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.
Welcome
Welcome to another edition of SBT
Welcome to the latest issue of Sussex Business Times, your trusted voice for championing business, innovation and community across our county.
In this edition, we’re proud to shine a light on the Help to Grow scheme, a government-backed initiative helping small businesses unlock their full potential through leadership training, digital support, and tailored growth strategies. With so many SMEs forming the backbone of our local economy, it’s a timely and vital programme that could shape the future of business across Sussex.
Our cover story takes a deep dive into the practical benefits of the scheme, the real-world success stories already emerging, and how local business owners can get involved.
This theme of growth runs through the whole issue, from our spotlight on sustainability and property development, to the growing appetite for more meaningful business connections. Whether it’s the rise of storytelling dinners or the push for inclusive leadership, it’s clear that how we grow matters just as much as what we grow.
As always, thank you to our brilliant contributors, readers and partners. Your continued support helps us highlight the people and stories making a difference in our community.
Until next time, keep learning, keep growing, and keep championing Sussex.
Sam Thomas, Managing Director, Sussex Business
Times
Joint Managing Director/Publisher
Sam Thomas
sam.thomas@countybusinessclubs.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
Vistage’s Q2 2025 CEO Confidence Index reveals cautious optimism among SME leaders.
What the new Mayoral Combined County Authority could mean for the region.
Understanding nervous system regulation to combat burnout and regain clarity.
Clarifying the impact of term length on your interest rate and financial future.
JLN’s trailblazing approach to integrating AI across legal operations.
University of Brighton celebrates 250 graduates from its transformative business programme.
Bringing professional vehicle maintenance directly to your door.
How local businesses are approaching AI adoption and digital transformation.
Exploring the impact of storytelling dinners on business relationships.
A Father’s Day event that breaks stereotypes and creates safe spaces for men.
A
Marking a legacy of enterprise and growth support in the region.
movement.
A bold, no-nonsense approach to finding the right people for the job.
Nutbourne Vineyard’s barrel-fermented Chardonnay takes the spotlight.
A
your presence at the Let’s raise a fistful of dollars for charity
Doors open at 18:30 02/10/25 amex stadium, brighton £65pp or £360 for a table of 6
Beyond the Uncertainty: Trade, Talent and Technology in Focus
Why UK and Ireland SMEs are cautiously optimistic — and what they need to thrive in a turbulent 2025 - By
David Harding, Vistage Sussex Chair
Despite continued economic and geopolitical uncertainty, SME leaders in the UK and Ireland are cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.
The latest Vistage Q2 2025 CEO Confidence Index shows a small but encouraging rise in sentiment, up from 87.5 to 89.5. Just over half of leaders (55%) expect revenue growth over the next 12 months, and 61% forecast higher profits — a notable jump from 49% in the previous quarter.
Hiring and investment plans are also holding steady, with 57% expecting to grow their teams and 31% planning to increase fixed investments.
But challenges remain. Nearly half (48%) of CEOs believe economic conditions have worsened over the past year, and most feel conditions will either remain flat or decline further. Leaders are navigating this climate by doubling down on what they can control: their teams, operations, and technology.
Trade
and
Talent Worries
Many leaders are concerned about the UK’s position in global markets. Just 8% believe the UK is becoming more competitive compared to EU markets, and only 10% are actively pursuing EU expansion. Most SMEs are choosing to stabilise their domestic position before making international moves.
Talent attraction remains a top concern.
The proposed UK-EU youth mobility scheme is unlikely to ease recruitment pressures, with only 5% believing it will make a significant difference.
Burnout Is Real
Economic pressures are taking a personal toll on business leaders. Nearly one in five rate their work–life balance as poor, and 60% say they struggle to switch off during time off. This raises concerns about sustainability and the need for stronger wellbeing support at the top.
AI: Big Promise, Big Gaps
While enthusiasm for AI remains high, adoption is lagging. Many SMEs lack the technical skills or internal strategy to make AI implementation effective. Without investment in training and mindset, even the best tools will struggle to deliver impact.
Visit my LinkedIn article to explore this topic in more detail.
Resilience Through Support
In uncertain times, it’s clear that leaders are stepping up — finding ways to grow, stay flexible, and protect their teams. But bold, strategic moves in technology, talent, and wellbeing will be essential to maintain momentum.
Want to connect with other forwardthinking leaders?
Discover how Vistage supports SME owners and executives with peer insight, expert guidance, and leadership development.
Visit vistage.co.uk or contact Chair David Harding to learn more: david.harding@vistagechair.co.uk
A Brighton Celebration: 10 Years of IT Document Solutions
IT Document Solutions marked a major milestone on Thursday 17 July with a vibrant celebration at Brighton’s exclusive Soho Beach House, bringing together clients, colleagues, and partners to honour 10 successful years in business.
The evening was not only an opportunity to reflect on a decade of innovation and growth, but also a chance to give back to the local community. Thanks to the generosity of event sponsors — Xerox, Toshiba, Vasion, Kaseya, CF Corporate Finance Ltd, and Pitney Bowes — the company raised £1,000 through a charity raffle in support of Together Co, a Brightonbased organisation working to combat
loneliness and isolation in the city.
Prizes for the raffle were donated by sponsors and sourced from local independent businesses, further reinforcing IT Document Solutions’ ongoing commitment to supporting the wider community.
Guests enjoyed a lively and memorable evening, complete with a showstopping cake by the talented Fay Millar and event photography beautifully
captured by Stephen Lawrence.
The team at IT Document Solutions expressed their heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined the celebration and helped make the evening so special.
With strong partnerships and a community-first approach at its core, the company now looks ahead to its next chapter.
Here’s to the next 10 years!
Brighton Bash Carnival 2025: A Roaring Success of Culture, Unity and Celebration
Brighton, July 26th, 2025 – St Anns Well Gardens came alive on this weekend as the Brighton Bash Carnival 2025 dazzled the city with a kaleidoscope of colour, music and community spirit.
Now in its 5th year the carnival is fast becoming the most vibrant and diverse offering in the Sussex calendar. The carnival drew recordbreaking crowds, showcasing the best of African, Caribbean, South American and Black British culture while uniting people from all walks of life.
Organised by BARCO – The Black AntiRacism Community Organisation, this year’s carnival was a celebration not
only of heritage but of resilience, joy and connection in the face of ongoing social challenges. With a theme of “Crowns”, the 2025 Bash honoured hair, heritage and history while shining a spotlight on the creativity of a new generation.
A Carnival of Vibrance and Voice
The festivities kicked off with a high-energy opening parade, where samba bands, steel pan groups and dancers in dazzling costumes circled the park with infectious rhythms.
From reggae and soca to grime and Afrobeats, the sounds of the diaspora echoed through the park, creating an atmosphere of pure celebration.
Art installations, food vendors and cultural workshops filled St Anns Well Gardens, offering everything from Caribbean jerk and vegan soul food to drumming circles and Black history storytelling tents. Families, tourists and locals mingled freely, creating a welcoming space rooted in inclusion and education.
Community at the Heart
This year’s carnival featured the largest number of local organisations, small businesses and partners in its history. Over 60 volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event ran smoothly. Meanwhile, more than 30 stalls and vendors – mostly from Blackowned enterprises – brought flavour and flair to the festivities.
BARCO’s co-founder, Bud Johnston praised the community’s involvement:
“Brighton Bash 2025 wasn’t just a party – it was a statement of solidarity and self-expression. We’re proud to see how
many people showed up to celebrate Black culture, and even more proud of the young people, elders, artists and activists who made it happen.”
Local supporting organisations and thanks go out to Mayo Wynne Baxter, Sussex Bay, Octopus Energy, University of Sussex, Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club, Audio Active and H2 Productions.
Looking Ahead
The overwhelming success of Brighton Bash 2025 sets a new standard for future community-led festivals in Brighton. BARCO has already announced plans for finding a physical
home for its other events and offerings building on the momentum and partnerships formed during the carnival.
For those who missed the event, video highlights and photo galleries will be available soon on the BARCO website and social media platforms. And for those who were there — the memories, connections and rhythms will no doubt live on.
Brighton Bash 2025 wasn’t just a carnival. It was a movement, a homecoming and a vision of the inclusive, empowered future we’re all working toward.
www.brighton-barco.org
Next-Level Testing: Webtrends Optimize Redesigns User Experience
Over the last 18 months, the focus of Webtrends Optimize has been on redesigning their User Interface to improve processes, speed up workflows, allow for better collaboration and improve their users experience.
This has been a pivotal step in the progression of Webtrends Optimize; not only for the additional capabilities and advanced features they will be able to offer their clients and partners, but also the improved experience it will provide them.
The first phase of the UI was released to customers in February as Webtrends Optimize began to roll out the first wave of new features and design. Throughout the project, they have adopted a customercentric design process, gathering
feedback through 1-1 interviews. Now that all of their clients and partners have been transferred over to use the new UI, wto7, they have been exploring the impact of these changes on testing, results, usability, efficiency, and more.
Some of the exciting changes that users can expect to see in the latest UI update include:
• A customisable dashboard
• A new futureproof visual editor
• Re-built Advanced editor
• Functions streamlined and de-duped & workflows simplified
Key Highlights from Webtrends Optimize Users
The changes to the UI have meant users can benefit from improved and intuitive functionality, and a more seamless experience. Users have said they love the new look and feel of the UI, and it is much sleeker and easier to navigate. Reporting and analysis is easier and faster, meaning users can do more with their time. This also makes feeding back to your team easier than ever, so you can keep everyone updated with your experimentation progress.
Webtrends Optimize have a variety of valued clients and gaining their insights and feedback has been an important part of the redesign process.
Caitlan Morton, UX Design and Experimentation Manager at PrettyLittleThing said, ‘Being able to see all the steps on one page makes it so much easier to jump back and forth without having to click through different tabs. I’m also a huge fan of the new code builder – the function prompts make it feel more like a proper development environment.’
Some specific things that users have called out are the changes to the Visual Editor and Creating a Project Page. The change to the Visual Editor means that there is a distinction between editing, hiding, visibility and widgets which adds flexibility. Creating a project page is now a very clear and clean layout as you can follow a step-by-step process, and there is logical progression from each project, experience and variant.
Optimize consultants reporting that the build and QA stage is much easier to utilise. The new UI means you can run a top-level analysis of a test within a couple of minutes, meaning nearly instant access to insights and data.
functionality so they can do more, and be more efficient, when automating out the painful parts of analysis. Surveys continue to be a key feature at Webtrends Optimize, and there will be a focus on improving this.
Webtrends Optimize Head of Product, Sandeep Shah, said ‘Our Visual Editor is futureproof. It uses the latest browser APIs and takes away functional problems I’ve seen in countless other platforms. I’m particularly excited about our new Advanced Editor. It gives us a platform to do some really creative things with AI that we’ve not been able to do previously.’
What difference does this make to what users can achieve?
One of the main things the UI redesign has improved for users is the speed at which they can do things; building AB tests is quicker and easier than ever. A more seamless and straightforward building experience is a common theme of the feedback, with Webtrends
This means clients can build more tests themselves, speeding up workflows and increasing productivity. Tool tips, guidance and help docs have made clients more independent in understanding and exploring the product themselves. For example, simple tests can now be built in the Visual Editor without users having to raise tickets for bug fixes or improved functionality.
Elena Cotar, CRO Developer at Community Fibre, said, ‘From a developer perspective, one of the best improvements is the new code editor and VS code integration. It saves me so much time not having to jump between editors, and for me that’s the most important thing as time really matters!’.
What’s next for wto7?
Users can expect to see more reporting
Webtrends Optimize are also looking to add AI features. This will be to support building, planning, running and analysing experiments, making them more accessible and faster than ever before.
As said by Webtrends Optimize CEO, Matt Smith, ‘Feedback has driven the redesign from the very start and will continue to do so. Our clients and partners are the driving force of everything we do, and ideas will continue to be validated before changes are made. We have completely built our UI from scratch, and what we have achieved in 12 months is something our whole team are incredibly proud of.’
www.webtrends-optimize.com
Love Local Jobs Foundation Celebrates the Impact of the 2024/25 Dare to Dream Programme—And
Calls for more Partners to Help Empower Sussex’s Young People
As schools close their doors for the summer and the 2024/25 academic year draws to a close, the Love Local Jobs Foundation reflects on the successful wrap of another inspiring season of its flagship Dare to Dream programme.
The Foundation’s passionate team, its army of dedicated volunteer mentors, and the generous support of local businesses have helped hundreds of young people across Sussex build vital life and workplace skills. Today, the Foundation urges the Sussex business community to step forward — because young people need support and inspiration now more than ever before.
Monthly News
Helping Young People Find Their Purpose
For over a decade, the Love Local Jobs Foundation has worked tirelessly to develop programmes that not only raise career aspirations but also ignite a sense of purpose and confidence in the next generation. The Dare to Dream
programme, now a staple in Sussex secondary schools, provides teenagers with unparalleled access to practical wisdom from business mentors, delivering more than just “employability skills”, it offers hope, direction and a belief in what’s possible.
“At Love Local Jobs Foundation, we believe that every young person is born with a unique purpose, though some just need a little support to find it. That’s the catalyst for everything we do,” says Jack Hayes, Programme Lead at the Foundation. “The impact of simply believing in a young person, giving them a platform, a mentor and a vision, can be truly life-changing. And each year, we’re humbled by the transformative effect Dare to Dream has on both students and the adults who support them.”
A Community Effort: Volunteers, Businesses, Schools Unite
Over the past academic year, Dare to Dream saw an incredible cohort of volunteer mentors and partner businesses give their time, energy, and wisdom to support students across Sussex. Together, they delivered workshops, oneon-one mentoring, and real-world insights that opened doors, sparked ambitions, and helped students connect classroom learning to the wider world.
Behind the scenes, the Love Local Jobs Foundation staff worked tirelessly, not only running the programme but also listening to feedback, evolving activities, and ensuring each year is even more impactful than the last.
“To every volunteer, business partner,
and school who welcomed us this year, thank you,” says Hayes. “It’s your commitment and generosity that make everything possible. Every hour spent mentoring, every story you share, every encouragement you give — it all adds up to brighter, more hopeful futures for the young people of Sussex.”
Room to Grow: The Need for More Partners and Support
While the achievements of Dare to Dream 2024/25 are worth celebrating, the Foundation is keen to highlight that the need for inclusive, purpose-driven youth support has never been greater. Economic uncertainty, rapidly changing job markets, and the impact of social media on young minds mean that too many students face a future clouded by anxiety and self-doubt.
“The next generation faces challenges, and opportunities, that are totally unprecedented. The truth is, young people need our support more than ever, and as a Foundation, we can only be as effective as our community enables us to be,” says Love Local Jobs Foundation Chairman Gary Peters. “If you’re a business that believes in giving back, or an individual passionate about making a difference, now is the time to join us.”
How You Can Help: Business and Community Call-to-Action
The Love Local Jobs Foundation invites all local businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals who are passionate about empowering young people to get involved. The Foundation’s mentoring model is flexible, offering opportunities ranging from single school workshops to year-long partnerships, with options for sponsoring programmes or volunteering directly.
There are many ways to make a difference:
• Become a business partner: Sponsor or co-deliver Dare to Dream opportunities for schools in your area and help unlock potential for hundreds of students.
• Volunteer as a mentor: Share your career journey, life lessons, and encouragement — often, you’ll find yourself as inspired as the young people you assist.
• Spread the word: If you know someone passionate about supporting youth, tag them on the Foundation’s social media or forward this story to them.
• Champion purposeful careers: Collaborate to create meaningful work experience placements and help make Sussex a beacon for empowered young talent.
A Summer of Reflection and Renewed Determination
With another Dare to Dream year complete, the Foundation team refuses to rest on its laurels. Summer is spent reviewing feedback, refining curriculums, and exploring innovative ways to reach even more young people across Sussex and beyond. The ambition is simple: deeper impact, wider reach and brighter futures.
“We’re only just getting started,” says Peters. “The impact is undeniable, but the need is enormous. Help us give every young person in Sussex the chance to discover their purpose, develop confidence, and dream big. Join us, because together, we can ensure that no young person is left behind.”
Find Out More
To explore partnerships, learn more about Dare to Dream, or volunteer as a mentor, visit the Love Local Jobs Foundation website or connect with the charity on LinkedIn, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok.
Together, let’s inspire, support, and empower the next generation of Sussex. www.lovelocaljobsfoundation.org.uk
Sussex And The City: from conversation to accountability — shaping devolution in practice
The context:
Monthly News
Sussex is now entering the decisive phase of its devolution journey. After being accepted into the government’s Devolution Priority Programme in February, the full green light has now been given to create a Mayoral Combined County Authority for Sussex and Brighton – with elections in May 2026.
Several Sussex And The City roundtables, hosted since June, have dug into specific issues while reflecting broader themes emerging across governance and public engagement:
• Business growth and support: Participants discussed how devolution could unify a fragmented support landscape, prioritise scaling up Sussex-based microbusinesses, and retain graduate talent. Comparisons were drawn with Greater Manchester and West Midlands systems.
• Digital inclusion and skills strategy: Another session highlighted gaps in current provision, debating how a mayoral authority might knit funding together across local skills boards, FE, HE and private sector actors.
• Local identity, community voice, and environmental stewardship: Debates emphasised the need for transparent accountability mechanisms beyond electionslike citizen panels and community hustings - to sustain public trust in the new combined authority.
The weekly Sussex And The City podcast has featured key voices shaping the narrative:
Recent episodes of the Sussex And The City podcast have sharpened the focus on leadership, skills, trust, and the practicalities of devolution. Flo Powell , co-owner of Midnight Communications, unpacked the
communication challenges facing any new mayor — from mistrust to misinformation — and why plain English matters. Sally-Ann Hart , former Hastings MP argued for targeted investment in overlooked coastal and rural areas, and for stronger private sector partnerships. Dan Wallman , founder of TechNative Digital, explored how employers can close the tech skills gap by investing in junior talent and supporting government-funded bootcamps. And Stewart Drew , director of the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill, challenged the notion that culture is a luxuryarguing instead for its central role in skills, tourism and economic resilience. Together, these conversations reveal a Sussex ready to do things differently.
Key developments since July
• Local government reorganisation gaining pace: West Sussex, East Sussex and Brighton & Hove City
councils submitted draft proposals around new structures for unitary councils in March 2025. These new councils will sit beneath the mayoral authority; county-wide surveys were launched in July to capture public input ahead of detailed proposals due in September
• New Devolution legislation introduced: The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, introduced in July 2025, establishes legal frameworks for new Mayoral Combined Authorities - including voting rules, transport authority powers and restructuring mandates for local councils.
episodes exploring skills, business ecosystems, coastal investment, and what a mayoralty could deliver.
leaders – with new members including DMH Stallard, Kreston Reeves and Morgan Sindall.
Devolution in Sussex is not theoretical - it’s now about delivery, accountability and identity. The key themes remain on track but are enriched by these recent developments:
• Effective civic engagement and democratic literacy
• Inclusive economic growth and business support
• Environmental stewardship and spatial strategy
• Defining what leadership means, and confidence in Brand Sussex
Follow Sussex And The City for realtime updates
• Podcast, hosted by Richard Freeman, remains the central space for civic storytelling, featuring new
• Bulletins continue to provide digestible, real-time breakdowns of policy, consultation milestones, emerging candidate messaging and events.
• Roundtables and events remain essential: recent topics include digital growth, business support, democratic legitimacy, climate infrastructure and land & sea governance.
• Website resources now link directly to consultation feedback, interim unitary proposals, roundtable video summaries, and downloadable explainer slides and toolkits
• Sussex And The City 100 continues to convene public, private and civic
Looking ahead
As we build toward the May 2026 mayoral election, Sussex And The City is anchoring the conversation by asking:
• Who will stand - and what will they stand for?
• How will communities hold the new authority to account?
• Can devolution deliver tangible improvements in housing, skills, transport and climate resilience?
Everything you need to know can be found at sussexandthecity.info
Value Added Partner Stories
This month we chat to James Naylor of Placr Recruitment.
Tell us your story
I was born in Halifax, Yorkshire (not in the bank!). I used to have big curly hair and people would call me Shirley Temple. My mum also told me she used to have naturally pink hair—not sure if there’s something she’s trying to tell me there!
I was actually born with chickenpox, due to my mum having a serious car accident when she was nine months pregnant. She was hospitalised and developed shingles while I was still in her tummy. My mum later met my dad, who adopted me, and together with my gran and granddad, they raised me into the handsome, funny, and unique person I am today.
We moved down south when I was ten, to Storrington, as my dad became a director at Sainsbury’s and my mum sold her jewellery shops. I then attended private school at Broadwater Manor. Let’s just say it didn’t end very well, but that’s where my football journey began, and I’ll always be grateful for that. I was even scouted for Brighton & Hove Albion while at Broadwater Manor but didn’t quite make the cut. I went on to captain Horsham Reps and played county football for various teams.
My working life began at Tesco, before moving into an office role. I started doing debt collection at a company based in Worthing, which sparked my sales career. I always had a natural talent for sales and eventually gave recruitment a go. I can categorically say recruitment is a “champagne and razor blades” industry, but I love it.
My career was put on hold for a while when I developed shingles and viral meningitis in the brain. This had a massive impact on my life, I was nearly at death’s door and bedbound for six months. I overcame it thanks to the incredible NHS staff, my family, and my friends. I’m especially grateful to my former recruitment company, First Recruitment Services, who were absolutely amazing and supportive during that time.
After recovering, I had the opportunity to run my own business, which unfortunately didn’t work out. However, my client at the time, Upfix and the amazing Lorraine Ali, wanted to form a recruitment partnership. If you know Lorraine, you’ll know that’s an opportunity you just can’t pass up! I jumped at the chance and am really excited about the journey ahead.
What’s been your biggest business challenge to date?
I think the biggest challenge is just grinding through the hard times. If you do, you’ll eventually reap the rewards. We’re slowly getting our name out there and will continue to grow our portfolio.
What’s your proudest achievement to date?
Personally, my greatest achievement is having my little boy, Archie. He’s my minime, my best friend, and he’s changed my life completely. I also have his mum to thank for helping raise such an angel—he couldn’t have asked for a better mum.
From a business perspective, my proudest achievement is owning Placr Recruitment, my other baby.
What kind of clients do you work with, and who are you looking to meet?
When we started Placr, I didn’t want to specialise in just one sector, as I’ve worked across pretty much every industry out there. So, we decided to be generalists. It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in, if you take the time to truly understand the client and their needs, you can recruit for almost anything (within reason, of course!).
Tell us a story or fact that people might not know
My little brother was in a BBC film called Daphne Du Maurier.
How do you define success?
Success is about hard work and graft, doing whatever it takes to push through and achieve your goals. Overcoming tough times and reaping the rewards. Success is already happening for Placr, and I know we’ll continue to succeed as we grow.
You’re Not Unmotivated. You’re Dysregulated
How understanding your nervous system — and the simple act of breathing — can help business leaders break through burnout and reconnect with clarity - By Sam
Adams
A few years ago, my life completely fell apart. My marriage ended, my dad died, and my dog died — all within the space of a few months.
I was really struggling. I tried to keep going, showing up for work and pushing through with clients, but underneath it all, I was falling apart. Everything I’d relied on in the past to cope just stopped working. Life suffered — and so did my business. After all, business is personal, and I was basically broken.
What finally shifted things for me wasn’t another strategy or productivity hack. It was something I’d been deeply sceptical of: Breathwork.
I didn’t go searching for it. Someone happened to mention it, and at the time I thought it sounded a bit too woo-woo. But a few weeks later, desperate for something — anything — I gave it a try. And something unexpected happened.
I breathed in a specific, guided way for about 60 minutes. I cried. I raged. And I cried some more.
I was someone brought up to believe that crying wasn’t something men did, so this was all new territory for me. But you know what? It actually helped. It softened something in me. It landed somewhere deep inside — somewhere I don’t think I’d ever accessed before. A part of me that felt alive and truthful, underneath all the chaos.
That breathwork session — and the many that followed — changed everything.
From Rock Bottom to Rebuild
It didn’t erase the grief or pain, but it gave me a way to be with it. It gave me space to breathe again — literally and metaphorically — and that’s where the rebuild began.
Breathwork was the most profound thing I’ve ever done in my life.
And I say that as someone who has been in personal development for 20 years — as a life coach, a mentor, someone who’s taught all the tools. But this was completely different.
Mental Health
The Check-In Challenge is a simple way to create a ripple of real conversations between men. It starts with one message: "You alright mate?"
1. Message someone you know: "You alright mate?"
2. They reply with a short video message.
3. They pass the question on to someone else.
4. Share online (optional): tag @youalrightmate? or use #CheckInChallenge
Soft vs. Hard Market in Professional Indemnity Insurance
The professional indemnity (PI) insurance market moves in cycles, typically oscillating between soft markets and hard markets.
These cycles influence premium costs, coverage availability, and underwriting standards. Understanding the differences can help professionals manage their insurance renewals more effectively.
What Is a Soft Market?
A soft market is characterised by increased competition among insurers, resulting in:
• Lower premiums
• Broader coverage
• More flexible underwriting terms
In these conditions, businesses may find it easier to secure PI insurance with minimal exclusions and favourable policy wording. In some cases, policies may even be offered for longer-thanannual terms, locking in attractive terms for an extended period.
Soft markets generally occur when insurers have ample capital, claims
levels remain stable, and there is a strong appetite for writing new business.
What Is a Hard Market?
A hard market is marked by:
• Stricter underwriting
• Higher premiums
• More restrictive policy terms
These conditions typically arise from increased claims activity, economic uncertainty, or regulatory changes that heighten insurers’ perception of risk.
During a hard market, some insurers may exit specific sectors altogether, reducing competition and making it more difficult for businesses to secure cover.
How Market Cycles Impact Professionals
In a soft market, professionals benefit from lower costs and wider policy terms, enabling them to negotiate competitive deals.
In contrast, a hard market demands a more proactive approach to risk management. Securing PI insurance may require:
• Demonstrating robust risk management procedures
• Providing detailed claims histories and financial statements
• Working closely with specialist brokers to source optimal terms
• Assessing risk appetite, such as opting for higher policy excesses to reduce premiums
Keeping an eye on market trends allows businesses to plan ahead and ensure continuous, cost-effective cover. Partnering with an experienced broker can also offer insight into expected shifts and how best to respond.
So, Where Are We Now?
At present, the PI insurance market is firmly in a soft phase.
This is particularly advantageous for businesses with a strong claims history and sound risk management, including the use of tight contractual agreements that limit liability where possible. Now is an excellent time to approach the right markets for competitive pricing and enhanced terms.
To make the most of current conditions, we recommend initiating any market
exercise well in advance of renewal — at least two months ahead for standard cases, and longer for complex ones.
Insurers are currently inundated with quotation requests. The more time they have to assess your submission, the greater your chances of securing the best possible deal.
Let’s Talk
If you’d like a no-obligation alternative look at your Professional Indemnity Insurance, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Preston Insurance Brokers — we’d be more than happy to help.
This month, Seico Mortgages’ expert insights debunk common myths that cause concern to homeowners…
“Will I get a better or worse interest rate if I change the term of my mortgage?”
No – the term of your mortgage has no bearing on the interest rate you’re offered.
Interest rates are usually determined by the size of your deposit or equity: the larger the deposit, the lower the interest rate.
Having a longer mortgage term (30–40 years) gives you the advantage of lower monthly payments; however, it also means you’re repaying the capital more slowly, resulting in more interest paid overall. It’s
important to weigh up your preferences and long-term financial goals.
“But I already have a Decision in Principle with a lower interest rate.”
A Decision in Principle (DIP) does not secure a mortgage rate. In most cases, you cannot actually secure an interest rate until you formally apply for the mortgage.
Interest rates fluctuate depending on the market, so any rates you see before applying should be treated as indicative. The main purpose of a DIP is to demonstrate how much you can borrow and confirm that you’ve passed a lender’s credit check – which is
particularly useful when making an offer through an estate agent.
“If I get declined for a mortgage, will it damage my credit score and stop me applying elsewhere?”
No. There are two types of credit checks: a soft credit check and a hard credit check.
Most DIPs use a soft credit check, which does not leave a mark on your credit file. Full mortgage applications, however, use a hard credit check. While it’s true that a hard search can impact your credit score, in reality, the effect is usually minimal.
Unless your credit score is already very fragile, most people can apply more than once without seeing any significant damage to their credit rating.
“A fixed rate is better than a variable rate.”
One option isn’t inherently ‘better’ – it depends entirely on personal preference.
A fixed rate may suit someone who wants the certainty that their payments won’t change. A variable rate may suit someone seeking greater flexibility to exit their mortgage more easily.
Variable rates are often preferred by people planning to sell their property, as they typically allow for early repayment without high penalties.
“But my business turnover is higher –why can’t I borrow more?”
Lenders assess your borrowing capacity based on your profit, not your turnover.
Even if your turnover has grown, rising expenses may reduce your profit – and
therefore the amount you can borrow. Conversely, if expenses have fallen, your profit (and borrowing potential) may increase.
It’s important to note that changing your declared profit can have tax implications, so always consult your accountant before finalising your tax return or company accounts.
“I can’t get a mortgage because I’m on maternity leave.”
This is a common myth – and it’s completely untrue if you’re employed.
Lenders must not discriminate against women on maternity leave. While your payslips may show a reduced income during this time, lenders will usually accept your full contracted salary, provided you can confirm your returnto-work date (often via a letter from your employer).
Please note: if you’re self-employed, this doesn’t apply in the same way – your income is based on business profits, which may have been
impacted during maternity leave.
“But I have 999 on Experian!”
While a high credit score on Experian (or other credit agencies) is a good sign, it doesn’t automatically mean you’ll pass a lender’s assessment.
Lenders look at your overall credit profile, not just your score. This includes factors like your profession, age, deposit size, loan amount, and more.
To be certain, it’s always advisable to obtain a Decision in Principle to confirm that you meet a lender’s internal criteria.
For independent advice based on your individual circumstances, call us for an initial chat:
01273 778888 www.seicogroup.com
Mortgage Monitoring Service
Make sure you never pay more than you have to, by signing up to our FREE mortgage monitoring service here:
Rob Starr MBE – CEO of Seico Mortgages
The rise of Employee Ownership Trusts: a strategic succession route for UK owner managers
Aird, Corporate Finance Director, Carpenter Box
Over the past decade, Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) have evolved from a niche exit option into one of the most compelling succession strategies available to founder owned businesses in the UK. An Employee Ownership Trust is a UK government-backed initiative designed to foster employee ownership by enabling business owners to sell a controlling interest in their company to an all-employee trust. This structure means employees do not directly own shares, but the trust holds them for their collective benefit.
Explosive growth and sector momentum
According to the latest figures from the Employee Ownership Association and White Rose Employee Ownership Centre, as of mid 2025 there are approximately 2,470 businesses operating under EOT or employee owned models in the UK, employing around 358,000 people.
With 560 EOT transactions recorded in 2024 and an additional 118 already underway in early 2025, momentum shows little sign of slowing.
While owner managers in professional services lead adoption (accounting for 28% of EOT firms), manufacturing, construction, wholesale/retail and administrative services are close behind. Notably, construction firms have seen a staggering 6,580% growth since 2014, highlighting how a wide range of owner managed SMEs are now exploring this model as an exit route.
Why owner managers are choosing EOTs
1. Exceptional tax benefits
The headline attractor for many owners
Finance
Alistair
is the ability to sell 51–100% of company shares to the EOT and claim 100% relief from Capital Gains Tax, provided important HMRC conditions are met. At a time when Business Asset Disposal Relief is being tightened and CGT rates have risen to 24%, an EOT offers clarity and potentially substantial tax savings.
2. Legacy preservation and private transition
For business founders motivated by culture and continuity, EOTs avoid the risk of selling to strategic buyers or private equity firms who may disrupt operations post-exit.
Owner managers can either stay in the business as director employees, step back gradually or transition to just an advisory role, as their succession plans evolve. The off market nature of the sale avoids staff unrest or speculative buyout approaches, delivering a smoother transition process.
3. Motivating and retaining staff Research shows EOT businesses outperform peers significantly in employee engagement, retention, and productivity. Research suggests up to a 50% reduction in staff turnover, while nearly 70–73% of EOT firms see increased job satisfaction within two years of transition. Company loyalty, discretionary effort, and discretionary innovation all rise when staff have a tangible stake in success.
Importantly, about 57% of transitioning EOT firms report increasing profits, and they are over 25% more likely to see growth than comparable traditional businesses.
Considerations and governance risks
While the upside is compelling, EOT transitions carry complexities:
• Financial planning is critical. Vendor financing may impact cash flow and create debt burdens.
• Governance oversight is increasingly regulated. Reforms introduced in the October 2024 Budget strengthen requirements around independent trustees, UK-resident governance, and clawback periods to ensure genuine employee interest representation.
• Upfront costs can reach tens of thousands for valuation, tax and legal work though it is worth noting that this is normally a much cheaper route than an external sale.
• Owners must weigh up whether EOT proceeds represent best value compared to Private Equity or trade sale offers.
Looking ahead
In a tough M&A environment, the outlook for EOT adoption continues to brighten:
• The EO sector is forecast to reach over 5,000 businesses by 2030, fuelled by growing awareness and supportive policy.
• Adoption is diversifying beyond professional services and manufacturing into retail, food & drink, healthcare, tech and creative industries.
• Hybrid models, combining partial EOT shareholdings with founder retention or minority direct employee share ownership, offer more flexibility for phased owner exit plans, though need careful consideration and tax planning.
• Governance structures are expected
to professionalise further; more firms will bring on independent trustees, employee representation at board level, and transparent communication strategies to safeguard long-term success.
Final thoughts for owner managers
As an owner manager, deciding how to exit is often as much about legacy as commercial calculation. EOTs offer a clear, tax-efficient route that aligns with values of stewardship, employee empowerment, and long term stability, though it is not always the answer. When done carefully, with professional guidance, prudent cash flow planning, and attention to governance, and for the right reasons, an EOT can deliver a win win outcome: you realise fair value, secure your business’s future identity, and enable employees to thrive as co-owners.
However, it is crucial to recognise that simply establishing an EOT does not automatically guarantee deep employee involvement or engagement. Initial employee roles in the conversion process can sometimes be limited, and the trust’s ongoing role in governance can vary. For the full benefits of employee engagement to materialise, active efforts are required to build a true culture of ownership. This includes designing clear governance structures, ensuring employee voice is genuinely heard, and implementing robust communication and education programmes.
If you’d like help considering whether an EOT is right for your business, please get in touch with our team on 01903 234094.
Alistair Aird
How the Jonathan Lea Network Is Transforming Legal Services with AI
A year into a firmwide embrace of artificial intelligence, Sussex law firm the Jonathan Lea Network (JLN) is demonstrating how thoughtful AI adoption can enhance client service, increase efficiency, and set new standards for the legal profession.
Leading the Way in AI
In an industry steeped in tradition, JLN is embracing the future. Over the past year, we’ve integrated AI across almost every area of our operations and into nearly every task — using it as a practical tool to improve the speed, quality, efficiency, and value of the service we deliver to clients.
Early adopters like Kent Reynolds and I immediately saw productivity gains when experimenting with ChatGPT.
Many of our clients are also leading AI and tech start-ups, inspiring us to follow their example. With support from AI consultant Mary Kemp of AI Potential, we’ve increasingly embedded AI into the fabric of the firm.
A key part of this has been the expansion of our intranet to share prompts, best practices, and new AIenabled procedures with our team.
Why ChatGPT?
So far, we’ve focused our efforts on ChatGPT, rather than Microsoft Copilot,
Google Gemini, or costly legal-specific tools like Harvey or CoCounsel. The reasons were clear:
• Accessibility and flexibility: ChatGPT is easy to adopt and can be applied across every area of the business.
• Cost-effectiveness: Legal-specific tools often carry high costs without offering sufficient value at our scale.
• Continuous innovation: The platform allows us to create custom GPTs tailored to our exact workflows, such
as generating client emails or drafting engagement letters.
“Custom GPTs give us reusable, secure virtual assistants for tasks like drafting letters or generating emails for common scenarios.”
AI in Action: Transforming Daily Operations
We’ve embedded AI into nearly everything we do. Some standout examples include:
• Legal research and case analysis: Summarising large volumes of information, identifying key insights, and accelerating the research process.
• Drafting and reviewing documents: Producing strong first drafts of contracts, letters, and memos — enhanced by a lawyer’s final input.
• Email review and response: Analysing high volumes of email, pulling out key points, and drafting tailored replies efficiently.
• Client service: Enabling our one-hour fixed-fee consultations by speeding up file set-up and review — ensuring we can deliver real value within the hour.
• Systems and administration: Streamlining processes, improving compliance, and speeding up tasks such as conflict checks.
We also use AI to support HR, respond to client complaints, and advise on firm strategy — helping us make more informed decisions, faster.
Security and Confidentiality
One of the biggest concerns for law firms adopting AI is safeguarding client data. We addressed this from the outset by upgrading to enterpriselevel ChatGPT accounts with enhanced encryption and data privacy.
Additionally, we anonymise contracts and documents before submitting them to AI tools, ensuring no identifiable client data is ever exposed.
“Our clients can be confident that AI use at JLN never compromises confidentiality or security.”
The Human Element
AI works best when combined with human intelligence. The quality of the prompts we use determines the quality of the outputs. Every AIgenerated draft is reviewed by a qualified solicitor, who applies experience, context, and the human touch clients rightly expect.
“AI makes us faster and more accurate, but it’s human expertise that ensures quality and builds trust.”
More Work, Not Less
Initially, we feared AI would lead to less billable work. The opposite has been true. AI allows us to complete tasks faster and to a higher standard, which keeps more clients satisfied within the same time frame — and when that happens, more work naturally follows.
Sharing Our Insights Nationally
Our AI journey has attracted attention beyond the local legal community. In September, we’ve been invited to speak to senior government figures at the Westminster Employment Forum policy conference: The Future for AI in Employment – Priorities for Policy, Regulation and Industry Best Practice.
What’s Next?
This is just the beginning. We plan to:
• Develop fine-tuned large language models (LLMs) trained on our own data.
• Expand our use of custom GPTs and AI agents for specific tasks such as email triage, compliance monitoring, and client onboarding support.
• Continue refining how we use AI in ever more sophisticated ways — and in doing so, ensure a strong, forwardthinking AI culture throughout the firm.
For us, AI isn’t a replacement for lawyers. It’s a tool that empowers us to deliver greater value and innovation for our clients.
Final Word
We hope our example inspires other law firms to embrace AI thoughtfully. Even in one of the most traditional professions, innovation has its place — and the benefits for clients, employees, and the firm itself are already clear.
Author: Jonathan Lea, Founder of the Jonathan Lea Network, a Sussexbased law firm specialising in corporate, commercial and dispute resolution work — particularly for SMEs and high-growth tech companies. www.jonathanlea.net
Jonathan Lea
Cohabitation in Crisis: Why UK Law Fails Modern Relationships
In today’s society, relationships are evolving—but the law has not always kept pace.
One of the most pressing examples of this is the legal treatment of cohabiting couples in the UK.
While more and more people are choosing to live together without getting married or entering into a civil partnership, the law still offers them little to no protection if the relationship breaks down.
The Rise of Cohabitation Cohabitation, where a couple live
together without being married or in a civil partnership, is the fastest-growing family type in the UK. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there are now over 3.6 million cohabiting couple families in the UK. Many of these couples have children, share homes, and pool finances much like married couples.
Despite this, cohabiting partners remain in a legal grey area. Many people assume that living together for a long time creates some kind of legal status—often referred to as “common law marriage.” However, this is a myth.
The concept of common law marriage has no legal basis in the UK, no matter how long a couple has been together or whether they have children.
How the Law Currently Works
When a married couple or civil partners separate, the law provides a framework for fairly dividing assets, property, and responsibilities. Courts can consider factors like the length of the relationship, financial and non-financial contributions (like childcare), and each person’s needs.
In contrast, cohabiting couples do not
have access to these protections. If they separate, the starting point is not fairness, but strict legal ownership. This can lead to deeply unjust outcomes.
For example:
• If the family home is in one partner’s name, the other partner has no automatic right to stay or claim a share— no matter how long they have lived there or how much they have contributed.
• There is no legal obligation for one partner to financially support the other after separation.
• Inheritance laws do not automatically benefit cohabiting partners, meaning a surviving partner could be left with nothing if their partner dies without a will.
Real-Life Consequences
These legal shortcomings can have devastating effects. One partner, often the one who stayed home to care for children, may find themselves without a home, income, or assets after a breakup. With no legal safety net, many are forced into lengthy and expensive court battles simply to secure a fair outcome.
The lack of rights also creates
uncertainty. Couples may wrongly believe they have legal protection, only to find out otherwise when it is too late. This is particularly common where one partner has given up work to support the family, or when only one partner legally owns the home.
The Call for Reform
There is growing recognition among legal professionals, campaigners, and policymakers that the law needs urgent reform. Organisations such as Resolution (the association of family lawyers) and the Law Commission have long called for legal changes that would give cohabiting couples some of the rights and responsibilities that married couples and civil partners enjoy.
The Law Commission has proposed introducing a legal framework that would allow cohabiting couples to make financial claims if they separate, provided certain conditions are met, for example, a minimum period of cohabitation or having children together. These proposals are not about giving cohabiting couples the same rights as married couples but about creating a fair and balanced system that reflects the reality of modern relationships.
Several other countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand and parts of the United States, already offer greater legal protection for cohabitants. Reform in the UK would bring the law more in line with the lived experiences of millions of people.
What You Can Do Now?
Until the law changes, it is vital for cohabiting couples to take steps to protect themselves.
This can include:
• Making a cohabitation agreement, which sets out how finances, property,
and other responsibilities will be handled during the relationship and in the event of separation.
• Ensuring both partners are named on property deeds or rental agreements.
• Writing wills to ensure that a partner is provided for in the event of death.
• Seeking legal advice to understand your rights and obligations.
These steps can help reduce the risk of financial and emotional distress, but they are no substitute for proper legal protection.
Cohabiting couples deserve a legal framework that reflects their commitment and contributions not a system that punishes them for not ticking the marriage box.
How we can help?
If you are about to start living with your partner, are in a cohabiting relationship, or about to leave a cohabiting relationship then you should take specialist legal advice about your situation.
The Mayo Wynne Baxter Family and Relationships team provide tailored and specialist advice to clients on cohabitation issues.
We have offices throughout the South-East and in London and our specialist team can meet with you in person or virtually.
Contact us now to discuss your situation and to learn how we can help you.
Grant Parker, Partner gparker@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk
0800 84 94 101
Grant Parker
University of Brighton Celebrates Milestone as 250th Local Business Leader Completes Help to Grow Programme
The University of Brighton recently marked a significant milestone with the 250th business leader completing the Help to Grow: Management course—an achievement that highlights the university’s key role in supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. Cover Story
Launched in July 2021, Help to Grow: Management is a 12week course for SME leaders, combining online and in-person sessions, one-to-one mentoring, and peer networking. Delivered by Small Business Charter-accredited business schools, the programme aims to
boost economic growth and productivity through improved management and leadership practices.
To date, over 11,850 business leaders have taken part in the programme via more than 60 business schools across the UK. There are currently 9,675 firms in the Help to Grow: Management alumni
network, with continued access to business school support, local events, national conferences, and online content.
A recent evaluation by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) and IPSOS found that participants reported significant improvements in leadership and business performance:
• 91% reported increased awareness of the factors that drive business productivity and growth
• 91% reported improved leadership and management skills
• 87% reported better understanding of employee engagement
• 74% reported increased resilience
• 62% reported increased sales
Following the success of the management programme, DBT also launched Help to Grow: Management Essentials—a free, two-hour, selfguided online course featuring bitesized videos and resources.
To learn more: Help to Grow: Management Course | Small Business Charter
A Government-Funded Initiative Empowering Local Leaders
As SMEs represent 99.8% of the UK business population, their growth is vital to the national economy. The Help to Grow programme provides SME leaders with practical tools to scale their businesses sustainably.
Adam Jones, Programme Director at the University of Brighton, said:
“It is immensely satisfying to see our 250th business leader complete Help to Grow with us.
We understand how difficult it is for SMEs to survive and thrive locally. We are proud to continue this support with three new cohorts starting in September and October 2025.”
The programme is open to senior leaders and decision-makers in businesses with 5 to 249 employees. New cohorts will run in Brighton (September 2025) and Crawley (October 2025).
To find out more, visit the Help to Grow website or email helptogrow@brighton. ac.uk to speak with a course leader.
Help to Grow Success Story: Kyriakos Baxevanis
Entrepreneur | MBA | Founder of Nostos Restaurant, Nostos Catering UK, Be Well Live Well & Little Jasmine Therapies | Advisory Board Member | Goldman Sachs 10KSB Alumni | Business & Community Advocate.
“Back in May 2023, I had the honour of working with the renowned scholar and author Dr David Francis from the University of Brighton on the principles of Business Requisite Agility, where Nostos Hove was used as a case study as part of the Help to Grow Programme.
This was a unique opportunity for me to evolve my thinking and practices as an entrepreneur! It was also great fun to film our discussion at the Brighton University studios.
The learnings acquired were put into practice across all our businesses
and ventures, resulting in substantial improvements in how we operate.
My message to fellow entrepreneurs is this: keep developing yourselves. Personal growth is the only sustainable competitive advantage you can build into your businesses.”
1. Can you describe your business, including its current size, sector, and what inspired you to start or join it?
Connected Brighton is a city concierge service designed to help people connect through curated experiences that support local businesses. We host small, friendly events across the city—from beach days and tastings to networking events and cultural outings—with the aim of supporting local hospitality and bringing people together in real life.
The business was born postlockdown, when I found myself craving connection. I started with a newsletter, then hosted picnics and pétanque as restrictions eased. What began as a personal need quickly became a citywide movement. Four years on, we have over 100 paying members across our Social Club and Connected100 Business Club, are regularly featured in the press, and have won multiple awards for community impact.
2. What specific challenges or barriers to growth are you currently facing, and how do you hope Help to Grow will support you in overcoming them?
My biggest challenge is scaling the business sustainably while maintaining the personal, high-touch experience I’m known for. The plan is to launch a licensing model to bring Connected to cities across the UK, but I need the right systems, strategy, and support to do this well.
Help to Grow came at the perfect time. It’s helped me zoom out and think like a CEO—identifying what needs to change in our structure, customer journey, and team to make national expansion possible. It’s also made me reflect on how I need to change as the founder— how I spend my time and appreciate my own value (my mentor was amazing at reinforcing this!).
3. Where do you see your business in the next three to five years?
In five years, I see Connected in the City operating in 10+ UK locations, led by licensed local hosts and supported by a central brand, toolkit, and concierge model. Brighton will remain our flagship, and I’ll oversee national growth, brand partnerships, and new revenue streams from tech and tourism. I want to create ecosystems that provide everything you
need, when you need it, in the city you call home—a trusted community brand.
4. In what ways do you plan to implement what you learn from the programme into your day-to-day business operations or long-term strategy?
I’ve already started mapping our customer journey, refining the Social Club membership offer, reviewing our pricing tiers for Connected100, and improving our sponsorship strategy. I’m using what I’ve learned to build out the full model and researching tech stacks that will allow both HQ and licensees to operate effectively.
5. Are there any results in growth or change that you have already seen as a result of the scheme?
We’ve shifted our focus to people who are new to Brighton, and our social media views have risen to nearly 80K this month—up from 50K. I’ve adjusted my working hours and implemented better boundaries to protect my time and focus on long-term goals. Most importantly, I feel more confident leading the business into its next chapter.
Graduate Feature: Holly Gradwell, StarPhysio CIC
1. Can you describe your business, including its current size, sector, and what inspired you to start or join it?
I co-founded StarPhysio CIC with Jo Wilkes and Steve Southwell. We are a small specialist paediatric and aquatic physiotherapy service working across Sussex. Our team supports babies, children and young people with a wide range of neurological and physical needs through both land-based and waterbased physiotherapy.
We started the business because we saw a clear gap in provision for children. We wanted to create something different—a responsive, family-centred service rooted in clinical expertise and delivered with warmth. As we’ve grown, we’ve recognised how much parents and carers need support too. We now offer some family wellbeing services and are keen to expand this. We chose to establish StarPhysio as a community interest company because we believe specialist therapy should be accessible to those who need it, not just those who can afford it.
2. What specific challenges or barriers to growth are you currently facing, and how do you hope Help to Grow will support you in overcoming them?
We’re at a point where demand for our service is growing, but we need better systems and clearer structures to support that growth. Balancing clinical delivery with operational planning is an ongoing challenge. The Help to Grow programme is giving me tools to step back and think more strategically. I hope it will help us refine internal processes, strengthen leadership, and plan for growth in a way
that remains aligned with our values. I also want to build confidence in making business decisions rather than defaulting to the clinical side.
3. Where do you see your business in the next three to five years?
We aim to strengthen StarPhysio’s role as a leading provider of paediatric and aquatic physiotherapy in the South East. Our focus is on developing a sustainable model that allows us to grow while protecting the flexibility and quality that families value.
We want to expand our clinical capacity to increase access to land- and waterbased services and build more support for parents and carers. Our growth will be thoughtful and measured—not rapid—with a focus on increasing community impact through partnerships, subsidised services, and better support for underserved families.
4. In what ways do you plan to implement what you learn from the programme into your day-to-day business operations or long-term strategy?
The programme is already helping me shift from day-to-day problem-solving to long-term strategic thinking. I’m starting to focus more on how we plan, prioritise and communicate as a team,
and how we use our time effectively.
I intend to apply what I’ve learned to improve our planning, delivery, and evaluation systems. I also want to strengthen how we define and communicate our values to guide future decisions. Over time, I hope this will increase my confidence in leadership and clarify our direction.
5. Are there any results in growth or change that you have already seen as a result of the scheme?
Yes. One of the biggest changes has been creating the time and headspace to reflect. It’s helped me step back from the pressure of daily clinical work and start thinking more proactively about business needs.
We’ve already made small changes to how we structure our week and plan ahead. I’m having more strategic conversations with colleagues and feeling more confident about where to focus our energy. It’s early days, but the shift in mindset has made a noticeable difference.
Hassle-Free Vehicle Servicing, Right Where You Need It
At Rivervale, we believe car servicing shouldn’t disrupt your day. That’s why our mobile vehicle servicing is designed to be as easy and accessible as possible for drivers across Brighton and Hove.
Whether you’re a private car owner, lease customer, or managing a fleet of vans, our expert technicians come to you – at home, at work, or wherever your vehicles are. No more time wasted at the garage.
Motoring News
Why Choose Rivervale Mobile Servicing?
• We cover everything from routine servicing and oil changes to brake checks and repairs.
• Our team is fully equipped to deliver the same professional care you’d receive at our service centre – just without the hassle.
• We service all makes and models –whether owned, leased, or part of a fleet.
Perfect for Busy Businesses and Fleets
For businesses, time is money. We understand that having vehicles off the road can cause disruption. That’s why we offer discounted rates when servicing multiple vehicles at one location – whether it’s a fleet of vans at a depot, company cars in an office car park, or vehicles on a building site.
With our mobile team, your drivers and staff can continue working while we take care of the vehicles – all in a single visit. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to keep your business moving.
Trusted Technicians, Quality Service
Every job is carried out by highly trained, Bosch-approved technicians, who bring the right tools and expertise straight to your doorstep.
Keep Your Day on Track
You shouldn’t have to loose time waiting at a garage. With Rivervale’s mobile service, your car, van, or minibus receives the care it needs – while you get on with your day.
Ready to book your service?
Whether it’s one vehicle or a full fleet, we’ll come to you.
Call 01273 433 480 to arrange your mobile vehicle service today.
AI for the Rest of Us: West Sussex Launches Government-Backed Bootcamp for Businesses That Don’t Speak Robot
By the time most small businesses finish watching a YouTube tutorial on ChatGPT, it’s already out of date. The latest solution? Train someone in-house – properly, affordably, and with government support.
From law firms in Littlehampton to manufacturers in Midhurst, businesses across West Sussex are quietly wondering the same thing: “Are we already behind on AI?”
The answer, depending on who you ask, ranges from “not quite” to “possibly forever.” But one thing is certain – the latest government-backed initiative might be the most practical step yet for
SMEs who want to do more than just dip a toe into automation.
Launched this September, the West Sussex AI Bootcamp is a 12-week, parttime programme designed to train internal AI Champions – team members who can lead the charge in adopting AI tools for real business problems, not just headlines.
The programme is the result of a successful bid by TechNative Digital in partnership with the locally respected AI
transformation consultancy AI Potential, known for its no-nonsense, human-first approach to helping businesses make sense of generative tech.
And the best part is that the majority of the training costs are funded.
Skills First, Hype Later
Unlike the flood of quick-fix webinars and dubious LinkedIn gurus, this Bootcamp is designed to give participants a proper grounding in AI
literacy – how to think with AI, how to use it responsibly, and how to embed it into existing workflows without triggering a company-wide existential crisis.
Participants will learn to automate repetitive admin, speed up quoting and reporting, and experiment with platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Zapier. But this isn’t a software training course – it’s a mindset shift.
The team behind it argue that AI is a skill, not a tool. And that’s why this training doesn’t stop at “prompt crafting” or fun demos – it walks participants through a capstone project tailored to their own business. The result? A confident, capable in-house champion who knows how to spot opportunities, pilot solutions, and avoid the kind of DIY disasters that usually end in “we tried AI once…”
Who’s It For?
The Bootcamp is open to businesses across West Sussex – including Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, Worthing, and everything in between. The ideal participant might be a time-strapped operations lead, a naturally curious office manager, or a leader who’s tired of being the bottleneck.
Applicants needn’t be ‘techy’. In fact, the programme is deliberately designed for businesses using standard digital tools like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, but not yet getting the full benefit of AI.
Sectors already showing strong interest include:
• Professional services (legal, accountancy, marketing)
• Light manufacturing and engineering
• Retail, e-commerce and hospitality
• Health, care and wellbeing services
• Trades and construction – especially those juggling paperwork with actual work
Why This Approach Works
Statistics show over 70% of GenAI projects fail. Often, the reasons are entirely human: no clear strategy, no internal leadership, and a team that’s unsure whether to embrace or avoid the robots entirely.
This Bootcamp takes a different view. Instead of hiring expensive consultants or fumbling through endless experimentation, it builds
internal confidence and capacity, from the ground up.
As one of the mentors put it, “Most businesses are stuck in the AI version of IKEA instructions – they know what it’s meant to look like, they just don’t know what all the bits do.”
Details, Deadlines and the Fine Print
The first cohort begins this September, with a mix of online and in-person sessions designed to fit around the reality of running a business – not disrupt it.
Thanks to funding from the Department for Education and West Sussex County Council, the programme is heavily subsidised, making it one of the most accessible routes to building real AI capability inside your team.
Spaces are limited, and early interest suggests they’ll go fast. So if you’re even half-considering it, now’s the time.
Applications are open through TechNative Digital. Each business is invited to nominate one team member – not a data scientist, but someone grounded, curious, and ready to lead the way. The kind of person who knows how things work (or don’t) and isn’t afraid to ask better questions –with AI as their new sidekick.
AI’s not coming. It’s already here.
This is your chance to make it work for you and your business.
Nominate your internal AI Champion and join the businesses across West Sussex who are getting ahead – not left behind.
For more information or to apply, visit: https://technativedigital.com/#/ course/artificial-intelligence
Away Days & Retreats at Tottington Manor
We never come up with our best ideas sat in front of a computer or in our usual environment. Typically our minds are at their most creative and agile when allowed a little more freedom
Networking & Events
That is our offer at Tottington Manor. Just 15 minutes from Central Brighton and centrally located in the heart of the South Downs National Park in Sussex, Tottington Manor is surrounded by farmland and hillsides and is an oasis of calm for all who visit.
So When considering your next strategy planning meeting, team building day or writing that awards entry, pitch pack or investor brief, make the most of your time and see what is on offer.
Whether you choose to take your team
netwalking onto the South Downs Way or want to work with one of our event partners that can help design the perfect activity or theme, the biggest benefit by far is having your team in a different environment, seeking different answers and finding opportunities for the challenges facing your business.
Whether you are looking for a meeting room for 6 or a conference room for 100 we can accommodate, but what we do best is the 2 or 3 day senior leadership retreat, where you can take exclusive use of the hotel rooms and the meeting spaces and enjoy the run of the house with Food from our award winning AA
Rosette TERRA Restaurant, a focussed warm caring style of hospitality that anticipates your needs and allows you and your team to focus on your priorities whilst the Tottington team make sure you are looked after.
With 12 individual bedrooms, a seasonally inspired menu sourced from local ingredients and crafted by our team of chefs we hope you will be inspired to achieve your best.
Find out more at tottingtonmanor.co.uk
01273 957777
reservations@tottingtonmanor.co.uk
Beyond Networking: The Rise of Storytelling and Human Connection in Business
Why small, intimate experiences may be the future of meaningful business relationships
Networking & Events
“How do you measure your own success now compared to 10 years ago?”
This was one of the thought-provoking prompts posed at our latest storytelling dinner, hosted in the beautiful surroundings of Tottington Manor’s Terra Restaurant & Tasting Room. The event brought together a group of business leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers from our community, all there to share stories, make connections and explore ideas.
More than just networking
In the business world, the word “networking” often conjures images of crowded rooms, stacks of business cards, and the awkward exchange of elevator pitches. Many of us have been to events where we leave with pockets full of contacts but very little in the way of genuine human connection.
What we set out to create at this storytelling dinner was something very different.
This was not a networking event. It was an opportunity for authentic relationship building, for people to connect not just through what they do, but through who they are. The structure was simple yet powerful. Over dinner, each guest was invited to draw from our brand-new storytelling cards. Each card held a question, a prompt, or a theme designed to spark a real conversation the kind of conversation that reveals values, beliefs, and life experiences.
The results were remarkable. Stories emerged that were funny, profound, deeply personal and often inspiring. People shared moments of triumph, failure, challenge and change. They spoke about their childhoods, their turning points, and the lessons they
had learned along the way. These were not polished “business stories” designed to impress. They were honest accounts that allowed people to be seen and heard in ways that are rare in a professional setting.
Why
storytelling works
Storytelling is as old as humanity itself. Long before business strategies, spreadsheets, and marketing campaigns, we shared knowledge and built trust through stories. A well-told story connects on an emotional level, bypassing the usual barriers that can exist in professional environments.
In a business context, storytelling can be a game-changer. It allows us to move past transactional interactions and instead create moments of empathy and understanding. When you know the personal journey behind someone’s business, you are far more likely to
remember them, trust them, and want to work with them.
The magic of the storytelling dinner was in its intimacy. With a smaller group, everyone had the chance to speak and be heard. There was no rush, no sense of competition for attention. The focus was on listening as much as it was on sharing.
The future of business networking?
We live in a digital world where connections are often made with a click of a button. LinkedIn, Zoom calls, and virtual conferences have their place, but they can never fully replicate the warmth and depth of a face-to-face conversation over a shared meal.
That’s why I believe experiences like this could be the future of business networking or perhaps it is time to stop calling it networking altogether. This is about human connection. It is about creating environments where people feel safe enough to be authentic and open.
Small, curated gatherings allow for
deeper dialogue. They create space for serendipity, for shared laughter, and for the kind of stories that you remember years later. They turn strangers into collaborators, clients into friends, and contacts into trusted allies.
Gratitude and community
None of this would have been possible without the incredible people who joined us for the evening. A huge thank you to our partners and guests
Aiden Dunning, Simon Nicholson, Sam Adams, Lucy Tarrant, Lorraine Ali, Matt Warren, Jonathan Lea, Jim Cunliffe, Stephanie Prior, Nigel Lambe and Mark Fisher for bringing their openness and willingness to share.
Special thanks also go to Steve Pomery, Helen Pomery and the whole team at Tottington Manor for creating such a welcoming space and delivering another fantastic dining experience.
A final question for you
I will leave you with the same question that sparked so much conversation that
night: How do you measure your own success now compared to 10 years ago?
Take a moment to think about your answer. What has shifted for you? Which experiences have shaped your definition of success? And how might your answer influence the way you connect with others in business and in life?
For me, events like this are the very embodiment of success. They bring people together in a way that is real, nourishing, and unforgettable. And in a world that can sometimes feel increasingly disconnected, that feels like something worth building on.
If you would like to know more about our storytelling dinners or be part of a future gathering, you can connect with me via Different Hats. Who knows, your story might just be the one that changes the way someone else sees the world.
Sam Thomas
www.different-hats.co.uk or contact sam@different-hats.co.uk
Finding my village again: A summer celebration two years in the making by Kyriakos Baxevanis
On a warm summer evening in July, something special happened at Nostos in Hove.
Networking & Events
Yes, there was incredible food. Yes, there was dancing. Yes, the brilliant Alison David lit up the space with her powerful voice and infectious energy. But behind the Greek flavours, the laughter, and the music was something much more meaningful, something deeply personal.
July’s Big Fat Greek Club Summer Party wasn’t just the highlight of our season, it was also the celebration of a milestone: two years since this unusual idea of a culturally inspired business networking club first came to life.
What started as a simple conversation between myself and the brilliant Penina Shepherd—entrepreneur, community builder, and friend has grown into
something we never quite anticipated: a vibrant, soulful, cross-sector business community rooted in joy, connection, and shared values.
The Big Fat Greek Club was born out of a desire to do things differently. Networking can often feel transactional or performative. We wanted to create a space where people felt seen and welcomed, where relationships were built over shared food and purpose not just business cards.
But if I’m honest, it also came from a deeper need within me.
I came to the UK from Greece 21 years ago. Like many immigrants, I came searching for opportunity. But in the process, I lost the community I had back home the effortless sense of
belonging that comes from growing up somewhere where everyone knows your name, your story, your family. It’s a loss that can linger quietly for years, even when your life is full in other ways.
Creating the Big Fat Greek Club has been, in many ways, my way of rebuilding that lost village. But this time, it’s a village for everyone. For locals and newcomers. For the curious and the kind. For business leaders and creatives, freelancers and founders. It’s a place where culture, conversation, and community collide and where people leave feeling a little more connected than they did when they arrived.
Over the past two years, we’ve welcomed hundreds of guests to our lunches, talks, parties, and gatherings.
We’ve shared meals, stories, laughter, and lessons. We’ve created partnerships, inspired ideas, and most importantly we’ve built friendships.
This summer party was the perfect expression of what the club stands for: music, generosity, heritage, joy, and purpose. As part of the evening, we also raised money for the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, a cause close to our hearts. Every ticket included a direct donation to support their vital work for children in Sussex.
As we look ahead, I’m excited for what’s next. We have big plans more events, more collaborations, and more ways to grow the network in a human, values-led way. But I’m also taking a moment to be grateful. Grateful for the people who show up again and again. Grateful for the city of Brighton and Hove, which has become my chosen home. And grateful that, through something as joyful as a party, we can find ways to restore something as powerful as belonging.
The Big Fat Greek Club is many things.
It’s food, music, business, and fun. But at its core, it’s about community. It’s about saying: you’re welcome here. Whoever you are, wherever you’re from, whatever your story.
And in a world that can often feel divided, I think that’s something worth celebrating.
Photo credit - Xavier Buendia
https://www.nostos-hove.co.uk/bigfat-greek-club/
Ladies Lunch Club in Eastbourne & Brighton welcomes special guest Lulu Minns, Author of The Genius Wheel
The Ladies Lunch Club returned to Eastbourne & Brighton in July attracting over 40 professional, like-minded businesswomen.
Networking & Events
The event was a fantastic opportunity for networking, collaboration, and inspiration, all set in the elegant surroundings of 2 beautiful venues, The Lansdowne hotel in Eastbourne and The Royal pavilion in Brighton.
We were delighted to welcome Lulu Minns at both events.
Lulu Minns is the visionary author of The Genius Wheel: Harness the Power of Your 7 - Year Personal Growth Cycle . Written with women in mind, particularly female entrepreneurs, business leaders, and change-makers, her book introduces the Genius Wheel® framework, which aligns both seasonal and seven-year life cycles to support intentional, transformative personal development.
Drawing on intuitive coaching and psychological insight, Minns offers practical exercises, case studies, and cycle-mapping tools to help readers identify their current phase of
growth and move forward with clarity, confidence, and purpose, fully aligned with their unique genius.
Based in Brighton, UK, Lulu is also the creator and host of She Rebel Radio, a podcast championing bold, feminine leadership. Her work reflects a deep commitment to empowering women to live authentically, lead with confidence, and create lasting transformation on their own terms.
To find out more: www.thegeniuswheel.com
A huge thank you as always to our wonderful Eastbourne sponsor Crown Wealth Consultants Management and our Brighton Sponsor Rix & Kay whose support enables these events to happen.
Are you a professional woman looking to connect with like-minded individuals, share inspiring stories, and build lasting friendships? Ladies Lunch Clubs is the perfect platform for you!
We’re excited to announce the next
event is on Wednesday 24th September at The libertine Social, booking is now open, visit https://cbc-sussex. onlineticketseller.com for ticket sales and upcoming events.
Membership Perks & Special Discounts
This event is also an excellent opportunity to learn about our membership packages and the exciting range of events we have planned beyond just lunches.
Special Discount: If you’re an LLC member or a CBC VAP, don’t forget to contact us for your 20% discount code—just one of the many fantastic perks of being part of our community.
For more information, feel free to reach out:
Email: jackie.ashwood@ countybusinessclubs.co.uk
Or drop me a message—I’d love to hear from you!
We Cancelled “Daddy Daycare” — and Hundreds of Families Showed Up
At Dad La Soul, we like to think big. We’re a community of dads from all walks of life, creating spaces to play, talk, create, and support one another.
Networking & Events
We’re breaking away from outdated stereotypes — the nonsense that dads aren’t involved in childcare — and we’re working to provide safe spaces for men to open up about their feelings (something society insists they don’t do).
So, when Father’s Day weekend came around, we didn’t want to feed the tired assumption that dad’s happy with a tin of bitter and a hastily signed petrol station card. We wanted to create the UK’s biggest ever dad-friendly playdate — a day where fathers and their children could show up, meet other families, and enjoy a massive range of activities and performances.
This wasn’t about “giving mum the morning off”. It certainly wasn’t dads
“babysitting” their own children. This was active, collaborative, meaningful parent–child time. The concept of “Daddy Daycare”? It’s time we binned it — for good.
Dreaming Big, Delivering Bigger
This ambitious idea needed an equally bold venue — and we found it in The Terrace, Brighton & Hove Albion FC’s Premier League fan zone, the largest in the country.
We filled it with live bands, DJs, Nerf wars, VR, soft play, stand-up comedy, crafting stations, mental health checkins, and even the Dad Olympics. Three hours of full-fat, no-fluff joy.
But let’s be honest — pulling it off was no small feat.
It nearly broke our founder, Dan. Six
weeks of late nights. No weekends. Missed bedtimes. He was running on fumes and takeaways, fuelled by passion (and panic) to bring it all together.
But it was worth it. Every second. Every stress. Every step. Because this wasn’t just a playdate.
This was a revolution.
A Celebration of All Dads
Dads, grandads, stepdads, foster carers, LGBTQ+ families, SEND families, firsttime dads, long-time dads — everyone was welcome, everyone was seen, and everyone was celebrated.
Working with Brighton & Hove Albion had been a long-held dream. We love what they stand for in terms of community connection — and it was just a matter of finding the right event
to make that partnership sing.
Dad La Soul Presents: The Terrace Sessions – Live & Loud was that event.
To take over that iconic space with buggies, breakbeats, and baby slings? It still hasn’t fully sunk in.
To see our logo and videos emblazoned on those huge screens, to have our dads run free in that incredible space — it was magic.
We filled that fanzone with love, laughter, mess, joy — and, above all, connection.
Powered by Community
This only happened because of one thing: community. That’s what Dad La Soul does best.
Thankfully, Dan has the kind of black book where he can call a mate and say, “I’ve got a mad idea…” and they say, “I’m in.”
But behind the DJ decks, soft play mats, and dance workshops lies something deeply serious:
• 1 in 3 dads say they feel lonely most of the time.
• Over 84 men take their lives every week in the UK.
• Some of them are dads who just needed to feel seen.
So we built a space where they could be.
This is what happens when dads are given the space to show up — and they did. The feedback speaks volumes:
Saheran said:
“What you created wasn’t just an event — it was a bold, joyful, and muchneeded statement about fatherhood, community, and connection. The scale, the heart, the inclusivity — it all matters so much, especially when we know how many dads feel unseen and isolated. Turning a fanzone into a space of love, chaos, and belonging is the kind of cultural shift we need more of. Hats off to you and everyone behind Dad La Soul for proving that when dads are given the space, they show up — and they thrive.”
Jonathan commented:
“My toddler loved it, and I spent the whole time thinking, ‘Wow, this must have taken some serious planning.’ It was incredible.”
Tom shared:
“The screens were epic (inside and out). My son — who’s recently been diagnosed as autistic — was fascinated by how the screens work and what dimensions a graphic designer would use. That’s what we were chatting about this morning, haha.”
Mark stated:
“There is no limit to what communities can achieve. I think you’re demonstrating that.”
This Is Why Dad La Soul Exists
We started as one lonely blog post, and now we’re here — the UK’s biggest dadfriendly event.
We’re lighting up stadiums. And we’re not done yet.
Who’s with us?
Find out more at www.dadlasoul.com
A huge thank you to every incredible individual who helped make this happen. You’ve proven what’s possible when community comes first.
July’s BBBC: Legends, Laughs & Lessons at the Hilton
On Friday 18th July, the Big Business Breakfast Club returned to the Doubletree by Hilton Brighton Metropole for a summer session full of inspiration, fresh faces, and quality connections.
Networking & Events
Just shy of 100 founders, creatives, and local business leaders in the room, the morning opened with coffee, conversation, and the familiar BBBC buzz.
July’s sponsor was Base Insurance, represented by Dan, Dean, Jono and Rebecca. Director Daniel Stoner took to the mic to share how Base helps protect businesses of all sizes with commercial cover and a refreshing, straight-talking approach. Base also chose The Russell Martin Foundation as Charity of the Month, and Chair Adrian Batchelor shared their mission to support young people through sport and education. Attendees raised £130, nudging BBBC’s charity total beyond £7,880.
With BBBC regular Alex Ryan away,
the marketing spotlight shone on James Armstrong from Social Firefly. His session on building communityfirst social media content was packed with actionable tips, delivered with energy and authenticity.
The highlight of the day was a brilliant head-to-head interview between Sam Thomas and Kevin Byrne, the original founder of Checkatrade. After years of being gently coaxed into it, Kevin joined us to share his journey—starting from a Portslade garden shed and growing into a household name. His honesty, humour, and humility made for one of our most memorable guest sessions to date.
Three new BBBC ambassadors were honoured: Dror Levy, John Rodway, and Kelly Moreno - each recognised for their consistent presence and commitment to community.
As always, the business card draw brought generous prizes from BBBC supporters, including print, mugs, restaurant vouchers, and Hilton surprises.
Looking ahead
August’s BBBC takes place on Friday 15th at the stunning Saltdean Lido. It’s International Hawaiian Shirt Day - so loud shirts are compulsory, and for those brave enough, a post-event dip is encouraged. Sponsored by Tottington Manor and raising funds for the Prept Foundation, this promises to be our most colourful gathering yet.
Tickets are flying faster than a poolside cannonball.
Secure yours now at www.bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk
Photo by Michael Cheetam
Photo by Georgina Smith
Photo by Michael Cheetam
Photo by Michael Cheetam
Photo by Georgina Smith
Photo by Georgina Smith
Photo by Michael Cheetam
Photo by Georgina Smith
Photo by Michael Cheetam
Pride: Then and Now — A Brighton-Centric Journey
From the riot-scarred streets of New York City in 1969 to the rainbow-painted roads of Brighton today, Pride has evolved from a radical demand for equality to a vibrant celebration of identity, resilience, and community.
Networking & Events
Yet, its heart remains the same: a defiant declaration that LGBTQ+ lives matter. Brighton — often dubbed the “unofficial LGBTQ+ capital of the UK” — holds a particularly colourful and compelling role in the story of Pride.
The Origins: Stonewall and the Spark of Pride
The modern Pride movement traces its roots to the Stonewall Riots in June 1969. When police raided the Stonewall Inn, a
gay bar in New York’s Greenwich Village, LGBTQ+ patrons fought back. The clashes lasted several nights and sparked a wider movement for gay rights.
One of the most famous figures from this uprising was Marsha P. Johnson, a Black trans woman and drag queen. She famously said, “No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.”
That spirit of inclusivity and resistance has been carried across decades and oceans, directly influencing Pride celebrations around the world — including in Brighton.
The first UK Pride march took place in London in 1972, attended by around 2,000 people. Over the decades, cities across the UK followed suit — and Brighton emerged as a natural home for one of the most iconic and inclusive celebrations.
Pride Comes to Brighton
Brighton’s first Pride event took place in 1973, but it was low-key and politically charged, reflecting the struggles LGBTQ+ people faced at the time. It wasn’t until the early 1990s, however, that Pride in Brighton began to grow into the large-scale event it is today.
The 1991 event, themed “Pride Not Prejudice”, was held in response to the growing visibility of homophobic attitudes and the ongoing impact of the HIV/AIDS crisis. Local campaigners like Paul Elgood and Simon Fanshawe, both prominent in LGBTQ+ activism, helped steer Brighton Pride towards a more public, celebratory tone — without losing sight of its roots in protest.
Since then, Brighton Pride has evolved into a weekend-long extravaganza attracting over 300,000 people annually. It’s been called “the biggest Pride festival in the UK” and brings an estimated £20 million into the local economy. Yet, it remains distinctly
heart, and radically inclusive.
Symbols and Significance: The Rainbow Flag and Beyond
The rainbow flag, designed by Gilbert Baker in 1978, is a universal symbol of Pride, with each colour representing a different aspect of LGBTQ+ identity (red for life, orange for healing, yellow for sunlight, and so on). In Brighton, it’s not uncommon to see entire streets, buses, and even council buildings adorned with the flag in the weeks leading up to Pride.
In 2019, Brighton became one of the first UK cities to paint its pedestrian
crossings in rainbow colours, a powerful act of visibility. One of these crossings sits at the heart of the city’s Kemptown district — historically a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, home to bars, bookstores, and cultural spaces like the Marlborough Theatre.
Pride as Protest: The Political Core
While Pride may today look like a glitter-soaked carnival, its roots in protest are never far beneath the surface. Brighton Pride has consistently used its platform to highlight key issues: trans rights, LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, hate crime, and the impact of austerity on queer youth services.
Brightonian — proudly political, grassroots at
As Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, co-founder of UK Black Pride, has said: “Pride started as a riot — and it must remain a protest for those of us still fighting to be seen and heard.”
Brighton activists have taken this to heart. In 2017, a contingent of local LGBTQ+ migrants staged a die-in at the Pride parade to protest the UK’s treatment of LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. Their banners read: “No Pride in Detention” — a stark reminder that not all in the community are equally free.
Commercialisation and Controversy
With its growth, Brighton Pride has faced criticism — especially over corporate sponsorship and rising ticket prices. Some argue that the festival has drifted too far from its
activist roots. In 2022, headliner Christina Aguilera drew huge crowds to Preston Park, but the event’s costs and accessibility were questioned by grassroots groups.
Local organisers have attempted to balance these concerns by reinvesting profits from ticketed events into community grants. The Rainbow Fund, for instance, receives tens of thousands of pounds annually from Pride revenue, which it distributes to LGBTQ+ charities like MindOut (a mental health service for LGBTQ+ people in Brighton).
Nevertheless, some locals feel priced out. As one Brighton resident told The Argus: “It’s hard to feel included in a Pride that costs £60 to enter when the people it’s supposed to serve are struggling to pay rent.”
The Role of Art and Culture
Pride in Brighton is more than just a march. The city’s thriving LGBTQ+ art scene plays a central role. Events like Queer the Pier at the Brighton Museum, or poetry slams at venues like The Spire and The Marlborough, blend art with activism.
Local drag performers like Alfie Ordinary and Boogaloo Stu use their platforms to challenge gender norms, while inclusive spaces like The Ledward Centre (named after the late LGBTQ+ campaigner James Ledward) offer year-round support and community engagement. Brighton’s Pride Arts and Film Festival has also grown, showcasing queer stories from around the world. As writer and Brighton local Neil Bartlett once said: “Queer lives aren’t just political
— they’re poetic, joyful, and worth celebrating in all their messy glory.”
Pride Now: Intersectionality, Inclusivity, and the Future
Today’s Pride movement, particularly in Brighton, is increasingly intersectional. Organisers are amplifying voices from across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, including trans people, queer people of colour, disabled activists, and nonbinary individuals.
Groups like Trans Pride Brighton, which began in 2013, have become major fixtures. In 2023, over 20,000 people
attended Trans Pride, making it the largest trans-led Pride event in Europe. This growth reflects an ongoing commitment to visibility and solidarity — especially amid rising transphobia in media and politics.
In a 2023 speech at Trans Pride, activist and author Juno Dawson declared: “Brighton doesn’t just accept us — it uplifts us. That’s what Pride should be.”
Conclusion:
Brighton and the Beating Heart of Pride
Brighton’s unique blend of activism, creativity, and community makes it a natural home for Pride. While it
continues to evolve — navigating the tensions between protest and party, inclusion and commercialism — the soul of the movement remains intact.
Pride in Brighton is more than a parade; it’s a living, breathing embodiment of resilience and joy, rooted in local activism and global solidarity. It remembers the riots and celebrates the love. It uplifts the marginalised while demanding justice. And it continues to ask all of us — whether we’re waving flags or marching in protest — to be proud, be loud, and never stop pushing for progress.
Photography courtesy of Luis Sanchez
Celebrating 80 Years of Powering Sussex Business
In 1945, as Britain emerged from the shadow of war, a group of forward-thinking engineers and manufacturers came together to build something lasting: a united voice and community for business in Sussex. That voice became Sussex Chamber of Commerce, and for 80 years, we’ve stood side by side with businesses – through every challenge, every opportunity, and every breakthrough.
Networking & Events
From our beginnings as the Sussex Engineers & Manufacturers Association (SEMA), our mission has been clear: to champion enterprise, enable growth, and strengthen Sussex’s economy. We’ve evolved, grown, and adapted – but we’ve never lost sight of that purpose.
Supporting Business at Every Stage For eight decades, we’ve provided businesses across Sussex with the tools, connections, and knowledge they need to thrive. From micro start-ups to global exporters, we’ve supported thousands of companies with:
• Expert business advice
• Training and skills development
• Access to funding and growth opportunities
• Export documentation and trade facilitation
• Networking and peer-to-peer support
Our commitment to local and international trade has remained a cornerstone of our work. Since the 1960s, we’ve enabled Sussex companies to access new markets and grow globally, helping them navigate international regulations, secure trade certifications, and unlock overseas partnerships.
A Powerful Voice for Business
As the needs of our region have evolved,
so too has our role. We’ve become a trusted voice in local and national policymaking, lobbying on behalf of our members and influencing decisions that impact business – from infrastructure and skills to digital connectivity and international trade policy.
In 2023, we were appointed as the designated employer representative body for the Sussex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) – leading a region-wide strategy to ensure our workforce is ready for the jobs of tomorrow. This is more than a project – it’s a transformative opportunity to align business needs with training provision across Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, and West Sussex.
Global Ambition. Local Impact. Whether it’s helping a small artisan business scale into new markets, or influencing government policy to improve conditions for local employers, Sussex Chamber remains the heartbeat of business across the region. We’ve achieved 80 years of impact, but our focus is firmly on the future.
Celebrating 80 Years – And Building What Comes Next
As we reflect on our history, we’re also looking ahead – to new technologies, emerging industries, and the entrepreneurs who will shape the next generation. With a strong foundation and an ambitious vision, Sussex Chamber is
ready to keep connecting, advocating, and delivering – for our members, our region, and the wider economy.
80 years strong. Supporting Sussex to succeed – today, tomorrow, and beyond.
Is your business part of the Sussex Chamber network? Contact us now to find out how being a member can support your business growth.
www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk 01444 259259
info@sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk
Thank you to London Gatwick Airport for sponsoring our 80th Anniversary celebration
Alison Addy, London Gatwick Airport Councillor Mohammed Asaduzzaman Rob Clare, Chair of Sussex Chamber
Full steam ahead for Eastbourne Business Show
Networking & Events
The upcoming Eastbourne Business Show is generating considerable buzz as it prepares to connect the region’s commercial and b2b landscape. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 10, this inaugural event will take place at The Kings Centre in Eastbourne.
Organised by Mike Monk Events in partnership with Brilliant Businesses and Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce, the show aims to be a pivotal date in the calendars of local and regional enterprises.
Stand sales for the show are already going well, with limited availability expected over the next few weeks.
The central focus of Eastbourne Business
Show is to foster networking and business growth. It promises to bring together a diverse array of businesses, from established companies to innovative startups, offering a platform for making new connections, generating leads and increasing brand visibility.
Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience of decisionmakers, managers and business owners from across Eastbourne and the wider Sussex area.
Headline sponsorship for the 2025 show has been secured by Lightning Fibre, a local full-fibre broadband provider. This highlights the event’s commitment to showcasing and supporting businesses within the Eastbourne community. The show will feature an exhibition spanning one large lounge, creating ample space
for businesses to present their offerings and for attendees to explore potential collaborations and opportunities.
Beyond the exhibition floor, the Eastbourne Business Show will also offer a valuable seminar programme. While specific speakers and topics for the 2025 event are still being finalised, the organisers aim to present experts who can offer insights, challenge conventional thinking, and inspire innovation. Past business shows organised by the same team have featured speakers on topics such as marketing strategy, leveraging LinkedIn, and business growth models, suggesting a similarly insightful lineup for the Eastbourne event.
To get involved, visit https:// brightonandhovebusinessshow.uk/ book-a-stand/
Shaking Up Recruitment (Because Someone Had To)
Let’s be honest — recruitment has become a bit... meh. Bloated fees. Slow response times. Salespeople posing as consultants. Placr Recruitment was born to do things differently — and, dare we say, better.
Recruitment
We’re not here to follow the rules. We’re here to rip up the tired playbook, toss the jargon, and put the people back into recruitment. Whether it’s one role or an entire team, our job is to get you the right person — without the pain.
And yes, we’re local. We’re cheeky. We’re loud. And we deliver. Welcome to Placr.
Built for Business, Not for Drama
We don’t believe recruitment should feel like a hostage negotiation. That’s why we’ve simplified our model and made it work for businesses of all sizes:
• One-off hires? We keep our rates lean — none of that 20–25% nonsense.
• Hiring in volume? Our retainer model is designed for companies who need steady hires without the circus.
• Trying us out? We’ve got a little treat for you — exclusive rates for Sussex Business Times readers and VAP members. Let’s chat.
We’re not trying to sell you a onehit wonder. We want long-term partnerships. No BS, no inflated promises — just good people, good process, and good outcomes.
Generalists at Heart. Specialists When It Counts.
At Placr, we don’t limit ourselves to one niche. We’re generalists — and proudly so. Whether it’s sales, office, admin, creative, property, or tech, we’ve recruited for just about every industry you can think of (and a few you probably haven’t).
But we also know when to go all in.
We’ve recently brought on a specialist recruiter in trades, engineering, and construction — and they’re already elbows-deep placing contractors, site managers, field engineers, gas fitters, and more.
This isn’t fluffy recruitment. It’s fastpaced, boots-on-the-ground, sleeves-up graft. And we love it.
Whether you need someone to build it, fix it, wire it, weld it, or fit it — we’ve got you covered.
Yes, we’re proudly based in Brighton. But our network? It’s national. We’ve placed candidates from Newcastle to Newquay — and everywhere in between. Our approach is digital-first, human-always.
We use smart tech to streamline the boring stuff — but when it comes to people, we pick up the phone, we meet in person, and we actually give a damn.
Kindness in Chaos: Why Our Charity Partners Matter
At Placr, we believe in doing good — not just doing business.
We proudly support Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, helping sick children and their families across Sussex, and TogetherCo, tackling loneliness and social isolation in the local community. Every placement helps us give a little
more back. And as a company that lives and breathes people — we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Is It Time to Break Up with Your Current Recruiter?
Let’s be real: if your recruiter ghosted you, sent you irrelevant CVs, or is invoicing like they’re recruiting astronauts (not account managers) — time to switch?
We make it easy. We’ll take a proper brief. We’ll give honest feedback. And we’ll actually show up.
Our clients tell us we’re refreshing. Some say disruptive. A few call us their secret weapon (which we’re cool with — as long as we get results).
Hear It from Our Clients
“The best recruiter I’ve worked with in 20 years — honest, fast, and they actually understood the role.”
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County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month August 2025
This month, I revisited a local vineyard I hadn’t been to in a number of years –Nutbourne. On my first visit, I was impressed by the wide range of wines available, and this time we had no fewer than eleven to try. I’ve always loved their sparkling wines – both the traditional Brut (which recently won a Gold Medal at the Wines of Great Britain Awards) and the more fruity, slightly lower alcohol (10.5%) Wild Nutty.
On this occasion, I tried their barrelaged Chardonnay – a style which, in the hands of many winemakers, often ends in disappointment due to either too much oak or too little. But when I tried this wine, I was blown away. What an outstanding bottle! It reminded me of a fine Burgundy – something like a Chassagne-Montrachet – which is high praise indeed.
A Bit About the Vineyard
Vines were first planted at Nutbourne in 1979, and it has been owned and managed by the Gladwin family since 1991. In their own words, the terroir at Nutbourne is a unique and ideal wine-growing environment – a warm microclimate protected by the South Downs, gentle south-facing slopes, and the same fertile green sand soil found in much of the Champagne region in France.
The Winemaker’s Notes
This wine is made from two vintages (primarily 2022) of Chardonnay grapes, fermented in aged French and American oak barrels and matured for a further 12
months. The result is a fine, complex wine. A dry white with a delightful, bright bouquet of yellow apple, crisp citrus, and peach flavours, it offers a rich, creamy texture and a lasting honeyed finish.
Michael’s Tasting Notes
Nose – On the nose, there’s a burst of citrus, with lemon leading the way, supported by a hint of grapefruit and the sweetness of honeysuckle.
Palate – This is a beautifully made dry white wine. Alongside a core of citrus, there are wonderful tropical fruit notes –lychee and white peach shine through. These, combined with the subtle complexity of oak from maturation in French and American barrels, come together brilliantly.
Varietal – 100% Chardonnay Alcohol – 11.4%
Food Pairing for This Cuvée
An excellent match for seafood and creamy fish dishes – lobster in particular pairs superbly.
Where to Buy?
This wine is priced at around £20 a bottle and is widely available from various Sussex wine retailers. It can also be purchased directly from the vineyard or via their website: https:// nutbournevineyards.com
Written for County Business Club by Michael Yeoman – English wine specialist and producer of Spirit of the Downs, award-winning local artisan Sussex brandies, grape vodkas, and Boosy Barista Coffee Liqueur.
with John Heal
Superman is a film that wears its heart on its cape — not through sentimental overreach, but via a deep-rooted sincerity that feels almost radical in today’s cinematic landscape. While it opens with the grandiosity expected of the genre — soaring visuals, cataclysmic stakes — it ultimately reveals itself to be something rarer: a meditation on compassion, restraint, and quiet moral courage.
The emotional core rests firmly on Superman’s unwavering gentleness. Even at his most powerful, he never postures. Instead, he listens. He saves not out of obligation, but from deep-seated empathy — a trait the film wisely centres. His kindness is not portrayed as naïveté, but as strength made visible. It’s this emphasis that gives the film its quiet power, elevating what could have been archetype into parable.
Cinematographer Lena Whitlow frames Superman not as a god descending, but as a man walking slowly towards those in need. There’s an almost sacred stillness to the way the camera lingers — not on destruction, but on its
aftermath: the holding of a hand, the return of breath, the silent acknowledgement of survival. Light isn’t just used to awe, but to soothe.
Dialogue is modest, carefully metered, often allowing character action to bear the weight of theme. A glance. A delayed response. A refusal to retaliate. These moments speak louder than exposition ever could. The screenplay’s strength lies in its restraint — it trusts the viewer to recognise grace when they see it.
Where the film stumbles, it does so in pacing. The middle third slows perhaps too deliberately, drawing out internal conflict that, while thematically relevant, dilutes momentum. Yet the final act finds its rhythm again, culminating in a resolution that trades spectacle for resonance — one that affirms, with aching simplicity, that doing good isn’t about being seen. It’s about showing up, again and again.
Superman doesn’t seek to redefine the superhero genre. It reminds us why we needed heroes in the first place.
