NNBN - Supporting Business Growth - Issue 5 - February 2023

WELCOME FROM THE EDITOR

Digital NBN

We’ve also announced that this year, we will be running Northamptonshire’s Good Food and Drink Festival in September and we’re looking forward to working with Kettering Park Hotel & Spa to deliver this for the local food and drink sector. Tickets are free to attend and we’ve already had seven stands booked for the event. Thanks once again to Wilson Browne Solicitors for supporting this year’s festival.

It’s certainly been a busy quarter at NNBN HQ and certainly a productive one! Firstly, we’re delighted with the growth of NNBN in 2022, learning and listening to our members all the time and we’re delighted to be driving forward in the direction we find ourselves in.

The highlight of the last few weeks has been the announcement of the Minister for Small Businesses, Kevin Hollinrake MP, joining us for a Business Brunch at Kettering Park Hotel & Spa in March and, at the time of writing, we have 90 people attending with tickets still remaining. I would like to thank NNBN Members Wilson Browne Solicitors and our Supporters, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring the event. Both Marie and I appreciate your support as we will enjoy an hour with the Minister. A big thank you to NNBN member Jessica Pilkington, for her support with our PR with the announcement and also to the team at Poppy Design Studio who worked on a quick turnaround with the graphics for the event and social media.

We introduced the first of a series of workshops for local businesses with our 200 Ways To Market A Business workshop in January which was well attended and we’ve had some great feedback from those who attended saying how much help it’s given their businesses already. We thoroughly enjoyed delivering this workshop and helping local businesses to try alternative routes to market.

We have received our bronze accreditation of the Armed Forces Covenant showing our support for the Ministry of Defence and to those who have served in our armed forces or been a reservist. We are working towards the Silver accreditation and we’re delighted to have been officially announced as an organisation supporting the covenant recently and joining the other 157 Northamptonshire based organisations and businesses who have also signed the covenant. If you would like to show your support, please do let me know and I can connect you with the M.O.D.

Thank you to everyone who is engaged with NNBN and we’re delighted to be playing a part in driving the County forward. What will February bring I wonder?

Our membership continues to grow and so does our level of energy and enthusiasm. We’re delighted to be working with the economic team at West Northants Council who join North Northants Council, the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire as supporters of NNBN and our relationships are continuing to get stronger as we go forward. nnbn.co.uk

Simon Cox, Editor

Simon Cox

CONTENTS

Community grants available

Players highlighting suicide prevention

North Northamptonshire Council

Singing solicitors third charity single

West Northamptonshire County Council

Local skills improvement plans

Investing in Northampton car parks

ENA HR is One!

Inspirational Women’s awards 2023

FEATURE

Community grants available to help transform lives across Northants.

15

EDITORIAL

FEATURE

ENA HR is one!

16

EDITORIAL

Northamptonshire Food & Drink Festival

Northamptonshire Health Charity

Teamwork Trust young leader wins award

BIRA on new energy support scheme

The importance of destination mastery

International walking event returns!

Tresham organising careers month events

Minister for small businesses visit

Technical experience centre opening

The Mentaur Group

Northants company honoured Queens Award

Business & IP Centre

Nominations open for inspirational womens awards 2023

Multi-million-pound market revamp works

Delapre Abbey’s 19th century stable project

SERVE - My befriender story

What is NNBN?

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All rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial. The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher.

CREDITS: POPPPY DESIGN STUDIO LTD.

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COMMUNITY GRANTS AVAILABLE TO HELP TRANSFORM LIVES ACROSS NORTH NORTHANTS IN 2023

Voluntary and community groups who are looking for a funding boost to kick-start a project in 2023 are being encouraged to apply for small grants to help improve the lives of residents in North Northamptonshire.

Community funding

Funding of up to £5,000 is being made available by North Northamptonshire Council.

The second funding round is currently open:

• Grants up to £2,500– deadline 6 February 2023

• Grants of between £2,500 and £5,000– deadline 6 February 2023

The scheme is open to community and voluntary sector organisations, registered charities and not-for-profit organisations, with priority given to projects that support the council’s key priorities and the strategic aims.

The council’s six key priorities are:

• Active, fulfilled lives– helping people live healthier, more active, independent and fulfilled lives.

• Better, brighter futures– caring for young people, providing them with a high-quality education and opportunities to help them flourish.

• Safe and thriving places– enable a thriving and successful economy that shapes great places to live, learn, work and visit.

• Green, sustainable environment– taking a lead on improving the green environment, making the area more sustainable for generations to come.

• Connected communities– ensuring our communities are connected with one another so they are able to shape their lives and areas where they live.

• Modern public services– providing efficient, effective and affordable services that make a real difference to all our local communities.

Examples of suitable applications could be a project encouraging wildlife in a local pocket park or sports and play equipment for a community group.

Any groups that want to find out more, including available funding and criteria for applying can do so via the council’s website

Alternatively, you can email communityfunding@northnorthants.gov.uk for more information.

Members Empowerment Fund

NNC’s grant scheme, known as the Member Empowerment Fund, is open to applications all year round.

Each councillor is allocated yearly funding for small community-based projects up to £2,000. Money can be awarded to parish or town councils, community groups, voluntary organisations and charities working in North Northamptonshire. This allows members to be innovative in formulating proposals for the benefit of residents in their wards.

Applications must be made by a ward member.

If you need some financial help to make your project a reality and think it might be suitable Member Empowerment Fund grant, you should talk to your local North Northamptonshire Council Councillor who can submit an application.

Organisations cannot apply for both the Community Funding and Members Empowerment Fund at the same time.

COBBLERS’ PLAYERS HELP HIGHLIGHT SUICIDE PREVENTION

Players from Northampton Town Football Club had a new goal last month – to highlight suicide prevention and how to look out for those at risk. The squad took time out of their busy schedule to team up with Lisa Pearson and Andy Willis from Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Training at their practice ground.

The session kicked off with discussions about the importance of good conversations around suicide, as well as where people can go to get help if they need it. It also looked at some of the myths surrounding suicide, as well as who might be at risk and how best to intervene.

Northampton Town’s first team players, and support staff, (pictured with Andy and Lisa) took part in the training with many saying how useful it had been. Cobblers’ winger Mitch Pinnock said: “I thought the session was good; it opens everyone’s mind up really just to make sure people are okay and, even if you’re worried about asking them the question, because it might be a bit personal, it’s going to benefit them and benefit you as well.”

Last year, a similar session was held with the football club’s Academy players, and following on from this latest session, the League Two club, which is currently chasing promotion, is encouraging other sports clubs to take part in Suicide Awareness Training.

Lisa Pearson who runs the training, said: “It’s been an excellent session, they’ve been really engaged; we’re really pleased with the opportunity, and are

keen to start engaging with as many community and sports clubs as we can. We know that you’re more at risk of suicide if you’re male, so we just want people to reach out and access our free training.”

Suicide is one of the biggest killers of men, with males making up approximately 78 per cent of all suicide deaths, compared to 22 per cent for women. It’s also over 11 years since high-profile Welsh footballer Gary Speed took his own life. His close friend, and TV presenter, Dan Walker recently spoke candidly about the impact it had on him and the importance of seeking help if anyone has suicidal thoughts.

Andy Willis, former service user and trained peer supporter worker who shared some of his personal experiences with the players, said: “It’s been a really positive session; the attention of the players and the staff was magnificent and the contributions were really appreciated. It’s such an important topic, mental health, and openly sharing and giving support particularly in the area of selfharm and suicide, whilst a complex topic, is one that has to be embraced.” People are encouraged to visit www.zerosuicidealliance.com/training and take part in the free online suicide awareness module, which takes just 20 minutes, and provides the skills to ask about suicide.

Anyone who wants to know more about attending Suicide Prevention and Awareness Training, can contact Lisa Pearson at NHFT by emailing lisa.pearson3@nhft.nhs.uk

For more information about suicide prevention visit www.nhft.nhs.uk/suicide-prevention

North Northamptonshire Council is your new council, covering the geographical areas of Corby, East Northamptonshire , Kettering and Wellingborough.

North Northamptonshire has a proven track record as an attractive and highly successful place for people to work, invest, live, visit and grow.

It’s population has grown at one of the fastest rates in the country during the last few years and this is expected to continue, driven by it’s location within the Oxford to Cambridge Arc and the North Northamptonshire Garden Communities developments beginning to take shape.

It has special environmental qualities, great locational advantages, immense potential and ambition.

The Council provides a wide range of Business facing services and is dedicated to supporting your business to achieve its full potential, and ensuring North Northamptonshire is an attractive place for people to work, invest, live, visit and grow.

NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COUNCIL BUSINESS SERVICES INCLUDE:

Economy and Regeneration

Support for start up and established businesses and information about funding and grants.

Visit website here

Business and Licencing

Advice on health and safety, business rates, food safety, trading standards and licencing.

Visit website here

Planning and Building Control

Advice on applications, building control, local searches, delivering growth and policy.

Visit website here

Waste and Recycling

The Council offers a competitive and reliable commercial waste service for local businesses

Visit website here

Selling to the Council

The Council purchase a wide range of goods and services each year, including from local suppliers. View website here

Partners: To ensure that we deliver on our Corporate Plan Key Commitments and priorities for both the economy ‘Safe and Thriving Places’ and the Climate Change Agenda ‘Green and Sustainable environment’, the Council is working with a range of Organisations: South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership, University of Northampton, Tresham College, Federation of Small Businesses, Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Job Centre Plus.

For more details about our corporate plan visit here

FANTASTIC COLLABORATION FOR SINGING SOLICITOR’S THIRD CHARITY SINGLE THIS WORLD CANCER DAY

Northamptonshire’s ‘Singing Solicitor’ and friends are back with a third charity single and a “bigger and stronger team effort” which they hope will raise thousands for The Lewis Foundation.

Kevin Rogers, chair of regional law firm Wilson Browne Solicitors, has enlisted the help of talented school pupils, NHS staff, local professionals and his daughter Bethany to film and record a moving rendition of Snow Patrol’s Chasing Cars.

Joined once again by broadcaster John Griff, along with ‘Madrigalis’ (the award winning choir from Northampton School for Girls), the Kettering General Hospital choir, and musicians Beccy Hurrell, Ian Taylor and Wayne Jenkins, Kevin and team are raising money and awareness for The Lewis Foundation – a charity that provides free gifts and care packs to adult cancer patients in 17 hospitals across the Midlands. Each bag costs the charity £3.60.

The track and footage will be launched at a live event at the Spinney Theatre, Northampton School for Girls (NSG) on World Cancer Day, Saturday 4th February, at 11am. The event will also be live streamed on YouTube. The song will also be available to stream, buy or share from the usual online sources. Kevin said: “We’re thrilled to be doing this again for The Lewis Foundation, whose work to support adult cancer patients is so important.

“Last year we doubled the amount raised to almost £5,000, gaining celebrity backing from Eamonn Holmes and others on social media along the way. This year we hope to smash that again and raise enough money to fund even more gift bags.

“We’ve made sure it’s an even bigger collective effort this time around too, with the support of NSG and KGH choirs, and remarkable local musicians, Beccy, Ian and Wayne.

“People are in for a real treat with the music video we’ve put together as well, which includes appearances from local volunteers and former Strictly Come Dancing professional Kristina Rihanoff. My daughter also makes a powerful solo contribution during the track, and I think we really will capture hearts. We can’t wait.”

All donations via the JustGiving page will go to The Lewis Foundation, which was founded in 2016 by Lorraine and Lee Lewis to provide gifts, comfort and happiness to cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Lorraine added: “Kevin Rogers and John Griff are longtime supporters and advocates of our charity, and we are incredibly grateful to them and everyone else who has got behind this year’s track.

“It can be a sad, frightening and lonely experience for individuals receiving cancer treatment, but thanks to Kevin, John, the NSG and KGH choirs, Beccy, Ian, Wayne and all the volunteers who made this possible, we can continue to make a difference.”

Chasing Cars by the #singingsolicitor is licensed by Universal Music Publishing Ltd and will be available on Amazon / Spotify / Apple Music / iTunes / YouTubeMusic and other main streaming platforms. The video will be available at https://www.youtube.com/@ singingsolicitor4886

The live launch will take place on February 4th at 11am at Spinney Theatre, Northampton School for Girls. FREE TO ATTEND FOR ALL – doors open 10:30am. You can also watch LIVE online Donations can be made via the JustGiving page or via SMS by texting ‘Lewis’ to 70450.

West Northamptonshire Council is the single unitary council responsible for providing a range of public services to residents and businesses in the areas of Daventry, Northampton and South Northamptonshire.

We want West Northants to be a place where everyone can thrive and the Council is committed to helping to provide the framework and conditions to make this ambition a reality. We work with employers, universities, colleges and agencies to give people, the skills and qualifications that businesses really want, to support more people into better-paid jobs. We invest in strengthening existing and creating new, employment locations, so that all parts of West Northamptonshire are able to contribute to and benefit from, growth as part of a thriving area. This includes hosting world class industries including high tech, engineering motorsports, logistics, financial services and having a valuable shoemaking heritage. We’re investing in growing our leading business sectors and driving improved productivity and pay across the economy. West Northants sits in the middle of the Oxford – Cambridge Pan-Regional Partnership and acts as an opportunity to actively drive growth, seek investment and progress infrastructure developments. The Council is also making it easier to set up new enterprises and helping existing businesses to develop and grow. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today, so that we can help your business overcome challenges and realise opportunities.

Business Support

Free support to assist every local employer to overcome challenges, maximise opportunities and thrive in West Northamptonshire

Explore West Northants

Residents and visitors to West Northamptonshire, can download the ExploreWN App and discover everything West Northamptonshire has to offer, including independent businesses, attractions and local events.

Doing Business with Us

We are always looking to work with suppliers to support us in delivering our services and help us meet our vision for the future

Planning and Building Control

Quality advice on applications, building control, Local Searches, delivering growth and Policy.

Business Rates

Rates, charges and information on rate relief and exemptions.

Commercial Waste Services

We collect general waste, mixed recycling, glass and food waste from your place of business or event site.

Contact us at economy@westnorthants.gov.uk or on 01327 322230 to find out more. Follow us @WestNorthants and @WestNorthamptonshireCouncil

LOCAL SKILLS IMPROVEMENT PLANS (LSIP) WANT

TO HEAR FROM YOU

As you may be aware, the Government’s Skills for Jobs White Paper set out an ambitious employer-led approach aimed at making Further Education (FE) provision more responsive to local skills needs and ultimately local economic needs.

As part of this approach, Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs) were introduced as a key part of the Government’s vision of an adult skills system where businesses are given a much stronger voice in local skills planning by working closely with FE providers, engaging effectively with local leaders and other stakeholders and forging a stronger and more dynamic partnership that will enable provision to be more responsive to the skills needs of employers in local labour markets.

The LSIP is looking to have significant engagement from the business community in order to ascertain skills requirements and the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill provides a statutory underpinning for local skills improvement plans. It introduces duties on providers to co-operate in the development of and then have regard to the plans.

Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce and Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce are the Designated Lead for the development of the LSIP for our region and they have a number of upcoming events for local employers to attend to make sure their voice is heard – including details of online surveys, employer focused and group roundtable events, telephone discussions and skills focused meetings.

To express your interest in receiving further information and an invite to LSIP events, please email events@northants-chamber.co.uk

You can find the upcoming events here:

28th Feb – Networking & Information Event

3rd Mar - Networking & Information Event

31st Mar – Networking and Information Event

INVESTING IN NORTHAMPTON CAR PARKS

Visitors to Northampton town centre are set to benefit from investment in car parking facilities, making visitors’ experience easier and more seamless.

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is investing in Northampton Town’s car parks to improve access and usage for customers. Work has started to install new ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) parking equipment in the following public car parks in Northampton:

• Grosvenor multi storey

• St Johns multi storey

• St Michaels multi storey

• Commercial Street

• The Ridings

• Upper Mounts

• Mayorhold multi-storey car park is ageing and in poor condition; these issues are currently being managed but eventually the car park will need major work or replacement.

A decision on whether to install the new equipment in Mayorhold will be taken after members of the council have reviewed options for its future.

The new ANPR technology will simplify the payment and access process for visitors. As you drive in, the cameras will scan your number plate.

You can then pay via the machines or at the barrier upon exit, streamlining the process for visitors. Payment options will include card, cash, chip and pin and contactless payment.

In the coming weeks the council will be launching a parking app for people using these car parks. The app will enable

users to pre-register their details and a payment method so they can just come and go as they need without having to visit a pay station. Blue badge holders will just need to scan the barcode on their badge at the exit barrier, the validity of the badge will automatically be checked, and the barrier will raise. This removes the need for drivers to call and verify the badge manually, ensuring a more seamless process for users.

Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport, Highways and Waste at WNC, said: “We are pleased to be installing new modern technology in Northampton’s car parks. This will enable users to pay much more easily and bring our car parks up to date.

“Our colleagues will be on hand on for the first few days of the ANPR cameras coming into use to provide support for customers. This will also be supported with signage throughout the car parks.”

The technology is only being installed in council owned car parks in Northampton at this time. It is possible that the technology will be introduced at Brixworth and Daventry Country Parks in the future.

As part of its focus on improving car parking facilities across West Northamptonshire, the Council is currently redeveloping and enlarging the Sponne Arcade car park in Towcester.

To find out more about parking facilities across West Northamptonshire visit www.westnorthants.gov.uk/carparks-west-northamptonshire.

ENA HR IS ONE!

A HR and training company in Cogenhoe, Northamptonshire is celebrating 12 months in business. Ena HR and Training Ltd was established in January 2022 by Kate Coulson after working in corporate HR and management roles for more than 20 years.

When Covid hit, Kate seized the opportunity to live in Greece for a year- a place she calls her ‘second homeland’. This love of Greece is also reflected in Kate’s choice of business name. Ena is Greek for the number one. Ena is also the goddess known for overseeing the preparation for a journey. At the end of 2021, Kate knew she didn’t want to return to the corporate world. She still wanted to work in a high level, strategic role, but one that fitted in around her children, Annabel and Zoe.

She supported a friend, a business owner looking to move her associates to permanent employees, and realised she could use her knowledge and experience to support small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Since January 2022, Kate has turned over £40,000 and onboarded 11 retainer clients, who she works closely with as an outsourced HR manager. She has also launched her own leadership and management programme, which is about to start recruiting for its fourth cohort, as well as rolling out a HR IT system.

Kate has also been awarded three grants from BIPC Northamptonshire, SEMLEP and ARG, which she reinvested into her business to grow further. She has also been appointed President of a new BNI chapter in Northamptonshire – the first online chapter in its region.

“I’ve genuinely loved working on and in my business this last year,” said Kate. “I’ve enjoyed getting to know my clients and their businesses and have met so many inspirational people at networking.

“I’ve also been a present Mum too. Not needing permission to attend a carol concert or sports day means so much.”

“HR is not just about policies and compliance,” adds Kate. “Governance is a given. But making a real difference to a business through training, new processes, engaging and retaining staff and helping business owners sleep at night really drives me.”

Looking to the future, Kate is keen to work with more SMEs in Northamptonshire, supporting them with HR and nurturing leaders in the organisation.

To find out more, see www.ena-hr.co.uk

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN’S AWARDS 2023

Women who are the cornerstone of West Northamptonshire communities and businesses are to be recognised in the 11th Inspirational Women Awards.

Organised by the West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) Women’s Forum, the awards aim to publicly recognise and promote those women who inspire and have a real impact on the lives of others in the community or the workplace.

Members of the public are being asked to get their thinking caps on and nominate women in their lives who inspire them.

There are two categories for the 2023 awards:

• Business Award

• Community Award

Potential nominees for the Business Award could include someone who has inspired through their paid employment, an inspirational business owner or someone who has inspired you in your career.

For the Community Award, it could be a family member who has been a rock during a challenging time, a neighbour who has set up a community group to support local children and families, a friend who has campaigned for better healthcare, or a colleague who fundraises for charity.

Nominations close on Monday, 6 February 2023, with the shortlisted finalists being announced week commencing 20 February 2023.

The awards will be presented at the International Women’s Day event at the Guildhall on Saturday, 4 March 2023.

International Women’s Day falls on 8 March every year, and this year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity.

Cllr David Smith, WNC’s Cabinet Member for community safety and engagement, and regulatory services, said: “International Women’s Day highlights the accomplishments of women and the steps being taken towards equality around the world.

“Here in West Northants, we are very fortunate in having so many women playing hugely important roles across our communities and workplaces, and we look to this special day to appreciate their achievements and say, ‘thank you’.

“We are looking for nominations for women from all walks of life who have been inspirational in the broadest sense and would like to know how they have inspired you or others, what they have achieved, or what they have done to help your community.”

For more information about the Inspirational Women Awards 2023 and to make a nomination, please visit the WNC website here: Inspirational Women Awards.

NNBN WORKING WITH KETTERING PARK HOTEL & SPA TO DELIVER NORTHAMPTONSHIRE’S GOOD FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL

NNBN are working with Kettering’s 4 star hotel, Kettering Park Hotel & Spa to bring the County’s food and drink sector together this September.

Northamptonshire’s Good Food & Drink Festival was first launched in 2019 after a meeting with the hotel’s General Manager Andrew Hollett, Kerry Bate from Polka Dot Events and Simon Cox who worked to pull the event together for Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector and brought a variety of local food producers together as well as food and drink lovers from across the region to enjoy a fun filled family event. The event continued to grow and has been a success for the last three years.

Present at the last three festivals have been the Daniel Thwaites shire horses who are always popular amongst those attending the Festival. Originally the trusted shire horses were tasked with delivering the Daniel Thwaites award winning beer to their pubs around Blackburn before being replaced in the 1920’s by steam and mechanisation, however the tradition returned in 1960 when the Thwaites Shire Horses were reintroduced to deliver beer to their local landlords up until early 2000 and they add a sense of tradition to Northamptonshire’s Good Food & Drink Festival at Kettering Park Hotel & Spa – a hotel part of the Daniel Thwaites group.

Visitors to the festival can expect to find a variety of local producers and suppliers and has proved to be a popular event which has been built up in the last few years between Andrew and Kerry, however, with Kerry moving onto exciting new adventures, NNBN have stepped in to work with Andrew to ensure the popular festival continues to grow.

Tickets are available from Northamptonshire’s Good Food & Drink Festival‘s website, designed by Desborough based Poppy Design Studio, and can be booked free of charge and this year, the Festival has been sponsored by Northamptonshire law firm Wilson Browne Solicitors.

NNBN Director Simon Cox said: “We’re delighted to be leading on this year’s event and working closely with Andrew Hollett at the Kettering Park Hotel & Spa to celebrate the finest of Northamptonshire’s food and drink sector. To support the growth of the Festival, NNBN will be leading on the event and we would like to thank Kerry for all her hard work in organising the previous year’s festivals.”

“We’re looking forward to working with food and drink suppliers and producers in Northamptonshire and surrounding area to celebrate the best of local food and drink at the Festival. It’s also a fun day out for the family to enjoy a variety of different produce and we can’t wait to deliver this event this year.”

The Festival takes place on Sunday 24th September 2023 at Kettering Park Hotel & Spa starting at 11.00 am.

The Northamptonshire Health Charity team are here to help you make a real difference to your local community. You may not have heard of Northamptonshire Health Charity, but we are sure that you will have used one of the services where we fund the “extras” that can be so important to someone’s care at; Northampton General Hospital (NGH) and Kettering General Hospital (KGH), and all the community and mental health hospitals and services under Northamptonshire Healthcare Foundation Trust (NHFT).

Our charity team can show you how your donation is used to provide those extras which can be anything from a book explaining bereavement to a child who has lost a family member, to transforming an outside space into a welcoming setting in the middle of a hospital. There’s nothing like the feeling of giving something back so contact us today to see how you can Get Involved. We are here to help you to;

sign up to one Abseil fundraising challenge; explain opportunities to be involved in volunteering at one of our events; sponsor an event and deliver your corporate responsibility goals; advertise your fundraising event for the ward or department close to your heart, simply let you know what a difference your donation has made.

It is with thanks to fundraising and donations from our local communities and businesses that our charity is able to provide the funding to support services from Pre-Birth to End of life care and lots more in between. We are currently raising funds for maternity bereavement care at both local hospitals maternity units together with raising funds for Palliative Care Swan Rooms too. We fund initiatives above and beyond what the Government provides, from equipment, training, enhancements to spaces for patients & staff and importantly the smaller things that go a long way to making a difference to the NHS teams across the county and their patients. Visit our website for more information on the different ways in which your donation could be used.

We can help you identify an area which is in need of your help, for example one of appeals, or you may like to make a donation to a ward or department which deserve a special thank you for their care. Everyone has used their local NHS at some point and sometimes it’s just nice to give back and get involved!

Visit our website here.

We are very proud to have been recognised for our commitment to raising funds to support our local NHS across Northamptonshire and have been awarded charity of the year by Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Northamptonshire Business Awards.

TEAMWORK TRUST’S YOUNG LEADER SCOOPS TOP BUSINESS AWARD

A talented member of staff from Northamptonshire charity Teamwork Trust is celebrating after scooping a top accolade at the Northamptonshire Logistics Awards. Macy Henderson, 21, was awarded Apprentice of the Year this month at these leading business awards – with Teamwork Trust becoming the only charity to win a trophy on the night.

Macy, who completed an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care apprenticeship last May, has since been promoted to a junior leadership role and is now a Living and Learning Coordinator, based at the charity’s Corby’s site. It is because of Teamwork Trust’s unique outsourcing offer – supporting local and national businesses to pack, assemble, label, fulfil orders and rework packaging – that Teamwork Trust was urged to take part in these logistics awards.

Helen Burdett-Wright, Chief Executive, explained: “Our logistics and outsourcing work is all part of our commitment to supporting our service users to gain education and employment experience and to work with and play a key role in the wider community. “All income is invested back into our not-for-profit organisation to support our service users and the role Macy has played has been inspirational and impactful. Congratulations Macy, we are all so proud of you.”

Macy’s commitment and passion for her job is one of MANY reasons she has proved to be an award-winning apprentice. In Macy’s words: “Teamwork has made me a more confident person. I have grown and I know that what I do makes a difference to our service users here.”

Companies Teamwork Trust supports include Winkhaus, KAB Seating and Multy UK.

Vickie Bell, from Teamwork Trust, added: “Macy, like so many of us, was profoundly affected by covid. When she was able to come back to work she displayed even more compassion than before for our service users. Macy was excellent at her job from day one and the challenges of covid – if it’s possible – made her even better. “She now has a leading role and supports service users creatively, with empathy and with utter professionalism, not just with the logistics outsourcing work but also with their wider education and wellbeing.” Macy, reflecting on the pandemic, said: “I was furloughed for a few months during covid and then started working, but from home. I would call service users every day and chat to them, for up to 45 minutes. Some were shorter calls than others, some didn’t want to speak, others wanted to speak every day. I loved my apprenticeship and I am so thankful I found Teamwork. I feel really privileged.”

The feeling is reciprocated. Teamwork Trust service users love Macy. In David’s words: “Macy is always trying her best when she is with us to be a nice person. She always makes time for us and is genuinely a kind and fun person to be around.””

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BIRA CALLS NEW ENERGY SUPPORT SCHEME A ‘DEATH SLIDE’ FOR INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

The British Independent Retailers Association has said the government’s new Energy Bills Relief Scheme (EBRS) which is replacing the Energy Bills Discount Scheme (EBDS) a ‘death slide’ for indi retailers.

The government’s new scheme was released on January 9th and they have stated that the current offering is unaffordable.

However they did accept that some price support would be needed after March, which is when the EBDS, which has wholesale gas and electricity prices are currently fixed until.

The new EBRS scheme is designed to offer discounts to eligible businesses, based on usage, with some high energy usage industries will receive more support.

However BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, has highlighted that based on the government’s own calculations, the current scheme provides a typical small retail shop with £6,400 of financial support with energy bills. Under the new discount scheme, this support falls to £400 for the same small shop.

BIRA CEO Andrew Goodacre said: “The Chancellor said he wanted to avoid a cliff edge in terms of energy support. But it looks as if he has replaced the cliff edge with a ‘death slide’.

“Last year we saw energy bills for indie retailers increasing by 500% £15,000 – £20,000 more than usual. These businesses will now have another £6,000 pe annum of costs to deal with, at a time when consumer spending has fallen and other costs are set to increase.

“The burden on small retailers is set to increase significantly again. Treasury will refer to the extra retail discount in business rates, but this was needed to offset the average 10% increase in rateable values following the recent revaluation.

“BIRA believe that more need to be done to support high street shops with rising energy bills, and we would like to have seen higher discounts offered to those businesses that have reduced energy compared to last year. Not only would this reward and encourage businesses to reduce costs, it would also be a more environmentally friendly solution,” he said.

INTERNATIONAL WALKING EVENT RETURNS TO WELLINGBOROUGH THIS MAY!

Wellingborough Town Council are proud to announce that they will be organising the International Waendel Walk from 2023. Since taking over the event from North Northants Council, Wellingborough Town Council held an urgent meeting last month where 27 people attended to agree the arrangements for the event.

The Town Council are delighted with the amount of people who have come forward to offer their support with the event, but more volunteers are needed to help steward the walks which take place on Friday 12th May through to Sunday 14th May 2023.

The three-day walking event will begin with a 5km Friendship walk on the Friday evening, starting from The Castle Theatre, before participants can take part in walks ranging from 5km through to 42km on the Saturday and Sunday.

Wellingborough is the only town in England to host the International Marching League Event which, in previous years, has attracted people from across the country and globe, reaching as far as Australia and America.

Wellingborough Town Council (WTC), who are running the event, are encouraging as many people as possible to get involved and sign up to take part. Whether it’s a family walk, a personal challenge or to raise money for a charity close to your heart, the International Waendel Walk will have something for you.

Cllr Graham Lawman, Leader of the Council and chairman of the Waendel Walk working group said:

“I am delighted that Wellingborough Town Council has taken over the Waendel Walk, thus securing it for the town for the foreseeable future.

“This will be the 42nd walk, so it is a well-established event, dear to the people of Wellingborough and important for the economy of the town as well as the many charities that benefit. This event has put the town on the map around the world. There are some really interesting walks to be had, including Chester House for the first time; all good news for your health and well-being.

“I’d like to thank North Northants Council for taking it on last year and for offering their support this year. I’d also like to recognise the many long-standing volunteers, who continue to play active roles in organising the weekend and without whom, it wouldn’t happen.

“To make the event a real success, as well as walkers, we need lots of volunteers, either before or on the weekend and sponsors. If you can help in any way, please get in touch!”

The weekend begins on the Friday with Friendship Walk. Across Saturday and Sunday, the fun continues with activities for all the family and entertainment at The Castle Theatre – the start and finish point of all walks.

Ticketing will be live on Friday 13th January 2023 via our website.

To find out more and register to take part, please visit www.wellingboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk and follow the links.

TRESHAM COLLEGE ARE ORGANISING A SERIES OF EVENTS IN MARCH 2023 FOR CAREERS MONTH

A series of events to help local students in the Kettering, Corby and Wellingborough area are being announced.

The aim is support the students prepare for the future and a core part of that is to help them understand their progression options once they complete their time at College by bringing the learners together with local employers, universities and apprenticeship providers, in order to promote future career and training options.

Events will run across all of the 3 campuses (Kettering, Corby and Wellingborough) and will be delivered through career fairs, workshops and presentations.

The team at Tresham would very much like you to be involved in the Careers Month.

The careers fairs will feature pop-up stands and will be located in the main college spaces and to maximise footfall, are scheduled for between 11am to 1pm from

Monday 6th – Friday 17th March 2023. Workshops and presentations to the learners can be scheduled Monday to Friday, any time between 9am and 3.30pm, throughout the whole month.

If you are able to support this event, please could you complete the form via the link here by Friday 3rd February – please select all dates that you could be available, whether it be at one or all of our campuses, and the colleges can then coordinate with the learners to ensure maximum attendance. If you are unable to support this event, Tresham would invite you to share resources such as videos, leaflets or web links and a list of your ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ and they will then share these resources with the learners accordingly, on your behalf.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Student Services Team at studentservices@tresham.ac.uk.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE ORGANISATIONS SET TO MEET THE MINISTER FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Businesses from across Northamptonshire are being invited to meet the Minister for Small Businesses at an exclusive event organised by business membership organisation NNBN.

MP Kevin Hollinrake, appointed the Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business in October, will be the special guest at a business brunch at Kettering Park Hotel on March 10th, 2023.

Businesses will be invited to pose questions to the minister in advance of the event, with tickets allocated on a strictly first come first served basis.

NNBN Director Simon Cox said: “This is a huge coup for Northamptonshire, with our local businesses set to meet the Minister, ask questions, raise concerns, and hear about the UK business economy and how this might directly affect individual businesses. Minister Hollinrake has been quoted as saying ‘SMEs are the biggest drivers of economic opportunity’ so we are very excited to be showcasing the Northamptonshire business community and our diverse and exceptional innovation, talent and expertise to this leading politician.”

NNBN was launched just over a year ago to support businesses, charities and organisations in North Northamptonshire and from January 2023 is expanding into West Northamptonshire.

Cllr David Brackenbury, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Growth and Regeneration, said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming the Minister to Northamptonshire and I know that the engaged and dynamic business community will give him a warm welcome. This visit will show that Northamptonshire is a fantastic place to do business with its excellent connectivity to all parts of the UK and overseas markets. Moreover, Northamptonshire is a great place to live and to visit. It will be excellent to show Mr Hollinrake what this special part of England has to offer.”

Simon and the NNBN team, who have been working hard behind the scenes to secure this ministerial visit, would like to thank those individuals and organisations who have provided support and encouragement, in particular: Philip Hollobone, MP for Kettering, Cllr David Brackenbury from North Northamptonshire Council, the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce, Wilson Browne Solicitors, Poppy Design Studio, Pilkington Communications and Kettering Park Hotel & Spa.

Buy your ticket here

Tickets are £15 for NNBN members and £22.50 for nonmembers, including a breakfast brunch and refreshments.

LOCAL LABELLING SPECIALIST CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF IT’S TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE CENTRE

AM Labels Limited (AM Labels), an award-winning supplier of complete labelling solutions including manufacturing and warehouse automation, barcoding and RFID systems, celebrated the opening of its brand new, state-of-the-art Technical Experience Centre with a three-day event from Tuesday 24th January to Thursday 26th January 2023.

The occasion, which was sponsored by leading printing technology manufacturer, Epson, took place at AM Labels’ head office in Northamptonshire. To celebrate the opening of the new facility, the event brought together many of the print and packaging industry’s leading suppliers and manufacturers, as well as current and prospective customers from across the country.

The Mayor of Kettering, Cllr Keli Watts, attended the event on Tuesday 24th January. After giving a speech where she congratulated AM Labels and recognised the hard work and dedication of its employees, the Mayor cut a ribbon to officially open the company’s Technical Experience Centre. AM Labels’ Managing Director Tony Mariani and Sales and Marketing Manager Brendon Bass presented the history of the company and spoke about the many benefits that the newly opened Technical Experience Centre will offer businesses both locally, and across the UK.

Visitors were also invited to have their own personalised cookies printed using the DTM Eddie printer, which utilises edible ink to print full-colour photos, logos, text and other designs directly onto the surface of food items including cookies, cupcakes, macarons and pastries.

Furthermore, the AM Labels team demonstrated a variety of the latest and greatest technology from its portfolio, enabling guests to learn more about the range of labelling, barcoding, RFID, robotics and automation equipment on offer, as well as how they can support businesses in improving and streamlining their operations.

The celebrations continued throughout Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th January and, in addition to being invited to explore AM Labels’ Technical Experience Centre throughout the event, visitors also toured the company’s in-house production facility. AM Labels has an extensive label manufacturing capability, boasting a state-of-the-art production area that stocks a large variety of label materials for the company’s customers, supporting the sale of both thermal and colour label printing machines.

Tony Mariani, Managing Director, AM Labels Limited comments: “The opening of our new Technical Experience Centre was a great success, and on behalf of the entire AM Labels team, I would like to say a big thank you to everyone that joined us throughout the three-day event. We are also extremely grateful for the support received from several of the industry’s leading manufacturers and suppliers, and a special thank you to Epson for being our event sponsor.

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Have you ever heard about Mentaur?

Mentaur is making a huge difference in supporting vulnerable people within the community, providing a diverse range of specialist services for adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs, autism, & other complex needs. We are active in Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Leicestershire.

As I am sure you are aware,

• 700,000 people live with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the UK

• 1,500,000 people have a learning disability in the UK

• 30% of the population suffer from at least one mental health condition

With this in mind, we are more and more committed to establishing our vision, which has always been and remains to provide growth-enhancing care and support of the highest quality to people with disabilities with integrity and constant innovation.

To transform this idea into reality, Mentaur offers 14 specialist residential care homes and a one-day opportunities resource centre for adults with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, mental health & other complex needs.

THE MENTAUR GROUP

We are providing a safe and comfortable home and environment for our residents, and they are supported by our constantly trained staff, prepared to deliver assistance of the best quality, encourage more independent forms of living & support effective community integration.

We do offer:

• Adequate approaches to ameliorate challenging behaviour, mental disabilities, and complex needs

• Independence and supportive environment, where a skilled staff team offer informed choices and relevant support

• Individualised accommodation, where autism-friendly design & dedicated features are comprised to guarantee a safe and enabling space

• Housing management to foster the well-being and welfare of the people we support Medium- or long-term care according to each resident’s needs

Moreover, people using Mentaur’s services can benefit from the Mentaur Day Opportunities Resource Centre, a social hub conceived to promote independent skills and develop new hobbies & recreational interests. In there, they can boost their creativity and implement their social skills by participating in entertaining activities that might include:

• Volunteering

• Study

• Arts & Crafts

• Horticulture

Discover more about our commitment, residentialhomes and services at www.mentaur.co.uk

DIAMOND HARD SURFACES LTD PRESENTED WITH THEIR QUEEN’S AWARD FOR ENTERPRISE

A Towcester, Northants based company has been honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for International Trade.

Diamond Hard Surfaces Ltd is one of only 2 companies in Northamptonshire to be awarded a prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise having been recognised for its excellence in International Trade. Last month, the team were presented with the award at a ceremony at its headquarters by the Lord Lieutenant for Northamptonshire James Saunders Watson Esq.

Employing 6 people, Diamond Hard Surfaces Ltd was established in 2004 and produces high performance, high endurance diamond based engineering materials and coatings for Advanced Engineering Markets such as Aerospace and Electronics.

Chris H Walker, Director and CEO of the company who has led the business from start up to production said “ We are delighted that our small, energetic, customer focused team has been recognised with the highest award in the UK. We would like to thank everyone who as supported our growth”.

The ceremony was attended by around 25 stakeholders in the business including customers, suppliers, and support partners.

Now in its 56th year, the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise are the most prestigious business awards in the country, with winning businesses able to use the esteemed Queen’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.

BIPC Libraries act as engines for economic growth through helping businesses to start, run, innovate and grow. As part of the British Library Business & IP Centre National Network, the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire helps establish enterprises, create new jobs, increase turnover and boost our local economy. For every £1 invested in the BIPC Network, £6.95 is put back into the economy, which we believe represents a fantastic return on investment.

Our services cover the whole of Northamptonshire, both West Northamptonshire and North Northamptonshire, which includes: Corby, Daventry, East Northamptonshire, Kettering, Northampton, South Northamptonshire and Wellingborough. You can find the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire at your local library.

We have hubs in Northamptonshire Central Library, Kettering Library, Wellingborough Library, Brixworth Library and Towcester Library.

You can pop into any of your nearest libraries (not just the ones mentioned) and ask for more information.

The Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire has been supporting businesses since 2015. In that time, over 1750 people have used its services and they have helped over 500 entrepreneurs start a business through a rich variety of webinars, workshops and one-to-one business and intellectual property advice sessions. The library service also provides entrepreneurs and SMEs across the UK with free access to databases, market research, journals, directories and reports worth thousands of pounds.

Libraries are not just full of books. They are full of ideas. As part of the British Library National Network the Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire is leading a revolution by inspiring a thriving community of new and existing business owners. It is free to join and open to everyone. And it is transforming the way ideas grow into successful businesses.

https://www.bipcnorthamptonshire.co.uk

www.northnorthantsbusinessnetwork.co.uk

So if you would like one-to-one business advice, access to market research databases, webinars and events, or intellectual property advice, all for free… then visit your local library to find out more at:

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Workshops/Seminars

We deliver a range of supporting activities aimed at anyone considering self employment, starting a new business or requiring advice on intellectual property.

Reset. Restart webinars

We are delivering a dedicated programme to support SMEs which can be accessed remotely, whereever you are in the UK, all for free.

One-to-one advice

We offer a wide range of one-to-one sessions for anyone who is considering self employment, and new start-ups. Advice on business basics, business planning, IP and ask an expert.

Intellectual property advice

We offer advice and information on: Patents, Copyright, Trade marks and Registered Designs.

Free subscription resources

We pay the subscription fee so that our library users can benefit from access to: COBRA, EMIS, Fame, Frost & Sullivan, Grantfinder, IBIS World, Kompass, Mintel, Newsbank, Statista and Local Data Company.

Links to useful start-up websites

Free quality business and enterprise selected by our information professionals

Networking opportunities

All our events, webinars and social media platforms provide ample networking opportunities.

All services are provided free of charge to the local community.

“We are delighted to support this new initiative in Northamptonshire.

The new NNBN membership service will provide much needed additional support, engagement and exclusive discounts to local entrepreneurs and businesses and will serve to complement existing services within Northants. We look forward to supporting and working alongside NNBN.”

- Barry Crisp

MULTI-MILLION-POUND MARKET SQUARE REVAMP WORKS HAVE BEGUN

The vision to enhance Northampton’s Market Square has become reality after planners approved the temporary relocation to the accessible Commercial St Car Park.

The plans by West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) to redevelop the historic Market Square include:

18 high-quality and bespoke fixed stalls which are larger and more structured to better serve traders, along with space for temporary stalls

Permanent tiered seating

Tree planting

Relaying of cobbles

New paving

New lighting

An interactive water feature.

As part of the redevelopment work WNC looked at a range of alternative locations for the Market to continue trading while essential works take place. Commercial St car park provided the only viable and accessible option in Northampton town centre.

At the Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday 10 January councillors approved the temporary relocation of the market, with works due to start at Commercial St on Wednesday, 11 January,

This comes after the decision was deferred at December’s committee meeting.

Cllr Daniel Lister, WNC’s Cabinet Member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “This work will create a revitalised square for all to enjoy and is the start of a major transformation of Northampton town centre.

“Market Square has been Northampton’s centre for trade and a place for the community to gather for hundreds of years, and we want to make sure that remains the case for the future.

“The current market does not meet the needs of our communities, and it is vital that this area is vastly improved to offer an attractive and accessible space for visitors to the town, while putting in measures to address some of the current concerns, such as anti-social behaviour.

“We are working closely with Northamptonshire Police to consider ways to implement this, such as increased lighting, improved access and wayfinding.

“We continue to work closely with market traders to ensure that they are kept well informed on the progress of these works, and they will not be charged stalls rental while the market is temporarily relocated.

“The redevelopment will ensure future generations continue to see Market Square as the beating heart of the town.

“The temporary location at Commercial St can be easily accessed by foot and public transport, ensuring visitors can buy products at competitive prices and support local trade.

“We will continue to work with traders to promote the Market’s provisional site through the redevelopment works.”

It is anticipated that works will start on the redevelopment of Market Square early in 2023. To find out more about the progress of this, visit the WNC website, follow the council’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedinaccounts, or sign up the WNC e-Newsletter.

A HEALTHY NEW YEAR BOOST ANNOUNCED FOR DELAPRÉ ABBEY’S 19TH CENTURY STABLE BLOCK PROJECT

Northampton health care provider General Practice Alliance is set to join forces with Delapré Abbey’s new Wellbeing Hub in Spring 2025, when it will move into a renovated stable block within the grounds of the Abbey. General Practice Alliance, which provides health care professional support for registered patients at 21 GP practices across Northampton, has been announced as a new partner for the hub.

Dan Kane, CEO of General Practice Alliance, said: “It’s a great fit, collaborating ‘in situ’ with Delapré’s Wellbeing Hub from 2025, as GPA promotes and endorses a bio-psychosocial approach to health care. This approach, put simply, is all about helping and encouraging people to become more aware of their own psychological, behavioural, social and cultural beliefs and attitudes, and draw upon these to develop a healthier, more active, potentially happier lifestyle. Research proves this can lead to a longer, more fulfilled, life.”

Richard Clinton, CEO of Delapré Abbey, commented: “Our wellbeing hub will be occupied by organisations and people dedicated to supporting and working with our local communities. This will be a space of positivity and support and we are delighted to unveil General Practice Alliance as one of our new partners.”

GPA’s Social Prescribers, who are located at GP practices across Northampton, will play a key role in the organisation’s move into the Abbey. Dan added: “Social prescribing means referring patients to support in their own community, to improve their health and wellbeing.

Working with our social prescribers, our collaboration with the Wellbeing Hub means that the people of Northampton can benefit from the many opportunities offered through Delapré’s cultural and artistic activities, programmes and pursuits. “In turn, we are confident that GPA’s own links with healthcare providers, local authorities, community groups, voluntary sector organisations and leisure providers amongst others, will result in even more people experiencing improved health and wellbeing outcomes. It’s a win-win for our organisations, and even more so for the people of Northampton.”

£477,000 of development funding was awarded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in 2022 to help Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust progress their plans, and to further engage members of the community and partners. This project aims to carry out essential restoration work on a number of buildings that are at risk, all of which sit within the grounds of the historic 12th century Abbey. Once complete, the project aims to improve the mental and physical health of local residents through green social prescribing, building on programmes to date such as Delapré Wellbeing and complementing the existing visitor attraction.

The project will also aim to create 42 jobs and support a thriving visitor economy. The development of the site will allow investment through a social return in creative, physical and mindful wellbeing programmes, working with numerous partners and cementing Delapré Abbey as a key community asset in improving wellbeing.

Are your current Backups Cyber Secure? And can they be relied on when you need them ?

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Regardless of where your data is currently held be they VM’s, Cloud, Microsoft 365 or on premise let us show you how we can provide your business with the backups & cyber security you need.

CONFERENCES • EVENT SPACE • ROOM HIRE

With beautiful views of the Nene Valley from our Farmhouse Conference rooms or a large space within our 17th century Threshing Barn.

Day delegate rate of £22.00

Delegate rates include Unlimited tea and coffee

Conferencing equipment

Food options available upon request

For more details please contact: info@chesterhouseestate.org

MY BEFRIENDER

Serve, a Rushden based voluntary organisation has worked for 40 years delivering services that enable a wide range of adults within the community to remain living independently in their own homes.

My Befriender is a story of one of our Volunteer Befrienders. Serve work with Northamptonshire Health and Care Partnership (NHCP) to deliver Befriending Support to Vulnerable adults across the county with the aim being to reduce the feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Myself, partner and two dogs moved to East Northamptonshire at the start of 2022. Having volunteered most of my adult life I researched local charities and found SERVE. Unsure of what befriending was, I was reassured when the Manager Jonathan Cook explained, ‘all we ask of our volunteers is to provide companionship’, I remember thinking yes, that’s something I can do!

The training was positioned perfectly and it was great to meet the staff in person. I learned alot about the role, in particular boundaries set to protect volunteers and befriendees. It made me appreciate the work that goes on behind the scenes and the value it has for those involved.

Another Befriending Volunteer asked about taking their dog? “As long as the befriendee liked dogs that would be fine” came the answer. I knew then, I’d want to take my 5-year-old terrier Honey with me.

In November I was humbled to be recognised as ‘Outstanding Befriender 2022’, and was invited to attend the ‘Sing with Serve’ Christmas carol concert. It was surreal – and that wasn’t just because of Jonathan’s singing! A brilliant event, I knew I’d found what I was looking for with volunteering, feeling like a part of the community.

I know I’ve gained a real friend, and the title of ‘befriendee’ now feels too formal for our relationship. It’s been comforting to know that I’ve been able to support my friend through some tough times, but in truth, the line between who is helping who is most certainly blurred, as the positive impact it’s had on my own mental health has been an unexpected bonus. All of this through just one hour a week.

Recently, I’ve been matched with another local individual where I’ve seen Honey yet again make a difference. I pop by during my lunch break which is a welcome change of scenery when working from home. I’m forever grateful to Serve for matching me with these people and to both Cheryl and Jonathan at Serve for being approachable whenever I’ve had questions.

It doesn’t feel like volunteering, and I guess that’s where the magic lies.

Jessica, Serve Volunteer Befriender

SERVE is a local independent charity offering services in North Northamptonshire to Older People, Informal Carers and local grassroots voluntary sector organisations. If you want to know more about how you can help, just ask: www.serve.org.uk

WHAT IS NNBN?

IT JUST GOT EASIER TO GET MORE FOR YOU & YOUR BUSINESS

The NNBN is the new and exciting business membership for Northamptonshire which is here to help businesses in the Northants area recover, build, and grow for a brighter future. The membership is open to businesses, organisations, charities, and students who are based in or provide services to Northamptonshire.

Our membership provides a large amount of benefits, which include:

MEMBER ONLY AREA & DIRECTORY

EDITORIAL & ADVERT IN NNBN DIGITAL EVENTS & NETWORKING

NNBN FUEL CARD

BUSINESS PROMOTION

NATIONAL BRAND DISCOUNTS

HEALTH & WELLNESS BENEFITS

NNBN APP ADVERTISING

WHAT MAKES THE NNBN DIFFERENT?

The NNBN is all about Northamptonshire and is the face of the business community in the area. We ensure members within the area are informed, engaged and up to date with what’s happening in the best interest of them and their business. We also keep them up to date with news, events and offers from our supporters of the NNBN.

WHAT DO I GET AS A MEMBER?

The NNBN membership gives you benefits for you, your family, your business, charity or organisation. The great benefits are split into two categories, benefits for you and benefits for your business. The great thing about our membership is even students and community groups can benefit, it is all about connecting communities and supporting you all!

Visit our website here: https://nnbn.co.uk

DOWNLOAD THE DISCOVERNN APP AND START EXPLORING

From culture, green spaces, theme parks and water activities to shopping, local eateries, health, beauty and business services, what’s the best way to discover all that’s happening across North Northamptonshire?

DiscoverNN is the answer, a brand-new mobile app launched by North Northamptonshire Council, powered by technology provider Bubltown and funded by Government’s Welcome Back Fund, awarded to local authorities across the country last year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the key aim of supporting local businesses and encouraging people to shop local, DiscoverNN features offers and tailor-made promotions for customers, geo-targeted events and activities, and is free to download.

The app is simple to use and available now for local residents and visitors to the area to help them see what’s on, find shopping opportunities, plan days out, make reservations, buy products, book services, plus much more!

Councillor Helen Howell, Deputy Leader of North Northamptonshire Council and Executive Member for Sport, Leisure, Culture and Tourism said: “We are really excited to be launching DiscoverNN, especially in the Spring when the weather is improving, school holidays are approaching and people are making plans to get out and about to explore.

It is a great way to bring everything together in one place, making it easy for people to discover North Northamptonshire from the palm of their hand.

“There is a wonderful range of tourist attractions in the area which are featured on the app and website including the Chester House Estate, Wicksteed Park, and our beautiful country parks, to name a few.

“DiscoverNN is for everyone, and we hope that residents and visitors will download the app and start using it to explore places they’ve never been to before to discover everything North Northamptonshire has to offer, which includes some real hidden treasures!”

Councillor Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council said: “COVID-19 has hit businesses hard, and the launch of DiscoverNN is just one of the ways we are supporting them to take steps forward, especially now everyday life is returning to how it was before the pandemic.

“We are working closely with a wide range of local businesses across the whole area to help them join this exciting new digital platform at no cost to them, so they can start promoting their offers and services directly to new and existing customers.

“We have over 60 businesses on-board so far and anticipate that this will continue to grow as more and more people hear about and start using DiscoverNN. We are proud of this app and are looking forward to seeing it build!”

DiscoverNN is available now on iPhone and Android app stores, people can search ‘DiscoverNN’ on their preferred store,or visit our website at www. northnorthants.gov.uk/discovernn to use the direct download links.

There’s still time for local businesses to sign up to be part of DiscoverNN, it’s simple, quick and free to join, and there’s support available. Businesses are invited to visit https://join.discovernn.co.uk to get signed up.

- Simon Cox, NNBN

D WNL AD THE APP

EXPL RE Y UR L CAL AREA

Search ‘ ’ on iPhone and Android app stores.

Business leaders often find themselves tied up with the day to day running of their businesses with no time to step back, take stock of recent challenges or focus on the future. In addition, managers in small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) can find themselves running successful businesses with little or no management training.

Over the past year, the University of Leicester School of Business has supported over 150 SMEs to innovate, boost productivity and build resilience through the 90% government-funded Help to Grow: Management course.

The course is completed over 12 weeks on a parttime basis and covers key topics such as strategy and innovation, digital adoption, winning new markets, employee engagement, responsible business practices, leading change and efficient operations. The course includes webinars, face to face workshops, peer group calls and 10 hours of 1-1 business mentoring resulting in a business growth action plan.

Feedback from course participants has been excellent and demonstrates that business schools can be impactful drivers of business development.

Nisha Ravat, Director at Leicester-based mobile green grocery, outlines the impact on her business:

Since completing the course, Sanjay Gogia partner at Stratford upon Avon-based Notary training says:

“It will prepare you to be a successful leader, acquire new managerial skills and develop business acumen. Grow your professional network and build business connections throughout the country. In particular the mentoring scheme is excellent. Mentors become trusted advisers who have “been there” and “done that”.”

Professor Paul Baines, Deputy Dean at the University of Leicester School of Business says “we are proud to be helping business leaders build their companies, especially after they had it so tough in recent years. The comments of our course alumni are fine examples of how business higher education can be made practical and make a difference”.

The Help to Grow: Management course is due to run until 2025 and we look forward to welcoming more business leaders on to the course in March.

Hear further from participating SME managers at https://youtu.be/O8JYzq68IlU and find out more HERE

“The Help to Grow programme has had a significant impact on my business already. I have gained confidence in approaching different sectors to grow my business and am already seeing the benefits. We have transformed our operations through digitalisation and are ready to expand our services to a second area”

NEED HELP FOR YOUR BUSINESS ?

As experts in business, we offer our members a wide range of vital business services including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice heard in government. Our mission is to help smaller businesses achieve their ambitions.

https://www.fsb.org.uk/

A Chamber of Commerce for Northamptonshire was founded in 1917 in response to the concerns of boot and shoe manufacturers over exports during the first world war and now represents around 1,000 Northamptonshire businesses.

https://www..northants-chamber.co.uk/

Providing free business support, the Growth Hub helps local businesses to identify and connect with the right guidance and funding to maximise potential and overcome challenges.

https://www.semlepgrowthhub.com/

The Business & IP Centre Northamptonshire supports entrepreneurs, investors and small businesses from the first spark of inspiration to successfully launching and developing a business.

https://www.bipcnorthamptonshire.co.uk/

Business and licensing information from North Northamptonshire Council

https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/business-and-licensing

Business and licensing information from West Northamptonshire Council

https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/

The Wellingborough & East Northants Chamber of Commerce was founded over 75 years ago and was formed to represent the interests and aspirations of local businesses. In 2019 the Chamber expanded to include East Northamptonshire.

The Executive Team includes individuals drawn from a wide range of backgrounds including Legal, Accounting, Commercial Property specialists, Planning Consultancy, Retail, Manufacturing, Marketing and Financial Services.

https://wencc.co.uk/

Small Business Britain is the UK’s leading champion of small businesses, supporting all 5.8 million small businesses in the UK – no matter their location, their sector, or their ambition level. Through a series of reports, events and campaigns, Small Business Britain champions, inspires and accelerates small businesses in the UK to foster growth and increased confidence.

https://smallbusinessbritain.uk/

Do you need to develop your capacity to push your business to the next level? Find trusted expert advice and fresh ideas from the UK’s leading business schools.

https://smallbusinesscharter.org/

Businesses in Northamptonshire can register with us to ensure you are kept up to date with the latest Government incentives.

Claim your FREE one hour advisory session and find out how you can grow your business.

https://digitalfuturefirst.co.uk/

The SME Climate Hub is a pioneering global initiative that aims to create a tipping point for mainstreaming climate action and building business resilience.

SMEs represent 90% of business globally, employing 2 billion people. We are here to support millions of SMEs as they commit to halve greenhouse gas emissions before 2030, and race to net-zero emissions before 2050. Our pragmatic approach aims to remove the obstacles SMEs face as they take climate action — whether curbing emissions in their own business or getting green solutions to market — and help them unlock valuable incentives.

https://businessclimatehub.org/uk/

Enterprise Nation is a vibrant community of small businesses and business advisers that exist to shortcut your route to trusted business support. Whether you’re starting or growing a business, we have the resources, expertise, and connections to help you get it right.

https://www.enterprisenation.com/