FIREWORKS
DESIGN & BUILD
CONFERENCES & EVENTS
www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 21.3
Business Information for Local and Central Government ENERGY
DRIVING FORWARD THE GREEN DEAL
How local authorities can help reduce energy bills for residents and businesses TRANSPORT
KEEPING ROADS IN GOOD HEALTH A long-term approach to road repairs
SPORT & FITNESS
GRASSROOTS SPORT Keeping community sport clubs running in an age of austerity
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COMMENT FIREWORKS
DESIGN & BUILD
CONFERENCES & EVENTS
Business Information for Local and Central Government ENERGY
DRIVING FORWARD THE GREEN DEAL
How local authorities can help reduce energy bills for residents and businesses TRANSPORT
KEEPING ROADS IN GOOD HEALTH A long-term approach to road repairs
GRASSROOTS SPORT Keeping community sport clubs running in an age of austerity
WHAT A LOAD OF RUBBISH What appears to be a politically motivated to-and-fro between Nottingham City Council and the DCLG regarding an untidy property made an unfortunate appearance in the national media last month.
www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 21.3
SPORT & FITNESS
Comment
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Service Public ork: Netw w p95 vie an over
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PROCUREMENT | FLEET MANAGEMENT | SIGNAGE | EVENT PREVIEWS
The Labour-run council said residents had complained about vermin due to rubbish left on the site of Lancaster House. A Section 215 notice was then sent to the DCLG, which gives the local authority the power to deal with property that is “detrimental to the amenities of the neighbourhood”, and gives the owner seven days to sort it out. Nothing happened from the DCLG’s end. At the time, Nottingham city councillor Sam Webster said: “I hope Mr Pickles is here this weekend and cleans some black bags out himself but I can’t see that happening.” However, it turns out DCLG never actually owned the property. Occupation and lease was by another government agency, and ended in August 2012. Baroness Stowell of Beeston, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the DCLG replied: “I would suggest it would be gentlemanly for the Council to offer an apology to the Secretary of State, given the unjustified and unfounded personal attack.” As yet, no such apology has been forthcoming, but that’s not surprising. Hopefully it ends the matter, which sounds like an utterly ridiculous waste of time. Whilst winter turns to spring, it has been revealed that it will take £12 billion to fix the UK’s potholes, a rise of £1.5 billion since last year because of the severe weather conditions. It is now predicted to take 12 years to clear the road repair backlog in England and Wales and 14 years in London, according to the Annual Local Authority Road Maintenance (ALARM) survey carried out by the Asphalt Industry Alliance (AIA). What’s more, compensation claims for car damage and injury caused by potholed or badly maintained roads now cost taxpayers £32 million a year and have soared by nearly 20 per cent in England and by 66 per cent in Wales. On page 19, the Institute of Highway Engineers presents two case studies showing how local authorities can benefit from taking a long-term approach to managing road repairs, stating that “councils should implement permanent repair solutions that add value to the road network rather than relying on ‘sticking plaster’ short‑term treatments to the road condition.” Danny Wright
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Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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Contents
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
CONTENTS GOVERNMENT BUSINESS 21.3 07 GB NEWS
15
Improved pension management could save £660m per year; LGA shared services map shows which councils are saving
13 PROCUREMENT: GOVERNMENT PURCHASING Sally Collier of the Crown Commercial Service on the benefits of simpler procurement networks for Government
15 PROCUREMENT: TARGETED RECRUITMENT
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation reports on how community-directed procurement can tackle poverty
19 TRANSPORT: HIGHWAYS
31
The Institute of Highway Engineers presents case studies showing how a long‑term view on road repair pays off
23 FLEET MANAGEMENT
ACFO chairman Damian James explains the tax implications of Budget 2014 for fleets
25 ENERGY 39
The Green Deal has the potential to reduce household costs, writes the Energy Savings Trust’s Andy Deacon
28 DESIGN & BUILD
Sarah Plant of the British Plastics Federation writes on the green virtues of PVC construction products
45
55
45 CONFERENCES & EVENTS: MIA
The Meetings Industry Association’s AIM quality mark gives event buyers confidence in venues
55 CONFERENCES & EVENTS: VISIT SCOTLAND Kerry Watson on an up and coming conference destination
63 ACADEMIC VENUE SHOW A preview of the event highlighting the conference capabilities of academic venues
64 MARKETING WEEK LIVE
Returning to the London Olympia in June, this event highlights industry innovations
67 IFSEC INTERNATIONAL PREVIEW The security industry’s largest event
69 CIH SHOW PREVIEW
The Chartered Institute of Housing holds its annual conference in June
75 FACILITIES SHOW Focusing on key FM issues
83 IOSH 2014 PREVIEW
A look at the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health’s annual event
31 SPORT & LEISURE
85 SAFETY & HEALTH EXPO
35 SIGNAGE
89 GREENBUILD EXPO
The Sport and Recreation Alliance’s Sallie Barker on local sport initiatives The BSGA’s David Catanach on clear signage in public buildings
39 FIREWORKS
Planning is key to successful firework events, says the EIG’s Tom Smith
93 GT NEWS
Local government data breaches grow, but penalties shrink; ‘Big Data’ centre to create more than 300 jobs; Surrey IT chief named as new Socitm president
Government Business
A preview of the event that brings together the entire industry buying chain
Delivering expert advice on efficient buildings
99 PRODUCTS & SERVICES 95 PUBLIC SERVICE NETWORKS
ISS
Turn to UE 12.3 p latest gage 93 for th techno overnment e lo and fe gy news atures
techUK’s Gemma Blakey on the challenges local authorities face when transitioning to the Public Services Network
www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
5
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TRANSPORT
Cities need long-term capital funding for transport says think tank report Major city regions across the country should be given Transport for London-style powers and funding certainty, according to think tank Centre for Cities in its new report Delivering Change: Making transport work for cities. The report says the fragmented provision and short term funding of public transport mean that too often urban transport networks are poorly connected, with big implications for economic growth. It provides a range of practical lessons for UK cities and Whitehall, drawn from transport systems in the UK and abroad. In particular, it highlights the role that Transport for London has played in supporting growth in the Capital, by offering an expansive, regulated and user‑friendly network that residents can use flexibly through the use of an ‘Oyster card’. The impact of this network has been dramatic – bus passenger journeys alone have increased by 80 per cent between 2000 and 2012 in the capital, despite bus usage across the rest of the country declining. London’s integrated transport system has increased the ability of people to find work and businesses to reach customers across London, unlocking economic growth and reducing carbon emissions. All while ticket prices have increased at a lower rate than in other cities. In order to bring these types of benefits to city-regions across the UK, the report recommends that the Government gives city-regions like Greater Manchester and the
Leeds City Region ‘London-style’ powers over their transport network, so as to allow for the better integration and coordination of services, including Oyster card-style ticketing; supports all cities to use their existing revenue raising powers – such as fees, parking regulations and procurement rules – to ensure that local transport services meet local needs, and; provides minimum 5-year transport funding settlements for all cities to provide certainty for effective planning and capital investment in their transport services. The report also recommends increasing the suite of revenue raising powers available to the Mayor and Transport for London to ensure that the Capital’s transport network can continue to cope with increased demand in the years ahead. Alexandra Jones, chief executive of Centre for Cities said: “Getting to work or school
GREEN DEAL
HOUSING
The Government’s flagship energy efficiency scheme is at risk of being undermined by scammers trying to make a quick buck, reveals new evidence from Citizens Advice Seven in 10 consumer queries to Citizens Advice about Green Deal are about scams. More than half of people caught out by these scams are contacted out of the blue, either over the phone or by door to door sales. The new figures come from an analysis of cases reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service in England and Wales between September 2013 and February 2014. The research comes ahead of Scams Awareness Month which launches on Thursday 1 May 2014. Citizens Advice wants to see a ban on cold calling and doorstep selling of Green Deal to protect consumers READ MORE: from fake tinyurl.com/klaebz4 firms.
to accelerate construction on smaller sites and support 15,000 jobs in construction. Housing Minister Kris Hopkins said the collapse of the unsustainable housing boom in 2008 had devastated the construction industry, leading to the loss of 250,000 jobs, and a falling market share for the nation’s smaller builders. Speaking at the Home Builders Federation, Hopkins noted that housebuilding is at its highest level since 2007 and climbing, but the government wants smaller housing schemes to play a bigger role in boosting the supply of new homes. The new investment will be made available to unlock ‘shovel-ready’ sites between 15 to 250 homes, which have their plans in place and the support of local people, but need financial help to get development moving. All developers will be able to apply for funding, but the focus on smaller schemes
GB News
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
can be a daily slog, especially when the bus, train and road networks are congested or poorly linked together. Too much transport is designed without thinking about how people live their lives. Cities outside London don’t have enough control over local transport to bring together all the local services, and this affects the economy because of the difficulties it creates in people getting to work or businesses trading. To help our cities grow, Government should give city regions more power to integrate and coordinate buses, trains and traffic, and they should give longer-term funding commitments so city regions can invest and plan for a better transport system – road, rail and buses – over the long-term.” DOWNLOAD THE REPORT: tinyurl.com/owejfn3
£525m Builders Finance Fund Scammers Over half a billion pounds of new investment continue to for smaller housing schemes will help build 15,000 homes has been announced. target Green Deal upTheto £525 million Builders Finance Fund aims
will benefit smaller firms who typically build on these sites. A prospectus published today will help housebuilders prepare their bids. However, while the fund will improve access to finance for some small house builders, the minimum threshold of 15 units will exclude many small and micro-house builders, the Federation of Master READ MORE: Builders (FMB) tinyurl.com/mulsjv5 warned.
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PENSION FUNDS
Improved pension management NEWS IN BRIEF Pembrokeshire chief asked to pay back supplements could save £660m per year The government has published proposals for better pension management that could deliver substantial annual savings for taxpayers that will build to £660 million a year over 10 years. The proposals draw on a public call for evidence and a report from city pensions experts, Hymans Robertson, who reported that the cost of investment in England and Wales was £790 million, much higher than previously thought. The government’s proposals aim to reduce investment management overheads and achieve a higher level of accountability through an improvement in the availability of transparent and comparable data. The savings outlined in the consultation are comprised of two main elements: Moving to passive management of listed assets like bonds and shares, accessed through a common investment vehicle; this could save £230 million annually by cutting investment fees and a further £190 million by reducing transaction costs, and; Using a common investment vehicle to invest in alternative assets, ending the use of high cost ‘fund of funds’ to save £240 million a year According to the government, common investment vehicles will allow authorities to bring together their investments, helping them to take advantage of their combined buying power and to invest more efficiently to deliver savings. In addition, passive management of listed assets will significantly reduce investment fees and transaction costs, without affecting the overall investment returns of the Local Government Pension Scheme. Local Government Minister Brandon Lewis said: “Under the last administration, the cost of town hall pensions almost quadrupled to nearly £6 billion, diverting taxpayers’ money from emptying bins, cleaning the streets and keeping council tax down. “This government is taking action to
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The chief executive of Pembrokeshire Council will be asked to pay back thousands of pounds after salary supplements were ruled unlawful. An extraordinary council meeting voted to instruct the council to write to Bryn Parry Jones and a second unnamed senior official asking for a gross sum of £45,606 to be returned. Pension contributions were paid directly to the pair to avoid tax, but an investigation found the payments to be unlawful.
reduce the massive and unsustainable cost of state sector pensions. The proposals I am setting out today will help reduce investment costs by £660 million a year. For the first year in recent memory, the cost of town hall pensions to taxpayers is now falling.” Responding to the consultation, CIPFA pensions panel chair Bob Summers said: “CIPFA welcomes the government’s decision to build upon the excellent work funds are doing in developing a range of collaborative working initiatives across the LGPS and we look forward to continuing our work with DCLG and the shadow LGPS advisory board to help deliver a LGPS that remains sustainable and affordable for employers, taxpayers and members in the long term.” John Wright, head of public sector pensions at Hymans Robertson, said: “Against the backdrop of poor information, full-scale merger of funds seemed the likeliest route – but now the story is different. Collective Investment Vehicles are now the government’s leading option in this consultation. These can deliver investment scale benefits across the LGPS faster than merger. They also make it possible to preserve local accountability and decision-making that would be lost by READ MORE: merging tinyurl.com/pejyys4 funds.”
Taxi licensing law change spells trouble says LGA
Relaxing rules about who can drive licensed minicabs would place the public at e. In id nulla risk, according to the Local aecenas at Association (LGA), Government which is warning against consectetur Government plans to loosen the law about who can get behind the wheel of a licensed vehicle. The LGA claims the move will make it impossible for councils to ensure the person actually driving the cab has been through the proper vetting process for licensed drivers which include checks on criminal records and medical checks. The LGA is also warning that dangerous minicab drivers could more easily challenge reviews of their licences following traffic
GB News
13
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
offences. This is because they could more easily claim another driver was responsible. Cllr Tony Page, LGA licensing spokesman, said: “Councils fought hard for the reinstatement of enhanced criminal records checks for taxi and private hire drivers and these irresponsible plans threaten to undermine that progress and remove this vital protection for passengers. Under the proposals, councils will also find it more difficult to revoke licences from reckless drivers who put passengers at risk by driving without READ MORE: care. tinyurl.com/qf59mot
Property sharing scheme to be extended The One Public Estate programme, established last June to get central and local government to share buildings, is projected to have saved £21m in its first year and is to be extended. Successful bidders will receive £40,000 in initial funding to bring agencies together and agree reforms to make better use of the public sector estate.
IPPR report looks at immigration concerns The Institute for Public Policy Research called for reforms to the system of free movement of people within the economic bloc to boost fairness. The think tank’s Europe, free movement and the UK report also stated public concerns over the unfair impact of migration, including from countries in eastern Europe, needed to be addressed.
More regions to be granted Assisted Area status More growth hotspots have been awarded Assisted Area status, the government has confirmed: Much of South Yorkshire was already included on the scheme but now Leeds, Scunthorpe, Huddersfield have been added to the list. Business Minister Michael Fallon said: “Assisted Area status can be a shot in the arm for growth and jobs across the UK.” Coastal towns including Arbroath, Blackpool, Hastings and Lowestoft can now also expect to receive support after being added to the map.
Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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AGGREGATED SCHOOL MIS DATA, ON DEMAND Groupcall XVault - School MIS data aggrega�on database for Local Authori�es and Academy Groups Automa�cally and securely collects school MIS data and delivers it to XVault Specifically designed for the educa�on sector Provides aggregated school MIS data for analy�cal, monitoring and repor�ng Data can be scheduled and delivered at a date/�me to suite you or on-demand Safe, secure and encrypted transmission of data between des�na�ons Simplis�c repor�ng interface Easy to deploy and provides scalability for future growth Used in more than 17,000 schools throughout the UK
Specifically designed for the Educa�on Sector, Groupcall XVault is a data aggrega�on tool that collects informa�on from mul�ple sources, providing easy access to all school data for analy�cal, monitoring and repor�ng purposes. Groupcall XVault is being u�lised by a wide range of Local Authori�es in the UK, who recognise that immediate access to aggregated school data offers wider benefits across many of their departments. XVault and XVault Repor�ng is also the solu�on of choice for Academy Trusts, who face the challenge of pulling together school data from disparate geographical loca�ons and a wide range of MIS systems. The system operates by offering scheduled or on-demand access to MIS data collec�ons and processes change events raised by schools. Data is stored in the XVault SQL database that can be interrogated by web services, SQL views and XVault Repor�ng. The aggregated data within XVault also provides added benefits for those teams within your authority or federa�on that require immediate access to data such as FSM (Free School Meals), LAC (Looked A�er Children), A�endance, Troubled Families and much more. In addi�on, Groupcall has developed a repor�ng interface (XVault Repor�ng), which provides non-technical members of staff with instant access to per�nent aggregated school MIS data.
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HOUSING
KPMG report calls on 2015 government to build more affordable homes
PLANNING
GB News
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Government looks to bash bookie planning permission
Without a radical programme of house building, average house prices in England could double in ten years, according to new research conducted by KPMG and Shelter. The report Building the homes we need – a programme for the 2015 government also reveals that more than half of all 20-34 year olds could be living with their parents by 2040, as soaring housing costs caused by the shortage of affordable homes leave more and more people priced out of a home of their own. The report outlines how the 2015 government can turn the tide on the shortage within a single parliament, and calls on politicians to commit to an integrated range of key measures, including: giving planning authorities the power to create ‘New Homes Zones’ that would drive forward the development of new homes; Unlocking stalled sites to speed up development and stop land being left dormant, by charging council tax on the homes that should have been built after a reasonable period for construction has passed; Introducing a new National Housing Investment Bank to provide long term loans for housing providers, and; Helping small builders to get back into the market by using government guarantees to improve access to finance. Campbell Robb, Shelter’s chief executive, said: “This report proves that the next government can turn the tide on the shortage within DOWNLOAD THE REPORT: a single tinyurl.com/mxb8tp3 parliament.”
Councils in England are to get stronger powers to prevent bookmakers opening on High Streets, the government has announced. Betting shops are currently in the same building usage category as banks and estate agents, meaning no planning permission is needed to open one. This is set to be changed to give local authorities an opportunity to- scrutinise proposals. Planning minister Nick Boles said the measure would help to promote healthy and vibrant town centres, but Labour warned the change would do nothing to help areas that already had too many betting shops. The government also announced it was also looking at controls on gambling advertising, including requiring betting firms to show how they were complying with social-responsibility codes when they applied for a licence. It has set out plans to improve protections for players on fixed-odds betting terminals, including making those who want to bet more than £50 in one play pay over the counter, meaning they have to interact with staff. Betting shop customers can currently lose up to £300 a minute on these machines. Boles said: “This is part of a wider set of measures designed to get empty and redundant buildings back into productive
SCHOOL BUILDING
SHARED SERVICES
use and make it easier for valued town centre businesses like shops, banks and cafes to open new premises, while giving councils greater powers to tackle the harm to local amenity caused by a concentration of particular uses.” Communities Minister Stephen Williams said: “Across the country many people are concerned about the explosion in the number of betting shops in some High Streets.” The Local Government Association’s licensing spokesman Tony Page, added: “We need to understand the detail of how these proposals will work in practice, and when they will take effect, but this could be a significant step in the right direction. “Councils are not anti-bookies, and understand that betting shops can be an important part of local communities that create jobs for local people. However, we know how concerned people are by clusters of betting shops taking over their local High Street, and there are also fears that people losing money through fixed-odds betting terminals are turning to payday lenders and loan sharks to pay off debts or READ MORE: fund their tinyurl.com/nudwsr3 gambling.”
Second phase of Priority School Building Fund announced
LGA shared services map shows which councils are saving
The Priority School Building Programme has been given £2 billion in funding to extend the scheme over the next six years. The news came as the Whitmore Park Primary School in Coventry, the first school rebuilt under the programme, was opened. The second phase is now scheduled to run from 2015 to 2021. Laws said that this was the biggest public effort to improve the schools estate in decades, and that the initiative was on track to meet its goal of improving 261 school buildings in very poor condition by the end of 2017. He said: “We will now refine this to look at individual school buildings, as well as whole school rebuilds READ MORE: where this is tinyurl.com/q9z6osd appropriate”.
The Local Government Association has re-launched the national shared services compendium and map, which now shows that at least 337 councils across the country are engaged in 383 shared service arrangements resulting in £357 million of efficiency savings. At least 95 per cent of all English councils are sharing services with other councils. The biggest year-on-year increase was in adult services, where costs were reduced by more than £5.8m, and the greatest savings have been made through collaboration on environment, waste and transport services since 2012, where nearly £84.5m has been cut from costs. Shared back-office services have contributed more
than £75m, while joint customer facing services has cut costs by over £72m. Peter Fleming, the LGA’s improvement and innovation board chair, said that at a time when local government funding was being cut, councils were taking action to save money. “Over the past year, the amount saved by sharing services has increased by £83m to £357m, an increase which demonstrates the extent to which councils have taken sharing services on board.” Fleming added that councils’ cost‑cutting endeavours were unable to match the scale of the cuts READ MORE: being tinyurl.com/pgtgckc imposed.
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Financial Analysis Services from D&B D&B is proud to have been selected to provide UK public sector bodies with financial analysis services as part of the RM1559 framework. This framework enables you to make informed assessments on the financial viability of potential suppliers for commercial relationships and monitor suppliers’ ongoing financial position. As the world’s leading source of commercial data and insight and with information on over 235 million companies updated over 1.5 million times a day through our patented quality process D&B DUNSRightTM, you can be confident that D&B’s data and scores can help your organisation to win. Key Benefits • Make informed business decisions with access to detailed D&B information on suppliers. • Receive updates via the D&B monitoring service should a supplier’s status change. • Share reports via an online central repository, which can be constantly downloaded saving you time and money. • Provides the ability to identify ultimate ownership of your suppliers – delivering insight around risk and purchasing opportunity. D&B Services available Obtain reports on both UK and non-UK commercial suppliers to assess any possible financial risks involved in contracting with the supplier. D&B reports are available in the following forms: • Brief reports • Detailed reports • International reports. All reports provide summary information including data used, high level financial interpretation, date of report and details of the company that produced the report (in cases where a sub-contractor is used). D&B Monitoring services Allow you to monitor the status of suppliers and receive regular updates based on agreed criteria. For Further Information on D&B products and services provided under the framework, please visit: http://www.dnb.co.uk/solutions/government-public-sector or contact:
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GOVERNMENT PROCUREMENT
Sally Collier explains how efforts to simplify government purchasing processes have helped both the private and public sectors to make more effective decisions Procurement isn’t something that generates reams and reams of column inches. But don’t be mistaken, it has a huge impact on the public. Just look at the figures. Annually government spends £45 billion on buying goods and services – that’s more than the combined GDP of Cyprus, Estonia and Cameroon. This means that if done badly, billions of taxpayers’ hard earned cash can be wasted; but if done well, it has the potential to further reduce the deficit and help us achieve the government’s long term economic plan. Unfortunately, government procurement used to be firmly in the ‘must improve’ box. It was bureaucratic and uncoordinated, and we weren’t getting the best deals or working with the widest mix of suppliers. We weren’t even talking to suppliers in a coordinated way, which meant government was unaware of what they could provide and they didn’t know what we wanted. But we’re changing all of that and starting to reap the benefits. At the forefront of this is a determination to strip out unnecessary procedures, enforce sensible controls on spend, and improve the way we buy. By doing this, our procurement practices will mirror those in the best run businesses. A FASTER SERVICE So far we have more than halved the length of the average procurement process, scrapped cumbersome pre-qualification questionnaires for smaller contracts, and replaced 6,000 pages of bureaucratic procurement guidance with 50 pages. Procurement is about helping hard working businesses get on, and these changes are particularly welcomed by smaller suppliers who simply don’t have the capacity to wade through endless paperwork. These SMEs often provide the most innovation and value for money, but in the past it was far too difficult for them to win business with government because of excess bureaucracy. We’re tackling this through our bureaucracy busting measures and thanks to new initiatives such as Contracts Finder
– which enables SMEs to spot opportunities more easily – and our published pipelines of government opportunities, which is helping UK businesses to plan ahead, invest and ultimately bid for more public sector contracts. The figures themselves show that this is working, with government spend with SMEs increasing by £1.5 billion since 2010. REFORM PLAN So, government is buying better and using its unique purchasing power more effectively. In fact, we saved £3.8 billion last year alone through our procurement reforms, but we know there’s more to do if we want to become the best client possible and deliver maximum value for taxpayers. We know that commercial skills have been lacking in government. That’s why we’re creating an exceptional Civil Service with strong commercial acumen through the Civil Service Reform Plan.
About the author Sally Collier is chief executive of the Crown Commercial Service and UK Government deputy chief procurement officer.
better relationships with our largest suppliers and maximise value in every contract. Their contract renegotiations have already saved hundreds of millions of pounds, and there’s more to come. So we have been on this journey since 2010 and we have now reached a critical milestone. We recently created the Crown Commercial Service which is at the centre of delivering these changes. It is bringing central Government’s commercial capability into one centre of excellence and is revolutionising the way we procure. It will work with Departments and wider public sector organisations to centrally manage commercial relationships. It will improve our market engagement and contract management and bring more informed purchasing – so an end to the days where two departments could pay different amounts for the same product.
Written by Sally Collier, Crown Commercial Service
A BETTER DEAL FOR A SMARTER CUSTOMER
Procurement
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Government is buying better and using its unique purchasing power more effectively. We saved £3.8 billion last year alone through procurement reforms, but we know there’s more to do By this I mean solid commercial and financial understanding and an awareness of what we need to buy, how to engage with the market to get the maximum choice, and how to manage contracts professionally. By boosting these skills, we will have a Civil Service that can help us lead the global race and adapt to a world where an increasing number of public services are provided by a mixture of organisations outside the public sector. PROCUREMENT EXPERTS We’re also improving commercial capability by recruiting experts from the business world as Crown Representatives. They are using their combined 150 years of specialist commercial insight to build
MAKING PROGRESS As the Crown Commercial Service’s Chief Executive and Accounting Officer, I’m excited by the potential that the organisation has and it’s pleasing that we’ve managed to bring in exceptional talent from both the public and private sector to make sure that it delivers. And importantly, the benefits will be felt across the whole public sector. Significant progress has already been made, but we will keep up the pace of reform in order to bring down the deficit and go further to deliver excellence in our commercial dealings. L FURTHER INFORMATION ccs.cabinetoffice.gov.uk
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TARGETED RECRUITMENT
Case study: United Welsh Housing Association
Procurement
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United Welsh Housing Association: Splitting contracts to enable SMEs to participate In two housing refurbishments in Cardiff, United Welsh piloted a direct management approach – purchasing the materials and procuring local SMEs on a labour-only basis. The value of each contract was therefore much smaller and viable for local SMEs to bid for. This maximised opportunities for local businesses and workers, provided the client with better control of the development process, and produced a 20 per cent cost saving.
SOCIAL VALUE FROM TARGETED PROCUREMENT
Adopting smarter procurement measures can deliver social and commercial gains. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s recent report, compiled by Richard Macfarlane of Anthony Collins Solicitors and summarised below, shows how it can be achieved Tackling poverty through employment is an essential part of sustainable development. Personal well-being, social cohesion and inclusion, and opportunities for all are part of the UK’s principles for sustainable development that all contracting authorities need to consider, not just those focusing on tackling poverty and disadvantage. Targeted recruitment and training, and procurement which is more friendly towards small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are key considerations in sustainable procurement. Processes for sustainable procurement in England are relatively weak on these social measures to help address poverty. Change will be more effective if contracting authorities are supported, encouraged and rewarded through key parts of the delivery process. For example, Value Wales provides training on community benefits for the public sector and a web-based community benefits mailbox where procurement teams can post questions and get advice. OVERCOMING BARRIERS Targeted recruitment and training requirements can be delivered at little or no extra cost, and the best contractors on a range of quality measures also score highly
on this requirement. Contractors are willing to deliver social and community benefits and get better at doing so over time, in part because they recognise the business benefits. Social enterprises are good at delivering social and community benefits, but face barriers in competing for larger contracts. More would be achieved by including community benefit requirements in larger contracts, which private companies mostly deliver. The barriers to social enterprises participating in public procurement exercises are similar to those facing other small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Providing some smaller ‘lots’ within procurement contracts is key to increasing tendering opportunities for social enterprises and SMEs. PROCUREMENT ISSUES The core requirements of a contract reflect what the purchaser has decided to buy – including social/community benefits – and value for money (and best value for a local authority) can properly reflect the cost of delivering all of the core requirements. Social and community benefits that are not core requirements should not be part of the value for money decision, although they can of course improve the value for money being achieved.
However, the fact that social benefits are core requirements does not in itself make them affordable, and a lot of the resistance to including these requirements may reflect a concern that budgets provided for what was traditionally purchased will now be spent in these areas. Affordability is not the only such concern. Procurement teams will also want to consider the potential impact on quality and timely delivery, although there can be positive outcomes here also. It is important to consider these other procurement issues when developing the specification for community benefit requirements, for example by focusing on benefits that can be achieved by different ways of working rather than by additional requirements that could add cost or by identifying additional budgets that can be used to fund the additional requirements. DELIVERING SOCIAL VALUE A number of umbrella organisations within the third sector have sought to emphasise the social and community benefits that the sector can deliver. This has been important in winning support for the Social Value Act in England and Wales. However, in terms of procurement processes social enterprises must bid for contracts in the same way as any other organisation. Once a procurement has been started, a contracting authority cannot favour any type of organisation. A purchaser’s decision to procure social and community value may improve a social enterprise’s chances of bidding for a public contract successfully, because they may be better equipped to deliver this element of the outcomes. However if a contract or subcontract is critical to the delivery of the works/services, the purchaser and main contractor will probably want to impose conditions that will ensure that its critical path outcomes can be met. These conditions may not be acceptable to the social enterprises in the market. What is critical for social enterprises are the barriers to their participation E
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TARGETED RECRUITMENT that result from: the scale and value of contracts being let and the technical and financial criteria that they have to satisfy. LESSONS LEARNED Over the last decade a substantial body of good practice has been developed. The lessons learned can be applied to services and supplies contracts at a general level, but in each sector there will be a need to develop skills and experience in drafting and facilitating social benefit requirements. Perhaps the most important and transferable lesson is that the best outcomes will be achieved where the principles of good procurement are applied to the social and community benefits requirements, including: adopting a clear and ideally measurable specification; selecting a list of bidders to tender who have experience and/ or commitment to delivering the requirements; giving weight to the social /community benefit requirements in the award process; and enforcing the contract requirements. These principles will be easiest to apply where the requirements are a part of the subject of the contract, i.e. a core requirement. This can be widely achieved by the purchaser adopting an explicit corporate policy on what social/community benefits it will seek from its procurements. Approximately 50 per cent of the beneficiaries of the target recruitment and
Case study: Devon City Council’s Kickstart programme
training requirements come from localities with high levels of deprivation. This use of public procurement to help address poverty relies on three interventions in the contracting process: understanding what is required to make a difference to poverty and using this in the drafting of the specification and contract conditions; identifying a ‘supply chain’ of organisations that help the contractor to deliver the requirements; and the collection of monitoring data and using this to enforce the relevant contract decisions.
Procurement
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Derry City Council’s Kickstart to Work programme. Kickstart’s strength is the process for getting into the most disadvantaged communities and helping residents to apply for opportunities arising through contracts. The Peace Bridge project used Kickstart’s job-brokerage service to employers to help them recruit long-term unemployed people from the most deprived communities. The volume of applications and successful appointments revealed the talent within disadvantaged communities.
CONCLUSIONS Sustainable development provides a clear route between policy and practice that public bodies can use in their procurement processes. There is a commitment to this in Scotland and Wales and an emerging approach in Northern Ireland, while the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 has the potential to improve the position in England. However, there is potential for the UK government to use sustainable procurement more widely. With concerns about growing poverty, declining social mobility, and the problems facing lower-skilled or less experienced workers the ‘just society’ elements of sustainable development need higher priority in public sector purchasing. It would be possible to achieve a significant impact on poverty and social mobility if the
whole of the public sector committed itself to generating a year’s work for a person from a target community for each £1 million in contract value, with a strong focus on targeting the most disadvantaged in the labour market. L FURTHER INFORMATION The full report can be downloaded from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s website: www.jrf.org.uk
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Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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21– 22 APRIL 2015 | OLYMPIA, LONDON
WORLD – INTERNATIONAL SECURITY FOR AN EVOLVING WORLD – INTERN
See You Next Year 21 – 22 APRIL 2015 | OLYMPIA, LONDON Co-Located with
21 April – 22 April 2015
HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE
NATIONAL SECURITY FOR AN EVOLVING WORLD
KEEPING ROADS IN GOOD REPAIR
Local authorities can benefit from taking a long-term approach to managing road repairs. The Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) presents two case studies showing how it can be done The Institute of Highway Engineers has called for local authority asset management plans to be made mandatory as part of urgent action to prevent local roads from falling into further disrepair. The organisation says developing and implementing appropriate asset management policies and plans at the local authority level is vital to the long-term strategic management of UK’s road network. IHE President Richard Hayes said asset management is a business-like approach to road maintenance and urged local authorities to put these plans into place: “Asset management addresses the mix and timing of strategies including maintenance, operation and new construction, needed to guarantee optimal service levels on the network over the lifespan of its individual component assets. “It encourages efficient use of limited funds and is estimated by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) to provide a minimum of five per cent savings over the long term for full implementation. “However, many local authorities are looking to achieve greater returns with Cambridgeshire County Council’s recent highway asset management strategy expected to deliver them financial efficiency
savings of up to 20 per cent in its budgets. “Whilst additional funding is required to maintain UK’s road network, it is asset management plans and policies which are the needed in the long term to maximise these finances. “A key recommendation of the IHE co‑sponsored All Party Parliamentary Report into Highways Maintenance published in October 2013 was to make asset management plans mandatory in return for access to central government funds for road maintenance. “It also recommended achieving a satisfactory steady state on UK roads to enable local authorities to start making planned and preventative maintenance over the long-term. “This will require both more and secure funding for periodic and structural maintenance, along with efficient use of funding through asset management principles.” REGIONAL REQUIREMENTS Mr Hayes said asset management plans varied according to regional needs and could incorporate a range of long-term measures including: implementing asset management plans to support additional
Written by the Institute of Highway Engineers
government funding; ensuring staff have the required competencies and skills to manage assets effectively; and utilising available funds and resources to reduce the worst defects on their local road network. If possible, councils should implement permanent repair solutions that add value to the road network rather than relying on ‘sticking plaster’ short‑term treatments to the road condition. Taking a long term view to highway maintenance will maximise the benefits. Finally, gaining political support will allow councils the maximum possible timescale to deliver preventative measures. Hayes said local authorities could take guidance from the asset management plans of Cambridgeshire and Hampshire County Councils who had differing approaches to the process: “The experiences of these two local authorities offer valuable guidance and case studies to other local authorities Cambridgeshire County Council has recently developed its new asset management strategy while Hampshire County Council has a well‑established and embedded strategy in place. “As these two case studies demonstrate local authorities will need strong political support and a longer term programme of funding and interventions in their asset management plans.”
Transport
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CAMBRIDGESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL In 2012, on-going budget reductions at Cambridgeshire County Council’s Economy Transport and Environment directorate resulted in the need to transform its highway maintenance into a more asset management focussed service. In 2013, an asset management team was established and the council participated in one of the Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme (HMEP) strategic peer review pilots to help identify how well the authority approached asset management and what improvements should be considered. A key outcome from the peer review was that the council’s highway maintenance should be focussed around a long term view that would help maximise available resources and sustain the conditions of the county’s highway assets. It encouraged the council to build upon its existing strong platform and make a step change in highways management. An implementation plan was produced in line with the findings from the peer review and advice from HMEP’s guidance documents. The main focus was to develop a high level policy and strategy for highway asset management with key activities and timeframes. STRATEGY & POLICY An intensive workshop to further develop the strategy was held with partner Skanska, key officers and members and focussed on the use of interactive Long Term Cost Prediction models. This allowed live evaluation of various investment and E
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HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE maintenance strategies and resulted in a consensus on what was most important for Cambridgeshire and its future direction. The resulting policy and strategy were approved by the county council’s cabinet in March 2014 and set out how the county’s highway network would be managed to make the best use of the authority’s available resources. The strategy will deliver financial efficiency savings of up to 20 per cent and is driven by a detailed understanding of the condition of assets across the county, and a technical assessment of which areas of spend will deliver best value. It adopts a preventative approach to the way the County’s roads and footways are maintained moving away from the previous corrective approach which was costly and unsustainable. It also maximises the life of highway assets by adopting a longer term approach in the selection of optimum maintenance interventions. The strategy, which aims to improve residents’ expectations of network condition, also recognises the importance of all types of roads to local communities and allows geographical considerations to be made on funding choices. A review of existing service standards and intervention levels for reactive and planned maintenance are the council’s next steps for 2014/2015, and will result in publication of Cambridgeshire’s first Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Plan. Jonathan Pearson from Cambridgeshire County Council said: “Gaining buy in from senior officers and members across all political groups was one of the main benefits that the council achieved during the strategy development.” “This helped us gain acceptance in taking a long term view to asset management, and allowed us to replace previous practice which was essentially based on a ‘worst first’ approach, and was both inefficient and expensive.”
ire Hampshouncil C County erienced has exprease in awareness an inc erception growing that asset management p e techniques would positiv e highway support delivering the of th enance required improvements. maint ice Following severe winter v ser weather in 2008-09, Hampshire
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Hampshire County Council had traditionally used revenue maintenance funds to reactively repair potholes alongside an element of capital funding to support some planned maintenance. It recognised that this approach was not costeffective and the overall condition of the highway network had not improved. From 2004, an asset management ethos began to develop as the council recognised that preventative treatments offered better long term improvements. The council set targets for improving performance based on national indicators and there was a
recorded a significant number of potholes and deterioration in the condition of the network. The county council was awarded £2.6 million in emergency capital funding from the Department for Transport to address the problem. Potholes and highway condition issues were considered by the council’s elected members who asked officers to evaluate the cost of both restoring the network to its pre-winter condition and improving the network’s overall condition. Lifecycle plans were then developed for all asset types on the network and these assisted in determining the funding needed to deliver improved levels of service. This work was used to build the case that approximately £100 million of additional funding was required to deliver the necessary improvements and provide a highway network with improved resilience to adverse weather conditions whilst delivering the required level of service. The elected members agreed to undertake a level of prudential borrowing to cover the costs of the required investment over a seven-year period. Asset management tools were used to support decisions on where and how this additional funding should be spent, and enabled the council to build a robust argument to explain what could be achieved with correct, directed resources. Steve Spender from Hampshire County Highways said, “A major issue we had to overcome was making sure that the right resources were available for the authority, our contractors and suppliers to meet the additional workload and deliver the work created with the additional funding.” Over the past two years, the authority
Transport
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has experienced an increase in positive public perception on the delivery of the highway maintenance service. It has also resulted in reduced network deterioration following successive severe winters and the overall road condition has stabilised. PROVEN SUCCESS IHE President Richard Hayes said asset management plans implemented by local authorities such as Cambridgeshire and Hampshire had led to proven successes and improvements. “However, the level of implementation varies among authorities and this underscores the need for government to make the asset management approach mandatory for all local authorities. “An asset management programme that includes lifecycle cost analysis, risk management, evaluating service standards and performance management, asset valuation, building a strong business case and long term investment planning has benefits for local authorities in the long-term. The risk of failing to take a long-term view will see UK’s road network deteriorate even further.” He said despite a clear need for asset management planning at the local authority level, there was a shortage of experience and knowledge in the field which was needed to make the most effective use of resources. “The IHE has developed a competency based training programme in asset management for local authority staff so there is a pool of qualified asset management practitioners that will consider an asset over its whole lifecycle and resist short-term actions. “IHE’s asset management courses provide entry level and experienced asset managers with tailored advice on best-practice.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.theihe.org
Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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FINANCE
TIME TO TALK TAX All vehicle-related taxes – company car benefit-in-kind tax, Vehicle Excise Duty, capital allowances and the lease rental restriction – are all linked to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and the message from the Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne’s Budget 2014 could not be clearer: choose zero or low-emission vehicles or pay the price. While the Chancellor did not tinker with Vehicle Excise Duty, capital allowances or the lease rental restriction in this year’s Budget he has announced increases in company car tax over the next five financial years to the end of 2018/19. Taken at face value it cannot be denied that the increases may appear significant, but ACFO continues to believe that company cars represent good value for money notably when compared with paying tax and National Insurance – a tax in all but name – on salary. REPLACEMENT CYCLES But let’s first look at what the Chancellor announced in this year’s Budget in relation to company car benefit-in-kind tax. Fleets are extending replacement cycles to cut costs and as a consequence of the ever‑increasing reliability of today’s vehicles. Historically we have only known benefit‑in-kind tax rates for three years, and occasionally four years, in advance. However, as businesses have retained company cars into a fourth and even a fifth year in some cases, employers and employees have been left in the dark as to what benefit-in-kind tax bills will be in the final year or two of operation. Budget 2014 changed that with tax rates now known for the next five years – up to and including 2018/19. BIK CHANGES Benefit-in-kind tax rates up to the end of the 2016/17 financial year were already known. Changes already announced mean that from April 6, 2015 the introduction of two new company car tax bands at 0-50g/km of CO2 and 51-75 g/km of carbon dioxide (CO2); and from April 6, 2016 the removal of the current 3 per cent tax surcharge on diesel company car thereby treating them the same as petrol‑engined models for benefit-in-kind purposes. That means drivers of diesel cars with emissions above 75g/km will actually incur the lowest tax bill rises over the next five years. In the Budget the Chancellor announced that in 2017/18 and 2018/19 the appropriate percentage of list price subject to tax would increase by two percentage points
for cars emitting more than 75g/km of CO2, to a maximum of 37 per cent. However, the Chancellor has changed his mind in relation to previously announced increases in rates for the two lowest thresholds – 0-50g/km and 51-75g/km – and altered the differential between those rates and the 76-94 g/km threshold. In Budget 2013, the Chancellor said that the differential between the 0-50 and 51‑75g/km CO2 bands and between the 51-75 and 76-94g/km bands would be three percentage points in 2017/18 reducing to two percentage points in 2018/19. However, in Budget 2014 he said the differential would be four percentage points and three percentage points respectively reducing to two percentage points in 2019/20. AN INCENTIVE? By maintaining a higher threshold differential than was previously announced the Chancellor can claim to be incentivising the take-up of ultra low emission low emission
at the wheel of diesel models. For example an employee choosing a Peugeot 208 1.6 e-HDi (95g/km) will see their tax charge rising from 15 per cent to 20 per cent over the next five years having actually reduced in 2016/17 compared with 2015/16. Simultaneously, while employees will see their company car benefit-in-kind tax bills rise employers will incur increases in Class 1A National Insurance contributions, which are due on benefits-in-kind. Although there has been much focus on the increased taxation of company cars, especially zero and ultra low emission vehicles, it remains ACFO’s belief that company cars continue to offer value to employees and employers alike. Not only that, but there remains significant concern among employers across the public, private and voluntary sectors in respect of employees driving their own cars on business from a occupational road risk management perspective. It should be remembered that it is easier to manage a company car from a work-related road risk perspective than a
Written by Damian James, ACFO Chairman
Chancellor George Osborne’s 2014 Budget included significant changes to company car tax over the next five financial years. Damian James, ACFO Chairman, summarises the points of interest for fleets
The message from the Chancellor is clear: choose zero or low-emission vehicles or pay the price cars – defined by the Government as those with emissions of 75g/km and below; but the reality is that in choosing such models drivers will still face major increases in their tax bills over the next few years. For example, an employee choosing a pure electric Nissan Leaf (0g/km) will have 0 per cent tax liability in 2014/15 rising to paying 13 per cent of the model’s P11D value over the next five financial years. Meanwhile, an employee choosing a Toyota Prius Plug-in hybrid (49g/km) will see their tax charge rise from 5 per cent in 2014/15 to 13 per cent in 2018/19 – an eight percentage point increase and more than doubling their tax liability. Move up a further tax band threshold and the driver of a Lexus CT200 Hybrid (87g/km) will see the tax charged moving from the 11 per cent bracket to the 19 per cent bracket over the next five years. That eight percentage point rise for the Lexus driver is identical to the rise for the employee at the wheel of a Ford Fiesta 1.0 Zetec (99g/km) and for other drivers choosing cars with higher emissions. TAX WINNERS However, because the Government has chosen to abolish the diesel tax surcharge in 2016/17 the tax “winners” will be employees
privately-owned car and, in most cases, those vehicles will be more environmentally‑friendly because they are newer. Managing employees’ privately-owned cars can be administratively time‑consuming for managers with checks on vehicle documents including insurance, services and MoTs having to be routinely undertaken. Today, an employee paying basic rate tax choosing a Ford Fiesta 1.0 Zetec three-door (99g/km) will pay £249.58 in benefit‑in‑kind tax (11 per cent) rising to £508.82 in 2018/19 (19 per cent). In the five years 2014/15 to 2018/19 that employee’s total company car tax bill will be £2,008.50. It is impossible for that same employee to buy, maintain and insure the same car at a similar cost. Therefore, while ACFO acknowledges that benefit-in-kind tax rates will rise over the next five years, employees choosing low emission vehicles will pay a lower rate of benefit‑in-kind tax than previously envisaged due to the Chancellor delaying the reduction in differentials between the three lowest CO2 tax thresholds for longer. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.acfo.org
Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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LIGHTING
ENERGY SAVING SOLUTIONS FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR
New and innovative lighting technology is helping both public and private sector organisations meet their energy saving targets Energy wastage has always been a problem for schools, colleges and public buildings, but with increasingly tight budgets and pressure to reduce CO2 emissions, now is the time to face up to the challenge in reducing energy costs. Historically, lighting has accounted for a large proportion of energy costs in public buildings. However new and innovative technology now gives the opportunity to reduce lighting costs by up to 90 per cent. European Lamp Group’s well established sales team have proven credentials and an impressive track record in offering excellent customer service and delivery. As well as continuing to supply general and specialist lamps, ELG hold comprehensive stocks of fluorescent and discharge control equipment, available for next day
delivery. The company has carried out lighting upgrades from small single units to roll‑out projects in excess of £1million. THE IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING Quality lighting enhances the experience of both staff and visitors and is especially important to buildings in the public sector. The need to maintain a feeling of safety and security is crucial for all areas with public access. Employees need quality lighting to perform their daily duties effectively, especially with the flexibility that different working areas demand. In addition, studies have shown that lighting can have a positive effect on comfort and stress levels, and can contribute to reduced absences and increased productivity.
Historically, lighting has accounted for a large proportion of energy costs in public buildings, however new and innovative technology is giving schools and colleges the opportunity to reduce their lighting costs by up to 90 per cent
ELG’s lighting design service can help create the ideal environment for staff as well as visitors. The company partners all major UK lighting manufacturers as well as reputable factories in the far east who are at the forefront of energy-saving technology. ELG works closely with the public and private sectors, including the education sector, leisure centres and the NHS. The company has also helped to considerably reduce energy costs and carbon emissions for many high street establishments such as Asda , Marks & Spencer and Whitbread. NEW LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY LED technology offers a wide range of energy saving solutions, and since it was introduced to the market five years ago, ELG has closely monitored the development of this technology, and in response to growing demand, the company has set up it’s own in-house testing facility. All ELG’s products have been rigorously tested to the highest standards in output, reliability and safety. ELG also tests for EMC emissions to ensure that factory specifications are correct and units do not exceed safe levels. This testing is extremely important, especially in education establishments. ELG also has a range of induction and fluorescent options in stock, together with 8000 lines of lamps and tubes. Whichever type of lamp you are looking for, the chances are that ELG has it in stock. ENERGY SAVING SURVEYS The company offers free, no obligation energy saving surveys for any sized room with cost of ownership reporting to suit your individual needs. ELG dispatch to all points in the UK daily from small packets to pallets, delivering what you want, when you want. ELG’s showroom has been developed over the past four years and has a huge selection of energy-saving solutions including LED floodlights ranging from 10 to 500 watts. Other products on display include LED strip, down lights, lighting panels, high and lobays and the showroom also has full range of induction luminaires that not only reduce energy but also offer huge savings on maintenance costs. Induction can save up to six lamp changes against traditional discharge and comes with a no-quibble five year guarantee. L FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0844 991 4400 publicsector@europeanlampgroup.com www.europeanlampgroup.com
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
A GREENER DEAL FOR LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Written by Andy Deacon, director of development, Energy Savings Trust
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Energy
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
The Green Deal aims to help households across the UK become more energy efficient. Andy Deacon of the Energy Savings Trust looks at ways in which local councils can drive it forward The Energy Saving Trust has always believed that being more energy efficient in the home is by far the most cost effective way of lowering our demand for energy and at the same time lowering energy bills. Saving energy – not wasting it – makes total sense. A big part of saving energy is installing the right energy efficiency measures in the home. This is especially relevant in the UK which has one of the leakiest housing stocks in Europe.
on the energy bill. Despite the scheme being mainly focused on industry driving consumer demand for energy efficiency measures, local authorities could still play a vital role in making the Green Deal work for households in their areas that could benefit the most. FORGING PARTNERSHIPS Through the Green Deal, there are great opportunities for local authorities to help reduce energy bills for local residents and
In getting involved with the Green Deal the recommended model for local authorities involves forming partnerships with others, such as local businesses, to help deliver the scheme Millions of UK homes could benefit from investment in insulation, windows and heating systems, with the government-backed Green Deal being a scheme that seeks to increase the number of energy efficiency measures installed in homes across the UK. Instead of paying for the full cost of the measures up-front, these will be paid back through the savings
businesses. In getting involved with the Green Deal the recommended model for local authorities involves forming partnerships with others, such as local businesses, to help successfully deliver the scheme. Indeed this is an approach favoured by the majority of local authorities, as they establish vital relationships with installers and businesses looking to install
and offer Green Deal measures to the public. However, ensuring that all the strategic planning comes from local authorities will be important. No-one knows local areas better than the local authorities; therefore this knowledge and insight could prove to be vital to businesses trying to establish what homes could benefit most from measures offered under the Green Deal. To maximise the impact of the Green Deal and energy efficiency in general it’s vital that energy efficiency measures are targeted at homes that need them the most. This is where the importance of local authorities in delivering the Green Deal comes into play. Many local authorities will have data on their housing stock, which can be used to identify the homes most in need of energy efficiency upgrades. IDENTIFYING THOSE MOST IN NEED The fact of the matter is that some households need home energy efficiency investment more than others. However, finding these households most in need is not always simple. There’s a need to focus on co-ordinating data from local authorities and other organisations with additional insight to target the coldest and most expensive to heat homes, along with the most vulnerable households. E
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Assessor
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GREEN DEAL, CERTIFICATION AND SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTANTS IN KENT GDAS Limited forms the sustainability division of Bailey Associates which is a Chartered Engineering and Architectural Practice, offering the full range of professional building works, surveying and project management services for projects up to £15 million.
Loft & Cavity Wall Insulation External Wall Insulation Heating & Renewable Energy Technologies National Energy Saving Grant Funding Green Deal Finance, Installations & Assessments
The Practice is fully covered by Professional Indemnity Insurance. We are Quality Assured to EN ISO 9001:2000 and are an Investors in People Company Completed green deal projects included major pilot schemes for London Boroughs, all schemes considered.
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
Installer Reg No. GDI BBAI3714/STRI10133 * Authorised for measures listed on www.aranservices.co.uk
Aran Services Ltd is a Green Deal Provider working closely with many registered housing providers and private home owners. With over 10 years of trading as the leading provider of home insulation in East Anglia.
Bailey Associates was formed in 1983 as a Building Services Consultancy. During the late 1980s it became apparent to us that Clients were better served with a “One Stop” facility for all Professional Services and consequently we developed into the 1990’s as multi-disciplined. 2012 has now seen the addition of our sustainability division via GDAS Limited which continues to grow in 2014.
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
and SME to sell energy efficiency. With the right training and knowledge, local tradespeople can be more confident about offering energy efficiency measures to homeowners, not only leading to increased sales, but also leading to households that are more receptive to the potential benefits of energy efficiency. THE REQUEST INITIATIVE The REQUEST project that we undertook with the trade found that 75 per cent of tradespeople felt more confident about offering energy efficiency measures to homeowners when they were in a position to provide relevant energy saving advice. The project also reaffirmed the idea that information about energy efficiency needed to be communicated to homeowners at the earliest possible moment of a retrofit or refurbishment project. Giving homeowners extra time to save and allocate the money. This supports our ‘Trigger Point’ research that 85 per cent of households would extend their budget by ten per cent to pay for the necessary energy saving improvements. More importantly, the REQUEST project went a long way in highlighting the vital role that industry will have in driving consumer demand for energy efficiency, especially if tradespeople have sufficient and confident knowledge. Other, less direct ways of getting involved in the scheme involve local authorities promoting the Green Deal through their local channels. There are concerns that the public is not receptive to the Green Deal and how it could help them make their homes more energy efficient. However, local authorities can assist by communicating this information to those living locally, perhaps communicating the Green Deal in a way that is applicable and relevant to the local area.
Rather than looking at themselves to deliver the Green Deal, local authorities might achieve more through empowering the local tradesperson and SME to sell energy efficiency Alongside targeting the right households, a relevant message in communicating the benefits of energy efficiency is important. This means not developing a “one-size fits all” approach in delivering the Green Deal and energy efficiency but understanding each individual household in the housing stock, whether they could benefit from the Green Deal and which energy efficiency measures will benefit them the most. To make all of this a reality, there’s a need to engage the local trade who will be delivering energy efficiency and installing the measures in homes. Many households will use local tradespeople and SMEs to carry out home improvement works.
According to our consumer survey, households appear to be far more trusting of the local tradesperson above anyone else. 60 per cent said they would take on a trusted local business to install energy efficiency measures in their home. If local authorities engage the local tradesperson then it can be a highly effective way at encouraging take up and investment in energy efficiency. At the same time there’s a wider opportunity to drive local economic growth and the generation of jobs and skills through supporting the local trade. Rather than looking at themselves to deliver the Green Deal, local authorities might achieve more through empowering the local tradesperson
COUNCIL INVOLVEMENT The role of local authorities in the Green Deal is vital, with a level of involvement from local authorities being required to help deliver the scheme. There are numerous ways that this can be achieved but the focus has to be on empowering local trade and industry to drive public demand for energy efficiency. This could be achieved through providing local housing stock data and insight to support the delivery of the scheme or training and support to local tradespeople to install energy efficiency measures and deliver energy saving advice. Essentially the Green Deal is designed to lead consumer demand for energy efficiency measures through industry, so local authorities will need to form partnerships with local businesses to make this happen. The opportunities under the Green Deal are there for local authorities – it’s up to them to get involved and work out how they can make the scheme work for them and their area. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
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Design & Build Written by Sarah Plant, senior executive of the British Plastics Federation
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
PROCUREMENT
BUYING CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS WITH ECO VIRTUE
Sarah Plant, senior executive of the British Plastics Federation, explains how PVC construction products can help local authorities meet their public procurement obligations by virtue of their economic, environmental and sustainability credentials European Union directive 2004/18/EC states that public bodies are required to buy products with the lowest whole life costs that are fit for purpose, ensuring that public bodies across the EU are getting the best value from expenditure of public money. In the UK, directive 2004/18/EC has been transposed into UK law as the Public Contracts Regulations (2006). FITNESS FOR PURPOSE Fitness for purpose should take into account the performance and environmental credentials of the products chosen. In the case of building and construction products, there are several measures of environmental performance that can be applied. In the UK, the Building Research Establishment (BRE) has published The Green Guide to Specification, which rates products in terms of their ‘ecoprofile’.
PVC PRODUCTS PVC building and construction products are a cost effective choice offering a long product life with minimal maintenance requirements. A fact supported by many whole life cost studies such as the European study carried out by Professor Alessandro Marangoni of Althesys Strategic Consultants which compared the total cost of ownership of PVC windows, pipes and flooring with the most commonly used alternatives. In recent years, the European PVC Industry has transformed its environmental performance via the VinylPlus (www.vinyplus.eu) sustainable development programme. VinylPlus is a ten‑year Voluntary Commitment by the European PVC Industry building upon the achievements of its predecessor Vinyl2010 and taking the next important steps in establishing a long-term framework for the ongoing sustainable development of the PVC
Many UK public procurement bodies now appear to be selecting PVC products in favour of alternatives due to their superior technical and economic performance whilst demonstrating compliance with Public Contracts Regulations As well as environmental credentials, the performance of the product during the use phase should not be ignored as, for some products, energy efficiency can be a more significant factor than the product’s ‘ecoprofile’. In the case of window systems for example, the energy rating of the window, measured by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC), has a significant influence on the total energy efficiency of the building in which the windows are installed. Opting for a better energy rated window has a number of benefits, including saving significant amounts of energy (and associated CO2 emissions) whilst adding to potential long-term cost savings through reduced energy bills. Once a product has completed its useful life, waste management is also an important consideration in fitness for purpose. In this instance, products that can be or are being recycled have an advantage.
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
value chain. VinylPlus is registered as a partner with the UN Commission for Sustainable Development and was recognised in the keynote speech of UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon at the Rio+20 Earth Summit in 2012. GRADE A RATINGS In the latest edition of the BRE Green Guide, PVC window frames, PVC flooring and PVC roofing products have all achieved the highest A+ and A ratings. In addition, the vast majority of window systems now achieving A energy efficiency ratings have PVC frames. There has also been a massive surge in the recycling of PVC products following the introduction of the Recovinyl scheme (www.recovinyl.com). Audited data included in the 2013 VinylPlus Progress Report demonstrates that post-consumer PVC recycling across the EU28 stands at over 360,000 tonnes per annum (with a VinylPlus commitment to
increase this to 800,000 tonnes per annum by 2020). The UK has demonstrated leading progress, recycling over 75,000 tonnes of PVC windows, cables, flooring and pipes per year. LOCAL AUTHORITIES FAVOUR PVC Many UK public procurement bodies now appear to be selecting PVC products in favour of alternatives due to their superior technical and economic performance whilst demonstrating compliance with the fit
for purpose and best value requirements of the Public Contracts Regulations. Recent examples include Stockton-on-Tees Council whose whole life cost study found it was possible to install and maintain twice as many PVC windows as alternatives for the same price; A fact replicated by Brighton & Hove City Council who calculated that by installing PVC windows, guttering, floors and cables (instead of alternative products), they could make a saving of over £30 million in their housing and works programme in addition to a £1.2 million reduction in their annual maintenance budget. A report for the Scottish Government also found that “replacing old windows with modern PVC-u double glazing can reduce heat losses through windows by half, saving around £110 per year on fuel bills, and around 720 kg CO2.” Similarly, the benefits brought about by using PVC products are gaining recognition within local housing associations such as, the Watford Community Housing trust who installed 25,000 ‘A’ energy rated PVC-U
windows concluding that, “…the programme could help the trust cut CO2 emissions by up to 76,500 tonnes over a ten year period.” FIFE COUNCIL CASE STUDY As part of Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan (launched June 2010), and in order to meet Scottish Housing Quality Standards, Fife Council decided to review their specification for domestic windows to be installed as well as the methods of disposal of removed windows. The aim was to create an ‘A’ energy-rated window with a 35 year expected lifespan which would not only bring about cost benefits (through reduced landfil tax liabilities) but also provide environmental savings. Over a two year period, Fife were able to create a ground breaking specification offering major fuel savings and reduced CO2 emissions; PVC products enabled them
Design & Build
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
to procure windows which complied with their sustainability and energy efficiency objectives whilst providing the best value for money. By using a zero carbon manufacturer and by recycling the removed windows and doors, this new approach of joined up purchasing from cradle to grave enabled Fife Council to position themselves as a market leader in sustainability and good practice. By using ‘A’ energy-rated PVC windows, Fife Council calculate, using information and data from the UK Energy Savings Trust, that this brings 25 per cent efficiency savings. The new windows installations will bring estimated fuel savings for a three bedroomed house with central heating to £286 per year. This equates to £10,010 over the 35 year lifespan of the new window, with a 2.29 tonne reduction in CO2 emissions per annum per property. By installing these windows in all 32,000 Fife Council houses, there is a potential emission savings of a staggering 200,375 tonnes by the end of their lifespan.
for Optingenergy r a betteindow has , rated wr of benefits e a numb ding saving s inclu nt amount a signific rgy and CO 2 of ene issions em
LONDON 2012 OLYMPICS CASE STUDY Sustainanbility was a core component of the London 2012 Olympic project to create venues, facilities and infrastructure for the Games that would leave a lasting social, economic and environmental legacy. Positioning PVC as a significant player in the Games’ sustainability efforts, London2012 published a policy on the use of PVC in 2009. The policy set out parameters for using PVC on the London2012 project including requirements in relation to manufacturing as well as a take-back and re-use or recycle clause. The objective of the policy was to stimulate the PVC supply chain to find innovative ways to provide environmental and sustainability benefits – a challenge the PVC supply chain embraced and exceeded upon. Following the games, London2012 concluded that “the functional properties of PVC make it the most appropriate material in certain circumstances.” In all, over 142,000 sq.m of PVC tensile fabric were used in the construction of Olympic Venues and more than 63,000sq.m of PVC flooring was laid throughout the Olympic Park, a testament to the benefits, both technical and environmental, that can be achieved by specifying PVC. Procurement decisions in favour of PVC products are being made at the highest level. At a time of economic austerity, using PVC products can not only save money but can also help to meet targets for developing better housing with improved comfort and insulation whilst complying with the highest sustainability and environmental requirements. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.pvcexplained.co.uk
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LOCAL SPORTS
Sallie Barker of the Sport and Recreation Alliance talks us through the current state of publicly funded sport and the work her organisation does to promote fitness in the community Sport and recreation are good for us, and good for our communities – making us happier, healthier, and wealthier. Local clubs and facilities can provide a focal point for a community, bringing together volunteers, participants and supporters of all ages and walks of life. Grassroots clubs do tremendous work bringing a wide range of value to local communities and they do it, often, on very limited budgets. This puts them in a very vulnerable position – vulnerable to spending cuts, legislation changes, and, as we have seen this winter, vulnerable to the weather. GAINING SUPPORT At the Sport and Recreation Alliance we work with our members and government to ensure that grassroots sport and recreation is protected and provided for. We provide an independent voice as the umbrella organisation for the national governing and representative bodies of sport and recreation.
Most of our work involves engaging central government through discussion and dialogue with policy makers, consultation responses, campaigns and the All Party Parliamentary Group for Sport for which we provide the secretariat. But some areas of our policy work undoubtedly have an impact at local level. The most significant of these is our work on the Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC) scheme. The scheme was launched in 2002 by central government to recognise grassroots sports clubs in the tax system and enable local authorities to grant clubs relief from business rates. From the beginning it has provided great benefits for clubs, including 80 per cent mandatory business rate relief and up to 100 per cent discretionary relief, amongst others. For many local clubs this can mean the difference between surviving or having to close. But the scheme was not perfect – we identified some problems that were causing issues for clubs and deterring
Written by Sallie Barker, chief executive, Sport & Recreation Alliance
COMMUNITY SPORTS IN AN AGE OF AUSTERITY
others from joining, and following a long period of close engagement with officials in HMRC, we succeeded in negotiating changes to improve the scheme. The recent announcement of these potential improvements has been a significant boost to community sport in this country, and demonstrates how our engagement with central government can have a great impact at local level. Another related area of work is some research we undertook at the end of last year into the discretionary rate relief that local authorities grant to sports clubs – a tax break which can be granted to not for profit organisations, such as community sports clubs, to help reduce business rates.
Sport & Leisure
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
RATE RELIEF Through the Government’s increasing focus on localism, the responsibility for making decisions about offering discretionary rate relief has shifted almost entirely to local authorities. Our research, published in December 2013, represents the most in‑depth and up-to-date analysis in this area. We found that there are pronounced differences in the amount of discretionary rate relief offered by local authorities across the country. Some local authorities grant this relief to a large number of clubs, while others seem less willing. We also found stark differences in the criteria used to assess whether a club is eligible for relief, as well as the level of budget set aside to provide this support. We recognise that this inconsistency is a symptom of increased local control over budgets and that what we are seeing is a nuanced picture of the support given to clubs. Local authorities differ in geography and population size, as well as E
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
LOCAL SPORTS
National governing bodies have instigated a number of great schemes to increase participation in sport and recreation – schemes such as Back to Netball and Cardio Tennis demographic makeup. Such inconsistencies may simply be a sign of local authorities responding appropriately to differing levels of demand. Discretionary rate relief is the primary way that local authorities can give support and help to ease the financial burden on community clubs. We continue to encourage both clubs and local authorities to take full advantage of what can, for many clubs, be a lifeline. But local authorities are facing increasing cuts to the amount of money they have to spend and this inevitably has a knock-on effect on community sport. Where clubs operate on very limited funds and rely on volunteers, even small reductions in their funding can have disastrous consequences. OBSTACLES When other factors play a part as well, community clubs can find themselves really struggling. At the end of last month we carried out a snapshot survey to find out how the spate of bad weather had affected grassroots sport fixtures. We asked 460 sports clubs and 105 grassroots football leagues about how the bad weather had affected them. The results showed that 60 per cent of sports clubs and 96 per cent of grassroots football leagues had to cancel fixtures this season due to bad weather affecting the pitches they play on. In addition, out of the respondents who said they paid for pitch hire, 50 per cent of clubs and 60 per cent of grassroots football leagues said their pitch hire costs had increased since last season. If clubs are unable to organise training sessions or play fixtures then they will soon find themselves losing members. And when that happens in numerous sports across the country then we see national participation figures declining. In some cases cancellations are unavoidable but much of the time smarter investment in maintenance or in more modern pitches would have allowed play to continue. We understand that many councils are facing local funding cuts, and as sport is not currently a statutory responsibility, increasing disinvestment by local authorities seems likely. But investment in sports facilities should be seen less as spending money to allow people to have a good time and more about making a long-term investment in the health and wellbeing of communities.
is a risk that these clubs won’t get the support that they need. This is where our members, as the national governing bodies of sport and recreation, have a crucial role to play. They are an important source of support for community clubs. National governing bodies have instigated a number of great schemes to increase participation in sport and recreation – schemes such as Back to Netball and Cardio Tennis. Schemes like these help to drive people back into physical activity and provide an avenue to guide participants towards local clubs. In addition, schemes such as England Netball’s Club Action Planning Scheme provide important support to individual clubs. This scheme helps community netball clubs to increase membership numbers, develop coaches, volunteers and links with local schools, and improve aspects of club management. It also provides financial rewards when clubs achieve different levels of the scheme. So with local authorities likely to face increasing pressure from funding cuts, our members will become more and more important in supporting community sport.
Sport & Leisure
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
CONTINUED EFFORTS For our part, we will continue to support and encourage national governing bodies to help maintain the structure of community sport in this country. We will also continue our work with government at national and local levels to ensure that sport and recreation are not harmed by legislation. Sport and recreation are a vital part of our local communities and we want to make sure that clubs can continue making us happier, healthier and wealthier. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.sportandrecreation.org.uk
THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE Physical activity can have huge effects on society – our Game of Life research showed the impact that sport and recreation has on physical and mental health, education and employment, anti-social behaviour and crime, and social cohesion. Doing 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity five times a week reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by 40 per cent. Exercise can be as effective as antidepressants for those with mild clinical depression. And 81 per cent of sports club members say they make friends through their exercising. At all stages of life, physical activity can have an amazing impact – elderly people with low physical activity levels have more than twice the risk of Alzheimer’s, and at the other end of the spectrum, seven out of ten teenagers believe that antisocial behaviour occurs because they are bored. Physical activity cannot be ignored as a wonderful solution to many of the problems that we face as a nation. Investment in sport and recreation is needed to help community clubs innovate and thrive and continue to bring a whole range of benefits to society. But where local authorities are under pressure from budget cuts, there
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Signage
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
SIGNAGE
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
PUBLIC SIGNAGE
Most signs will be seen on the move and will need to be read and understood in an instant. British Sign and Graphics Association director David Catanach gives some points on getting it right The very first thing many people see of your existence is your sign. The sign does two things. It acts as a beacon, guiding the customer or visitor to the right location and, more importantly, it delivers a message about your services to citizens. Get it wrong and it will convey the wrong message, which it turn will discourage a customer from buying your product or service. However, get it right and signage can be a powerful tool which will inform service users and help them be more relaxed in your environment. The importance of well-designed and planned signage as part of your overall marketing strategy cannot be overstated. The question is how do you get it right? To find the right answer you will need to consider a number of factors. What are the right
type of signs for your service? What are the design criteria and what content should the signs have? Who should make your signs? Find out what materials should be used to create and construct the signs, and whether you need planning permission to erect your sign. You should also check how you can meet your legal obligations if the sign requires maintenance and inspection during its lifetime. A COMPLEX SKILL Creating successful signage involves more than an attractive arrangement of logos, pictures and slogans. It requires the understanding and blending of complex elements such as marketing and demographic and it requires an understanding of ‘visual acuity’. The task is further complicated by the fact that the people will be on the move when they see the sign and it must be possible to read and understand its message in an instant. It’s worth repeating, no
Creating l successfu signage re mo involves tractive t than an aement arrang ictures p of logos, ogans and sl
matter how good your product or service is, if your sign does not make people stop and inform, it has failed. Investing in professional sign design is sound advice. Experienced designers understand how to get attention and, more importantly, how to get the right reaction. (see boxout) Mathematical formulae do exist for calculating the optimum values for many of these things and in the case of road traffic signs are enshrined in the relevant standards and legislation. However, it’s not simply a matter of dropping a few numbers into a spreadsheet and waiting for it to generate the design.
Written by David Catanach, BSGA
SIGNS THAT WORK FOR PUBLIC SERVICES
Signage
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
CREATIVITY While an experienced sign designer should have an understanding of the fundamental principles, it is far more important that he or she has the creative ability to combine these elements to produce a sign that works for public services. It is also vital that the designer has knowledge of the materials, production E
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PUBLIC SIGNAGE techniques and standards which apply to or are used in the construction of signs. And then there are the planning requirements. This is why it makes sense to consult a reputable signmaker (such as a member of the BSGA) at an early stage in the design process. Most signmakers have a good idea of what the planning authorities will allow and will be able to advise on the suitability of designs and availability of materials. They may also be able to suggest more effective – and very often much cheaper – alternatives to those specified. Nowadays, many signmakers also boast an in-house design capability and will happily help create workable concepts that meet both aesthetic and budgetary considerations. When a project is particularly complex, or involves many different types of sign, the best signmakers will produce prototypes to test feasibility and will also supply material samples so that the client and his agency can see whether the ‘glossy effect’ they had so fondly envisaged is viable. Although wayfinding is a greatly underrated specialism, it actually takes a great deal of skill to produce an attractive and effective wayfinding scheme, which guides visitors smoothly around a complex of buildings or floors and then safely back. Wayfinding signage is vital if any large visitor location with multiple entrances and facilities. Retail parks, shopping centres, schools, universities, hospitals, theme parks etc. Even a large, multi-storey car park needs wayfinding signage. A key consideration when designing a wayfinding scheme is the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Again this is something where a specialist (BSGA) signmaker or design consultant can help. Information on the requirements of the DDA in relation to signage can be found in the sign design guide. CHOOSING A SIGNMAKER We have given numerous examples of why it is vital that you chose a reputable signmaker. So, how do you find a reputable signmaking partner – one that is capable of delivering signs that best meet your needs and at a cost you can afford? It may seem like a daunting task, but the good news is that in the UK there are a large number of superbly equipped, highly skilled and very creative specialist companies capable of providing you with signage of the highest quality. Of course, as in any other business sector, there are also a number who will happily promise the earth, take your money and then fail to deliver. The question is how to avoid these. One way is to check that your signmaker is a member of the British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA). The approved signmaker search facility on our website will help you do this. It includes profiles of all Member companies and links to their web sites, where you can find more information on the services they provide. All Members of the BSGA are vetted before joining and all have signed up to the
Association’s Code of Practice, which is designed to promote the highest standards, design, workmanship, health and safety, and commercial practice within the sign industry. The BSGA badge is the sign of a quality signmaker. It is essentially the code of practice that sets members of the BSGA apart from many others in the industry. The fact that they are members is a clear indication that they are serious businesses and are serious about the sign industry. Should any member be found to be seriously in breach of the code, the BSGA Council will either suspend membership or expel the member completely through it’s dispute resolution service. Your choice of signmaker will, to a large extent, depend on the nature of your signage requirements. If you are looking for single facia sign for your offices with maybe a ‘wrap’ for your delivery vehicle, then a local sign shop may be the ideal partner. However, if the project is part of a major re-brand across multiple locations you may need to consider one of the larger sign manufacturers. Whatever, the case we have recommend that you employ a signmaker that displays the BSGA badge – you know that quality of product and service is key to our members. Because there are so many different materials and lighting systems now available, many sign companies have chosen to focus on a specific sector of the market – e.g. wayfinding signage. If you need a traditional hand-painted sign or coat of arms then, your signmaker will require a very different set of skills and experience than if you are considering a digital signage network. Where BSGA members offer particular skill sets, they are detailed in their profiles in the approved signmaker search. Choosing a BSGA Member for signs has never proved to be a wrong move. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.bsga.co.uk
Signage
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Sign legibility Sign legibility depends on many factors, but the more important are: Letter size – generally, the larger the size, the greater the legibility. Letter shape – some letter styles are more legible than others. In particular, script and extended letter styles are more difficult to read unless they form a well-advertised brand name or logo (e.g. Coca Cola). Letter spacing – letters are more discernible if they are spaced apart at a reasonable distance. Crowding together, particularly of adjacent vertical strokes can make them difficult to read. Brightness – to be legible, a sign has to be bright enough to stand out from its surroundings. Location – signs will be more legible if they are placed in a position without competing or confusing backgrounds. Colour – a sign with a colour that contrasts well with that of its background will be more legible than one where the colours tend to merge. Other factors which can influence the design are letter height, spacing and viewing distance, not to mention the legibility coefficient of individual letters or, just as importantly, your corporate colours.
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Explosive Entertainment C R E AT I N G S P E C TAC U L A R F I R E W O R K S D I S P L AY S AC R O S S T H E U K
Working with you at public and school displays safely. Flashpoint Fireworks is an established, professional pyrotechnic company based in Surrey, near Guildford. We provide displays nationwide for councils and schools, including large public events. Flashpoint has worked with schools & councils including; Eton College, London Borough of Richmond, plus at public and private schools in Surrey, Hampshire, East Sussex, Essex, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. The most important aspect of any firework display is safety. Flashpoint’s safety record is exemplary and many of our display team come from a Health and Safety background. We keep up-to-date with the latest changes in legislation so clients can have total confidence in our ability to provide a fantastic and safe display. We have comprehensive £10 million liability insurance 365 days of the year. Our insurance details are always available on request and are supplied to all organisations we work with. We are also members of the Explosives Industry Group (EIG).
If you would like to discuss an event you’re planning please contact Jason Mayes on 01483 417475 or alternatively email jason@flashpoint-fireworks.co.uk
British Musical Firework Champions AMAZING DISPL AYS FIRED WITH SPLIT SECOND ACCUR AC Y
Telephone: 01483 417475 Web: www.flashpoint-fireworks.co.uk Email: jason@flashpoint-fireworks.co.uk
PUBLIC EVENTS
Firework displays can draw public interest to major occasions. Tom Smith of the CBI Pyrotechnic Group talks about how to put together an event successfully and safey In an increasingly litigious and risk averse society, it is vital that the commissioners of firework displays take due care in awarding contracts for displays to ensure not only that the greatest artistic production can be achieved, but that it can be achieved at sensible cost and with as low risk as possible. It is not simply a case of the biggest ‘bang for the buck’. Publicly-funded events place an unusual responsibility on event enforcers who need to be assured that the professionally fired shows are truly being fired by professionals
who understand the risks that are being created. Firework displays are not risk free – in the same way that any other aspect of a major event is not risk free including
SITE ASSESSMENT Where the site is flexible, then it may be possible to tailor the firing position, for example on barges, to maximise the fallout area (because some of what goes up will, inevitably, come back down) or alternatively the show must be designed to maximise the potential for firing under a variety of ‘most likely’ and ‘worst case’ scenarios. Careful consideration must also be given to what is achievable under a variety of E
Firework displays are not risk free – in the same way that any other aspect of a major event is not risk free including the transport used by the public attending the event
Volume 21.3 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Written by Tom Smith, chairman, CBI Pyrotechnic Group
MAKING YOUR EVENT GO OFF WITH A BANG
the transport used by the public attending the event. What is vital is that the risks are carefully managed and are as low as possible – under the conditions that display will be fired. The process of managing the risks involves all parties – the event organiser, the event producer, the enforcing authorities and the firework contractor – and requires a sound comprehension of the risks involved.
Firework Displays
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
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Sonning Fireworks Consistently thrilling pyromusical displays driven by passion, innovation and world leading technology
Let our videos speak for themselves w: www.sonningfireworks.co.uk e: enquiries@sonningfireworks.co.uk p: 01189 272 362
PUBLIC EVENTS
Questions to ask when organising a fireworks display What fireworks are suitable for the display under the widest variety of conditions on the site, at the time and date of the display? Does the site offer flexibility to maximise the likelihood that a display can be fired – have such possibilities been identified? What cancellation and curtailment criteria are there and how will these be monitored? What plans and procedures are in place to modify or even halt the display up to and including the time of firing the display itself? If the contractors tendering for an event cannot provide this basic information and agree how to proceed, then perhaps they are not the right company for the job.
Firework Displays
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What an event organiser may want may be impractical to achieve, and what a firework contractor may propose may not be appropriate under the conditions imposed by the event meteorological conditions – the weather on the night of the display, especially in November or for New Year, is unlikely to be that during the pre-event site visits. From an event safety point of view a realistic appreciation of the risks is also vital and the event organisers must be clear what level of risk is expected. At the Melbourne Commonwealth Games in 2004 we calculated that from all the fireworks fired from the roof of the Melbourne Cricket Ground stadium approximately seven pieces of debris would reach the audience. Careful choice of firework types and rigging methods, however, determined that none of those pieces would cause any significant injury to spectators, performers or athletes. The Victoria government and the event organisers were prepared to accept this level of risk, and in the end there were two minor claims for marking of clothes. If an attitude
of ‘zero risk’ had been adopted then it simply would not have been possible to fire any fireworks from the stadium roof. Their view, backed up with sound technical assessment meant the show could go ahead – and the techniques developed and the lessons learnt have been used at similar scale events around the world since, even when the authorities have not been, perhaps, so enlightened. LARGE EVENTS The largest displays, like that on the Thames for New Year, will also involve the co-operation of the media – and the event planning can and should include a number of alternative display firing schemes so that all those involved can be suitably briefed before the display commences. The number of people travelling to London (74 per cent of the live audience live outside London) to see the New Year display is such that if the event is E
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
PUBLIC EVENTS About the author Dr Tom Smith is chairman of the CBI Pyrotechnic Group (www.eig.org.uk) and Secretary of the British Pyrotechnists Association (www.pyro.org.uk). He is the Managing Director of CarnDu Limited (www.carndu.com), an independent explosives consultancy, and has worked on some of the most major firework displays around the world. He is also the co-developer of the Shellcalc© programme for informing risk assessment at displays and is the author of a recent textbook – Firework Displays: Explosive Entertainment (www.fd-ee.com). to be severely curtailed or even cancelled, then they need to know from about noon on New Year’s Eve, and the on-site security staff, marshals, the media and the transport authorities need to react accordingly. In addition, there is an estimated TV viewing audience in the UK alone of more than 13 million, and hence broadcasters need to also be fully aware of the contingency planning well before the event takes place. Add to the equation the estimated £30 million boost to London’s economy as a direct result of the event and it can be seen that not only is it vital to hold such events, but to ensure that the planning processes in place to manage them successfully, be it crowd management, transport infrastructure, and the event contingencies themselves are all in place. As an aside it is interesting to note that the environmental impact (in terms of pyrotechnic combustion by-products) for an event such as the London New Year’s Eve displays is about 0.2 per cent of that produced by the various transport methods used to get the audiences of over 500 people there. Of course there are those nay-sayers who assert that not holding the event would mean all these pollutants would be saved from reaching the atmosphere – but national events need to be appropriately celebrated, and the population needs and deserves to be entertained – and the fireworks themselves contribute so little to the overall environmental impact of the event as to be negligible.
standards. BPA membership is currently some 46 of the largest and best established UK companies and collectively BPA members organise some 95 per cent of all professionally fired displays in the UK. The BPA has developed two training courses for professional firers, and its Firework Firer and Senior Firer courses are endorsed by City and Guilds. Over 1500 people have now successfully achieved one of the qualifications, and have been issued with ID cards backed up by a listing on the website to authenticate them. The Explosive Industry Group of the CBI (CBI/EIG), although not a trade association, has endorsed this course and recommends its own members adopt similar principles. There are currently about 85 firework company members of EIG, ranging from the importers and manufacturers of consumer fireworks and theatrical pyrotechnics to the largest display companies in the UK. The EIG membership also includes manufacturers, importers, transporters, storage companies and users of both civil and military explosives and the expertise from the whole sector is made available widely via a series of industry guides and codes of practice, many of which are relevant to the organisation or professional firework displays. Members of both organisations will be able to provide a professional service which has a proportionate level of risk management to the scale of the event. It is simply neither practical or appropriate for the organisers of every display to examine the potential risks and plan contingencies to the same level as something on the scale of the Olympic and Paralympic opening and closing ceremonies – but if that level of management is not possible then the experience and expertise of these companies, developed over many years, will produce stunning spectacles that are as low risk as is possible for the site, the conditions and the budget. L
Firework Displays
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FURTHER INFORMATION www.eig.org.uk
A COMPLEX OPERATION The British Firework Championships, held annually at Plymouth for the last 15 years, is an example of where this co-operation and event planning work really well. The event, funded by Plymouth City Council, attracts over 200,000 people each year and boosts the local economy by approximately £5 million annually – the cost of the actual fireworks per head of the viewing audience is in the order of a few pence. Six displays (three each on two consecutive nights in mid August) of 10 minutes each showcase new products and the highest level of the firework display designers’ art. But behind the scenes is a complex operation involving extensive event planning and determination of constraints for each competitor, let alone the task of organising the judges. Our role during the planning phase of major events is probably best described as ‘honest broker’ between the event organisers and the firework display contractors. What an event organiser may want may be impractical to achieve, and what a firework contractor may propose may not be appropriate under the conditions imposed by the event. Our role is to independently assess the two, often opposing, regimes and to formulate objective curtailment and cancellation criteria that all parties can sign up to before the event even starts. At smaller events this task is carried out by the event organiser and the contractor themselves but the same basic features should be examined (see panel). WHAT TO LOOK FOR So what do we recommend in the UK that commissioners of displays to look for? The British Pyrotechnists Association has been the trade body for the UK’s professional display companies for many years and its members operate to a Code of Practice and uphold the highest
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TRAINING EXCELLENCE FROM HOLIDAY INN
NEW STATE OF THE ART DESIGN, DELIVERING MEETINGS SUCCESS ACROSS LONDON The Academy at Holiday Inn London-Bloomsbury, Holiday Inn London-Regent’s Park and Holiday Inn London-Kensington Forum
GROUND-BREAKING AND INNOVATIVE SPACES As part of our hotels’ multi-million pound refurbishment, The Academy has undergone a pioneering redesign to reflect industry insight, leading trends and technology to deliver cutting edge facilities, state of the art break-out spaces and brighter meeting rooms.
Exciting new extras include: • Flexible working and meeting spaces • New energising food menu • Superfast WiFi • Retro gaming table and table football* Be one of the first to DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF MEETINGS. Bookings now being taken. Call 0207 341 3400 or visit www.londonacademymeetings.co.uk for more details.
*Football table subject to location.
ACCREDITED VENUES
AIM HIGH WHEN BOOKING VENUES
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
AIM is a quality mark from the Meetings Industry Association that demonstrates to event buyers that a venue is compliant, competent and capable
Securing the right hotel, venue or event supplier for the right dates, quality and price is a labour intensive task that only adds to the pressure of achieving the objectives set for an event. Some event planners are well‑versed with the quality and variety of product offered by some of the venues in the UK but others simply haven’t had the time or the opportunity to familiarise themselves. With the current UK venue and hotel offering so extensively populated, there was a need for the meetings and events industry to develop a kite mark of quality and ethics for event organisers. Thus, the Accreditation in Meetings (AIM) was developed by a thorough consensus-based process involving top organisations from the meetings industry, Visit Britain and purchasing communities, in a collaborative effort that represented the interests of more than 50 industry stakeholders. Introduced in 2007, the standard further raises the bar in terms of the quality of the meeting facilities, legal compliance, ethical business operations and sets the benchmark for other venues to reach. AIM lays out a framework of 50 standards to be met from 10 categories including business planning and resources, booking and contracting processes staff training and of course customer service delivery. RIGOROUS STANDARDS Accredited venues have met a rigorous set of agreed standards and commit to a strict code of practice which asks the venue to prove
ham Nottingence Confer quickly has Centre established becomene of East as o ’ premier s Midlandts venues even
that as an operator it is consistent, open, decent and ethical. Nick Milne, Chair of AIM Development Group, commented: “Our Accredited in Meetings scheme is the only UK conference, meetings and events industry standard of product and service quality assurance. In the last seven years we have welcomed on board more than 500 venues nationwide, from unique venues and hotels, to academic and sporting
venues, AIM provides its members with a fixed hallmark of excellence in our continuously evolving sector.”
ASSURANCES Working with an AIM accredited venue assures buyers of meetings and conference venues of high quality standards, professionalism and integrity. Compliant venues have meeting facilities and spaces that are fit for purpose, are legally compliant, and accountable through an ethical E
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ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND
aining historic tr Uniquie and nce centre set re and confe in Greater London es cr a 8 10 in training years of • Over 90 e experienc ry om arche ivities, fr lding to • 30 act ui b ft ra g, to climbin zip wire oms uite bedro tique en s • 35 bou
Offering amazing value and facilities, Gilwell Park is ideal for training, meetings and events. And don’t forget our sister conference centre, Baden-Powell House in central London too.
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Gilwell Park, Bury Road, Chingford, London E4 7QW t: 020 8498 5300 e: gilwell.conferences@scouts.org.uk Registered Charity Numbers 306101 (England and Wales) and SC038437 (Scotland)
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GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
NATIONAL COAL MINING MUSEUM
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ACCREDITED VENUES code of conduct. AIM accredited venues also ensure standardisation of best practice, have advanced knowledge of every element of the costs, and have industry approved contracts and terms and conditions. What’s more, they are committed to service excellence, and the AIM logo is a well‑known means of identifying venues that meet and maintain high standards. AIM is a mark of reassurance to meeting and event buyers; a demonstration that a venue is compliant, competent and capable. With three levels, from Entry level accreditation to AIM Higher, where venues and suppliers can achieve Silver or Gold, the AIM accreditation establishes that members have attained a high level of expertise within the meetings, conference and events industry. AIM Gold status, the highest possible level of venue accreditation, confirms a venue’s compliance with a more stringent set of criteria and a tangible demonstration that their facilities and services are of the highest standard, customer service delivered is second to none and catering and hospitality at the venue is exceptional.
GOING THROUGH THE LEVELS AIM is a multi-faceted accreditation, designed by independent industry professionals to cover the essential compliance, competencies and capabilities meetings and events venues and suppliers should adhere to in their everyday operations. To ensure this, AIM at Entry Level: checks legal compliance; enforces a strict business code of conduct; examines a venue’s facilities; and examines business references. As an Entry level AIM venue you can expect a good level of facilities with good quality catering, in a fit for purpose venue at an honest price reflective of the venue and service you can expect to receive. Most importantly, you can be reassured that the venue is legally compliant, competent and capable meeting even the most stringent procurement criteria. SILVER LEVEL To achieve Silver AIM accreditation shows an enormous amount of commitment and dedication by the whole conference, meetings and events team. The process is
demanding as it examines every element of the business tracing the customer journey from first contact to last feedback. Every venue celebrates the achievement because it clearly reflects the service they offer you. At a Silver level AIM venue you can expect an exceptional level of facilities with excellent service levels that are reflected throughout from your first welcome to your final goodbye. You can expect catering to be of a very good quality and you can expect staff to be efficient and helpful. You can expect the price to reflect the quality of the venue and service.
Conferences & Events
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GOLD LEVEL To achieve Gold AIM accreditation involves the whole conference, meetings and events team in a massive journey, a journey which demands a team of assessors examining the minutia of the business and the client offer. Venues achieving Gold really are at the very pinnacle of the industry and the pride that they feel in achieving the Gold accolade is reflected in their client service and offer. E
AIM rk is a ma ance ur of reassing and t to mee uyers; a event b tion that a tra demons is compliant, venue etent and comp able cap
Nottingham’s purpose-built NCSL (National College of School Leadership) Learning and Conference Centre has been accredited AIM Gold status
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Extensive conference facilities 25 minutes from London Across its venues ConferenceHertfordshire provides extensive meeting and event facilities for the serious conference buyer...
Coming * Soon in 2015 Brand New Accommodation! 路 1600 additional en-suite bedrooms 路 New social facilities 路 And LOTS MORE!
de Havilland Campus
The Fielder Centre
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The Forum
College Lane Campus
- 1,600 ensuite bedrooms - Lecture theatres and 50+ seminar rooms - State-of-the-art Auditorium - Restaurant for 450 - Fabulous sports facilities
- All year round facility - Air conditioned conference room seating up to 200 - 5 seminar rooms - Dining facilities for 200 - Free car parking for over 200 delegates
- Social Venue for 300 people - Private and Public hire available
- Entertainment space for up to 2,000 people - Flexible space for exhibitions, product launches, gala events and award dinners
- 3,000 en-suite bedrooms* - New social facilities
ConferenceHertfordshire Hatfield Business Park, Hatfield Avenue, Hatfield, Herts AL10 9TP e sales@conferencehertfordshire.co.uk t 01707 285032
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ACCREDITED VENUES At a Gold level AIM venue you can expect first class facilities with the very highest levels of service reflected throughout from your first welcome to your final goodbye. You can expect exceptional catering using the highest quality ingredients and equipment. You can expect efficient staff with an eye for detail. You can expect the price to reflect the quality of the venue and service. HELPING VENUE BUYERS The AIM standard helps corporate companies, associations and government bodies to save time in sourcing suitable venues as it identifies venues that will go the extra mile to care about their client’s business. AIM accredited venues add value to meetings and events and they measure the effectiveness of the events. Using an AIM accredited venue ticks procurement departments’ boxes and the standard acts as a trusted third party assurance. Nick Milne added: “To have an accreditation which highlights a hotel, venue or event supplier’s suitability is of great value for all those involved in the booking and procurement of meetings and events. This is the most important accreditation within the industry to look for as it shows customers from the outset the level of standards accredited venues are operating at.” AIM helps to identify quality providers of meetings and events facilities that are in sync with event planners’ and organisers’ needs and expectations. Event planners can therefore gain an increased confidence in their chosen venue by using AIM as a tender or bid pre-requisite. With this function in mind, the standard provides specifications that fit into most strict existing tender frameworks. WHAT THE BUYERS SAY? Jacqui Kavanagh, managing director from Trinity Event Solutions, commented: “In the current climate, constant changes in hotel brands and ownership have meant that our industry cannot rely on a brand to determine an expectation of the meetings and events experience in the same way you can rely on the bedrooms experience. “Thus, the introduction of AIM accreditation within the UK meetings and events sector is a great improvement and support to us to ensure our clients have a standard that they can expect when booking their events. The pre and post event feedback we have received to date supports this, both in terms of our bookings processes and our overall client experiences. “In our 16 years in business, we have developed a confidence in those venues that have achieved the accreditation and found them exemplary. The front line sales team are much more intuitive to the client’s needs and understand clearly how the interaction of the agency with the client works. The process is clearer and
The miaList 2014 is revealed it is very transparent that a higher level of both competency and professionalism exists in these hotels and venues. It is more obvious that the hotel contact values the opportunity and has a greater awareness of the value MICE business has to the hotel in general. When the event is confirmed, we feel more comfortable that the client experiences a smooth transition from sales to the coordination process and that the professionalism progresses through to the overall event. All in all, an AIM accredited venue offers standards, professionalism and experience that we and our customers can rely on and that hotels and venues are prepared to guarantee.” The certification to AIM Standard provides a conclusive way for a venue, hotel or event supplier to differentiate itself from its competition through demonstrating a commitment to product and service quality. Nick Milne added: “Just as AIM certification is a strong selling point for venue, hotel and event suppliers moving forward, I can also envisage an industry in just a few years’ time where meetings and event organisers will only use AIM certified suppliers as the industry standard or rue the consequence of not doing so.” ACHIEVING GOLD There are more and more venues achieving the top Gold AIM accreditation status every day. Nottingham Conference Centre is one such venue. It opened in 2010 as part of the re-development of two of Nottingham Trent University’s iconic Grade II listed buildings and has quickly become established as one of the East Midlands’ premier events venues. Hosting more than 400 clients every year from informal meetings, training seminars and presentations to trade shows, exhibitions and conferences, it provides first-class customer service and specialist event management expertise to ensure every occasion is a success. The centre is equipped with the latest audio‑visual technology, has Wi-Fi access throughout and offers full catering facilities. The building features large tiered lecture E
At a celebratory lunch hosted by Church House Conference Centre, Westminster, on Monday 7 April, new meetings industry association (mia) chairman, Andrew Mosley and Steve Knight, event director at the Meetings Show, revealed The miaList 2014.
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Ten of the most passionate, enthusiastic and hardworking people from the meetings and events industry are included on The miaList every year. This year there were many more nominations all of an exceptionally high calibre giving the judges a difficult task when it came to awarding places on the 2014 miaList. Julie Cassidy, Conference Sales Manager, Aztec Hotel & Spa Lucy Deller, Senior Event Manager, Central Hall Westminster Danny Horgan, Academy Operations Manager, Holiday Inn London Bloomsbury Natasha Hughes, Customer Relations Manager, Burleigh Court Helen McGlynn, Conference Sales Co-ordinator, The Old Swan Hotel Katie McPhee, Community Marketing Manager, Eventbrite Inc Sean Melville, Executive Chef & Food and beverage, Manager Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel Chris Mills, Conference & Events Operations Manager, Crowne Plaza Manchester Airport Jonathan Morris, Commercial Director, 11 Cavendish Square Franck Rosello, Central Operations and Projects Manager, etc.venues
The Royal Armouries International, Leeds has maintained AIM Gold status since 2009
49
Beautiful Venue : Great Location : Excellent Value for Money
Easthampstead Park Conference Centre www.eastpark.co.uk
Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 3DF 0118 9 74 75 76
ACCREDITED VENUES theatres, flat floor open-plan function rooms and modern, naturally-lit meeting rooms, allowing the flexibility to transform the spaces to meet the needs of the event. Situated in the heart of Nottingham city centre, Nottingham Conference Centre is conveniently located within a three-hour drive of almost 70 per cent of the UK’s population and is easily accessible by rail and air. With Nottingham’s main amenities and attractions on the doorstep, hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities are all within easy walking distance for guests and delegates. Another venue that has achieved, and maintained Gold AIM status since 2009 is RAI Plc, the Royal Armouries International, in Leeds. The status is testament to the levels of quality service and the unique facilities of SAVILES Hall and the conference facilities within the Royal Armouries Museum. Upon achieving Gold accreditation, RAI plc managing director James V Vincent stated: “This is fantastic news that we have been awarded the Gold accreditation from the MIA for our conference, banqueting and exhibition facilities and in my opinion this has been a team effort and a 1st Class achievement for RAI plc which recognises the breadth and standard of our services, facilities and total dedication to customer satisfaction.” Nottingham’s purpose built NCSL (National College of School Leadership) Learning and
Brunel University is a venue that has achieved Silver AIM status. The university has evolved into more than an academic institution and has recently won the award for Best Business Meeting Venue in the West London Business Awards 2013
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
up to 250 delegates in the largest room. An internet hub introduced on the first floor of the Conference Centre also allows delegates to log onto the internet for free whilst using the venue.
Conference Centre has also been accredited AIM Gold status. In recent years, the venue has been refurbished and had a complete makeover which has included major refurbishment of its public areas, a redesign of its Lakeview restaurant, the upgrading of all 92 bedrooms to include new digital TVs with downloadable movies, music and internet access, and finally, a new Fitness Suite. Opened in 2002 as the unique centre of excellence for the National College for School Leadership’s school management development programmes, the award‑winning venue is set in a tranquil, lakeside location close to the centre of the city. It offers 92 en-suite bedrooms, a large cabaret style auditorium, 12 conference rooms and 15 syndicate rooms – including two purpose built video conferencing suites – and a lakeside restaurant and bar. Meeting facilities incorporate the latest audio-visual and IT equipment and can accommodate
A VENUE WITH SILVER STATUS Brunel University is an example of a venue that has achieved Silver AIM status. The university has evolved into much more than an academic institution and following a £300m investment has recently won the award for Best Business Meeting Venue in the West London Business Awards 2013. Brunel offers a range of conference and event facilities for up to 1,500 delegates with good quality accommodation all year round and extended options available at weekends and during the summer months, outside term-time, all on one complex. The 70-bedroom Lancaster Suite hotel situated on the Brunel complex offers modern, E
SOMERSET COLLEGE
TAUNTON CONFERENCE CENTRE An MIC accredited venue
Set in the heart of Somerset, Taunton Conference Centre has its own dedicated space within the grounds of the prestigious Somerset College, situated just three miles off Junction 25 of the M5, with easy access and private parking. Whether you are looking to undertake business planning, training, budgeting or team building, we cater to all events and have the perfect venue to meet your business’ needs. Day Delegate Packages from £29.95 FULL Conference room hire, projector, screen, tea/coffee breaks, CATERING and a locally sourced high quality buffet lunch. AVAILABLE AT Competitive room rates from £70 for half a day
Brunel University has achieved Silver AIM status
COMPETITIVE RATES
For further information about holding your event at Taunton Conference Centre 01823 252 934 / conference@somerset.ac.uk www.taunton-conference-centre.co.uk
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4082 ceme d 125 x 86mm_Layout 1 03/04/2014 20:40 Page 1 BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
9-23 Marsham Street London, SW1P 3DW Tel: +44 (0)207-222-9191 Email: enquiries@emmanuelcentre.com
www.emmanuelcentre.com
ceme Conference Centre
Gold Accredited Events and Conference Venue in East London CEME is an ultra-modern events and conference centre in East London offering innovative, flexible and highly competitive solutions for all your event and meeting requirements for up to 600 delegates.
CEME Conference Centre City quality without City prices. Visit www.cemeconference.co.uk to discover our preferential Local Government and public sector rates.
CEME is a Not-for-Profit Regeneration Charity and the only MIA 'Accredited in Meetings' Gold Venue in East London or Essex, and a member of Conference Centres of Excellence.
The Emmanuel Centre, a Grade 2 listed building, is a truly unique place designed by world-renowned architect, Sir Herbert Baker, and has a distinctive atmosphere, elegant marble foyer, high vaulted ceilings inscribed with Bible verses and huge columns, offering modern facilities with fully integrated in-house audio visual equipment. The Emmanuel Centre is used on a regular basis for exhibitions, AGM’s or shareholders meetings, training seminars, council meetings, product launches, Church gatherings, exhibitions, rallies, presentations, concerts and conferences.
SILVER AWARD WINNER Best UK Unusual Venue
To arrange a visit contact our Events Team: events@ceme.co.uk or telephone 020 8596 5151 CEME Conference Centre, Marsh Way, Havering, London, RM13 8EU
TOP 20 VENUE 2013 Voted by Event Magazine
When planning your event at Battersea Evolution your only limit is your imagination. Transform our 5,500m2 of blank canvas space for:
meetings & conferences exhibitions & launches awards, dinners & parties bespoke events Conference and Reception Capacity: 4,000 Dining Capacity: 2,000 Capacity to surprise: Unlimited Visit ba erseaevolution.co.uk or call 020 7836 1035 @Ba erseaEvo Smart at Ba ersea Evolution
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Part of the Smart Group smartgroupltd.co.uk
ACCREDITED VENUES
The AIM standard helps corporate companies, associations and government bodies to save time in sourcing suitable venues as it identifies venues that go the extra mile to care about their client’s business. AIM accredited venues add value as well as measure the event effectiveness en-suite rooms with free Wi-Fi and a spa. The spa provides a sanctuary from the stresses of the day, with a steam room, sauna, plunge and spa pools and is also available to delegates staying at the hotel. For conferences being held during the summer months Brunel has a further 2,500 single en-suite rooms and 400 single standard rooms available from June to mid-September. The campus also houses self-catering apartments, with room numbers ranging from five to 10 bedrooms. Also available on-site is the Olympic-standard international athletics centre and sports park used by Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt and the Jamaican Olympic team for training, and open to delegates in conference downtime or to meeting planners for teambuilding events or large exhibitions in the sports hall. The sports park houses a fully-equipped gym and sports courts including badminton, basketball, tennis,
squash and netball with personal trainers on hand to maximise the opportunities. The university is known for its technology prowess and is currently pioneering a number of government initiatives to promote enterprise and innovation within British companies. Its dedicated science and research park, also onsite, helps foster and grow small businesses into flourishing enterprises through an initiative which started in 1986. It provides knowledge and experience, helping with business plans, raising finance, and technical support through flexible tenancy agreements designed to nurture growth, with access to a wealth of business support services. L FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0845 230 5508 www.mia-uk.org/aim-accredited-inmeetings/
Five venue considerations Facilities: If you are going to host a conference it is very important that the venue has all the necessary equipment and conference facilities you will need for the event.
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Accessibility: When choosing conference venues you should think about how your attendees will travel to the event. Is the location close to the airport and other public transport, as well as major roads and motorways? Gain inspiration/ new ideas from the wide range of Technology on show Accommodation: Accommodation is one the most important conference facilities you need to consider in case many of your attendees are out of town. Cost: You should ask conference venues to provide you with quotations so you can compare prices and determine which of them fits your budget. Availability: Finally it is vital to make sure that the conference venues that you are considering are available on your chosen date.
MORE THAN JUST FOOTBALL...
The Priory Rooms Meeting and Conference Centre
• Conference & Events • Exhibitions • Awards Dinners • Training Seminars • Private Parties • Christmas Parties
Situated in the centre of Birmingham, The Priory Rooms Meeting & Conference Centre is a not-for-profit, purpose-built facility providing a refreshingly alternative meeting, training and conference environment. The landscaped, tranquil surroundings and stunning contemporary design enable you to hold your event in an oasis of calm - with all the convenience of a city-centre location.
0871 334 1919 (option 2) conferenceandevents@leedsunited.com leedsunited.com
Committed to being an eco-conscious venue Rooms for 2-200 people Competitive Day Delegate Rates Open evenings and Saturdays 20% discount on Mondays and Fridays
Call: 0121 236 2317 Email: enquiries@theprioryrooms.co.uk www.theprioryrooms.co.uk
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INSPIRE ACHIEVE AmaZing Venues is the UK’s premier collection of 5 star Corporate and Event Venues, perfect for: – Team Building and Incentives – Product Launches
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COUNTRY FOCUS: SCOTLAND
Kerry Watson of VisitScotland explains the innovation driving the country forward as a conference destination It is now just under three months until Glasgow plays host to the biggest sporting event ever held in Scotland. With up to a million spectators descending on the city and many millions more watching events unfold from around the globe, the eyes of the world will well and truly be on this country, thrusting it into the international spotlight like never before. It is a momentous year – the year that Scotland welcomes the world, not only with the Commonwealth Games,
but also with The Ryder Cup at Gleneagles and the 800-plus nationwide events that form Homecoming Scotland 2014. Celebrating the ancestry, food and drink, active and sporting, creative and natural aspects of Scottish culture, these celebrations provide a stunning backdrop to any business events taking place in Scotland in 2014. Meanwhile, The Ryder Cup, the historic clash between the very best golfers from Europe and the United States, will also help
Written by Kerry Watson, BusinessTourism Unit, VisitScotland
SCOTLAND 2014: A COUNTRY MAKING RAPID PROGRESS
to underline Scotland’s unrivalled capacity to host major meetings, conventions and events, not to mention reinforce its position as the Home of Golf. A SIGNIFICANT YEAR “This is a huge year for Scotland,” said Tom Maxwell from VisitScotland. “The combination of the hundreds of events of exciting events of Homecoming 2014, the staging of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and the return of The Ryder Cup will showcase to the world the many reasons why event organisers choose Scotland. “Our world-class hospitality, our warm welcome, our abundance of stunning venues, range of accommodation, the most beautiful landscapes in the world, and of course our passion for sport, especially golf. “In 2014 we want to celebrate Scotland but we want the world to celebrate with us. Meetings and events are hugely important to our country and we want them to come to Scotland in 2014 and beyond. Many of our fantastic venues will be in the spotlight as the events of 2014 unfold and will give organisers a flavour of the variety and quality available when organising an event in Scotland.” E
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
With up to a million spectators descending on the city and many millions more watching events unfold, the eyes of the world will well and truly be on this country, thrusting it into the international spotlight like never before
Edinburgh International Conference Centre (Credit: David Barbour)
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THE ROXBURGHE Edinburgh’s smartEst businEss addrEss Set in the heart of the Georgian New Town overlooking Charlotte Square, the prestigious Crowne Plaza Edinburgh - The Roxburghe is one of the most iconic hotels in Edinburgh combining an excellent location with superb business and event facilities. Whether you are hosting a conference, event or gala dinner, our George Suite is the perfect choice: • Dedicated entrance and pre-function space • 382 sqm of naturally-lit flexible space • 300 theatre style and 280 banqueting • 2 LCD ceiling projectors • Separate exhibition space • Function bar • Edinburgh’s largest dance floor
Delegates can then enjoy 198 refurbished bedrooms, our peaceful courtyard area (ideal for summer barbecues), excellent dining and our complimentary leisure facilities including pool and gym. We’ve a have a Spa too for relaxation at the end of a busy day. And unique to Scotland’s capital, you have exclusive access to leafy Charlotte Square Gardens – ideal for non-motorised team building events. Call us about our special Government rates and host your event at Edinburgh’s most prestigious address.
To plan your event call us on 0131 4669 To plan you event call us on 0131 527 527 4634 or email conference@theroxburghe.com or email events@theroxburghe.com CROWNE PLAZA EDINBURGH – THE ROXBURGHE W. theroxburghe.com A. 38 Charlotte Square Edinburgh EH2 4HQ
COUNTRY FOCUS: SCOTLAND
CHANGE & INNOVATION Like the sprint stars who will be appearing at the legendary Hampden Park this year, things in Scotland don’t stand still for long, and the country has seen a wealth of investment spent on enhancing its conference and events facilities in the lead-up to 2014. A literal example of this can be found at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre which, following a multi-million pound expansion, is now home to the world’s first hall-wide moving floor system. The building’s stunning glass atrium provides a perfect welcome point to the 1600 square metre Lennox Suite – Europe’s most technologically advanced meetings and events space. The moving floor can be reconfigured into many different set-ups, including flat-floored exhibition banqueting for 1,400 guests, a tiered auditorium for 2,000 and arena mode for 1,400. Also in Scotland’s historic capital are the famous Assembly Rooms – a unique, A-listed city-centre venue which re-opened last summer following a major restoration and refurbishment project. A popular venue during the Edinburgh International Festivals, the Music Hall and Ballroom are large, opulent spaces, ornately decorated with intricate plasterwork and crystal chandeliers. It’s not only the venues that in Scotland’s capital that have seen change, a number of
The SSE Hydro Arena, Glasgow
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Like the who ars sprint stpearing at p will be a den Park Hamp , things r this yea tland in Sco d still n don’t staong for l
iconic city hotels have undergone major development. Re-launched following a multi‑million pound refurbishment, the Sheraton Grand now offers a new dedicated meetings and events complex, complete with its own private entrance. With 14 flexible function rooms, the Conference & Banqueting complex is the largest of its kind in Edinburgh. The Atrium forms the centrepiece of the new events space offering over 5,400 square feet of floor space for receptions, exhibitions or break-out sessions. The Edinburgh Suite continues to be the largest hotel function space in the city able to accommodate up to 1,500 guests for a reception when combined with The Atrium. After a £24 million investment programme, the iconic Caledonian Hilton Edinburgh was unveiled as the latest edition to the Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts portfolio in September 2012. Following the significant investment, the landmark property is now known as The Caledonian, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, marking the luxury brand’s Scottish debut. The Edinburgh Caledonian, a legend in
the Scottish hospitality industry, opened its doors to international travellers more than a century ago. The hotel has now been gloriously restored to inspire at every level and will provide a guest experience that continues the legacy of The Waldorf Astoria New York. The stunning Waldorf Astoria property offers a range of meeting and event spaces, sure to impress even the world-travelled delegetes. The newly restored listed Castle Suite adds a touch of luxury guaranteeing a memorable event, while the hotel also houses a further eight flexible meeting rooms, each uniquely inspiring. The Caledonian, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel can host events for up to 250 guests with WIFI access across all meeting rooms. The hotel also features 241 bedrooms, seven suites and a luxury Guerlain Spa. Furthermore, four food and beverage outlets spoil guests for choice, including two restaurants from the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers, their first Scottish venture. INVESTING IN PROGRESS New investment has seen the first Scotland properties for a Munich-based hotel operator known for affordable design. Motel One E
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
With our beautiful gardens, free parking and panoramic views of Edinburgh, you will be surprised to know that we are just minutes from the bustling city centre. 7 conference rooms 21 bedrooms Sports hall and all-weather surface Car parking Great central location
Day Delegate Rates from £28.00 24hr Day Delegate Rates from £115.00 Quote ‘Braid5’ when booking for discount
Free WiFi
Just off the Edinburgh Bypass
Free Parking
BEST WESTERN Braid Hills Hotel 134 Braid Road, Edinburgh, EH10 6JD T: 0131 447 8888 E: bookings@braidhillshotel.co.uk www.braidhillshotel.co.uk
For all your Conference & Corporate Events Great central location: Glasgow Airport under 5 minutes, and within 10 to Glasgow City. Multi-functional business hub accommodating up to 400 delegates with 11 fully integrated conference suites, state of the art AV equipment, free on-site car parking and free unlimited Wi-Fi. Full service hotel with 145 luxurious club-concept bedroom accommodation, choice of two excellent restaurants and full leisure facilities. Our dedicated Conference Managers will ensure your expectations are more than exceeded. Bespoke deals and packages are tailored to meet clients’ individual needs.
Email: annette@glynhill.com
Tel: 0141 886 5555
Web: www.glynhill.com
Glynhill Hotel & Leisure Club, 169 Paisley Road, Renfrew, Glasgow, PA4 8XB. 200 yards from M8 Junction 27
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COUNTRY FOCUS: SCOTLAND Edinburgh-Royal, on Market Street, sits within a stone’s throw of both the Royal Mile and of Princes Street, while a second Motel One in the capital, Motel One Edinburgh‑Princes, sits on Princes Street itself. Each Motel One hotel uses high-quality materials and design classics alongside contemporary elements such as leather chairs and natural stone walls – all at a budget room rate. The Market Street development is integrated into an existing, traditional building. The 208 bedrooms vary in size and have views of the city. The public area features “One Lounge” serving as a lobby, breakfast lounge and bar, free Wi-Fi and is open to guests 24 hours a day. Also recently opened in the heart of Edinburgh is the Point Hotel and Penthouse Suite – a Hilton Doubletree property. Featuring 139 stylishly appointed bedrooms and a contemporary conference centre with six meeting rooms, including the outstanding Penthouse Suite, the hotel is conveniently located within short proximity of the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, is one of the best equipped and most competitive conference destinations in Europe – and the world – thanks to its compactness, ease of access and ‘can do’ culture. The world-class Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre has undergone an exciting
expansion with the building of the SSE Hydro. Opened last September, the venue has recently been ranked fourth in Pollstar’s top 100 worldwide arena venues above Madison Square Gardens in New York and Wembley Arena. With a capacity of 12,000, the stunning silver building will play host to around 140 events each year. It has been designed to be flexible, accommodating a wide range of conferences and events, including some of the world’s biggest music stars. It will attract an audience of one million a year, positioning it in the top five entertainment arenas in the world, alongside iconic venues mentioned above such as Madison Square Gardens in New York and London’s O2 arena. The unique façade of The Hydro, made up of pneumatic translucent cushions, allows natural light to illuminate the foyers during the day and the arena to ‘glow’ at night. Among Glasgow’s dazzling range of hotels
is the five-star, £26 million Blythswood Square. Home to a 10,000 square foot Urban Day Spa, the 100-room hotel includes seven suites. The Monte Carlo Suites, beautiful oak-panelled events spaces, offer bespoke private dining menus and a range of flexible room layouts, as well as cutting edge audio visual technology. There is even a custom-designed 52-seater meeting table for those all‑important round-table discussions. The Screening Room, meanwhile, is perfect for product launches and presentations. A unique cinema available for private hire, each of the Screening Room’s 40 seats are finished in a custom Harris Tweed fabric. ELSEWHERE IN SCOTLAND It is important to remember, however, that expansion in Scotland does not begin and end with the two largest cities and with the events of 2014. In Dundee, work is under E
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, is one of the best equipped and most competitive conference destinations in Europe – and the world – thanks to its compactness, ease of access and ‘can do’ culture
One Square, Edinburgh
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Your Event
at Easterbrook Hall
t: 01387 702020
www.easterbrookhall.co.uk
FOR CONFERENCES, MEETINGS AND EVENTS ISLE OF SKYE, SCOTLAND
COLAISTE GÀIDHLIG
NA H-ALBA
THE GAELIC
IN COLLEGE SCOTLAND
Situated in the heart of the Merchant City, Trades Hall is one of Glasgow’s oldest buildings still used for its original purpose. The Trades Hall is available for a range of events from meetings and conferences to birthday parties, weddings and award ceremonies, accommodating up to 220 people. The Hall also serves as an excellent exhibition space. For further information or to organise a viewing please contact our events team on 0141 552 2418. info@tradeshallglasgow.co.uk www.tradeshallglasgow.co.uk Trades Hall | 85 Glassford Street | Glasgow | G1 1UH
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COUNTRY FOCUS: SCOTLAND way on a £45 million museum that will add significantly to the country’s appeal among the business tourism community. Featuring more than 1,500 square metres of flexible gallery space, the new V&A, which is due to open in 2017, will boast one of the largest dedicated museum-standard exhibition spaces in Scotland. The facilities at the museum will provide first-class opportunities for conferences and other events to be held in unique venues. These include the great hall, which will be available to host receptions, while galleries can be hired on a private access basis. There will also be a number of workshops and meeting rooms which will be suitable for the needs of business customers. The once-grand Tay Hotel is being given a major facelift and is now a Malmaison hotel. Once one of the most prominent buildings in Dundee, the listed sandstone building had lain derelict for more than 15 years. The Malmaison Dundee has kept intact its original 1890s exterior, with a full overhaul within. It has 93 bedrooms and suites, a bar and brasserie, a whisky snug, a wine-tasting room and cellar. The Malmaison Dundee is the 13th hotel within the group. The Malmaison Dundee is one of three in the city’s £1 billion Waterfront regeneration programme. The three new hotels represent an investment of nearly £30 million and will double bedroom capacity in the Waterfront area to more than 500 rooms In Aberdeen there are also plans for a new conference and arena in the pipeline, which would see completion in 2017. A number of hotel chains including Marriott, Novotel, Ibis and DeVere are currently investing in the city. GRAND COUNTRY HOUSE LIVING Particularly apt in this year of all things sport is Scottish tennis superstar Andy Murray’s decision to enter the tourism game with the acquisition of the Cromlix. Situated close to his home town of Dunblane, it signalled not only a return to his roots but also the chance to reinvent the glorious era of grand country house living. Following extensive refurbishment, the Wimbledon champion has now transformed the elegant Victorian Perthshire mansion into a luxury 15-bedroom destination. The hotel, which opened in Spring 2014, offers guests the chance to experience the sort of decadent lifestyle once enjoyed by the Lairds of Cromlix, redefined for the 21st century by sumptuous surroundings and impeccable yet discreet service. Cromlix is set in 34 acres of secluded woodlands and garden grounds, with its own chapel and house loch. The hotel boasts a Chez Roux restaurant with a focus on using seasonal locally sourced produce wherever possible. “I want people to come to Cromlix from near and far and to leave having had such an exceptional experience that they come back,” said Murray. “I spend a lot of my life in hotels and I
The SSE Hydro Arena, Glasgow
Conferences & Events
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Cromlix, Dunblane
Particularly apt in this year of all things sport is Scottish tennis superstar Andy Murray’s decision to enter the tourism game with the acquisition of the Cromlix. Situated close to his home town of Dunblane, it signalled not only a return to his roots but also the chance to reinvent the glorious era of grand country house living know how much guests value good personal service and enjoy a bit of good banter with the staff! I want my hotel to offer just that. “With this year, the biggest year for tourism in Scotland for many a year I know the team at Cromlix are 100 per cent committed to putting on the best show in town, but I guess more importantly it’s about next year, and the next year, and the year after that.” Further north, a journey into the magical Scottish Highlands may be just the thing to get creative juices flowing. Set within acres of manicured grounds, the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness is the perfect blend of historic grandeur, contemporary design and passionate service. It offers 410 sq m
of the newest design-led meeting and events space. A relaxing circulation and breakout area, exclusively for guests of the Kingsmills Suite, enables unsurpassed choice of event schedules. SETTING THE STAGE From the opening of new venues and hotels to significant investment in stunning refurbishments, Scotland is home to myriad exciting opportunities and never will this be more obvious than in 2014, a perfect stage for the perfect event. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.visitscotland.com
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What Makes Sheffield the Smart Choice? - 7 Venues - Up to 1,250 Delegates - Dining for up to 200
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ACADEMIC VENUES
GETTING SMART ABOUT CONFERENCES
The Academic Venue Show takes place on 14 May at Earls Court in London and showcases meeting and accommodation facilities at over 70 academic venues. Here’s a preview of what’s on offer Academic venues offer some of Britain’s best meeting and accommodation facilities. With over 70 venues across the UK, organisers have a fantastic choice of city centre, rural and coastal locations. Day delegate rates start from just £25 and there’s a huge range of meeting spaces, from small board rooms to large lecture theatres, to choose from. Our websites are packed with information about our venues. You can use simple filters to narrow your search based on location, budget or capacity. Then click through to view details about each venue, including photo galleries, information about facilities. We want you to find the ideal venue for your next event. When you contact us about your requirements, we match your needs against a huge range of high quality, great value venues. We then provide you with a shortlist of the most suitable facilities – and can even arrange to have them contact you directly with a proposal.
perfect meeting or conference venue every year. The venues have great deals to offer too, with day delegate rates starting at just £25. They can accommodate anything from a small day meeting to a large residential conference. But with the exclusive special offers and prize draws, visitors are set to save and win more than ever before at the Academic Venue Show 2014. “Academic venues have earned a reputation for great value, by providing quality facilities and services at very competitive rates,” said Terry Billingham, Chief Executive Officer at Venuemasters. “This year’s Academic Venue Show exhibitors are offering some superb deals on the day, which we’re sure will be very popular with event organisers. It’s yet another reason not to miss this fantastic free event.” Special offers on the day will include discounted rates and free upgrades at some of the UK’s best event venues. Lancaster University is offering free ‘Golden
ANNUAL EVENT Venuemasters’ annual exhibition The Academic Venue Show returns on Wednesday 14 May at the ILEC Centre in Earls Court London. The show is the only place you can meet representatives from such a great range of venues and be inspired by key industry speakers, all in one day. Meeting and accommodation teams from some 50 locations across the UK plus Barcelona and Limerick, are ready to show you everything academic venues can offer. There is an incredible range of meeting and training facilities and quality accommodation, all supplemented by award winning catering and support services – all packed into one free-to-attend show. Jan Jones, a buyer for the Romantic Novelists’ Association comments: “The Academic Venue Show is extremely useful as we are able to talk directly to the venues in the area we are considering, and then make a follow-up site visit if we find a suitable match.”
“Academic venues have earned a reputation for great value, by providing quality facilities and services at very competitive rates”
DISCOUNTS The Academic Venue Show offers outstanding value to event organisers looking for the
medallist Ade Adepitan and online marketing specialist Susan Hallam will lead two live seminars on the day, which will provide expert guidance to help event organisers plan and promote their next event. “We’re thrilled to have secured such inspirational speakers for the Academic Venue Show 2014,” said Natalie Hudson, Marketing & Membership Manager at Venuemasters. “The seminar programme is always extremely popular with visitors looking for quality professional development opportunities. Everyone involved with planning events and group accommodation can learn something useful from these presentations.” YOUR OWN ITINERARY With 50 superb meeting and accommodation venues on offer, savvy Academic Venue Show visitors plan ahead to make the most of their day. Show organiser Venuemasters
Terry Billingham, Venuemasters Package’ upgrades as part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, as well as discounted day delegate rates at the Green Lane Hotel. Keele University is offering all attendants a special deal on conferences taking place in 2015. The Park Crescent Conference Centre in London is also offering a 10 per cent discount on its day delegate rate. Further details and deals are to be announced. All special offers are subject to their respective terms and conditions. SEMINARS The chance to meet great venues is complemented by superb interactive seminars by professional speakers. The Academic Venue Show 2014 is shaping up to be far more than just an exhibition, you’ll learn new skills and develop existing ones, over a dynamic programme of sessions. Paralympic
has recently improved the online feature, so all visitors can easily pre-book appointments with venues that interest them. The show website features venues in outstanding city centre and rural locations. Visitors can use this information to decide which venues to meet on the day, and then schedule an appointment with the click of a mouse. “At a show as action-packed as the Academic Venue Show 2014, there just isn’t time to see every stand,” said Terry Billingham, Chief Executive Officer at Venuemasters. “Now visitors can decide in advance which venues they want to meet and easily pre-book appointments. It’s a great way to make the most of their time.” L FURTHER INFORMATION meetingvenuesuk.com
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Marketing Week Live
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
EVENT PREVIEW
EFFECTIVE INSIGHTS FOR MARKETING
Marketing Week Live returns to London Olympia on 25-26 June to bring leading industry figures together. Government Business takes a look at what’s on the agenda this year Marketing Week Live comes back to London this year with a new approach to its layout and learning sessions. Playing host to the largest gathering of marketers in the UK, the event is going into its sixth year – but rather than get complacent, the organisers have completely re-engineered the event. The free to attend show is now structured to focus on marketers’ challenges rather than on separate channels, to make time spent at Marketing Week Live even more useful and relevant to the job than ever before. It has a new, integrated layout with four mega-theatres covering Strategy and Future, Best Practice, Real Life, and Digital Marketing Training. Attendees will receive advice on: listening to customers to discover what they really want; converting data into insight that drives action; harnessing the power of digital, mobile and social; and discovering the new role of content. THE ZONES There will be four major zones devised to help marketers build their brand, understand the offline/online customer journey and clinch that all-important sale. This is the age of the customer, and the more a business understands theirs the more successful it will be. That’s what the Understand zone is all about: dropping you in the deep end of insight-driven marketing, then showing you how to swim. The winners in the new era of marketing are the brands that master customer engagement. In digital channels and offline. Using data, loyalty programmes, personalised journeys and other elements of the new marketing arsenal. That’s what Engage the Engage zone is all about: smart segmentation, real-time targeting, dynamic content and a hell of a lot more. Digital channels have crashed into the market, changing the way we all research and buy. And retailers have a whole new landscape to master. That’s what the Convert zone, in partnership with POPAI, is all about: measurable, multichannel retailing that spans digital, mobile, social and the real world. In all the excitement about digital channels, it’s easy to forget how powerful – and how important – live events still are. That’s what the Experience zone is all about: the power of live, face-to-face experiences in the marketing mix.
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THE CONFERENCE The 2014 conference programme is more strategic and insightful than ever before. Four big stages where top marketing thought leaders attack the things that keep you up at night. Three mega-theatres covering Strategy and Future, Best Practice and Real Life. More of the really big keynotes, top names, leading brands and the best brains in the biz, tackling the six biggest challenges facing marketers today. Plus the Digital Marketing Training
Theatre, where experts from the CIM, IDM and Econsultancy help you keep on top of the ever-changing world of digital, and give bitesize training for actionable learning you can take back to the office. THE ATTRACTIONS As well as the conference programme, there is a host of interactive forums and attractions all designed to help you whip your marketing plans into shape. The Marketing Academy are bringing their Bootcamp to Marketing Week Live
There will be four major zones devised to help marketers build their brand, understand the offline/online customer journey and clinch sales
for practical advice that you can take straight back to the office to apply to your campaigns. Led by top marketers, the Bootcamp is usually only available to 30 scholars each year, but MWL has secured exclusive access to this content for you. New for 2014, The MWL Leadership Programme contains dedicated, relevant, hard-hitting learning for senior marketers.
Week Live’s new Personality attraction is a buzzing, colourful bazaar of new ideas, great designs and just-plain-fun ways to get your brand into people’s hands and hearts. Partnered with the British Promotional Merchandise Association (bpma), Personality demonstrates how to successfully integrate promotional merchandise into your marketing strategy.
In all the excitement about digital channels, it’s easy to forget how powerful – and how important – live events still are Combining three dedicated conference sessions per day, three peer-to-peer networking sessions each day, a free creative consultation and a free data audit, the MWL Leadership programme is your opportunity to attend an event designed with you in mind. Simply register for the show, and if you meet our criteria, we’ll upgrade you. GIVE YOUR BRAND SOME CHARACTER Give your brand some character through promotional merchandise to help drive brand recall and generate leads. Marketing
The Chartered Institute of Marketing will return to Marketing Week Live with the Marketing Strategy Clinic following its success over the last few years. It offers free one‑to-one advice sessions and is the perfect opportunity for visitors to gain top, objective advice from one of the CIM’s experts. MORE HIGHLIGHTS The PRCA will be on hand at Marketing Week Live to present their free client/ agency matchmaker service Find a PR Agency (FAPRA). This matches in-house visitors’ needs with the capabilities of
consultancies that have the internationally adopted Communications Management Standard and are tied into the PRCA’s Codes of Conduct and Professional Charter. Quite simply it’s the easiest way to find the easiest way to find the right PR agency, and be confident in the quality of their campaigns. Meet the Agency is a branded feature area at the heart of the show that offers you the chance to speak to specialist agencies who can help you overcome your challenges and meet campaign objectives. In an increasingly competitive market place – and with marketing roles becoming ever more challenging – it makes sense for you to partner up with the experts.
Marketing Week Live
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
GIVE US A DAY We’ll give you enough new ideas to accelerate your marketing, streamline your operations, improve your customer experience and grind your competitors into a fine powder. marketingweeklive.co.uk/govbus Marketing Week Live takes place at Olympia Grand in London on 25 and 26 June. Registration is free and only takes a few moments. L FURTHER INFORMATION marketingweeklive.co.uk
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
DATABAC Complete solutions for identification
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YOUR SPECIALIST PARTNER FOR SECURE ID With most organisations using some type of smart card for their access control, ID and time recording, Databac Group offers expert advice on optimising their use. Databac Group is a UK manufacturer of RFID and smart ID cards and authorised distributor of Datacard Printers. Databac produces bespoke cards that can support a range of technologies – from NXP Mifare/ DESfire, Legic and HID prox, to iclass, Indala and Cotag. A trusted and authorised ID partner, we have been providing secure ID badging and Visitor registration systems for hospitals, prisons, schools, universities, police forces, emergency services, local authorities, libraries and sports centres for over 44 years.
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Databac Group holds ISO9001 and ISO14001 certification. Find out what we can do for you! Tel: 0208 546 9826 Web: www.databac.com Webshop: www.databacdirect.co.uk Or visit us at IFSEC on 17/18/19 June 2014. Excel Exhibition Centre, London, Stand C1950
EVENT PREVIEW
THE EVENT AT THE HEART OF THE SECURITY MARKET
Taking place on the 17-19 June at the ExCeL London, IFSEC International is the largest event for the security industry, bringing together the entire security buying chain in one place
For more than 40 years, IFSEC International has been at the centre of the security industry. Over its four days, it attracts more than 24,000 visitors, over 650 leading manufacturers, suppliers and distributors from 100 countries. Covering more than just traditional security and fire solutions, this event covers access control and biometrics, counter terror, CCTV and video surveillance, intruder alarms, IP security, intelligent buildings, physical security and lone workers, with many leading manufacturers using the event to launch the latest technologies and solutions. IFSEC ACADEMY IFSEC International covers every area of security, including safe cities, intelligent buildings, IT & cyber security, video surveillance & intruder alarms, integrated security solutions, access control, perimeter protection & physical security. Each area has dedicated exhibitors waiting to show you the latest solutions and products, dedicated education session from the leading lights in the industry and the opportunity to network with key industry players. Working closely with the Security Institute and ASIS, CPD and CPE points are also available for attending the IFSEC Academy sessions. INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS This area will create a combined fire and security area for both events, focusing on
the common area of systems integration and convergence. Unlike other features, it is not a showcase of new products, it’s about holistic solutions. In a nutshell, Intelligent Buildings – Fire & Security opens up opportunities for inter-operability and information sharing between fire, security, IT, data and building management systems. IT & CYBER SECURITY Threats from cyber and IT crime are increasingly important for businesses. When companies, governments and individuals rely on the internet for their day-to-day business, it’s key to protect your business and its assets. With dedicated providers helping businesses and governments to build their IT and cyber security strategy with the latest solutions and technology, and with dedicated education session, you’ll find everything you need to know about IT and cyber security at IFSEC International. VIDEO SURVEILLANCE & ALARMS Covering all aspects of video surveillance and intruder alarms, this dedicated product area will feature the very latest products and services in the industry, including video surveillance, central control rooms, and the innovations with high definition technology. Other products on display include ANPR, IP cameras, remote surveillance, thermal imaging, video analytics, intruder alarm systems, detectors, keypads and control panels to protect your perimeters from outside threats.
INTEGRATED SECURITY To have an efficient and effective security system, you’ll want to ensure your systems are integrated. IFSEC will be focusing on how to ensure systems are integrated, so that each product doesn’t work in isolation. This purpose built area will provide you with access to providers whose job it is to ensure that each area of security is integrated and managed effectively.
IFSEC International
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
ACCESS CONTROL Securing assets is a major focus for international businesses and collaborative efforts between security and IT managers are more and more commonplace when it comes to protecting both buildings and the equipment within them. Key to this is access control. Driven by rising concerns over public and private sector safety, the access control market is set to be worth a substantial $8.6 billion by 2018. PERIMETER PROTECTION Due to the heightened threat in today’s world, the importance of protecting property and assets is paramount to all security strategies. The physical security area allows our visitors to see a range of products in physical security, such as perimeter protection, locking systems, safes and more. With increased security threats from terrorism, the need to protect your business from external threats is never greater. SAFE CITIES The need for global city hubs to future proof, upgrade and plan has never been greater with collaboration from global business leaders, mayor’s office, first responders and local and central government. Safe Cities utilise a multi‑agency approach, led by the government to protect the population, the infrastructure and a city’s economy against the threat of terrorism, criminal activity and natural disasters. City authorities are under enormous pressure to cope with common, expected and unexpected security threats. The disaster management plans and business continuity initiatives are increasingly making local authorities important stakeholders in promoting national security, a role that historically has been limited to the central government. With a focus on four key areas – the city’s infrastructure; cyber security; counter terrorism and public order, the Safe Cities Conference and Exhibition will provide education, solution and technology providers for global governments, public sector officials and companies to secure their cities from threats and attack. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ifsec.co.uk
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
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Heron Joinery heronjoinery.com
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EVENT PREVIEW
GETTING YOUR HOUSES IN ORDER
CIH Housing 2014
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
On June 24-26, Manchester Central plays host to to the Chartered Institute of Housing’s annual conference and exhibition Housing 2014, which will examine the latest developments in social and affordable housing as well as giving visitors the chance
Hastoe Housing Association Passivhaus scheme in Wimbish, Essex (image courtesy Parson + Whittley)
The CIH annual conference is the largest event in the sector’s calendar and a must‑attend gathering for anyone working in social and affordable housing – more than 7,500 housing professionals attended the event in 2013. Over 100 speakers in multiple tracks will engage with delegates around all of the critical strategic challenges facing housing, including expertise from other sectors.
“What’s happening to housing? Has the state abandoned the poor? And have we learned lessons from Cosmopolitan? These are just some of the big questions we’ll be asking.”
KEYNOTE CIH chief executive Grainia Long will deliver the keynote address, where she will outline her vision for housing in the lead up to next years’ election and what CIH expects of the political parties as they prepare their manifestos. On the conference website, she states: “Our industry is already high on the political agenda, but Housing 2014 is a vital opportunity for us to come together and make sure it is at the forefront of the debate in the run-up to the elections – and crucially as the programme for government is designed after the election. So the politics of housing will be one of four main themes at this year’s event, and we will also be focusing on the issues that you have told us really matter on the ground – the
economy, recovery and investment; industry and innovation and places and people. “Last year we welcomed more than 7,500 housing professionals to our conference and exhibition and we are committed to making 2014 bigger, better and bolder than ever. You’ll hear from over 100 expert speakers from both inside and outside the housing industry, including Nigel Wilson, chief executive of Legal & General, Julia Unwin, chief executive of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Allegra Stratton, political editor of Newsnight, and The Times political columnist and associate editor, Daniel Finkelstein OBE, who is also Chairman of think tank Policy Exchange. “What’s happening to housing? Has the state abandoned the poor? And have we learned lessons from Cosmopolitan? These are just
Grania Long, chief executive, CIH some of the big questions we’ll be asking. Politicians from all parties have acknowledged that we face a housing crisis that requires urgent attention. In ‘The politics of housing’ sessions, we hear from politicians and opinion leaders across the political spectrum setting out their policy proposals, get the inside track on how the different parties understand housing and take the opportunity to engage directly with them and help shape their thinking during this critical period. “The ‘Economy, recovery and investment’ stream will explore the current economic environment and help us to understand the forces affecting the uncertain conditions we continue to work in. We’ll be looking at future trends, considering different investment and business models and working E
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CIH Housing 2014
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
LEGAL SERVICES
Croftons – where things are handled differently
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Happy with your legal advice? If not, let Croftons’ 22-strong housing and regeneration team bowl you over with its range of legal services. Property and conveyancing: Croftons acts on over 100 development schemes annually, valued at £150m, Rights to Buy/ Rights to Acquire, leasehold management, securitisation, care and support living. Housing management and tenancy enforcement services: The firm offers a 24-7 flexible approach, helping to keep communities safe and take action when needed. Governance and Regulatory: Croftons works with Boards to manage risk and demonstrate value for money. Commercial property: Croftons can help reduce costs for property owners and tenants. Croftons offers a unique, affordable service where clients come first and every member of its team is a housing specialist.
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Isla Components specialises in the manufacture of wiper arms & linkages. Isla have a large range of wiper blades. It also offers conventional blades, upgrade blades, commercial blades, rear arms and blades for cars and the new type of flat blades for both car and LCV. This range incorporates a “Multi‑Fit Adapter” system, that covers 86% of the market place. The commercial blades include a range of heavy duty hook blades (9x4 & 12x4 adapters), spray jet blades, with the jet fixed to the blade frame, also a range of saddle fitting blades, from 20” (500mm) to 48” (1200mm). Isla manufacturer a variety of wiper arms for all types of PSV vehicles and CCTV cameras used in different industries & environments. Isla have an extensive range of replacement wiper motor & washer pumps for PSV vehicles. Isla also supplies an extensive range of replacement wiper arms, blades,wiper motors & washer bottles for the Plant & Agricultural sectors. Isla are able to offer “own branding solutions”. Our knowledge is extensive, our range is forever increasing! We are an accredited company to ISO9001.
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The housing sector is working hard and continues to work harder than ever to meet key performance indicators and deliver the most cost-effective services for their residents. With the increasing demand for housing professionals, who face a growing challenge to drive down costs and improve efficiencies, while offering their residents – their customers – new, or improved services. Resident communication is one of the vital elements in providing continued customer service. Our system will improve communication to your residents and reduce manual processes.
Our latest unique innovation; allows you to send a single messages to our indicator instantly. Sending the same message to 100 indicators or 1000’s of indicators is as simple as 1, 2, 3. By using our web based system you will be able to send instant messages by PC, tablet or smartphone at any time, from any place in the world.
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EVENT PREVIEW Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson
out how to maximise the contribution housing can make to economic growth. “As we all know, good housing is about much more than bricks and mortar – ultimately it is about the difference it makes for people and communities. In the ‘People and Places’ sessions we will identify how we can provide the right homes in the right places, and how we can work more effectively with other organisations and services to create and sustain communities that work for everyone.” SEMINAR PROGRAMME The event boasts a large and varied seminar programme, which takes place throughout the three days. After Grainia Long has delivered the opening address on Tuesday, the BBC Home editor Mark Easton will chair a session entitled The Economy: Post Crisis? which unpicks whether growth is sustainable and stable, where vulnerabilities lie in the domestic economy, and whether we have learned the lessons of the past. Speakers will be Professor Duncan Maclennan, an international expert on the development of cities, and Nigel Wilson, Group Chief Executive, Legal and General. The cost of housing continues to soar, particularly with rented accommodation, and welfare reform has had a fundamental impact on the most vulnerable. With this complex background, the session entitled What’s happening to housing? asks experts from across the industry: ‘Is the housing system increasingly dysfunctional?’. Speakers include Sir Bob Kerslake, Permanent Secretary, Deprtment for Communities and Local Government and Head of Civil Service, as well as Graham Watts, chief executive of the Construction Industry Council and Elizabeth Austerberry, chief executive of housing group Moat. THINK TANK A feature of the event will be the ‘Think Tank’, which offers practical advice and solutions from practitioners based on case studies and principles established during successful contracts and programmes. Rob Beiley and Mike Gaskell from Trowers & Hamlins will present a session entitled Boards, Members
Last years’ Housing Heroes Award saw more than 700 people attend. This year’s event will be hosted by one of Britain’s greatest Paralympic athletes, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson & Governance – is your structure fit for purpose? along with Dave Procter, Chair of the Incommunites Group. Commercial activities – getting the governance right will be presented by Sara Bailey and Ian Davis from Trowers & Hamlins as well as Geeta Nanda, chief executive, of Thames Valley Housing. The Voice of Housing, sponsored by Wheatley Group, is a series of sessions which aim to explore why housing should be at the top table and examine, through real-life examples, what difference housing’s voice can make both locally and nationally.
CIH Housing 2014
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
HOUSING HEROES The Housing Heroes awards aim to ensure those ‘unsung heroes’ of the housing world are recognised and rewarded for their contribution in making housing such a vibrant and caring sector. One of the biggest award ceremonies in the sector’s calendar will take place on the evening on Monday 23June, the day before CIH Housing opens. Last years’ event saw more than 700 people attend, and this year’s event will be hosted by one of Britain’s greatest Paralympic athletes, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson. The Housing Heroes Awards will once again be combined with the Manchester Welcome dinner, giving attendees the opportunity to network with delegates, exhibitors and key figures from across the housing world before CIH Housing officially opens its doors. L
ink The ‘Th fers f Tank’ o advice l practicaon case based principles and studies tablished es cessful c u s g n i dur ts contrac
PROCUREMENT FOR HOUSING Building on the success of 2013, PfH Live will once again be co-locating with the CIH Conference and Exhibition. The event brings together procurement experts, business leaders, academics, suppliers and housing professionals for three days of networking, supplier showcases and seminars. Key speakers already confirmed include: Bill Morris, LVO, Advisor to International Olympic Committee, NED for HMGov; Colin Cram, FCIPS, Editor‑in‑Chief, UK and Europe at Procurement Insights; Gerard Chick, FCIPS, Chief Knowledge Officer Optimum Procurement, and; Roy Ayliffe, FCIPS MBA, Head of Commerce at UK National Audit Office.
FURTHER INFORMATION For further information, and to reserve your place, visit www.cihhousing.com
Geraldine Howley new Vice President at CIH Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) members have elected Geraldine Howley as the organisation’s new Vice President. Mrs Howley, who is chief executive of Bradford-based housing group Incommunities, was up against Elaine Gibson, director of Ayrshire housing association ANCHO, and Jim Strang, chief executive of Parkhead Housing Association in Glasgow. She will become Vice President for 2014/15 at the CIH Annual General Meeting on 14 May, and is expected to take up the role of President in 2015. Mrs Howley said: “I am absolutely delighted to be elected as the next CIH Vice President. I would like to thank all CIH members who voted for Elaine, Jim and myself – it was a well contested campaign which we were all equally passionate about.” “I have spoken to many members about the issues that are important to them and I will take what I have learned on board in my new role and influence where I can.”
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Advertisement Feature
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
PRINTING
DOES YOUR PRINT POLICY NEED ATTENTION? Taking control of printing and document workflow could cut overheads and help prepare for future changes so, according to Rob Brown of OKI Systems UK, it’s best to work with the experts
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According to a recent OKI Systems UK survey, news of the demise of printing has been exaggerated. Some 92 per cent of the 2,000-plus office workers who were polled still print at least one document every day, with 45 per cent printing 10 pages or more. A worrying 15 per cent still print more than 50 pages on an average day in the office. That’s not all. It seems that 79 per cent of respondents use their office equipment to print personal documents, too, with nine per cent doing this daily. The reasons they gave for all this personal printing were ‘a lack of home printer’ and ‘ease of use’. THE PAPERLESS OFFICE It’s clear that, the concept of ‘the paperless office’ is far from becoming a reality. And while few organisations would wish to stop employees printing what they need to do their job, it does seem that they would benefit from controlling printing costs more closely. So it wasn’t surprising that in the same poll, only 27 per cent said that their organisation had an actively enforced printing policy in place, with nearly half (47 per cent) admitting that they have no policy at all. In these days of digital documents, it seems that printing needs and costs have been forgotten. Many organisations are ignoring the fact that their staff still need to print and are wasting significant sums of money by not managing their print output or streamlining their document workflow. OKI’s managed document solutions comprise of an integrated suite of software, technologies and tools to improve print and document workflow, management and security within an organisation. The complete managed process begins with an OKI audit of existing printing practices, measuring outputs and assessing printing types. This gives the audited organisation or department a transparent view of what is really happening and also of where the budget is being spent. CUT ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND COSTS OKI then uses the audit results to develop a long-term plan. Top of the agenda will be to ensure that the right printers are being used for the right job. For example, replacing multiple desktop printers and scanners with a smaller number of multifunction printers can effectively cut energy consumption and costs and accelerate workflow. New OKI multifunction printers come with an open platform enabling the customisation of the user interface to integrate all document-related tasks into an organisation’s document workflow. This enables a move from a manual to an automated workflow, making it easier to track and reduce printer usage. There are also printers that enable users to store documents prior to printing on the printer’s hard disk drive or secure data (SD) card. It is then only possible to access this content with a four digit, user-defined pin
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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
Working with a managed document services provider, like OKI, will develop a flexible strategy, making way for mobile printing. There are now printers with wireless connectivity that tablet and smartphone users can print from via an app and only with the right credentials can the document be printed. By reducing the amount of paper documents lying around on desks – or worse left uncollected on the printer – and restricting printing only to those who really need it, these also help keep sensitive data out of sight and secure. Significant costs can be saved by having just the one contract for all printing and document needs, including printers, supplies, technical support and maintenance. This enables easy monitoring of ongoing costs, reduces capital investment and helps control budgets. In turn, this also frees up the time of internal staff to focus on core tasks. OKI can also help establish printing best practices, such as setting double-sided and mono printing as default options. DEVELOP A FLEXIBLE STRATEGY Working closely with a managed document services provider such as OKI will also help develop a flexible strategy, making way for mobile printing when needed. There are now ranges of multifunctional printers with wireless connectivity. Smartphone and tablet users can find these and print from them via an app which can be downloaded directly from the mobile device.
So, these days there are two sides to addressing printing needs and establishing policy. On one side, it’s all about controlling costs and energy consumption by consolidation and streamlining workflows, and on the other it’s about helping to facilitate different ways of working and evolving to meet new demands. Working with a managed document services provider, such as OKI, can ensure both ends of the spectrum are covered as effectively and securely as possible, bringing fast ROI and ongoing savings. L
FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0)1784 274 300 www.oki.co.uk
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Get the bigger picture Health & Safety
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EVENT PREVIEW
THE EVENT THAT FOCUSES ON FM
critical issues facing today’s FM professional, as well as helping them stay up to date with changing legislation. What’s more, some of the seminar sessions are CPD accredited seminar, which will help to advance visitors’ career. 2013 was the most successful Facilities Show ever with 363 exhibitors displaying products and services to a record 15,664 visitors.
As the role of the facilities management professional evolves, keeping up to date with the latest legislation, issues and challenges across a range of disciplines is essential. The Facilities Show is dedicated to providing facilities managers from all sectors with a comprehensive package of need-to-know information, bringing you together with suppliers and specialists to share knowledge, debate current issues
FREE EDUCATION The education at Facilities Show offers visitors the opportunity to benefit from a wealth of knowledge in the feature and seminar theatres. At the forefront of expertise, this year’s programme of content will bring you innovations, inspiration and guidance to effectively manage your organisations facilities and energy usage. Focusing on key issues faced by facilities management professionals, the Facilities Show Keynote Theatre will showcase industry experts who will address the hottest topics, provide inspiration and practical advice in a variety of formats from panel debates to round table discussions. E
The Facilities Show takes place on 17-19 June at London’s ExCeL and will help FM practitioners keep up to date with the latest legislation, issues and challenges in the industry and find best-fit solutions and products for your organisation’s needs. Visitors will be able to discover the latest and most innovative FM products and services showcased by an extensive range of UK and international suppliers and supporting single and multiple sites. The free to attend, fully comprehensive education programme will enable visitors to remain fully informed on the most
Visitorse to abl will be the latest r discove ducts and FM pro showcased servicesange of UK by a r rnational e and int pliers sup
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Facilities Management
EVENT PREVIEW Organisers of the Facilities Show consulted with a range of past visitors to help them shape the topics which will be covered at Facilities Show 2014 to ensure they meet the ever changing needs of the FM industry. The topics that were picked were space utilisation; dealing with change; integrating FM into business; procurement & TFM; managing customer expectations; workspace; and waste management. BIFM KNOWLEDGE THEATRE As the professional body for facilities management, BIFM is at the heart of knowledge for the sector. Founded in 1993, the Institute provides information, education, training and networking services for over 12,000 members – both individual professionals and organisations. The BIFM reflects a profession, which has come of age. It develops services for all those involved in facilities management and is the UK’s lead institute representing the interests of those who practise facilities management and those who work in organisations supplying facilities management related goods or services. Once again the BIFM has a dedicated Knowledge Theatre to share case-studies, best practice and industry outlooks for those looking for a high-level overview of the FM industry. Education seminars will include electrical risk awareness for non‑electrical trades, taken by Steve Mason, HM Specialist Inspector at the HSE. Mike Packham, Partner in charge of FM Consultancy, Bernard Williams Associates, discusses how benchmarking can improve your FM performance, while Peter Young, general manager at Waldmann Lighting will take a session on energy efficient office lighting. INTERIORS ZONE As part of the show’s big move to London, event organisers embarked on a major research project with the event’s visitor community to find what they wanted to see at Facilities Show in 2014. From the findings it was evident that there was an increasing interest in office relocation, space management and utilisation, furniture procurement and interior design. With this in mind, this year’s Facilities Show has a dedicated area which will house suppliers of products and services directly relating to interior space in commercial buildings, as well as a seminar theatre specifically addressing these needs. John Starr, CAFM Consultant at Excitech will take a session on space utilisation. The true cost of space per person, per year is £6,000 to £13,000. In an increasingly competitive, budget-constrained world, reducing unnecessary space and associated costs has become critical to reducing an organisation’s total cost of occupancy. Alternative workplace strategies that employ E
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Facilities Show 2014 will provide visitors with a broad range of suppliers showcasing a range of products and services, from waste management, energy solutions, winter maintenance and environmenal services, to office management, fire solutions and managed services telecommuting as a cornerstone have become an indispensable part of that equation. A session on the ‘circular economy’ will be take by Stephen Gee, founder & co‑director at Resource. He will answer questions such as what is the circular economy? Why is now the time to innovate? What is the role of FM in the circular economy? BIFM NETWORKING HUB Following on from its launch at the FM Event 2012 and its successful integration into Facilities Show 2013, the Facilities Show Networking Hub will be making a welcome return in 2014. Designed for senior professionals in the fields of facilities management, estate management, property management and procurement, a range of sessions will take place across the three days, with exclusive networking opportunities taking the form of round table discussions led by industry experts and associations and followed by informal networking and refreshments.
Tom Robinson is head of talent at Mitie’s Client Services business and will be discussing how to make those within your organisation more innovative. Meanwhile, Jason Gurd, the Chair of the BIFM Rising FM group, and Mark Allen, Creative Director from Tigermouth PR, will provide practical tips and techniques to raising your profile within your organisation and the industry. FMA VILLAGE In 2014, the Facilities Management Association (FMA) Village will return for it’s third year, building on the huge successes of it’s first two years. In 2013, experts from a range of companies including TFM’s (Total Facilities Management) were on hand to assist visitors with their FM strategies and help them explore their options. Prior to this year’s event, Chris Hoar, FMA, chief executive said: “FMA will once again be supporting Facilities Show in 2013 and will return with the popular FMA Village for a second year. As the industry increasingly E
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EVENT PREVIEW professionalises, this is a great forum each year to discuss latest developments, including the FM MBA with Sheffield Hallam University as well as seeking out new products and services and meet face-to-face with peers from across the whole of FM. Look out for the FM Sunday Telegraph supplement, where we will be distributing free copies.” ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT The Facilities Show is co-located with Energy and Environment Expo. Occupying a unique position as the only energy event to take place in London, it brings together the widest range of professionals responsible for energy and environmental strategies within businesses. This will include energy managers, environment managers, facilities managers, health, safety & environment managers, building services managers, architects, energy assessors, energy auditors and energy consultants. The education programme was developed through extensive consultation with energy and environmental management professionals and will feature seminars covering the latest issues, trends and legislation. Speakers from IEMA, Planet First, RIBA, BRE, The National Energy Foundation and much more will be providing practical solutions and legislation updates on topics such as waste management, water management, renewables, supply chain management, carbon reduction, energy procurement, CSR, energy efficiency, cost control and ROI, building management systems, legislation and much more. The Facilities Show app will help visitors navigate the floor with the quickest routes to their saved exhibitors. It also allows you to bookmark presentations, view full speaker profiles and connect directly with exhibitors. The app is designed to enhance the visitor experience by giving them instant access to floor plans, seminar timetables, social networking, exhibitor lists and profiles. The App will be available closer to the show, check the website for details on how to download it.
as offering their staff more flexible hours, opportunities to work remotely, bringing in specialist teams for one-off projects – the office space also needs to adapt to provide a comfortable and efficient space for those present. The latest concept in flexible work environments is known as activity based working (ABW) space, which means that regardless of employee numbers on a given day, there’s always a suitable workspace for them. Such practices frequently involve ‘hot desking’ – which means that once an employee has finished their shift, they simply lock up their things and clear the desk space for the next person. This practice needs well-organised and secure locker management and GANTNER’s electronic locking systems present a solution for the modern office. The system can also be seamlessly integrated into existing access control and building management software. The system has robust locks linked to a hard-wired system with an alarm function for absolute security, providing a deterrent to any break-in attempts. This Ganter will be showcasing its activity based working systems on stand N1160 at the Facilities Show.
Facilities Management
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CO-LOCATED SHOWS The Facilities Management show is part of the UBM Live Protection & Management Series, which includes leading international shows for security, fire, safety and health, energy, environment and service management. In total, over 45,000 visitors are expected to the London ExCel over the three days, June 17-19, who will all have free flowing access across the events. The co-located events are Firex International; IFSEC International; the Facilities Show; Safety and Health Expo; Energy and Environment Expo; and Service Management Expo. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.facilitiesshow.com
EXHIBITORS Facilities Show 2014 will provide visitors with a broad range of suppliers showcasing a range of products and services, from waste management, energy solutions, winter maintenance and environmenal services, to office management, fire solutions and managed services. Looking at hand hygiene, PHS Washrooms has launched an innovative new hand dryer, the Airstream®, which it will be showcasing at the Facilities Show on stand M950. Featuring the latest design technology the patented ergonomic hand dryer combines energy efficiency with performance, delivering an impressive 13-second dry time. With a built-in anti-bacterial protection on its surface, the hand dryer eliminates over 99.99 per cent of any present bacteria, including MRSA and E.coli. By hygienically drying hands, the Airstream® will help to ultimately protect users against seasonal colds and flu. With electricity bills an ever present concern for businesses the Airstream® is designed with speed and efficiency in mind. It uses approximately 80 per cent less energy than a traditional hand dryer making it a cost effective alternative to conventional hand dryers and paper towels. Also on the subject of hand hygiene, the Foot Handle from StepNpull will be available to view at the event. It is a device that allows you to open toilet doors with your foot. According to a senior lecturers research in Biomedical Sciences at Queen Marys University of London, 70 per cent of people do not wash their hands properly. Hand hygiene is recognised internationally as the single most important measure for preventing the spread of infection, so once you have cleaned your hands, how do you open the toilet door without picking up germs? The StepNpull is a simple metal plate with a serrated edge which screws onto the bottom of a door allowing a person to step on to it and pull the door open with their foot. FLEXIBLE WORKSPACES Activity based working space is the new buzzword in today’s world of flexible office management. As companies adapt to the ways of modern working – such
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Aryaa Associates – management and consultancy services in the cloud computing space Aryaa Associates Limited (AAL) is a specialist supplier on the digital services store to help the public sector buy, design, build and deliver software projects, products and systems/infrastructure using an agile approach. The company undertakes specialist work that focuses on its clients holistic needs and requirements. AAL provides a highly specialised skill set for the cloud computing space, with a focus on four major elements: A high quality skill set matched to demand, to optimise the project outcome; leveraging current industry best practice and client capability; value for money tested and modeled commercial solutions allow for longterm relationships and trust with our clients; providing customer satisfaction by going the extra mile. AAL strongly recommends customers use the Agile Project Management approach when employing and blending AAL expertise and skills with your own to deliver successful, high performing projects. However the company is equally comfortable in all major project management practices and can work with you in whichever methodology you choose subject to discussion and mutual agreement. AAL has both a proven track record and rigorous experience in embedding
Agile Project Management methodology and training its client teams. In its purest form, the ‘Agile approach’ (of which GDS’s Gov.uk is a very good reference site), facilitates and allows for bespoke delivery and highly controlled and manageable change. Key benefits of pure Agile methodology and AAL engagement include: Detailed breakdown of the clients scope of requirements, allowing for a more accurate estimation of risk, timescales, costs and obligations of the client; allows the operational teams to take ownership of the work delivered,thereby reducing unnecessary governance and controls which can often lead to increased costs and non-value adding activity; a controlled and collaborative approach to delivery; client remains informed and aware of the projects status using purposeful reporting throughout the lifecycle; Client is at ease and can speak ‘plain English’ while the technical team engages at an operational level and reports provide the governance and controlled assessment at a senior/director level which facilitates delivery and eradicates workarounds. AAL is proud to promote its view that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to scoping,
designing and delivering cloud solutions. AAL considers each project on its merits, risks and challenges to ensure it offers proposals that meet the needs of each client individually, whilst using the economies o its knowledge and experience to provide a favourable and low risk procurement route for its clients cloud requirements. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 203 8345 Fax: 020 7203 6701 ops@aryaaltd.com
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IOSH 2014
INSPIRING LEADERSHIP AT IOSH 2014
IOSH 2014 (17-18 June, ExCeL London) will bring together health and saftey professionals for a programme which features expert‑led seminars on leadership, risk management and regulation As the world commemorates those who lost their lives in one of the worst workplace accidents in living memory, the occupational health and safety industry will converge to focus on many of the issues that tragedy raised. Some 1,100 died and many hundreds more were injured in the factory collapse and fire in Dhaka on 24 April 2013. This tragedy left its mark not only on a country but on the world of work. It raised issues about corporate social responsibility, occupational safety and health in developing countries, and how large organisations manage health and safety along their supply chains. The victims of health and safety disasters and incidents will be on the minds of health and safety practitioners when the profession comes together for IOSH 2014, the annual conference of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). ‘Inspiring leadership’ is the theme of IOSH 2014, at ExCeL London on June 17-18. It will draw speakers from around the world including industry guru Dominic Copper, the larger than life Sidney Dekker, the eminent leadership professor from Griffith University, Lord Richard Dannett, former chief of the British Army and Judith Hackett, head of the Health and Safety Executive. The two-day conference, with 36 conference sessions and a dedicated programme of practical workshops running alongside, will offer strategic global insights, influential case studies and best practice guidance to implement in the workplace. The conference agenda follows three tracks: the impact of leadership and culture in rapidly changing environments; global risk management to take your business forward; and beyond compliance – regulatory and legal
requirements to improve performance. In total, more than 70 leading industry specialists will address the conference with representatives from government, transport, healthcare, energy, law, construction, insurance, shipping, urban regeneration, defence, manufacturing and psychology as well as social scientists presenting at the event. SEMINARS Developing leadership skills across an organisation is a core subject area. Stephen Carver from Cranfield University promises to deliver a riveting session around the psychology of leadership. In addition to different type of leaders, the conference will look at how good communications can be a tool to drive health and safety improvements. Paul Haxell, Group HSE Director, Bovis Homes, will share his experience on how communications can improve or undermine our ability to influence
Event Preview
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session will be by Thierry Dumortier, Enhesa, who will be presenting on incorporating increasing regulation into risk management in the global workplace. KNOWLEDGE SHARING Working across multiple sites and borders and building successful safety cultures across a workforce spread worldwide are among topics for debate during two days of knowledge sharing and networking in the capital. IOSH president Tim Briggs said: “In the important job of protecting people from harm at work, there can be no lags in our understanding of new knowledge or the developing trends and emerging pressures on the leaders responsible for achieving that goal. This is why I have been very involved in the organisation of this year’s IOSH conference, to ensure all practitioners at whatever stage in their career development will be able to learn from the speakers and take this into their workplace.” Opening the event on Tuesday, 17 June, will be IOSH chief executive Jan Chmiel. Mr Chmiel said: “This year’s conference is about enabling insightful, future-orientated decision‑making. The demands on leaders are great so we are responding with a high-calibre speaker programme.’’ In addition to the three main conference tracks, this year the conference will be providing an additional track of CoreSkills+ workshops, which will deal with practical and technical solutions to health and safety issues. Heather Beach, OSH director, UBM Live and conference organiser, said: ‘’The IOSH conference is now in its 66th year. The heads of industry converge for the conference and we are providing unparalleled speaker
The two-day conference, with 36 conference sessions and a dedicated programme of practical workshops, will offer strategic global insights, influential case studies and best practice guidance the board. Matt Cleave, Juice Learning, will be hosting an interactive session on how to use the media to effectively communicate your health and safety message. Dr Helen Beers, Health and Safety Laboratory will be presenting latest research on ageing and the workforce. Also, Terry Woolmer, head of H&S Policy, EFF will be one of the panel members on a panel regarding sickness, absence and rehabilitation. Some of the most popular sessions to date include Steve Hails, director of Health and Safety, Crossrail, who will be talking about effective leadership across a widespread workforce. Also, the mock trial by Kevin McLouglin, barrister, Temple Garden Chambers, is proving incredibly popular. He will cover a compensation claim for physiological injury arising from stress and bullying in the workplace. Another popular
program this year. In addition there will be world-class networking opportunities. It is a must attend for industry management.” A BIGGER EVENT The year’s conference will be held for the first time at the Safety & Health Expo, the UK’s national exhibition for the occupational health and safety industry. Moving from the NEC in Birmingham to ExCeL London, the exhibition is experiencing dramatic growth and is 30 per cent bigger than 2013 with over 300 exhibitors. This year will be packed full of seminars, innovations and the wow factor with an abundance of demonstrations and interactive features. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ioshconference.co.uk
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EVENT PREVIEW
HEALTH & SAFETY ON THE AGENDA
Run exclusively with the support of IOSH, RoSPA and the BSIF, the Safety & Health Expo offers three days of educational programmes, suppliers, and products at London’s ExCeL this June Safety & Health Expo brings together the entire safety and health industry buying chain. From 17-19 June 2014 at London’s ExCeL, more than 17,000 visitors will come together to the show supported from the key industry partners – IOSH, RoSPA and BSIF. Coinciding for the first time ever with the IOSH conference, CoreSkills+ and LiftEx, Safety & Health Expo will provide three days of unrivalled educational programmes alongside the very latest, and most innovative, products to market. Safety & Health Expo offers a completely free and fully comprehensive educational programme covering a breadth of industry issues from the latest legislation updates to practical insights on behavioural safety, working at height, occupational hygiene and business driver safety.
EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS To coincide with the big move to London from Birmingham, the event organisers have launched a whole host of new educational zones within Safety & Health Expo. The education arenas include the BOHS Arena, the Lone Worker Arena, and the SHP Legal and Cultural Arena. With approximately 13,000 deaths resulting from occupational diseases, is it time for the spotlight to be shone on the health side of health and safety? Mike Slater, BOHS President will take a session in the BOHS Arena called Lifting the load: Reducing the burden of occupational disease in the UK. Asthma is a very serious problem that can ruin lives, with workers
exposed to certain dusts, gases, fumes and vapours causing risks. Chris Beach from Chris Beach Associates takes a session on occupational asthma. In the Lone Worker Arena, Rachel Griffin, Director of the Suzy Lamplugh Trust will cover safety tips for lone workers, including travelling and visiting clients, recognising aggression and de‑escalation and defusion techniques. It will also touch on the importance of developing policies and procedures and training your staff to follow them. What’s more, Keith Saunders, Health and Safety Manager at North Star Housing Services, will talk about putting lone working on the health and safety agenda within the housing sector. In the SHP Legal and Cultural Arena, Kevin Bridges, Partner and Regulatory Lawyer Pinsent Masons, takes a look at the different types of interaction organisations can have with regulators and how they can be managed. Also within the SHP Legal and Cultural Arena, there will be an interactive mock trial presentation called ‘Death of a Banksman’. The trial results from a fatal workplace accident and the audience are all jury members with the power to convict or acquit the E
Safety & Health Expo
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Safety h & Healt gs in Expo br e entire r th togethe and health safety chain from buying June 2014 17-19 ndon’s at Lo l ExCe
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Innovative ladder solutions from TB Davies
Cost-effective solutions for asbestos training
The leading American manufacturer Little Giant Ladder Systems is to announce a new European line of innovative, safe ladder products through UK distributor TB Davies (Cardiff) Ltd at The Safety & Health Expo, London ExCel on 17-19th June 2014. H. Arthur Wing, president of Little Giant Ladder Systems explained, “According to the World Health Organisation in the United States we lead the world in reported ladder deaths with over one hundred and sixty four thousand people treated in emergency rooms each year.” “At Little Giant Ladder Systems, we are committed to keeping people safe and are proud of the fact that these new additions to our European programme have been preventing injuries and saving lives across the United States since we introduced them in 2010.”
Beaumont (BIACS) provides a down-to-earth, no-nonsense, cost-effective solution to asbestos, training, consultancy, management and surveying, as well as health and safety consultancy throughout the UK and Europe. BIACS is a BOHS-approved training provider, a registered member of the IATP and FSB, as well as being Safecontractor-approved. BIACS understands how the industry works and for this reason it is able to offer practical and affordable advice and solutions and, above all, continued support. The company offers a full range of services relating to asbestos and health & safety, from training to consultancy through to asbestos surveys and asbestos management. BIACS delivers Asbestos Awareness Training, Non-licensed Training, Licensed Personnel Training and a comprehensive range of BOHS courses, on a regular basis. Along with
For years, ladders remained unchanged with virtually no advancements in design or functionality until Little Giant Ladder Systems put its first product on the market. Today satisfied Little Giant customers include NASA, US Military, Boeing, HP, Intel etc. Amongst the innovations to be unveiled at the show will be The Cage™ and SumoStance™ extension ladders. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 029 2071 3000 www.tbdavies.co.uk
delivering the BOHS P402, BOHS P405, BOHS P406 and BOHS P407, it offers candidates advice and help on how to complete any required reports to obtain their qualifications. With over 26 years’ experience of dealing with asbestos, managing director Paul Beaumont is in the perfect position to impart his knowledge and expertise to help you and your company in this often confusing and litigious industry. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0844 372 2826 info@biacs.co.uk www.biacs.co.uk
Effectively manage hand arm vibration with HAVi
A New Generation of HAV Management Public and private sector organisations now have everything they need at their fingertips to effectively manage hand arm vibration, from operator focused solutions to remote management of one or a number of different locations, to training that is tailored to suit different needs. HAV monitoring, management and training.
Contact us today on 0115 932 7002 email info@thehavi.com or visit www.thehavi.com @TheHAVi_latest
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Organisations can now manage hand arm vibration more accurately across one or more sites by combining HAVi’s best selling monitoring device with its new cloud management system. The new online platform, HAVi TOTAL allows organisations to effectively manage all HAV related documentation and individual’s exposure; even multi-site companies can consolidate documentation whilst still focusing on individual sites. Users can upload and access information remotely via laptops, tablets and smartphones, and if there is no internet connection, the software will automatically sync when a connection is found. Andy Mee, HAVi’s technical director said: “We work closely with public and private sector organisations to give them all of the tools they need to become HAV compliant. Our new system offers an opportunity to see an
overview of the entire operation, bringing training, individual’s exposure to vibration, health surveillance, current work, job types, levels of risk and person assessments together. HAVi TOTAL can be tailored so that only certain users can update and view certain information, i.e. site managers and HR departments. Operatives can be given access to upload their personal HAV data only. Find out, visit stand Q1813 at Safety & Health Expo to see a demonstration of HAVI TOTAL. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0115 932 7002 www.thehavi.com
EVENT PREVIEW
This year’s occupational health and safety BSIF Safety Awards will be announced at a high-profile presentation held on the first day of SHE 2014 on 17 June
Safety & Health Expo
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defendants, Rich Pickens and Short Planks Limited. The scene is set by a television news broadcast shown at the start. The session provides delegates with an insight into a Health and Safety trial, and combines this with training on the increasingly important issue managing the media, and your reputation, should an accident at work occur. BSIF SAFETY AWARDS 2014 2014 will mark the 13th year of the BSIF Safety Awards, which are significant awards promoting the importance of innovation and underline the highest standards of excellence within occupational health and safety. This year’s winners will be announced at a high profile presentation to be held on the first day of the Safety & Health Expo at London’s ExCel Centre on Tuesday 17 June. Winners of these prestigious awards will join an admired list of previous winners, as well as benefit from a great deal of publicity and success as a result of winning. The BSIF Safety Awards consist of the three following categories: Product Innovation; Service Awards; and Safety Excellence. ASBESTOS The UK Asbestos Training Association Ltd (UKATA), the leading authority in asbestos training, is attending the Safety and Health Expo. “When it comes to dealing with asbestos, training in handling it safely is paramount, which makes the Expo a natural place for Team UKATA to deliver our Health and Safety message on asbestos,” said Jacqui Royall, Director of UKATA and Chair of the Development and Marketing Committee. “Over 4,500 people are still dying every year as a result of breathing in asbestos fibres and asbestos remains the biggest single cause of work related deaths in the UK, so we still have a very big job on our hands to change perceptions of this hidden killer.” In addition to raising awareness of asbestos, Team UKATA will also be promoting the services the organisation and it’s members offer and the advantages of membership in terms of both keeping members abreast of the very latest UK and European legislation, and the importance of training when it comes to ensuring the right result. THE NOISE DOCTOR Cirrus Research is taking its Noise Doctor advisory clinic to the Safety & Health Expo. Enjoying a highly visible position on Stand Q2380 the team of experts will be offering advice, information and product demonstrations on a range of sound level meters, noise dosimeters, training courses and noise warning signs. The company will be showcasing its Optimus Sound Level Meters, ideal for noise at work and environmental noise measurements, and its doseBadge Noise Dosimeter, ideal for measuring and assessing the noise exposure of mobile workers or anyone working in hazardous environments. What’s more, the SoundSign Noise Warning Sign will be on display which is ideal for informing and warning employees about high noise levels in the workplace. To ensure it’s not all work, delegates will also be invited to participate in the new version of the popular “HOW Loud?” competition with prizes worth up to £1,000. For every entry that is received, Cirrus has pledged to donate £1 to its official 2014 charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.safety-health-expo.co.uk
NATAS provide an all encompassing asbestos service to assist you and your organisation achieve compliancy with the latest rules and regulations. From award-winning Asbestos Awareness Training and eLearning courses to a full portfolio of BOHS courses, we pride ourselves in maintaining the highest results and delivering comprehensive training. NATAS eFace Fast Track BOHS courses are the UK’s first of their kind with delegates achieving their qualifications via a blended learning package, with the most popular modules being the P402 and P405. Specialising in Asbestos Awareness Training and BOHS P402 Asbestos Survey Training and BOHS P405 Asbestos Managements. NATAS are proud members of IATP, BOHS and ASHEeLA, delivering the highest level of training and competency to the industry and maintaining this level throughout your delegate’s careers. NATAS are the first providers to receive University accreditation allowing delegates to earn learning credits in the journey towards degree level qualifications. NATAS International training clients have benefited from our expert trainers industry experience and adaptability to both new environments and delivering local legislative training requirements.
Email info@natas.co.uk or call 0870 751 1880 to speak to a representative. Expand Your Knowledge, Reduce Your Risk.
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EVENT PREVIEW
PROMOTING THE SUSTAINABLE BUILDING SECTOR
The Greenbuild Expo takes place on 7-8 May at Manchester Central, and features seminars with key advice for the construction industry on making buildings more efficient Reducing our buildings’ impact on the environment is at the heart of Greenbuild Expo, a free conference and exhibition taking place in Manchester Central on 7-8 May. As well as guidance on creating low-energy buildings, visitors to the event will also have access to expert advice on renewable energy, energy efficiency, green retrofit and much more. On top of the free seminar programme of over 100 free sessions, there will also be an exhibition featuring some of the industry’s latest green innovations and energy-saving solutions. DECC will be holding its RHI roadshow at Greenbuild Expo and will be also be presenting on how the domestic RHI and the Green Deal will work together to ensure that all participants will be able to benefit from having a smarter, warmer home.
A popular feature returning to Greenbuild Expo for 2014 is Ignition, the UK’s only woodfuel event. With a dedicated seminar programme and exhibition area, Ignition14 will include advice on heat meters and using biomass for district heating schemes. GREENBUILD CHALLENGE This year’s Greenbuild Expo will also feature the Greenbuild Challenge, a new sustainability campaign. Supported by UK Green Building Council and the Energy Saving Trust, the campaign aims to engage, educate and inspire professionals in the building and sustainability
sectors to create a truly sustainable built environment. Professionals responsible for the design, function and performance of volume housing and non-domestic properties such as schools and hospitals have a huge role to play when it comes to creating a sustainable built environment. To get involved with the campaign visit our website, where you can find out more about placing sustainability at the heart of the built environment. You will also be able to make a pledge to take more action to improve a building – and see the pledges and real-life improvements others have already made. Pledges include switching to LED Lighting – using 40 LED bulbs in a house for an average of 2.7 hours a day, the EST’s typical use figure for a bulb in a kitchen or living room. Running costs would be £23 annually compared with £287 for sticking with halogens. You can also pledge to reduce artificial light. Daylight has a better impact on performance – good daylight in schools leads to a 10 per cent increase in overall pupil performance, with 20 per cent faster progression in mathematics and 26 per cent faster reading progression. Focal points of the campaign include: sustainable retrofitting; behavioural change; building materials and methods; and smart cities. A spokesperson from Greenbuild said: “We want building owners and E
Greenbuild Expo
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
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occupants to pledge to change their buildings and their behaviour – whether that’s in an office, a block of flats, sheltered housing or a hotel – and then make it happen. It needn’t be a top-to-toe green retrofit – even simple, and low cost, changes can make a big difference. “Working with partners such as UK GBC and EST, the Greenbuild Challenge aims to raise the debate around sustainability in the built environment. We will continue the debate at this year’s Greenbuild Expo with a great seminar programme – all free to attend.” CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS With an extensive conference programme featuring over 100 free seminars and workshops, Greenbuild Expo covers every aspect of a sustainable built environment. Here’s a selection of the highlights: ENERGY EFFICIENCY IN SOCIAL HOUSING Given by Louise Marix-Evans of Quantum Strategy & Technology, this practical session will look at lessons from delivering energy efficiency in housing, including an overview of what technologies worked best in social housing retrofit and the importance of resident engagement THE DOMESTIC RENEWABLE HEAT INCENTIVE Graham Temple of Mitsubishi will speak about the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive, a financial support scheme targeted at households and paid to the owner of the heating system. It pays for renewable heat delivered to a home when using technologies such as air source heat pumps. THE PERFORMANCE GAP – WHAT IS THE SOLUTION? This talk, delivered by Rob Pannell of Zero Carbon Hub and Ben Brakes of Whitbread Group PLC will look at the persuasive and growing evidence of a gap between the as-designed and as-built energy and carbon performance of new buildings. In response the Zero Carbon Hub is leading a cross-industry project, assessing the extent of the issue within the domestic sector, while UK Green Building Council members are grappling with the issue in commercial buildings. But what is the performance gap and why does it matter? What recommendations have emerged from the research undertaken so far and what does the construction industry need to do to ensure we close the performance gap? WHY AREN’T HEATING CONTROLS IN EVERY HOME? New research by TACMA, the heating controls group within BEAMA, shows that conventional and readily available controls have the technical potential to reduce home energy bills by 40 per cent. At the same time we know that householders use their heating systems in a variety of sub-optimal ways in order to maintain comfortable conditions and manage their heating costs. This presentation will cover the latest technical and behavioural research on this issue and propose ways to ensure that every home has a good set of heating controls to ensure both comfort and efficiency.
HARD-TO-TREAT PROPERTIES AND ECO ECO aims to insulate the hard-to-treat properties, but what are they? How many dwellings could potentially need this kind of treatment and what are the options available? Mark Weaver of Weber discusses. FABRIC FIRST & TIMBER Sustainability is moving up the agenda after the UK and Scottish Governments last year announced renewed energy efficiency targets. Following this, Stewart Dalgarno will discuss how using a fabric first approach, in combination with the right material, it is possible to “future proof” projects against further increases to performance standards. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.greenbuildexpo.co.uk
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DATA BREACHES
NEWS IN BRIEF
Local government data breaches grow, but penalties shrink Local government was responsible for 15 per cent of all self-reported data breaches in 2013-14, according to a Freedom of Information request. The figures, released by ViaSat Inc, also reveal that while breaches reported to the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) grew by 11 per cent in the time measured, monetary penalties shrank by 53 per cent. Chris McIntosh, CEO of ViaSat UK: “While the ICO has settled into its remit, the fact remains that the self-reported data breaches it deals with are not the be all and end all of threats to data protection in the UK. “At the very least, we can see that there were far more thefts of computing and other equipment from organisations than were reported to the ICO. We must trust that only a fraction of those thefts involved sensitive data being put at risk. Similarly, if less than one per cent of the devices stolen in burglaries or personal thefts contained any sensitive information, that is still a huge amount of potentially sensitive data in the wrong hands.’ The health sector was responsible for
‘Big Data’ centre to create more than 300 jobs A new £11.3 million innovation centre dedicated to ‘big data’ technology is set to open later this year. The investment is projected to return a minimum of 345 new jobs and an additional £155 million of value to the Scottish Economy. The Data Lab, funded by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) with support from Scottish Enterprise and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, aims to change the way in which Scottish industry develops and applies cutting-edge analytics and data science techniques to capture new market opportunities and boost productivity.
the most self-reported data breaches in the time measured (474) while local government filed 191 reports. The most common cause was a disclosure in error (48 per cent of cases) followed by lost or stolen paperwork (16 per cent). FURTHER INFORMATION: tinyurl.com/pkkkekb
NHS DATA SHARING NHS England’s care.data will “only be rolled out when the process is right” NHS England has scrapped the deadline for the relaunch of its flagship patient record sharing scheme, care.data, saying it will only be rolled out when they are sure ‘the process is right’. The scheme was delayed for six months in February to allow NHS England to ‘build understanding’ of the scheme’s benefits. But the latest care.data update from NHS England’s national director for patients and information, Tim Kelsey, reveals that NHS England will further extend the deadline if work to address GP and public concerns has not been achieved. An earlier version of the update explained that the scheme would be trialled across 100 to 500 practices in the autumn, but the final version confirms the full rollout may be postponed. Tim Kelsey writes: ‘We do not subscribe to artificial deadlines here – we will roll it out nationally only when we are sure the process is right.’
Surrey IT chief named as new Socitm president Nick Roberts, IT Group Manager for Surrey County Council, has been confirmed as the new Socitm President at Socitm’s Spring Conference, which took place in London on April 10. Nick, who takes over the Presidency from Steve Halliday, CIO at Solihull MBC, was previously chair of the Socitm South, Socitm’s largest region, and chair of the National Advisory Council. He has also served as Vice Chair of the Socitm Insight Steering Group (now Socitm Research Steering Group. READ MORE: tinyurl.com/lg5slqd
PUBLIC SERVICE NETWORKS
PSNGB to work with Socitm Group PSNGB, the industry association for PSN suppliers and the Local Government Solutions Advisory Group, co-ordinated by Socitm, have announced that they will work together as part of an innovative network of subject matter experts. The joint aim is to develop and promote solutions that accelerate and enable collaboration between local public services; improving outcomes, efficiency and customer experience. PSNGB Public Sector Liaison Director, Neil Bacon, said: “PSNGB is pleased to announce that we have been able to rally behind the important work that the Local Government Solutions Advisory Group are aiming to deliver with a substantial offer of independent consultancy support for the next 12 months”. “We have also offered to coordinate the involvement of appropriate industry Subject Matter Experts where they’re needed. In
GT News
IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk
material terms this is a really significant offer and it should help the Solutions Advisory Group to deliver on the service transformation potential that PSN brings. PSNGB looks forward to supporting Socitm and partners in this new venture.” The primary common infrastructure for the majority of government communications in the UK, PSN aims to save money and enable better, more efficient and joined-up public services. It is the trusted, shared infrastructure that connects increasing numbers of organisations delivering public services to each other and to cloud based and hosted services they can use or share. Founded on compliance with agreed standards, it’s made up of inter-connected networks from many competing suppliers, so ensuring best value. FURTHER INFORMATION: http://psngb.org
South Hams and West Devon sign Civica deal Two Devon councils have signed a contract with supplier Civica for the provision of shared ICT services worth £1.5 million. South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council, which have a long history of procuring shared services, tendered in January for the contract. This latest deal will help both councils to digitise and redesign internal operations and public services, in an attempt to improve efficiency and improve public access to services. Civica will supply the councils with solutions covering document management, telephony, workflow, payment and mobile working READ MORE: tinyurl.com/prhp9rw
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LEARNING SERVICE
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Written by Gemma Blakey, local government executive, techUK
PUBLIC SERVICE NETWORK
HOW THE PUBLIC SERVICE NETWORK CAN DELIVER
Now that the Public Service Network is in place, has it improved the way in which local government operates and can its high security standards be turned from an onerous imposition into an advantage? techUK‘s Gemma Blakey reports Mention security in the local government sector and the response you get will undoubtedly use the phrase Public Service Network (PSN). Local government is recovering from meeting the tough (and in the view of many, inappropriate) security standards as part of achieving PSN compliance. With all but a handful of councils now reaching compliance it is clear that PSN is here to stay but questions remain over its implementation and its future. Firstly, why was it such a painful process and what lessons can be learnt from this to help improve the process going forward? Secondly, now that PSN is in place has it improved the way in which local government operates and
can its high security standards be turned from an onerous imposition into an advantage? And finally, what role does industry have to play in supporting the PSN agenda? A HARD ROAD TO TRAVEL The transition to PSN was never going to be easy. After decades of a hotch potch of
standards being implemented in an ad hoc manner, trying to get multiple organisations from different sectors to agree on one set of standards is a challenge in anyone’s book. But, creating one logical network on the basis of an industry standard is the right approach and one that now has considerable buy-in from local government. The PSN journey has also created a community focused around a common goal, this needs to be capitalised on so that issues can be tackled collectively going forward. Ensuring that co-design and cooperation is the spirit in which the public sector continues to work together is vital. Security compliance in both central and local government is not a new thing – previous regimes however had taken a more ‘laissez faire’ approach to compliance which resulted in many areas being left on ‘to-do lists’ because they were perceived as being too difficult or as requiring too much resource. PSN has challenged both local and central government to tackle these areas in a time of increased service demand and decreasing budgets. This is a tough challenge and local government needs to be applauded for the work it has done in recent months E
Creating one logical network on the basis of an industry standard is the right approach, and now has considerable buy-in from local government Volume 12.3 | GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
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PUBLIC SECTOR NETWORK to achieve the end of March deadline. techUK is concerned however that in achieving its Code of Compliance, PSN has given security a bad name. Security should be an enabler for efficient service delivery but many councils see it as stifling their innovation. In an effort to comply with PSN many authorities have abandoned technology initiatives that they see as vital to the ways they do business. This has left a bitter taste in the mouth of local government. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) schemes for example, are key to enabling many mobile workers such as social workers to do their paper work on the go and to access important information about the families they meet. This leads to more productive sessions and can free up thousands of hours a year for personal interaction and relationship building. But PSN has challenged these developments and local government have been left feeling that inappropriate levels of security have been enforced on them from a distant and disconnected central government. It is crucial that there is now dialogue between local authorities, central government and industry about the levels of security and standards of PSN. Getting this right is vital to ensuring it supports the delivery of local public services.
As more services are delivered online public confidence about the security of personal data will be paramount to achieving take up of digital services. With a tight security and information assurance regime in place the PSN will ensure all authorities are operating to high standards and will help to build confidence that they can be trusted to keep data safe
Government Technology
IT & COMPUTNG FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR– www.governmenttechnology.co.uk
A CONSISTENT APPROACH Particular questions on the process and the approach that has been taken are now starting to be raised. Approaching each council on a case by case basis was always going to be inefficient and a more collective approach has to be the future. Inconsistency has been a major issue with some councils receiving a yes from one auditor only to receive a no from another, this needs to change. Back when PSN was being conceived it was considered that model answers for assessors would be the correct approach but this was later ditched in further of individual judgement. This needs to be re-visited as the lack of consistency has led to confusion and frustration throughout local government and could create further bad feeling if it continues. The Local Government Association is working with central government to review this. techUK adds its voice to the call for increased consistency as the lack of it is creating a very confused market for suppliers to work with local authorities on improving the delivery of public services. Compliance was just the first step on the PSN journey. Authorities are now expected to transition fully across from GSi and the conversation is turning from compliance to Information Assurance and Information Governance. This too creates specific challenges for local authorities as each organisation has a different approach for doing this. Ensuring a strong assurance regime is vital for creating consistency and delivering future public services where further demand for citizen data and transacting online is a trend that is set to continue. E
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Government Technology
IT & COMPUTING FOR THE PUBLIC SECTOR – www.governmenttechnology.co.uk
PUBLIC SECTOR NETWORK the security of personal data will be paramount to achieving take up of digital services. With a tight security and information assurance regime in place the PSN will ensure all authorities are operating to high standards and will help to build confidence that they can be trusted to keep data safe. Local authorities deliver 80 per cent of public services in Britain, without resilient security measures the hope of achieving digital government will be lost.
It is important the spirit of community that PSN has created is built on so that the challenge can be tackled in a way which engages with all parties. Lessons learnt from the first phase of implementation must be used to make sure future work is conducted differently, there needs to be a two-way decision making process between local and national government and there needs to be consistent messaging and evaluation across the board. THE GAIN ACHIEVED The road has been tough but there are great benefits to local authorities who have joined PSN. With PSN infrastructure in place we now have a vital piece of the jigsaw to achieve multi-agency working, with organisations able to share and join up around the needs of the citizen and not on the basis of current silos and structural constraints. Many would argue that local government was sharing information in the past but, with the police and health services planning to transition onto the network over the next few years there is real potential for a single citizen view and locally delivered and designed services. Whether this is a citizen being able to transition seamlessly between services carrying their data with them right through to a strategic level of local government being able to tap into big data to organise resources around social need – the potential is vast. Nowhere has the profound need for systematic information sharing been demonstrated more than in the multiple cases of coordinated child sexual exploitation or ‘localised grooming’ which have been revealed across many of the UK’s towns and cities. In Oxford for example, social services, health workers and the police had each received reports about the sexual abuse of local children but, failure to properly share information led to vital links not being made and the scale of the abuse remaining uncovered for years. Of course many cultural changes are needed for effective interagency working but a common network infrastructure which enables frontline practitioners to gain a full picture of colleagues’ interactions with citizens will be an essential tool to achieve this. Increasingly government policy requires different services to work together in a coordinated way to achieve goals. For example, the Troubled Families Initiative, which aims to help 120,000 families by 2015, focuses on working with local authorities and their partners including police, education and health to help these families tackle their problems and bring down the cost to tax payers. To date the scheme has been in use with nearly 80,000 families across 152 councils and a high success rate has been reported across the board. As more services are delivered online public confidence about
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WHAT ROLE FOR INDUSTRY? So what does this all mean for industry? And what is our role in supporting the work of PSN? The answer is simple – we need to be considered a key part of the community as the PSN cannot be delivered without us. Suppliers need to be aware of developments so they can align their solutions and business plans accordingly, they too need to feedback on experience they have had when dealing with local government and be part of the co design of future services. Industry also needs to highlight the ways that security can be an enabler rather than a barrier. Having a seat at the table of PSN is a key aspect of the next step along the journey to establishing the future of local public services. Here at techUK we are working with suppliers and local government colleagues to ensure this is the case going forward. Working in partnership is a message we have put out within local government for a long time and one that is recognised as vital to achieving the best results not only for councils and suppliers but for citizens. Although pockets of good practice exist in local government, PSN could potentially prove the catalyst to creating a community around a common aim to deliver better services to citizens and it is ensuring that we capitalise on this and not let the security debate cloud the potential it can provide if we work together to get it right. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.techuk.org
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OYTS for sailing, young people and education Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYTS) is the UK’s leading sail training organisation. It believes that all young people, regardless of circumstance or ability, should have the opportunity to realise their true potential in order for them to live healthy, fulfilling lives. OYTS inspires young people through the challenge of adventure under sail. Residential voyages aboard its fleet of sail training vessels provides a powerful and effective environment for the personal development of young people from a diverse range of backgrounds, throughout Scotland and beyond. Sail training is a perfect and unique environment to further a young person’s education. Ocean Youth Trust Scotland knows that young people integrate learning and outdoor experiences, whether through play in the immediate grounds or adventures further afield, which then provides relevance and
depth to curriculum in ways that are difficult to achieve indoors. Learning outdoors can be enjoyable, creative, challenging and adventurous and helps young people learn by experience and grow as confident and responsible citizens who value and appreciate the landscapes, natural heritage and culture of Scotland. The journey through education for any child must include opportunities for planned, quality outdoor learning experiences.
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Playmaintain understands the increasing pressure on council budgets, which is why the company has a strong focus on price, quality and value for money. Playground safety inspections start from just £45 subject to location. Please don’t hesitate to contact Playmaintain’s friendly, customer focused team for more details or to book your inspection today. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01945 420146 info@playmaintain.co.uk www.playmaintain.co.uk
PARKS & RECREATION
Hoodies for school, college Bespoke pond safety and university students covers for schools and Hoodies4Schools is a leading into an eye-catching graphic community spaces UK supplier of personalised or you can create your own. hoodies to students of all ages. Ideal for school-leavers, teams, clubs and trips… Hoodies are an increasingly popular choice for schools, colleges and universities. In-house embroidery and screen-printing expertise means full control from order to delivery, that makes sure you’re getting the very best quality and design for your budget. The Hoodies4Schools range includes fashionable styles in dozens of colours with layout options for personalising from off-the-peg graphics or your own artwork. As specialists in leavers’ hoodies, the company’s designs incorporate all the leavers’ names
Hoodies4Schools’ ISO 9001-certified screen-printing process uses only environmentally safe inks and its hoodies meet the requirements of the ‘confidence in textiles’ kitemark. You want hoodies that stand out and are mementos that look good for years to come. Hoodies4Schools believes you should get quality and value-for-money. So, should you find a lower quote on a like-for-like personalised hoodie, the price will be matched. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01254 457013 info@hoodies4schools.co.uk www.hoodies4schools.co.uk
Water is an endlessly fascinating addition to any outdoor space, but can be a bit of a headache when it comes to risk assessments and health and safety audits. Creative Pond Covers has developed a great solution to child safety concerns. Bespoke child safe covers can be made to fit any shape or size pond or water feature. Ready to fit, complete pond options are also available for developing community gardens or green spaces. They are aesthetically pleasing, have great access for maintenance and are extremely long lasting. The safety covers are made from galvanized steel and access panels are padlocked securely into place. Ponds are a great habitat, particularly where there is limited outdoor space. They contain fascinating creatures and attract a wide range of wildlife, ticking all the boxes for urban
regeneration projects, schools and other public settings. Creative Pond Covers have supplied covers to over 100 schools throughout the UK, including specialist SEN schools, the Blue Peter Garden at Media City and hundreds of private gardens. Whatever your requirements, Creative Pond Covers have something to suit your needs. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01299 877008 info@creativepond covers.co.uk www.creativepond covers.co.uk
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Products & Services
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MUSIC
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If you are looking for a supplier of good quality musical instruments or accessories at competitive prices from a highly respected company, then Omega Music (UK) Ltd. fits the bill. It was founded in 1987 and specialises in the supply of musical instruments and equipment to schools and colleges across the UK. Over the years it has become one of the UK’s main suppliers in this area, particularly for the high school sector, but increasingly in junior schools. The directors taught for many years before setting up the business and they and several of the company’s office staff are graduates and practising musicians (classically trained, rock and electric folk). Between them they have a great deal of knowledge about different kinds of musical instruments. This blend of in-depth
Music Made is a fresh and unique method of teaching music, from foundation stage to Year 6. It provides activities, resources, advice and training for primary school teachers to create a systematic, progressive and topic-related music scheme. Requiring minimum preparation to deliver dynamic, professional and enjoyable music lessons, this is innovative and joined up school music teaching ‘in a box’. After teaching music in schools for over 30 years, founder Marie Leaney felt she could improve upon the musical experience of teachers and pupils alike. She decided to create her own music education scheme, and so Music Made was born. It caters for all teachers: from musical maestros to the completely terrified. Marie works collaboratively with respected children’s composers, musicians, filmmakers, presenters, illustrators and technicians
Musical instruments and accessories from Omega
knowledge and experience of working in educational environments has helped establish Omega Music as a provider of the best choice of instruments within the different price ranges. The company’s ethos is to be helpful and friendly in our service and within the UK music industry, and the company has a very strong reputation for honest opinions and integrity. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 016977 3067 education@omegamusic.co.uk
AUDIO VISUAL
A professional lectern for just about every need Launching a new product into a new sector is challenging, but the number of actual sales recieved at the launch, prove the M-Power lectern, with its powered raise and lower facility, is massively ahead of anything on the market at this time. Enabling any presenter, no matter how tall or short, able bodied or seated to utilise the facilities that a lectern should provide was always the first consideration in the design and developement of this unique product. Allowing anyone to see and be seen during presentations is so simple. The push of a button lowers or raises the lectern to the ideal height for any user. The range of materials and finishes allows the company to offer any colour of powder coating on the metal lectern and any colour and grain finish on the wooden model. Adding connection facilities
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to the standard model allows the use of computer screens for preview, touch screen use and a range of connectivity that includes VGA, HDMI, CAT5 and video in component or composite forms. The unit comes with two anti vibration microphone mountings and all cabling enclosed within the column of the lectern. An LED reading light is also part of the package. BlueAV can manufacture in its Dorset based facility any custom model that differs from the standard range. By retaining control of production in its own premises, Blue AV can personally guarantee the quality of its product and keep control of costs to ensure the best value is always delivered. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01202 474373 Mobile: 07976 937666 blue@blueav.com www.blueav.com
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
Music Made: a teaching scheme for primary schools
to produce modern and fun resources, which include Music Made-produced DVDs and CDs. Each class teacher receives a box containing everything they need to meet – and exceed – the requirements of the National Curriculum for music. The teaching is strongly based on practical experience and sound music principles. It also gives teachers extra confidence to deliver music activities by providing 30 hours of support and training for each school. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: +44 (0) 7563 624 072 marie@musicmade.co.uk www.musicmade.co.uk
STAGE SYSTEMS
Be seen and heard perfectly with Truelight Most people can remember conferences where the IT didn’t work or the PA didn’t work, and that is what they find memorable about the event. Truelight’s specialists work with you to ensure that at your event, your presenters are seen and heard perfectly. Truelight has worked for a number of Worcestershire schools and it is registered with the county councils’ supplier database. Outside of local government, the company’s work includes supplying conferences and live events with sound and lighting, along with its technical crew. Truelight’s experienced technicians will set up and operate any of the following
for your event, or install these facilities at any of your venues: energy-efficient LED stage lighting systems; full sound systems, including recording facilities; integrated audio visual systems; and sound and lighting training. Details of the services Truelight provides can be found on its website. If you are responsible for organising conferences and events, then Truelight would welcome the opportunity to discuss your requirements with you. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01905 622111 enquiries@sound-lightand-vision.co.uk www.sound-light-and-vision.co.uk
EVENTS
EVENTS
Planning Convention 2014 is your opportunity as a planning professional to debate and discuss the huge challenges we face in the future. The programme will address major issues including how to deliver quality as well as quantity in housing, how to build healthier communities and how to overcome the real constraints upon economic growth, such as infrastructure and market failure. Expert practitioners will discuss what these challenges will mean for the quality of life of communities in different parts of the UK. There’s also an opportunity to put your questions to Steve Quartermain, chief planner, Department for Communities and Local Government in an interactive Q&A session.
Digital Asset Management, or DAM, has been identified as a growing concern to many organisations. Overwhelmed by the volume of digital media handled on a daily basis, you and your team may struggle to find the files they need, wasting precious time and money recreating lost assets. Each week, your team accumulate an astonishing quantity of photos, videos, audio, artwork, reports, and presentations that should be available to share and use. However, they need to be stored, found and downloaded quickly and efficiently to create a valuable resource. Unable to access approved template files, branding issues frequently occur as your team mock-up their own designs. Costly breaches of copyright loom with licensed images stored haphazardly without
The Planning Convention – 24th June 2014, London
With a packed and flexible programme, study tours, exhibition and opportunities for networking with private and public sector professionals, come along and examine the contribution every spatial planner can make to the solutions we need. Prices start from £195+VAT for RTPI members and £295+VAT standard rate. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 020 3627 5054 www.theplanning convention.co.uk
CONFERENCES & EVENTS
A peaceful and secluded conference venue in the heart of central Scotland On entering Gean House you will be struck by the atmosphere of peace and quiet, which makes it the ideal venue for listening, learning, team building, recruitment interviews and business meetings of all kinds. Situated in Alloa, in the heart of Central Scotland, Gean is only seven miles from Stirling, 20 minutes from Falkirk and 40 minutes from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, making it easily accessible by train, bus and car. Gean House can cater for up to 120 people with various features that can be tailored to your specific requirements, including free parking, free Wi-Fi, break out rooms, LCD video projector and laptop options, dedicated support staff, residential accommodation,finger buffets and full lunch options. Gean House is the most flexible venue around and if privacy is important to you, you will find that its exclusive hire rate
represents excellent value for money, as does the residential conference rate which includes lunch, dinner, bed & breakfast. Packages are tailored to individual requirements creating the best service at a fantastic price in a beautiful surrounding, resulting in a successful business event. New customers will receive 10 per cent discount on first booking when quoting GBU05. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01259 226 400 info@geanhouse.co.uk www.geanhouse.co.uk
CiT – one of the UK’s leading Digital Asset Management providers
Products & Services
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
the associated permissions. CiT can provide a sophisticated cloud solution to centralise storage of all your digital media, enabling you to regain control. You will be able to manage access at a granular level, ensuring only the right people can access the appropriate content. CiT is a leading provider in this specialist field, combining over 20 years of experience with ongoing development programs including an R&D partnership with Sheffield University. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0114 258 2400 sales@citdigital.com www.citdigital.com
ICT
Enterprise mobility and wireless LAN solutions from Aruba Networks
Aruba Networks is a leading provider of next-generation network access solutions for the mobile enterprise. The company designs and delivers mobility-defined networks that empower IT departments and #GenMobile, a new generation of tech-savvy users who rely on their mobile devices for every aspect of work and personal communication. To create a mobility experience that #GenMobile and IT can rely upon, Aruba Mobility‑Defined Networks™ automate infrastructure-wide performance
optimisation and trigger security actions that used to require manual IT intervention. The results are dramatically improved productivity and lower operational costs. Listed on the NASDAQ and Russell 2000® Index, Aruba is based in Sunnyvale, California, and has operations throughout the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific regions. FURTHER INFORMATION www.arubanetworks.com
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Advertisers Index
BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk
ASBESTOS
STATIONERY
With over 25 years’ combined experience in the asbestos market, the team of supervisors and operatives at Kingsley Asbestos Services are capable of undertaking work on any project, big or small. Its management team has experience of working on asbestos projects in Europe, and specifically: England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, Jersey, France and Portugal. The company has experience of working within the following areas: public sector boroughs, including London boroughs, local authorities and housing associations, NHS and private sector estates and housing associations, construction and demolition companies, retail estates and domestic properties. Kingsley Asbestos Services can provide the full service from surveying to removal and disposal of the asbestos; and it is also fully able to encapsulate
The PenAgain Twist ‘n Write pencil teaches kids the right way to write. Specifically designed to fit small hands and bring the fun back in learning to write. A thick 2mm lead provides for long-lasting write-out that never needs sharpening, and it comes with two erasers. The wishbone-shaped design forces the school-taught ‘tripod’ finger grasp and kids love the curvy shape and fun colours making them just want to write and doodle. This is a revolution in children’s writing tools. Available in packs of two or four. The PenAgain Ergo-Sof ballpen is the most comfortable writing instrument in the world. The rubber coating feels like silk for tension-free writing with its ‘no grip’ design. Ergonomically designed to adapt to the contour of the hand, the pen alleviates the stresses normally observed with a standard pen. The natural weight of the writer’s hand provides
Kingsley – providing a PenAgain ergonomic safe and efficient package writing tools for all ages
asbestos areas, depending on specific customer requirements. As a member of the Asbestos Removal Contractors Association (ARCA), the company holds a current full asbestos removal licence. All of Kingsley’s sites are regularly checked by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), and it also makes sure to maintain the latest approved code of practice set out by them. When dealing with such a lethal product, Kingsley believes it is vital to provide a safe and efficient package; it therefore ensures work is carried out to the highest possible standards. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01903 227722 www.kingsleygroup.co.uk/ asbestos_removal_disposal.htm
sufficient pressure to apply ink to the paper. This eliminates the need to grip the pen allowing the thumb and forefinger to serve merely as guides. The PenAgain may help to alleviate symptoms of writer’s cramp, carpel tunnel syndrome, arthritis and anyone who has trouble holding and writing with a regular pen or pencil. Suitable for either right or left-handed writers, it is available in red, blue, black and silver. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01245 225758 info@gbapen.co.uk www.gbapen.co.uk
ADVERTISERS INDEX
The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service All Pay IBC Amazing Venues 54 Aran Services 26 Arethusa Venture 62 Aruba Networks 101 Aryaa Associates 82 Aspect Safety 32 Asta Development 78 Atkins 14 Bamboo Creative 60 Banner Business 80 Beaumont (BIACS) 86 Beeswift 84 Blue AV 100 BPF British Plastic Federation OBC Braidhills Hotel 58 By Box Field 80 Call Credit Information Group 4 Carronvale House 58 Ceme Conference Centre 52 CIT Digital 101 Clarion Events 18 Cloth Court – Hawksmere 101 Creative Pond Covers 99
102
Croftons Solicitors 70 Crowne Plaza Edinburgh 56 Databac Group 66 DMS Protective Equipment 36 DSDM Consortium 8 Dun & Bradstreet 12 Dynamic Earth Enterprises IFC Easterbrook Hall 60 Easthampstead 50 Elementary Signs 34 Emmanuel Centre 52 European Lamp Group 24 Fireworx Scotland 42 Flashpoint Fireworks 38 GBA Pen Company 102 GDAS 26 Gean House 101 Genius Roofing Solutions 91 Gilwell Park 46 Glendale Managed Services 32 Glynhill Hotel & Leisure Club 58 GPW/Tuition Services 62 Graphic Image Solutions 34 Green Cross Training 84 Group Call 10
GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 21.3
Guarding UK 66 Highline Adventure 33 Holiday Inn London 44 Hoodies 4 Schools 99 Indigo Vision 66 Institute of Education 62 Invest Northern Ireland 68 Isla Components 70 Kingsley Group 102 Kyocera Document Solutions 6 Leeds United 53 Lexis Nexis 20 Maha 98 Media Managers – Teknomek 92 Music Made 100 Natas E-learning 87 National Coal Mining Museum 46 NPS Property Consultants 68 Nuflow Ireland 76 Ocean Youth Trust 99 Office Depot 74 OKI Systems UK 72, 73 Omega Music (UK) 100 Oriam Green 65
Play Maintain 99 Prestige Products 68 Priory Rooms 53 Proludic 30 Sabhal Mor Ostaig 60 Safelincs 26 Scarab Sweepers 34 Shockwave Pyrotechnics 43 Silver Monkey 82 Sirotechnics 42 Sitel (UK) 16 Smart Group 52 Sonning Fireworks 40 Spacevac UK 81 Super Green UK 88 Surf Telecoms 66 Switch Communications 17 Taplanes 70 Taunton 51 TB Davies 86 Technical Surfaces 32 The AA 22 The Havi 86 The Thames Valley Controls 70 The University of Sheffield 62 WDR 94
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British Plastics Federation
www.bpf.co.uk