Brighton and Hove since 1952 and the current

team has a combined experience of over

65 years. For the last 20 years, Silver Star Cleaning has been building a reputation for trustworthy cleaning, carrying out

many types of cleaning services from domestic window cleaning, carpet

cleaning, end of tenancy cleans, right

the way through to commercial cleaning contracts for everything from offices to sports stadiums.

Guest speaker - Paige Collins Paige was a Senior Partner at one of the top 100 firms of Chartered Accountants in the UK and has nearly 40 years’ experience advising clients on all aspects of their financial affairs.

She has a passion for playing and

watching sports – motor sports, cricket,

The first book is called; A New Paige - My journey, which is my biography.

The second book is called; The Colours of Emotional Profit which looks how business’s and individuals measure their non financial returns being based on colours and not numbers Sponsor’s nominated charity – Adur Special Needs Project

The purpose of the project is to provide the necessary facilities for the care, recreation and education of children, young people and adults in the West Sussex area who have special needs and disabilities.

The team looks forward to seeing you on Friday, June 21. Tickets will sell out, so book in advance.

Book here now: https://www.

hockey, squash, and golf. She has a

bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk/

to compete one day.

If you are interested in learning more

On top of this, Paige is also an author of two books due to be released soon.

then please get in touch with the team at

motor sport race licence and is hoping

about becoming a sponsor of the BBBC team@bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

FirmBalls once again scores a charity hattrick at the Amex

FirmBalls, the innovative business that fosters connections through the power of sport, recently hosted its sixth annual seven-a-side tournament at the iconic American Express Community Stadium, home of Brighton and Hove Albion FC.

This year’s thrilling

Networking & Events

tournament,

sponsored by

DevAssist, saw 16 teams with 160

players from the FirmBalls network and

beyond compete fiercely for the coveted FirmBalls Cup.

The competition was intense from the

start, with nail-biting group stages and

quarter-finals decided by the narrowest of margins. The semi-finals featured

dramatic end-to-end action as Foster & Co Estate Agents faced off against Focus Group, and Jonathan Lea

Network took on Kindling Restaurant.

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

In the end, it was our returning team,

Jonathan Lea Network, and tournament newcomers, Foster & Co, who battled

it out in the final. In a closely contested

match, Jonathan Lea Network clinched the victory with a 1-0 win, securing the FirmBalls Cup.

FirmBalls Managing Director, Sam

Thomas, shared his excitement saying: “This is always a highlight of the

FirmBalls calendar. The support for this event was overwhelming, as always.

“The day was filled with great spirits, allowing many players to fulfill their

dream of playing on a Premier League

pitch. We also supported our two chosen charities, Rockinghorse

Children’s Charity and The Starr

Trust, raising much-needed funds.

Additionally, we contributed to Rett

UK, the charity chosen by this year’s winners, Jonathan Lea Network.”

The event was not just about the players; many colleagues and supporters from participating

companies turned out, creating an

electrifying atmosphere and making it a true spectacle.

Jonathan Lea from Jonathan

Lea Network, cup winners, said:

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

“Participating in the Firmballs

tournament at the Amex Stadium was an incredible experience. The energy

and enthusiasm from everyone involved made it a day to remember. I’m very proud of our team, in particular our

corporate solicitor Callum Ritchie and his friends from Hove FC (who we

sponsor), who all played exceptionally well and ensured we emerged as

winners. On a personal note, I was

delighted to play this time after being

injured last year, while scoring the third

goal in our first match was a memorable highlight and made me feel slightly less

like the overweight 40-something player being carried by the others.

“Beyond the excitement on the pitch, it was rewarding to know that our efforts also support fantastic causes like the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, The

Starr Trust, and Rett UK. A huge thank you to Sam Thomas for organising

such a fantastic event and to all the

teams who participated. Well done to

everyone involved and we look forward to defending our title next year.”

Sam expressed his gratitude,

adding: “I want to thank our headline sponsors, my good friend Paul

Addison and the DevAssist team, the

team at BHAFC, especially Billy Brown and Jack Joyce, our photographer

Daniel Perry, our videographer Ryan Alfonso from The Content Marketing Agency, the FirmBalls Team – Mike Jeffries, Chris Weller, Andrew Howell, Rob Carron, Brad Godden – and Toby Graves from TPG Sports Events.

And, of course, all the teams and companies who participated and made it a day to remember.”

The event is set to return in 2025.

Anyone interested in securing an early bird spot can contact sam@firmballs. com or visit the FirmBalls website. www.firmballs.com

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Ignite growth: the free business show you can’t miss!

It’s all systems go for Brighton & Hove Business Show - and you are invited.

Feeling stuck in a

Networking & Events

business rut? Craving fresh ideas and

industry insights?

Want to build your

network? Look no further than Brighton & Hove Business Show.

Taking place at the Amex Stadium from

10am to 3pm on June 13, it is your onestop shop for all things business. The

best part? It’s completely free to attend.

Just turn up on the day.

This power-packed event brings together industry leaders, innovative startups and ambitious entrepreneurs like yourself.

Organiser Mike Monk promises a day

that will give you the chance to hear from business titans and thought leaders.

Through the show’s packed seminar timetable, get a glimpse into their

strategies and discover how to overcome the same challenges they faced. What you learn could unlock the secrets to propelling your own venture forward.

Looking for actionable ideas? Brighton &

Hove Business Show has those too. Dive deep into practical, hands-on sessions led by industry experts. Learn cuttingedge marketing tactics, master the art of using AI, or discover the latest tech

solutions to streamline your operations.

“Brighton & Hove Business Show is a

networking goldmine,” said Mike. “This event is important if you want to make

valuable connections. Come along and mingle with like-minded entrepreneurs, potential clients and industry veterans

who can propel your business growth.”

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Exploring this vibrant expo is easy. As

Mike says one of the top advantages

too. And with a cafe/bar in both

business gain the competitive edge.

away from refreshments.

the curve by learning about the latest

So, want to discover the latest solutions to

your advantage.”

experience and stay ahead of the curve?

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity

Make sure you are at the Amex Stadium

registrations are now closed - just turn

on June 13.

up on the day for free entry.

This free business show isn’t about

This year’s show has been generously

your entrepreneurial spirit. Get inspired by

Limited, PBS Group and County

and network with the who’s who of the

has kindly sponsored trophies for the

well as free entry, there’s free parking

is learning things that will help a

exhibition lounges, you will never be far

“It really is important to stay ahead of

boost your productivity, enhance customer

industry trends and leveraging them to

to elevate your business game. Online

information overload – it’s about igniting

sponsored by Data Mail Solutions

success stories, gain actionable insights

Business Clubs Sussex. Titan Workwear

business world in Sussex and beyond.

Best Stand competition.

It’s your chance to find the perfect

View the exhibitor list here: https://

your business to the next level, all

show-details/exhibitors-list/

tools, resources and partners to take under one roof.

brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk/

Tickets are still available for the show’s

The event has been curated to ensure

Networking Breakfast, taking place in

with fresh perspectives and dynamic

For tickets, visit: https://ticketpass.org/

business challenges.

business-show-breakfast-2024

everyone leaves feeling invigorated

HB’s restaurant in the Stadium at 8am.

solutions to tackle even the biggest

event/EGTDGL/brighton-and-hove-

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

AI S PO NS O R

How do I use ChatGPT to increase productivity?

“Raise your hand if you used ChatGPT last week.”

I was in the audience

AI

at a conference

where that question

was asked about six months ago. A few

hands went up. Yesterday, that question

Individuals trying to figure it out on their

own often report decreased productivity.

They find it takes longer to complete

tasks with AI than doing them the “oldfashioned way.”

more likely to use AI to catch up on missed meetings, 51% more likely to analyse

information, 49% more likely to design

visual content, interact with customers, and brainstorm or problem-solve.

was asked to a similar audience. Every

Training saves time and provides

What do people do with their extra

just locally in Sussex. A Microsoft survey

Conversely, those who have undergone

Microsoft’s survey revealed that people

hand went up, except for two. This isn’t from May shows that globally, 75% of

knowledge workers use AI in their daily

tasks, with over half having started in the last six months.

Productivity gains from AI

The reason for the massive uptake is simple: AI makes people more

productive. However, there’s a stark

gap between those who experiment

with ChatGPT and those who have had proper training.

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

immediate ROI

training and are at least “familiar” with AI experience the greatest benefits. They

report that AI makes their overwhelming workloads more manageable (92%), boosts their creativity (92%), helps

them focus on the most important work (93%), and increases their motivation and job satisfaction (91%).

Once they see what’s possible, they start to reorient their work patterns

fundamentally. Trained users are 56%

time?

repurpose the time saved by AI for highvalue focus work, such as creating and

consuming information. Our clients have seen similar results. Nobody wants to

do dull, repetitive, and time-consuming work, especially if AI can handle it

quickly and with equal or better quality.

People prefer to focus on enjoyable and high-value tasks. AI also allows them

to impact their roles beyond individual contributions. Microsoft found that AI

A I SP ON SO R

users are 66% more likely to redesign

their business processes and workflows to benefit the entire organisation. We’ve seen that just one or two AI-savvy

individuals in a business can streamline

processes and significantly impact ROI. The lack of an AI strategy

A clear AI strategy is the biggest obstacle preventing widespread AI adoption.

Without guidance or clearance from the top, employees use AI but keep

it under wraps. If leadership doesn’t

have a plan, employees get stuck in the “Embarrassment” stage of AI adoption.

They know AI can have an immediate impact but worry that using it for

important tasks might make them appear replaceable. Over half of the surveyed

employees were reluctant to admit using AI for their most important tasks.

This reluctance means businesses miss

out on the benefits of strategic AI use and

risk data security in an environment where cybersecurity and data privacy are the

number one concerns for the year ahead.

I don’t know what AI can do for me or my business…

The most common question we hear is,

“I don’t know what AI can do for me or

understand what AI can do for you and

my business.” You can’t have a strategy

your business.

how to get started:

To help you get started, we have created

1. I dentify a Business Problem: Apply

workshop. This hands-on experience

if you don’t know what AI can do. Here’s

a free 1-hour “AI for Work” Training

AI to specific business challenges. For

will show you exactly what generative

call-handling times or create hyper-

the end of the session, you’ll have clarity

example, improve customer service

AI can do for you and your business. At

personalised sales proposals quickly.

on exactly how you can use it in your

2. T op-Down, Bottom-Up Approach:

business to impact the ROI.

Engage everybody from the CEO

We’d hate for you to feel left behind

zero technical requirement to use

you, or for your people to leave for

people who feel they are not technical

they know they need.

to entry-level employees. There’s

and see other’s accelerate past

generative AI and we often find that

opportunities that help gain the skills

often find the greatest gains.

3. P rioritise Training: People want to

If you’d like an online session, you can

book it directly at: https://simplerwith.

use AI effectively, not on their own or

ai/book-ai-training

their potential and ensures they use AI

Or if you’d like a conversation or to

without guidance. Training unlocks effectively and with confidence.

How to get started

arrange an in-person session, book a

quick call at https://simplerwith.ai/ai-

training-info and we can ensure you get

The demand for AI is growing, and its

what you need.

satisfaction is undeniable.

Gareth

To stay competitive, you need to

07762 526 574

ability to improve productivity and job

gareth@simplerwith.ai

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

The Missing “D” in DEI - the decline in diversity efforts By strategic consultancy Boxless.

Lifestyle

The term DEI -

What are some examples

Inclusion - has become

Tech - a report from Tech

Diversity, Equity and

central to discussions around organisational

culture and social responsibility. Following the movements and heightened

awareness in 2020, many organisations pledged to improve diversity efforts.

However, that drive has seemingly slowed

down and there are worrying signs that the “Diversity” in DEI is being overshadowed and neglected posing significant risks to organisations and society.

of this decline?

Nation highlighted that

Black employees still only

make up a small fraction of

the workforce, with minimal year-on-year increases.

Education - The Higher

Education Statistics Agency

(HESA) found that the percentage of Black or minority ethnic members has barely

moved from 6% over the past decade.

The peak of 2020 and the

What are the risks of neglecting

2020 marked a watershed moment

A McKinsey study found companies in the

subsequent decline

for social awareness. George Floyd’s

murder and Black Lives Matter protests

resonated globally, catalysing a national reckoning with racial inequality. Four years on the urgency of 2020 has

faded and Diversity efforts have been

deprioritised. Within Sussex key figures in the DEI space believe organisations are content with efforts:

Annie Whilby, Trustee of the Black

Anti-Racism Community Organisation, says: “Brighton uses its positive

reputation on sexuality and gender

issues as a cover for less progression with regards to racial equity.

“Organisations cannot ease this

burden by simply declaring inclusivity - actions speak louder than words.

Any efforts must be authentic and

sustained over time, and ideally involve local people or organisations with

lived experience of the inequalities attempting to be addressed.”

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

diversity?

top 25% for racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to have financial returns above their industry medians.

Underrepresented groups can feel

disillusioned and disengaged without

genuine commitment to diversity. This can lead to higher staff turnover and

lower productivity. In today’s socially

conscious marketplace, stakeholders

prefer to engage with brands that reflect diverse values.

Why are we seeing these challenges?

Without concrete, measurable

goals for diversity, it’s difficult to

ensure accountability. Engaging in

“performative” diversity efforts, such as one-time training sessions or

symbolic gestures gives the illusion of progress without addressing

systemic issues. During economic

downturns, diversity initiatives can be seen as expendable. Organisations

often view them as non-essential or

rely on box ticking exercises that are disingenuous.

What can your organisation do?

Get support: Speak to advisors,

consultants and your stakeholders for input.

Establish clear goals: Set specific, measurable goals and report on

progress. Transparency helps maintain focus and accountability.

Embed diversity into core values:

Go beyond surface-level initiatives and make systemic changes to policies, practices and culture.

Think long term: Ditch one-off training sessions, ditch box ticking - change takes time and persistence.

Be accountable: Leaders at all levels should be held accountable. Diversity

is not just a tick box it must be a lived reality within the organisation.

The decline in diversity efforts is a

worrying trend that needs immediate

attention. By re-committing to diversity,

setting clear goals and looking at the long term, these values can be embedded into the fabric of organisational culture.

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

Navigating the Government’s 2050 Net Zero Strategy Businesses must prepare for significant changes.

The UK’s net zero

Lifestyle

strategy aims

to eliminate net

greenhouse gas

emissions by 2050,

requiring profound changes across

all sectors. In short, businesses must

reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices.

Stricter regulations and compliance will be introduced year on year including carbon pricing mechanisms and

mandatory reporting on greenhouse

Sustainability and supply chain

reduce disruption later.

sustainability of their supply chains.

Energy

practices and ensuring they adhere to

sources is a cornerstone of the net zero

mandatory. Implementing a green

energy technologies fit best, such as

minimal disruption in the future.

energy audit, organisations can identify

Financial implications and opportunities

energy and improve energy efficiency.

so the sooner you start the further you

daunting. For example, upgrading to LED

presents opportunities for growth and

systems and utilising smart metres to

often provided additional support and

gas emissions. Getting ahead now will

Businesses must consider the

Assessing suppliers’ environmental

Transitioning to renewable energy

sustainable practices will soon become

strategy. Investigating which renewable

procurement policy now can help ensure

solar or wind, will help. Through an

opportunities to incorporate renewable

Achieving net zero will require investment,

Small changes now make the task less

can spread that cost. However, it also

lighting, optimising heating and cooling

innovation as the UK government has

monitor and manage energy use.

incentives to early adopters. Researching

Transport

sector now is a great start.

contributor to greenhouse gas

Clarifying sustainability goals and

for EV’s has been stop-start to say the

initiatives will take time. Establishing

companies will enjoy lower fuel costs,

communication can enhance brand

The transportation sector is a major

those relevant and available in your

emissions. The UK government’s push

employee engagement in green

least. However, by switching to EV’s,

a strategy now with transparent

reduced maintenance and potential

reputation and customer loyalty.

at your business premises further

Monitoring and reporting

tax incentives. Installing EV chargers supports this transition.

progress towards net zero goals are essential. Set measurable targets, track performance and report on sustainability initiatives. This not only ensures accountability but also provides valuable insights into areas needing improvement.

The UK government’s 2050 net zero strategy presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses. By proactively adapting now and getting strategically organised, businesses can position themselves with a strong foundation. Embracing this transformative agenda will ultimately contribute to a more resilient and sustainable economy. www.boxless.uk info@boxless.uk

Regular monitoring and reporting of

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

From film Landscapes of the Heart to transgressive performance art An interview with Andrew Finch, director, writer and curator, whose work has formed part of this year’s Brighton Spiegeltent programme.

Lifestyle

What inspired you to

I made my first film, Landscapes of

and how did you

subcultures over the past thirty years

become a filmmaker, start your journey in the film industry?

the Heart, which explored Brighton’s

in 2019. It got picked up by local and

national film festivals and I co-founded an independent film festival in London

I was a student at South London

afterwards.

school for underrepresented filmmakers

Last year, I received a BFI-funded

director Saeed Farouky.

Cinema For All to establish a film

The course gave me the confidence

which I’ve been curating since at

make a film, away from big production

It invites emerging and established

yourself without asking permission and

around a changing theme.

like-minded creatives.

Since then, I’ve been working on my own

Gallery’s Film School, a radical film in 2019, led by Palestinian-British

mentorship and a small grant from exhibition in London, called Carousel,

to think outside the box about how to

Photo Book Café in East London.

teams and budgets. Just doing it

filmmakers to showcase their work

collaborating with friends and other

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

films, writing for arts publications and

programming the fourth edition of Carousel which will premiere later this year.

How do you approach storytelling and character development in your films?

I’m less interested in making narrative films that follow a typical arc and

structure, although I enjoy watching them. As a director, I try to move

toward a sense of feeling or emotion that can be carried to the audience

whilst remaining close to the heart of the subject matter.

My films utilise on-screen text, archive footage, found images, audio field

recordings and, most recently, AI-voice

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

in Deer Park, to tell a story through the bricoleur method of using what’s to

hand to build a tapestry within the work.

Where did the inspiration come from for your latest film Deer Park?

Last summer, Mike Sefton, organiser of Nothing Short of a Total War!,

approached me with the idea of a night

dedicated to transgressive performance art at Brighton Spiegeltent.

Sometime after, No Hawkers Gallery in

Brighton exhibited the archives of Kim and Lee Oliver based around the group’s Coil

and Crass. I attended and had the idea of bringing Lee’s written correspondence

from John Balance (of Coil) to life through AI voice-cloning within a film.

your work was presented in the

supportive of young local filmmakers such as myself.

It was great! We filled it out despite the

I’d like to see more collectives of young people developing a programme of their work in smaller, grassroots spaces.

Perhaps merging with visual arts spaces such as the Phoenix Gallery, Fabrica or John Marchant Gallery. More life to experimentation of films and spaces in which to screen them!

Mobile Cinema Van?

English summer rain.

I love small, unusual venues to show

films. The Vintage Mobile Cinema Van

suited the intimate nature of my first film, Landscapes of the Heart, which is about Brighton’s free party scene.

This year, screening work alongside

work by Mike Sefton, Jill Westwood

and Coum Flakes, all of which had a

performance element, Spiegeltent was perfect. It was beautifully chaotic and

the roof of the neighbouring Bosco Tent blew off during the night, a first in its century-old history.

I visited many of the places which the

What are your thoughts on the local

Deer Park developed around ideas of

evolving in the next few years?

group occupied over their history and pilgrimage, psychogeography, music

fandom in a pre-digital age, the occult and subcultures within East Sussex, London and Somerset.

How did it feel to have your film

played in the Spiegeltent as the main event compared to last year when

film industry, and how do you see it

Brighton has always been fortunate to

have a strong independent film scene.

CINECITY Brighton Film Festival has been running for over twenty years

now and they show a brilliant body of work each year. They’ve always been

Can you share any advice for aspiring filmmakers who are just starting?

‘Find what you love and let it destroy you’.

Ideas can take time to germinate and you can sit on something for years.

Things occasionally fall from heaven, but not often. Trust the process and allow yourself to be open to the world, new environments and people.

Don’t get bogged down by thinking you can’t make a film because you don’t have the resources. It’s ideas and depth that make a film, not expensive cameras. There are no rules.

Begin anywhere. Take time to find yourself and your audience will eventually be there.

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Traditional pub with more than a hint of modern flair This month’s Hospitality Hotspot visits The Howard pub.

The Howard pub in

Lifestyle

Hanover, Brighton,

is a charming local

spot that successfully merges the

atmosphere of a traditional British pub

with a touch of modern flair. Located in

the backstreets of the hilly Hanover area, this pub offers a welcoming ambiance characterised by its rustic décor.

The Howard offers a secret garden

alongside a games room perfect for networking with a difference or a corporate gathering.

One of The Howard’s standout features

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is its food offering from classic British

whether you’re there for a quick drink, a

dishes, a traditional Sunday roast but also

leisurely meal or a work event,

Howard’s kitchen can be bespoke and

Overall, The Howard pub in Hanover

from a traditional brunch meeting or an

fantastic food, quality ales and a cosy

regular theme nights. For events, The

accommodate a client’s requirements -

offers a delightful combination of

afternoon meeting with sharing platters.

atmosphere. It may not be the easiest

I was fortunate enough whilst there to

Brighton, but you will certainly return

pub to come across by chance in

sample the vegetarian sharing board,

when you’ve experienced it.

homemade hummus amongst lots of

With its own unique charm, it’s well

garlic and chilli prawns, along with other delights.

Service at The Howard is typically friendly and accommodating,

contributing to a pleasant experience

worth a visit for those in the Hanover

area or looking to try somewhere new. www.thehowardbrighton.co.uk

1 Howard Rd Elm Grove, 01273 675356

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Empower young creatives: BN1 Arts seeks help to continue free arts education BN1 Arts, known as the “BRIT School of the South Coast”, is on a mission to provide creative arts training to all, empowering the next generation of artists.

Founded in 2023 by

Lifestyle

creative entrepreneur Mia Bird, BN1 Arts offers industryled courses for

16–19-year-olds in performing arts and music as well as an Arts Centre for

the wider community running evening classes and initiatives focused on an

inclusive and diverse nature. However,

in the current financial landscape there

are challenges and BN1 Arts is seeking support to ensure free, high-quality arts education.

Mia made her West End debut in 1995 in “Sunset Boulevard” and went on to play lead roles in numerous shows,

plays and TV productions. She also

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

caught the attention of Universal Music

which led her to become part of a multilabel songwriting network. Mia began pre-producing and writing songs and

top lines for various artists, while also

touring the UK with different bands and

performing in major clubs both in the UK and abroad. Parallel to her performing career, Mia delved into business

ventures and developed a strong interest in training and education.

With over 25 years of experience in

founding creative academies across London and the UK, including more recently in Brighton including Bird

Studios, BRICTT and the Institute for Contemporary Theatre, Mia opened BN1 Arts in response to cuts in

creative training in Brighton, seemingly doing the impossible and actualising a college for 100 happy young people in just 4 months.

Whilst achieving all this might be

enough for some, it has been the starting point of a dynamic new

campaign titled “KEEP CREATIVE ARTS EDUCATION FREE” which

highlights how schools are struggling

without essential support and financial backing, leaving creative subjects like music and performing arts at risk.

The high cost of crucial resources,

from Mac suites to dance studios, has created a severe shortage of funds,

threatening the core of creative arts

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

education. The absence of these

subjects from mainstream education creates exclusivity, hindering talent development for families who can’t afford private lessons. This has led to a decline in the creative talent

pipeline, impacting progression into higher education.

Despite financial constraints, Mia and the BN1 Arts team are committed to

providing spaces for young creatives

through extracurricular activities in music, dance, and performing arts as well as our industry-led diploma courses.

The campaign is backed by local MP

Peter Kyle, (coming to a cabinet near you soon) as well as many powerful voices from the West End, the music industry

and has recently received an Arts Council fund to put in to action a project called

“Creative Roots” – particularly focusing

on offering free classes in all areas of the

dance studios and recording facilities

As Rosie Butler C.O.O says: “The young

to attend more traditional routes as well

funding available for these activities

are certainly the lucky ones - they are

by society and have dropped out of

our college so far with bank loans and

and performers. They are ambitious and

arts for young people who can’t afford

is excruciating. With no government

people that currently attend BN1 Arts

as those who have been sadly let down

and resources we have self-funded

supremely talented musicians, actors

mainstream education.

personal investment.

study here. But what about the rest?

BN1 Arts college courses for

“We have a thriving industry, and we

find their way to us?”

Department of Education and are

young people.”

Mia is asking for financial support for

as Mia says: “The funding we receive

It is a common misconception that the

benefactors to enable the development

covers the basic costs of delivering our

than others, such as cyber (remember

talks and masterclasses from the

government’s own estimates, the

anything else that removes financial and

£126 billion to the UK economy. That’s

to attend BN1 Arts.

or aerospace, oil and gas.

There are many ways to support Mia

their courses due to these financial

Last year there were 3 million jobs in the

co.uk/supportus for more information, or

have never experienced professional

could be more. The benefits of studying

cost of producing industry standard

creative and innovative thinking, teamwork,

facilities, like drum rooms, sprung floor

development and many more.

16–19-year-olds are funded by the therefore free at point of entry, however

need to be able to feed it with talented

What about the young people that don’t

the college, from local businesses and

from the Department for Education

arts are somehow of lesser importance

of facilities, such as recording studios,

Diploma courses…

THAT advert?). However, by the

industry, end-of-term shows and

“But our students need so much more if

creative industries contribute around

practical barriers for students who want

arts education we have to offer them.

more than the car industry, for instance,

they are to receive the best industry-led

“Many FE colleges have closed

challenges. Some of our students

creative and cultural industries and there

shows due to high ticket prices. The

the creative arts include social skills,

shows and gigs and providing essential

self-confidence, and holistic and emotional

and her mission, please go to bn1arts. email admissions@bn1arts.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

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Jade Goodwin - from go-kart

queen to Fiesta motorsport icon

A career-charting story by the female motorsport ace who made a childhood dream a reality. Here, she writes about her inspiration and supporters.

I developed an

Lifestyle

interest in racing at a noticeably early

age and my love of motorsport began

through my dad. Growing up, I was

fascinated by the speed, precision and

thrill of motorsport with F1 often on the

TV. As a girl, I remember the hum of the engines every Sunday.

Dad was only allowed access to the TV if he did the ironing at the same

time (Mum’s clever rule), myself in the washing basket he’d emptied, with a

rolled-up tea towel for a pillow, knocking back a bottle of juice.

Years later, for my dad’s birthday, my brother would give him tickets to the

BTCC race at Oulton Park. During this

day, I got to walk through an actual race paddock, something I would later do

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

most weekends. The smell of rubber

filled the air, the vibrations through my feet, a ripple of wind hit me, the lights

went out and the cars disappeared into a low hum elsewhere on the circuit. I looked at my dad and he just smiled

back at me knowingly. (He would never financially recover from this.)

My first taste of in-seat racing came

from go-karting, a common entry point for many professional racers. On a

shoestring budget, I started my racing

career at 11 years old, visiting my local indoor kart track ‘Fast Lane Karting’

where I began to dominate the monthly championship and single-handedly

killing the business as no grown man

wanted to be beaten by a ‘little girl’. It

soon became time to buy my own kart.

We hit the track, mostly for ‘fun’ days.

Soon the track owner, Bob, noticed my

speed and recommended that I enter their ‘Indy’ kart series. On my first

outdoor race, it began to rain. My dad lovingly in the past told me that the

track was ‘closed’ when it rained so I

had never driven in the wet before. In

a rush, we brought wet tires - knowing zero about set up and engine changes - to race my first wet lap under race conditions. The race was extremely

fun, although I did not have a wetsuit so, after each race, I was sat in a

puddle, the water pushing its way

under my helmet and up my nose. I

finished second that day and I knew this would never end.

Struggling with my mental health due to being a victim of sexual assault in my

early teens, my career motorsport has

been my focus and rock. Motorsport is brutal and often competing as the only

girl on circuit, it has not been easy. It is

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

the love and my passion which drives me through life and every tribulation.

I jumped into the F100 ‘Formula A’ series in a demo run. My kart was

borrowed and built at the track that

weekend. I went on to win the British

Open Championship, taking the O from the dominant driver in the series - my

greatest triumph to date. Winning that race sent a statement to the paddock

and I still compete in the series today.

This statement was received by my

teammate, Simon Nicholson, whom to quote sais he “saw Jade do things in

karts that he couldn’t believe” over the course of that season. Simon has 47

years of karting experience and was a

huge aid with his wealth of knowledge and support both off and on track.

One evening before a race, we grabbed

a team dinner as we often did, and I said that it was hard to see drivers I have

beat now winning formula two races and making careers in motorsport due to

finances. The theme of the evening was “why not me?” I did not know it then, but Simon began to produce a plan.

A few months later, I was stepping

up to race the cars of my childhood

dreams. My first day’s testing on a car circuit felt alien. I had raced karts and held my road licence for years but to finally take a car to the limit, and to

drive on a long circuit, was a feeling I didn’t know I was missing until I

experienced it. I felt the meaning of the

from Optimize Web Trends and Paige

word equilibrium.

Collins from Warren House Accountants

Simon was monumental in securing

Hillclimb car with her as a passenger

not be in this magazine, having the

Thomas who gave me the opportunity to

the Different Hats Podcast with Sam

and this magazine! He also allowed me

Best of British Events with Faye White.

at Goodwood circuit. Other thanks must

Later, I was strapping into a Fiesta

Eloise Jenner from Skerritt’s Wealth

the Vinyl Detail Challenge. Growing up

Jones Limited, Hayley Hubble from

be me I could not even fathom. Then

Best of British Events, and Driven Minds,

The track that started it all, whilst still on

the motorsport industry, who I am a

who allowed me to drive her Fisher fury

sponsorship and, without him, I would

at Brands Hatch. Thanks also to Sam

opportunity to have an episode on

appear on his podcast, Different Hats,

Thomas, be on the track or speaking at

to scare him to death as my passenger go to Paul Addison from DevAssist,

ST150 for my first race at Snetterton in

Management, Chris Flynn from Mars

watching racing my whole life, for it to

Coach and Consult, Ryan Heal from

came Silverstone GP and Oulton Park.

who support mental health issues within

novice plates, I finished p9 securing my

proud ambassador for.

first top ten finish in my third race.

I am still looking for more sponsors to

Soon after this, I was approached by

join this team, journey, and my story

winning team, to sign with them for

is something you feel would represent

Silverstone National learning more. This

positive brand goals, association,

Following these two races, with a top

differentiation, you are welcome to get

season so far has been a tough one,

and your own direct social impact.

engine failure my testing program was

Looking forward to pushing the limits

with my season marked by unfortunate

season goes!

SBR Motorsport, the championship

through the motorsport world. If this

the 2024 season. Then followed by

your company and own values,

season opened at Brands Hatch Indy.

awareness, exclusivity, and

ten start at the second-round croft, the

in contact and drive my career further

with limited budget and extra costs in unfulfilled due to race weekend costs unavoidable contact and hitting oil.

I cannot thank my team, Simon, my

father David and all my sponsors, Matt

and seeing how the rest of the Fiesta

Connect with me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Jadegoodwinracing

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From Cape Town to Hove (actually) - a life supporting start-ups and entrepreneurs How business mentor Fiona Anderson is nurturing the next generation of womenowned businesses, thanks to her background in banking.

Fiona grew up in

Lifestyle

Cape Town, South

Africa and spent her childhood mostly outdoors in the

sunshine. She had a difficult childhood in a single parent home where money was tight. Born in Zimbabwe to

Scottish parents ,Fiona grew up in Cape Town, South Africa with her mum, younger brother and strict Scottish granny from Glasgow.

She moved to the UK in 2001 after her

mother, relocated to Somerset in 2000.

Arriving with no real plan, she eventually found her groove in

Brighton, after initially living in South

West London whilst working for Royal Bank of Scotland.

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

From an early age, she had to stand on her own 2 feet, being the eldest child in a single parent family, She

learnt to always look after herself and

quickly became very independent and self sufficient.

Her parents got divorced when she was 5 and her brother a baby.

Her gran lived with them and brought her and her brother up, as in South Africa there is no income support or child

benefit, so her mother had to go and work.

Her father remarried and had nothing to do with the family from around the age of 9.

By that time she had become used to doing things for herself and had her

first job at the age of 15. She went on to do several jobs including working in a department store at weekends and school holidays, taking orders on the phone for a pizza delivery

company, working on the cash desk at a pharmacy, and the inevitable

waitressing job at the local steak house.

That didn’t last too long as she didn’t like people telling her what to do!!

By the time she left school, she didn’t

know what she wanted to do, so went to do a diploma in Human Resource Management (but never utilised the

diploma or worked in that sector), but part of the reason she wanted to do

it, was to work with and help people, something that is at her core.

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

Her working life in South Africa was brief and spent as a Business and Finance manager for a VW dealership from

1997-2001, where she learnt about PCP

contracts, maintenance plans and selling!

She loves cars and has always a VW. By the time she came to the UK in

August 2001, most of her friends were here already. Her mum was living in Somerset, but Fiona preferred it in

South West London and then Brighton.

Opposite ends of the country, but

Fiona loves living in Brighton (well Hove actually!) and is an integral part of the

business community in wider Sussex.

Fiona began working for the Royal

Bank of Scotland group in April 2002.

She enjoyed a lucrative career with the bank, taking on many different

roles until the end of 2017. Despite

not considering herself a banker, Fiona acknowledges that her time at the

bank provided numerous opportunities

With her strong background in finance, she

common goal and enhance productivity.

which she is incredibly grateful.

finance at the right stage of business and

Fiona is now in the next chapter of her

for personal and career growth, for

The culmination of that career was the

is able to assist with accessing the right

the process involved in preparing for that.

impactful work at the Entrepreneurial

She has a lot of insight and experience

in Brighton. During her tenure from 2015

She has expanded her knowledge of

300 businesses, spanning from pre-

took an accreditation with Creative ID,

scaling enterprises. A large number of

and teams unlock their potential

Spark powered by NatWest, Accelerator

in grants, investment and funding.

to 2017, Fiona collaborated with nearly

innovation and creativity and recently

revenue idea stages to high-growth and

a unique tool that enables individuals

these businesses are still active today

through understanding creative styles

and that makes her feel incredibly proud.

and behaviours.

A huge part of her success is the incredible

This tool can help teams really collaborate,

Sussex, which has enabled her to really

business processes. Teams become more

and inspiration is truly uplifting and unlike

creativity and sustainability.

business community in Brighton and

innovate and inject fresh thinking into

grow as an individual. The support, care

cohesive and create a strong culture of

anywhere else in the country.

As part of Fiona’s portfolio of work, she is

Over the past 8 years, since leaving

now running workshops and programmes

and the UK, supporting mainly women

creativity and become truly innovative.

innovation programmes.

Sem, boost staff morale, work towards a

Natwest, Fiona has worked in South Africa owned businesses on accelerator and

for teams looking to leverage more

life, focusing mainly on helping others

through mentoring, coaching and being a trustee for a womans’ charity called

Wayfinder Women, which helps women from challenging backgrounds become more confident and take advantage of opportunities to enhance their lives.

She is a fantastic people person, well connected, and a key collaborator in assisting businesses with navigating

entrepreneurial growth, accessing funding and finance, and fostering creativity

in business owners and leaders. Her

expertise and dedication have significantly contributed to the entrepreneurial

landscape, fostering innovation and driving business success in the Sussex region.

The need to help people is something that is a core value and a calling of Fiona’s -

possibly something that comes from her past - helping others stand on their own

two feet and thrive in the face of adversity.

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Freeze and Share: affordable egg freezing with altruistic egg donation

By Carole Gilling-Smith, CEO and Medical Director of The Agora Clinic.

In the journey of

Lifestyle

life, timing is often everything. For

women considering preserving their

fertility, the concept of timing becomes particularly crucial.

At Agora Clinic, we understand the

financial barriers many confront when

typically around £4,500 including drugs and the first year of storage, can be a

significant barrier. At the Agora Clinic, we offer an innovative and altruistic solution: the ‘Freeze and Share’

program. This unique option not only

makes egg freezing affordable but also gives women the opportunity to give others the chance to start a family.

contemplating egg freezing. That’s why

What is egg freezing?

‘Freeze and Share’ program – a solution

Egg freezing is a well-researched

we’re proud to announce our innovative

designed to make egg freezing accessible

while fostering altruism. In the modern era, many women are considering egg freezing to preserve their fertility and keep their options open for the future.

However, the high cost of egg freezing,

56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

medical process that allows women to

preserve their eggs, and the possibility of biological children in the future,

at a time when they are most viable.

The ideal age range for egg freezing

is between 27 and 35 years old, often referred to as the ‘sweet spot’ due to

the higher quality and quantity of eggs typically produced during these years.

Egg freezing is a powerful tool for women

who wish to delay pregnancy for whatever reason, medical or social, but a single

egg freezing cycle can cost thousands of

pounds (over £4.500). This price point can be a significant barrier for many women,

particularly those in the optimal age range.

At the Agora Clinic, our ‘Freeze

and Share’ program offers a unique alternative. By choosing to donate

half of the eggs retrieved during the

freeze cycle, the participant can waive the entire fee, making the procedure much more widely accessible whilst

altruistically helping women who are struggling with their fertility.

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

The ‘Freeze and Share’ pathway Step 1: Deciding if this is right for

you The journey begins with a fertility MOT at Agora Clinic, where you will first have a blood test and scan of

your ovaries before seeing one of our fertility consultants who will discuss

the process, benefits, and implications of the ‘Freeze and Share’ program and

review your medical history and fertility

goals, along with your test results to see if you are eligible.

Step 2: Screening and Preparation If

you meet the eligibility criteria, and you would like to go ahead, you will need

to undergo genetic and sexual health

screening to ensure you are suitable to

donate. This is a legal requirement when

nursing team will look after you until you

your reproductive choices. The cons are

eggs) to ensure the health and safety

this day off work and make sure someone

donor (for which we provide counselling),

conceived when your eggs are used in a

you are at home. Most people have very

conceived through your donation (as

and are fine to go back to normal activities,

complete screening tests that might flag

donating genetic material (in your case

are ready to go home. You will have to take

the emotional implications of being an egg

of both the recipient and future child

can collect you and look after you once

being identifiable to any future child

donation program.

few side effects from the whole procedure

required by UK law), and the need to

Step 3: Stimulating the ovaries Our

including work, the next day.

up some medical or genetic issues.

risks of side-effects or potential harm.

Eligibility

Success rates and future fertility

of hormone injections to stimulate the

You can only be accepted onto the

The success of egg freezing largely

phase lasts between 10-14 days and you

aged 35 or younger at the time of egg

eggs are frozen. For women under

clinics (you can choose between Brighton,

highest quality of eggs for both the

successful pregnancy from frozen eggs

between 2 and 4 scan appointments.

chances of successful pregnancies. You

women. There are no guarantees, but

Step 4: Collecting and freezing eggs

you have no personal health issues or

the latest statistics regarding pregnancy

your scan and blood test results and

passed on to a child.

apply to you. At the Agora Clinic, we are

be mature, we will arrange your egg

What are the implications of

more accessible and achievable and

protocols are designed to minimise any Your consultant will prescribe a course ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This

‘Freeze and Share’ program if you are

depends on the age at which the

will be closely monitored in one of our

collection. This age limit ensures the

35, research shows the chances of a

Eastbourne or Worthing) and have

donor and the recipient, maximising the

are significantly higher than in older

must also have a good egg reserve and

our consultants will guide you through

family history of conditions that could be

outcomes from frozen eggs that would

One of our consultants will review

when they feel your eggs are likely to collection. This is a minor outpatient

donating eggs?

sedation. Half of your retrieved eggs will

The ‘Freeze and Share’ program is a

while the other half will be donated.

consideration. The pros are financial

Step 5: After the egg collection, you will

another person or couple struggling with

surgical procedure performed under

be frozen and stored for your future use,

go through to our recovery room where our

wonderful opportunity but requires careful

committed to making fertility preservation would invite you to get in touch, visit our website www.agoraclinic.co.uk or sign up for one of our free webinars if you want to find out more.

savings, giving the gift of parenthood to infertility and gaining more control over

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 57

W I N E O F TH E MO NT H S P ON S OR

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month June 2024

The June pick is Smock Alley English Sparkling Brut Rose 2020.

We first reviewed Smock Alley last year and, I am pleased to say, that they continue

to release excellent English sparkling wines.

Smock Alley is a co-operative vineyard in West Sussex,

based at West Chiltington in West Sussex. It works with a group of volunteers who

manage their own rows from

the start of the pruning to the harvesting of the grapes.

Sarah, the owner, is very

passionate with her wines and has created a great model for

community based involvement for localised wine production.

In her own words: “The

combination of teamwork and passion

for the vineyard and the product makes a very special wine.”

Sarah has also brought in the UK’s best wine maker, Dermot Sugrue,

to assist. He was head winemaker

at Nyetimber and Wistons and now

runs Sugrue South Downs, which has been winner of Wine GB Boutique

Wine Producer for the last three years running. The vineyard also works with Wiston Estate for bottling and shows

how collaboration and partnering can

work across the wine industry to assist smaller producers in bringing top quality wines to market.

This month’s review is of Smock Alley’s Rose 2020, a blend of both Pinot

Noir and Pinot Meunier. Red grapes

provide more fruit characteristics than

58 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Chardonnay which they are often

This wine retails at £27 a bottle and is

blended with.

limited. It can be purchased directly

Michael’s tasting notes for Smock

the harvest was challenging due to a

Alley 2020

Light on the nose, you get a hint of red berries, strawberry jam and cranberry.

On the palate we have fine bubbles,

lots of berries, with a lovely balanced

from the vineyard. Be quick as in 2020 late May frost which limited the amount of grapes for this vintage. See the

following link for more details; https:// www.southlandsvalleywines.com/ how-to-buy/

Michael Yeoman, Founder of Brighton

acidity and refreshing citrus in the

and Hove Wine Club

to have with friends or family in the

Michael Yeoman specialises in working

works well straight out of the fridge

around Sussex and the South Downs.

having at least two bottles in stock as

Club and also creates a range of small

For food pairing - I would recommend

and vodka through Spirit of the Downs

background. It is the perfect wine

sun and is dangerously quaffable. It

with small batch wine producers in and

and is very refreshing. I would suggest

He founded Brighton and Hove Wine

a glass each may not be enough!

batch Sussex brandies, grape spirits

serving this with a dressed crab and

based at Bolney.

mixed salad with balsamic dressing a lovely match.

Did you know?

They’re a family business!

For anyone that wants to explore family creation, the Agora is a leader in inclusive care, conceiving a future filled with possibility.

We offer…

• Donor Sperm Treatment • Fertility & Menopause in the Workplace • Fertility MOT’s • IVF • Egg Freezing • Surrogacy

Clinics in Brighton, Eastbourne and Worthing admin@agoraclinic.co.uk 01273 229410 AGORACLINIC.CO.UK www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 59

B E S T

O F

B R I T I S H

E V E N T S

P R E S E N T S

SPONSORED BY

12pm Friday 27 th September 2024 Join us at England's only five-star seaside hotel, The Grand in Eastbourne, with our Guest Speaker, BBC and ITV broadcasting royalty,

JOHN INVERDALE £785

Tables of 10 +VAT available now: - including a complimentary drinks reception

IN AID OF CO-SPONSORED BY:

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MEDIA SPONSOR

For table bookings email: eastbourne@bestofbritish.org.uk