Government Business 25.4

TECHNOLOGY

RECYCLING

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www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 25.4

G-CLOUD 10

THE GATEWAY IN THE CLOUDS The G-Cloud framework has been the gateway for many SMEs to work in the public sector.

G-Cloud 10 will be no different

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

THE IMPACT OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY More needs to be done to bring indoor air quality into the national debate on air pollution

PLUS: AIR QUALITY | FIRE SAFETY | GREEN SPACES | URBAN REGENERATION

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FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

G-CLOUD 10

THE GATEWAY IN THE CLOUDS

Comment

TECHNOLOGY

THE IMPACT OF INDOOR AIR QUALITY

The G-Cloud framework has been the gateway for many SMEs to work in the public sector.

G-Cloud 10 will be no different

More needs to be done to bring indoor air quality into the national debate on air pollution

PLUS: AIR QUALITY | FIRE SAFETY | GREEN SPACES | URBAN REGENERATION

Social care saving money, but under Brexit threat A new report from ADASS has revealed that adult social care has saved the NHS almost £60 million through reducing pressures in the last year.

The analysis found that the average cost of residential care is £91.10 per day, which is £221.90 cheaper than an excess bed day in hospital. The cost of delivering excess bed days in hospital throughout 2016/17 was £253,847,069. According to the analysis, if these had been provided through residential care, that cost would have been significantly less at £73,883,284.

Nonetheless, despite the positive findings of the figures, the Global Future think tank has warned that ending freedom of movement after Brexit could result in 115,000 fewer adult social care workers by 2026. With details of Brexit still blurred by central government uncertainty, and doubts over whether the forthcoming green paper on social care will include a long-term funding solution similar to the NHS 70 investment, the already 90,000 unfilled vacancies across the sector, coupled with the warning from Global Future, leaves the sector in deep waters.

Follow and interact with us on Twitter: @GovBusiness

The sector is currently adding just 18,000 British workers a year, with the number of non-EU care staff, who are subject to strict immigration controls, also falling over the last five years. Recruitment within the NHS has been a pressing issue for a number of years, but if the government again leaves social care to fall by the wayside as it favours the health system, it may not be able to stand again.

Michael Lyons, editor

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE-TO-FACE If you would like to receive 6 issues of Government Business magazine for £150 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

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Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Contents

Contents Government Business 25.4 14

07 News

51 Emergency Services

14 Air quality

56 Fire safety

Social care saved NHS £60m; better public finances should help local government; and popularity of solar panels highlighted

BAFE, the independent register of quality fire safety service providers, comments on the recent report released post Grenfell and how checking contractor competence is a simple, but important step to help reduce risk within a building

With pollution levels too high and a reliance on cars congesting our roads, Kathryn Shaw discusses why walking should be prioritised in local communities

19 Facilities management Russell Beattie explains the impact ventilation systems have on indoor air quality and says it is time to introduce a clearly defined assessment method

58 First aid

First aid training are a necessity for all industries, including the public sector. Ian Kershaw, of the First Aid Industry Body, looks at the training courses available

25 Urban regeneration 29 48

The importance of planning so that areas can adapt to accommodate a greater proportion of older people is growing. Looking at some ongoing estate regeneration projects, GB analyses how the architectural industry is working

60 Play

The onus on schools to be a key provider of play opportunities has taken on a whole new significance in recent years, with local authorities unable to fund park and play maintenance

29 Recycling

63 Lighting

There is a basic issue about what is and isn’t recyclable. Lee Marshall explores current sorting infrastructure and reprocessing capacity in the UK; plus, GB details the specialist zones at this year’s RWM Exhibition

The Lighting Industry Association and British Standards Institute have partnered to combine their knowledge and extensive expertise in assurance and testing within the lighting sector to launch a new BSI Kitemark™ for commercial lighting

38 Green spaces

67 Goverment Technology

Few public services have such a cross-cutting impact as parks and green spaces. Fields in Trust’s Helen Griffiths explains why

UK universities’ cyber security work recognised; £9 billion superfast broadband boost; and Lewisham data warning

41 Risk management

68 Technology

46 Smart cities

73 IP Expo

While the pace of change may be slightly slower in the public sector, it is an exciting time in local government digital transformation, says Georgina Maratheftis, of techUK

Victoria Robinson analyses the ways that risk management is changing, and, as a result, how the public sector needs to adapt to keep pace

60

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce’s Stuart Patrick details what is happening in Glasgow and how smart digital technologies will impact city centre experience

48 Fleet management 77

Government Business looks at the 2018 edition of the Emergency Services Show, including key seminar sessions

IP Expo Europe is the continent’s number one IT event for those looking to find out how the latest IT innovations can drive their business forward

77 G-Cloud 10

Poppy Welch, of the Go Ultra Low campaign, looks at the role of local authorities in promoting a green driving agenda and the schemes available to them

Government Business magazine

G-Cloud 10, which could eventually be worth £600 million, is now open for business. Government Business looks at the agreement in detail and what it means for the public sector

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

5

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News

SOCIAL CARE

Social care saves NHS £60 million in last year New analysis from the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) has revealed that adult social care has saved the NHS almost £60 million through reducing pressures in the last year.

Delivering care in home and community‑based settings, adult social care is key in keeping older people out of hospital and reducing demand on the NHS. ADASS reports that the number of delays to transfers of care attributable to social care has fallen dramatically by 41 per cent, from a high of 74,228 last March to 40,209 this June. The NHS’ excess bed days calculations put the saving per day of having one extra bed available in hospital throughout 2016/17 at £313.

Additionally, the number of delayed transfers

of care days attributable to adult social care has fallen by 187,864 over the last year, meaning that there has been a reduction of almost £60 million - £58,801,432 overall - in NHS costs, as a result of improved adult social care performance when compared to the previous 12 months.

Looking in more detail at costs, the analysis found that the average cost of residential care is £91.10 per day, which is £221.90 cheaper than an excess bed day in hospital. Moreover, the cost of delivering the 2016/17 excess bed days in hospital was £ 253,847,069. If these had been provided through residential care, that cost would have been significantly less at £73,883,284.

ADASS is calling for the government to urgently bring forward a long-term

CHILDCARE

to be falling short of a good standard.

The importance of good care is being specifically highlighted in exam result season, with reports finding that only 14 per cent of looked after children achieve five good GCSEs, whilst almost 25 per cent of the adult prison population has previously been in care. Further to this, nearly half of all children in care had a diagnosable mental health issue in 2015.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/ydawgbpw

BREXIT

Possibility of 115,000 fewer care workers after Brexit New analysis of official figures by the Global Future think tank has warned that ending freedom of movement after Brexit could result in 115,000 fewer adult social care workers by 2026.

The 100,000 carers missing report finds that approximately 222,000 social care staff in England are from overseas, representing 17 per cent of the workforce, meaning that ending freedom of movement could lead to 115,000 fewer social care staff by 2026, compared to the number expected if freedom of movement is retained.

Furthermore, with there currently being one care worker for every 3.4 people aged over 75, the think tank claims that to keep this ratio the same as the population ages, our care sector will need to employ an additional 380,000 staff by 2026.

However, the sector is currently adding just 18,000 British workers a year, with the number of non-EU care staff, who are subject to strict immigration controls, also falling over the last five years.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y9vhgeum

CARE

Children’s care system undergoing a ‘silent crisis’ A new report has claimed that nearly 50,000 vulnerable children are being cared for in areas where local council services are failing them.

Looked-after Children - The silent crisis, published by the Social Market Foundation, analysed inspection data from Ofsted and found that 63 per cent of local authorities in England are providing services for children in need of care which either ‘require improvement’ or are simply ‘inadequate’.

Based on those calculations, the report argues that 47,085 children, representing 65 per cent of all looked-after children, are cared for in local authorities that are deemed

funding solution for adult social care in its forthcoming green paper, and in the meantime to supply interim funding to help the sector cope with its current pressures.

The sector is already in the midst of a staffing crisis, with around 90,000 unfilled vacancies, with a vacancy rate of 6.6 per cent compared to the labour market average of 2.5 per cent. Industry experts warn that without migrant workers ‘we would struggle to provide care at all’.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/ybpga6ng

Majority not saving for any future care needs New analysis by comparison website Which? has revealed that the vast majority of people are not saving to pay for care in later life, despite one in 10 older people facing care costs of over £100,000.

With only 12 per cent of adults aged 55 or over having put aside money to pay for any future care needs, the research also found that 34 per cent of over-55s have discussed their care preference with relatives or friends and that 19 per cent worryingly did not even know where to look for information about care.

With social care funding expected to feature prominently in the government’s social care green paper, Which? also asked people about changes they have considered or would consider making if their health and mobility deteriorated. As such, the company found that 92 per cent would make adaptations to their homes to aid mobility, such as installing a stairlift or low-cost aids, while 89 per cent would use outside mobility aids, such as a mobility scooter or walking stick.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/ycw7b4jm

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

7

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News

INFRASTRUCTURE

Two-speed England warning for infrastructure A new report has claimed that the government must improve infrastructure across the country and avoid the risk of regions being left behind whilst others pull ahead in a two-speed England.

Driving delivery: Turning plans into action on regional infrastructure, published by the CBI, looks at evidence of the government having shown a strong desire to improve infrastructure across the country, particularly through the HS2 and Crossrail projects, as well as the importance of transport and infrastructure development in the devolution agenda.

However, following discussions with a wide range of businesses and transport organisations across England, the CBI identifies concerns that the complexity of

infrastructure decision-making and a lack of transparency around how investment decisions are made are putting the promise of greater connectivity at risk.

The business group is therefore calling for a commitment in the upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review to increase local transport funding and to consolidate the number of funding pots for local transport investment, as well as for the government to place a greater emphasis on future economic potential in infrastructure decision making to deliver investment across regions.

Additionally, there should be sub-national transport bodies in the South West and East of England, so all parts of the country are represented, alongside clearer expectations of their role, and a cross-Whitehall

FINANCE

PUBLIC MONEY

Improved public finances should resource local government

Councils spending £4.5 million on cars for mayors

New figures published by the Office for National Statistics have reported that the government logged a £2 billion surplus last month, leading to calls for money to be given to councils.

According to the ONS, public sector net borrowing in the latest full financial year was £39.4 billion, noted as £6.4 billion less than in the previous financial year and £5.8 billion less than official expectations set out by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

Additionally, public sector net borrowing in the current financial year-to-date (July 2018) sits at £12.8 billion, which is £8.5 billion less than in the same period in 2017 and the lowest year-to-date (April to July) net borrowing for 16 years.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/yb3o47m4

The TaxPayers’ Alliance has revealed that local authorities have spent £4,513,607 on cars for mayors, lord mayors, lord provosts and and their equivalents since 2015.

The research claims that millions could be saved by encouraging local politicians to save money when attending events by using their own methods of transport, public transport or at the very least to stop buying luxury cars.

The freedom of information request shows that 207 local authorities spent £4,513,607 on vehicles, averaging at £21,804. In addition, local authorities spent £2,745,097 on buying and leasing cars over the three-year period and that 252 cars are owned or leased by local authorities across the UK for the use of the mayor.

Infrastructure Committee, to better coordinate infrastructure planning, decision-making and delivery across government departments.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y7l9amx6

The think tank also reveals that nine councils spent taxpayers’ money on personalised number plates, whilst others purchased them many years ago.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/yb7busso

ENERGY

Poll finds public want to install solar panels According to a YouGov survey, over half of the British public would install solar panels and home batteries if there was greater assistance from the government.

The poll revealed that 62 per cent said they wanted to fit solar and a surprisingly high 60 per cent would buy an energy storage device, while 71 per cent said that they would join a local energy scheme such as a community windfarm or solar panel collective. Solar was ranked the most popular of all energy sources in the survey.

Commissioned by ClientEarth, the research also found that the same amount of people, 71 per cent, believe that fossil fuel companies, whose products contribute directly to climate change, should be made to pay damages for their role in contributing to global warming and that the UK government

must do more to help prepare for and adapt to climate change (62 per cent).

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y84skvhv Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

9

News

INFRASTRUCTURE

Two-speed England warning for infrastructure A new report has claimed that the government must improve infrastructure across the country and avoid the risk of regions being left behind whilst others pull ahead in a two-speed England.

Driving delivery: Turning plans into action on regional infrastructure, published by the CBI, looks at evidence of the government having shown a strong desire to improve infrastructure across the country, particularly through the HS2 and Crossrail projects, as well as the importance of transport and infrastructure development in the devolution agenda.

However, following discussions with a wide range of businesses and transport organisations across England, the CBI identifies concerns that the complexity of

infrastructure decision-making and a lack of transparency around how investment decisions are made are putting the promise of greater connectivity at risk.

The business group is therefore calling for a commitment in the upcoming Comprehensive Spending Review to increase local transport funding and to consolidate the number of funding pots for local transport investment, as well as for the government to place a greater emphasis on future economic potential in infrastructure decision making to deliver investment across regions.

Additionally, there should be sub-national transport bodies in the South West and East of England, so all parts of the country are represented, alongside clearer expectations of their role, and a cross-Whitehall

FINANCE

PUBLIC MONEY

Improved public finances should resource local government

Councils spending £4.5 million on cars for mayors

New figures published by the Office for National Statistics have reported that the government logged a £2 billion surplus last month, leading to calls for money to be given to councils.

According to the ONS, public sector net borrowing in the latest full financial year was £39.4 billion, noted as £6.4 billion less than in the previous financial year and £5.8 billion less than official expectations set out by the Office for Budget Responsibility.

Additionally, public sector net borrowing in the current financial year-to-date (July 2018) sits at £12.8 billion, which is £8.5 billion less than in the same period in 2017 and the lowest year-to-date (April to July) net borrowing for 16 years.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/yb3o47m4

The TaxPayers’ Alliance has revealed that local authorities have spent £4,513,607 on cars for mayors, lord mayors, lord provosts and and their equivalents since 2015.

The research claims that millions could be saved by encouraging local politicians to save money when attending events by using their own methods of transport, public transport or at the very least to stop buying luxury cars.

The freedom of information request shows that 207 local authorities spent £4,513,607 on vehicles, averaging at £21,804. In addition, local authorities spent £2,745,097 on buying and leasing cars over the three-year period and that 252 cars are owned or leased by local authorities across the UK for the use of the mayor.

Infrastructure Committee, to better coordinate infrastructure planning, decision-making and delivery across government departments.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y7l9amx6

The think tank also reveals that nine councils spent taxpayers’ money on personalised number plates, whilst others purchased them many years ago.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/yb7busso

ENERGY

Poll finds public want to install solar panels According to a YouGov survey, over half of the British public would install solar panels and home batteries if there was greater assistance from the government.

The poll revealed that 62 per cent said they wanted to fit solar and a surprisingly high 60 per cent would buy an energy storage device, while 71 per cent said that they would join a local energy scheme such as a community windfarm or solar panel collective. Solar was ranked the most popular of all energy sources in the survey.

Commissioned by ClientEarth, the research also found that the same amount of people, 71 per cent, believe that fossil fuel companies, whose products contribute directly to climate change, should be made to pay damages for their role in contributing to global warming and that the UK government

must do more to help prepare for and adapt to climate change (62 per cent).

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y84skvhv Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

11

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Council Comment

A county council perspective:GB comment Cllr Philip Atkins, leader of Staffordshire County Council and County Councils Network Conservative vice-chairman

Councillor Philip Atkins

Earlier this summer, the County Councils Network (CCN) held its first-ever housing conference, where 70 delegates saw the launch of two new reports examining the role of counties in housing.

Despite a large proportion of CCN member councils being county councils in two-tier areas and therefore not having planning or housing responsibilities, both reports – from the Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) and Catriona Riddell Associates respectively – illustrate the important role counties are playing, and will play, in solving the national affordability crisis.

Indeed, housing has become a central part of the CCN policy agenda in tandem with it becoming arguably the government’s single-most important domestic agenda.

The housing affordability crisis is no longer confined to London and the south east, it is a problem affecting civic leaders across the whole country. A survey carried out by the TCPA to inform their report found that 91 per cent of county leaders perceive their affordable housing need as either ‘severe’ or ‘moderate’.

In this context, county councils and county unitary councils are dealing with these challenges head on, taking a direct stake in the development process by setting up housebuilding companies or entering in joint development ventures with the private sector to maximise public assets.

Herefordshire is a great example of county innovation. They have entered into a 50/50 risk-share joint-development venture with Morgan Sindall Investments. This could ultimately deliver 6,000 homes over 15 years on council-owned land, with a gross development value of £2 billion.

However, there still remains significant barriers to county innovation in acceleration housing growth; with many of CCN’s member councils warning that a lack of skills for housing within the social as a significant barrier. Therefore, a key recommendation in the report is for government to direct resource towards improving capacity and skills of county councils in planning. It also challenges the Treasury to amend ‘best value’ guidance on public land so that councils can sell land on the basis of long term social and economic gains

rather than focusing on purely on receipts.

Both the TCPA and the Catriona Riddell reports support a strengthening of the statement of common ground (SoCG), a tool that encourages closer collaboration between district and county councils, particularly in housing, infrastructure, and economic growth. However, unless counties are formal signatories, it remains a toothless instrument.

Our recent social care report illustrates the important link between care services and housing, and shows how that closer links between the two can ensure we build the right tenures of housing in the right areas – a strengthened SoCG could make that a reality.

Therefore, we were disappointed that the government did not include a strengthened role for the SoCG in its recently-published revised National Planning Policy Framework.

However, we will continue to work with ministers in advocating for closer, and formal, collaboration between district councils and county councils in two-tier areas.

Indeed, a closer alignment of planning and housing is explored in the Catriona Riddell report, particularly as the necessary level infrastructure does not always follow housing development.

Strategic planning was abolished under the Coalition after being scaled back under Labour but CCN is advocating a move towards planning over a larger geography in two-tier areas, with all councils in a local area coming together to outline the housing need and the infrastructure necessary to support it, over a strategic scale.

To this end, we will follow the Oxfordshire ‘housing deal’ with interest, with the county council and five district councils coming together to formulate a joint plan to deliver 100,000 new homes, backed by the necessary infrastructure.

Outside of the city regions, county councils are best placed to lead conversations around devolution, infrastructure investment and housing deals as they provide strategic and established boundaries recognisable to their residents.

We have a new housing minister in post and we look forward to working with Kit Malthouse on the government’s planning reform agenda. Our latest work shows that counties are playing their part in solving the national housing crisis but with further reform and closer alignment of housing and planning they can do so much more. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.countycouncilsnetwork.org.uk

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Air quality Written by Kathryn Shaw, Living Streets

Why walking is the way to go The topic of air quality has been at the forefront of British news for the last few years, with pollution levels too high and a reliance on cars congesting our roads. Living Streets’ Kathryn Shaw discusses why walking should be prioritised in local communities Motor traffic is the biggest cause of UK air Walking Investment Strategy for England, pollution and is a rising concern for the public, a National Walking Strategy for Scotland and with the courts requiring UK authorities to the Active Travel Act in Wales – but these are improve their plans for improving air quality. yet to be followed by the required action or Reducing the number of vehicles on our roads investment. And local authorities have their will significantly reduce the levels of toxic air part to play, by planning and designing their we breathe every day – and the devastating streets and local areas around people – not costs they have on our health. If just a fraction vehicles, and supporting behaviour change. of people can see the benefit of shifting from driving shorter distances to walking or Put walking first cycling, this would make a big difference.

Living Streets’ Blueprint for Change Sadly, a legacy of designing our towns identifies seven steps towards making and cities around cars has left many streets towns and cities more walkable to help unattractive places to walk, cycle or use public transform the way people experience places transport. The negative impact of car-centric and improve everyone’s quality of life. lifestyles creates a social burden – a reduction The seven steps are based on examples in physical activity, more isolation and a rise of best practice from all over the UK and in congestion. One way or another, we need around the world. They contain a range of to encourage people to leave their suggested policies and programmes cars at home for short journeys aimed at local authorities and use more sustainable and decision makers.

Local ways to travel. The National author Travel Survey for England Step one: Making should ities revealed that 24 per walking a priority i n v est in proven cent of car/van trips are Walking for short b ehaviou change under two miles, whilst journeys should be program r one in five adults (19 a central theme of m like WO e s , per cent) don’t walk transport, planning, W, to encour for 20 minutes a week health and clean air a ge p at all during a year. strategies, to encourage to walk eople The time has come for complementary policies a more effective approach. and actions. Strong more Central government has made leadership is essential to a start with the Cycling and ensure walking is prioritised

14

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

and part of a broader vision to improve people’s quality of life. The Mayor of London appointed Will Norman as Walking and Cycling Commissioner in 2017, and Chris Boardman has taken on a similar role in Greater Manchester. Local authorities should also make sure they know and access the full range of funding streams available to improve the walking environment.

Step two: Plan for walking Local planning departments store up massive problems in terms of congestion, air pollution and inactivity by building car-dependence into new housing developments. Research from Living Streets Scotland last month (July 2018) suggested housing developers are locking people into unhealthy and expensive car-dependent lifestyles by failing to provide infrastructure or access to healthier travel options, including walking, cycling or car sharing.

Neighbourhoods should be planned to enable communities to access everyday services without using a car, ensuring new housing, shops, schools and public transport stops are located close to home and accessible on foot.

Step three: Create a walking network Key destinations should be easy to access on foot via a network of well-connected, direct and easy to follow routes. The Department for Transport has produced guidelines to help

Air quality

English local authorities create a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan, including priority walking networks and zones, with similar advice existing in Scotland and Wales.

Local authorities should work with communities to understand key walking destinations and local barriers to walking. For example, identify key barriers to families walking to school or residents walking to their local shops.

Step four: Design streets as places to enjoy Streets should be accessible and inviting to everyone, including disabled and older people, so everyone can enjoy walking and spending time there. Reducing the volume and speed of motor traffic, ensuring signalised crossings prioritise people on foot with short wait times, and providing toilets and seating in locations that meet people’s needs can help improve streets.

Local authorities shouldn’t be afraid to be innovative, using low cost, temporary measures to trial a new approach – like the introduction of informal zebra crossings in TfGM’s Beelines projects.

Step five: Provide an alternative to the car Develop a long-term strategy to reduce the number of motor vehicles in town and city centres and free up space for walking and cycling. Public transport with good access for pedestrians should be promoted for longer journeys in combination with policies to reduce private car use for all but essential travel. Enable people to cycle by providing a safe, coherent and attractive network with good cycle parking at key locations. Promote car clubs and car sharing to reduce private car ownership. And explore

Local planning departments store up massive problems in terms of congestion, air pollution and inactivity by building cardependence into new housing developments smart road-pricing options that generate revenue which can be reinvested to support walking, cycling and public transport.

Step six: Make walking safe Road danger should be tackled at source to create safer places without introducing unnecessary barriers to people walking.

Commit to implementing a genuine Vision Zero approach to road danger

with a long-term vision for streets free from death and serious injury.

Implement area-wide default 20mph speed limits that include main roads and high streets where people live, work, shop and play; and restrict rat-running through residential areas. In some cities, street closures in front of schools have been introduced to increase safety and encourage walking to school. E

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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16

The air inside can be 5 times more polluted than outside. It makes people sick and adds costs to the economy. A simple indoor air test can offer low cost/no cost solutions.

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Air quality

Oxford proposes air quality action plan to Gove Oxford City Council has written to Environment Secretary Michael Gove proposing a ten point action plan that would help the city and others tackle air quality issues.

Walking for short journeys should be a central theme of transport, planning, health and clean air strategies, to encourage complementary policies and actions  Work with police and civil enforcement officers to penalise inconsiderate or illegal behaviour, such as speeding, pavement parking or red light running.

Step seven: Change behaviour Encouraging people to walk everyday journeys, such as to school or to work, will help change behaviour and bring streets to life. The walk to school is an opportunity for children to be physically active, connect with their community and develop their independence and road safety skills. But walking to school has been in decline for several decades - with one in four cars on the road during the morning peak on the school run. Over 2,000 schools and nurseries in England and Wales are within 150 metres of a road with illegal levels of air pollution.

Children are especially vulnerable to air pollution. Living Streets’ research shows that over half of parents are concerned about the health issues air pollution causes their children (56 per cent) and more than a third (36 per cent) would take pollution levels into account when choosing a school for their child.

Living Streets works with over 2,000 schools to run WOW – the year-round walk to school challenge. WOW rewards children who walk to school at least once a week with a collectable badge. Primary schools taking part in WOW typically experience a 23 per cent increase in children walking to school and a 30 per cent drop in cars arriving at the school gate.

Local authorities should invest in proven behaviour change programmes, like WOW, to encourage people to walk more. Where

funding isn’t possible, they can encourage schools to use their recently doubled Sport Premium – funded by the ‘sugar tax’ – to support such schemes instead.

And public authorities are also major employers. Living Streets’ chairman, Archie Robertson, is a former CEO of Highways England, and recognises the value that employers can make in promoting walking in and around the working day.

He says: “Savvy business leaders should recognise the numerous ways in which walking is beneficial for both the employer and the employee. Employers can establish a culture of walking through championing the ‘walking meeting’, celebrating events such as National Walking Month each May, and making low-cost provisions for staff, such as walking maps of the local area. In doing so they will be taking responsibility for their employees’ health.”

You can make a big difference Decision makers in central and local government can make a big difference to air quality, and in particular encourage people to walk more rather than driving short distances.

As well as addressing your own vehicle movements and those you commission and regulate, there is much you can do to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment for your employees, local education establishments, local residents and the general public. L FURTHER INFORMATION

The plan, which was sent to Gove by Councillor Tom Hayes, Oxford City Council’s board member for a safer and greener environment, calls for the government to end the sale of all new polluting vehicles earlier than 2040.

It also recommends installing a charging infrastructure to accelerate the uptake of electric vehicles and to revise Vehicle Excise Duty to incentivise the purchase of new and second-hand zeroemissions vehicles.

Other points in the plan include to revise the standard driving licence to increase the maximum payload of light goods vehicles. This is because electric vans, due to their batteries, tend to be heavier than other vans. It also wants to implement a polluting vehicle scrappage scheme.

The plan also calls on the government to tighten clean air standards in line with the latest scientific evidence. The European Union set the legal limit for NO2 as 40µg/m3, but this was supposed to be met in 2010. Scientific evidence has moved on since then, and the World Health Organization is currently looking at changing its current 40µg/m3 limit.

In addition, Oxford City Council has asked Gove to take into account Oxford’s local data for developing national air quality measures.

The government currently only uses Oxford’s three continuous monitoring stations to measure air pollution; it does not take into account the city council’s 72 other monitoring locations.

The action plan also wants to establish an independent watchdog to enforce air quality measures after leaving the European Union and to launch a public health campaign to highlight the dangers of air pollution and the health benefits of switching to electric vehicles.

The council also urges government to put equity to those on low incomes at the heart of every approach.

Councillor Tom Hayes said: “Gove has the chance to put the health of towns and cities across the UK first by signing up to our 10-point contract and making the muchneeded step-changes to accelerate the electric revolution.”

www.livingstreets.org.uk

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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The optimum heating solution for public sector buildings Underfloor heating makes for a safer and more productive learning environment

When considering heating options, public sector organisations have a lot to consider, juggling issues of cost, environmental impact, value for tax payers, maintenance and of course effectiveness in creating a comfortable environment.

To help address these issues, the public sector is turning to underfloor heating (UFH) with dry floor construction as an alternative to traditional screed options. It is quick to install and, because it needs no drying time, the construction team can get straight on with the adjacent trades. This significantly reduces time spent waiting to apply a floor finish, and saving time means saving money.

Using dry floor construction UFH also enables a faster and more efficient response time, creating a constant ambient environment to ensure occupants are at their optimum comfort levels in all weather conditions. In schools for example, each classroom can control its own temperature – quickly and easily. Also, the same pipes that heat can also serve to cool a space. With the average national temperature

predicted to rise by as much as 8°C over the next century, it makes sense for government businesses to fit buildings for the future and consider the implementation of comfort cooling from the outset.

Environmentally, underfloor heating’s zero ozone depletion potential is another exceptional benefit. Because underfloor heating systems run at lower water temperatures, energy usage is significantly reduced, lowering the carbon footprint of the building.

Warmafloor’s dry floor product is 100% recycled ensuring BREEAM requirements can be met.

For over 30 years, Warmafloor has been providing heating solutions to public sector organisations and, to date, some 1,300 schools benefit from Warmafloor’s expertise.

When it comes to maintenance, Warmafloor’s underfloor heating comes with an industry leading 100-year guarantee on its British Standards Kitemarked pipes. It is maintenance free. No maintenance costs, more money saved.

Pick up the phone, email us or, if you’d like to know a little more before getting in touch, explore warmafloor.co.uk/schoolmasters Call: 01489 581787 Email: sales@warmafloor.co.uk

With regard to health, underfloor heating beats traditional radiator systems because it does not spread bacteria, allergens and dust like convection rwadiators, promoting better air quality and reducing the risk of condensation and microbiological growth.

It also frees up wall space, making room design much more flexible. No radiators means more wall space, a safer environment and more freedom to rearrange offices or classrooms.

The Floating Floor system

Floor finish: tiles, carpet, wood etc.

Dry screed floor boards Aluminium diffusion plate Warmafloor UFH pipe Concrete sub floor

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Written by Russell Beattie, Federation of Environmental Trade Associations

The inside information on indoor air quality

Invisible threat Most of us spend a staggering 80-90 per cent of our lives indoors and the common desire to reduce CO2 emissions and build low carbon buildings means that many homes and commercial properties are becoming increasingly air-tight. Poor indoor air quality can be attributed to a diverse range of sources, but the situation is often made worse by pollutants used in building materials, internal furnishings and cleaning products, or by actions such as cooking or painting. Unwanted biological invaders such as dust mites, mould and suspended allergens can also impact upon air quality and even pollutants from external sources can ingress through windows, doors or other openings.

Pollutants emitted from common office equipment, carpets, paint, aerosols etc. are known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and concentration levels are commonly much higher in buildings where ventilation is limited. New buildings in particular register higher readings as the new materials all generate particles at the same time.

Humidity levels can also have a direct bearing on the health and well-being of building occupants and optimum levels are generally between 30-70 per cent relative humidity (rh). These levels can be maintained through the introduction of a carefully considered and professionally installed ventilation system with the ability to deliver cleaner air from outdoors or filtered, recirculated air when needed.

Facilities management

for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Department for Transport (DfT) and the Health and Safety Executive. The Department for Education also plays a role in relation to ventilation in schools, adding yet further complexity to the picture.

Russell Beattie, from the Federation of Environmental Trade Associations, looks at the impact ventilation systems have on indoor air quality and explains why it is time to introduce a clearly defined assessment method With issues surrounding outdoor air quality grabbing most of the headlines, indoor air quality is often left out of the discussion altogether. However, the momentum is now starting to shift as a multitude of studies demonstrate clear links between indoor air quality and productivity and well-being in the workplace. Air pollution is now recognised as a worldwide issue and measures are being put in place by government and the World Health Organisation (WHO) in a sustained effort to clean up the air in our towns and cities. The UK government recently announced new measures to restrict the use of wood burners and fires as part of its Clean Air Strategy – legislation that is aiming to help cut the cost of air pollution to our society by £1 billion a year by 2020 and by £2.5 billion a year by 2030.

While this renewed determination to tackle the chief culprits of air pollution is to be welcomed, more needs to be done to drag indoor air quality into the picture. Where the UK government is concerned, indoor air quality exists in a state of limbo, with no single

Design, commissioning and maintenance Building performance and energy usage is now a key part of the design process but indoor air quality is rarely afforded more than a fleeting thought when planning a new build. Decisions based around heating, cooling government department claiming overall and ventilation can be vital in ensuring good responsibility and no official guidelines issued. indoor air quality but so too can choices The Federation of Environmental Trade concerning location, the orientation of the Associations (FETA) recently made direct building and the positioning of air intakes. contact with the Ministry for Housing, Following on from design considerations, Communities & Local Government proper installation and assembly (MHCLG) in an attempt of systems is just as important. to determine where Get the initial setup wrong responsibility for indoor Ventilat i o and it may be difficult air quality ultimately n systems to make the necessary rests. The MHCLG’s t h at comply changes without causing response confirmed with regulat that there is no single widespread disruption i ons can departmental lead to business operations. wildly i differ and a number of Routine maintenance n t e r ms of impact different government can also help to ensure on indo departments and high standards in older o r a ir quality organisations hold properties. Regular HVAC a stake and work checks and cleaning of duct together to collaborate systems can reduce the risk of on the issue – including a particulate build up – a common MHCLG, Public Health England, problem if the system hasn’t been in the Department for Business, Energy use and has been left idle for weeks or even & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the Department months. Without a scheduled maintenance E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Facilities management

 plan in place, accumulated dirt and dust particles are quickly circulated around the building when the HVAC system is restarted.

Sick building syndrome Without adequate ventilation, stale air can circulate for prolonged periods and in large buildings simply opening a few windows isn’t enough to sufficiently improve air flow. Offices or buildings with high occupancy levels are particular susceptible to this sort of build-up and the term ‘sick building syndrome’ was coined many years ago to describe common symptoms such as headaches, dry or itchy skin and respiratory problems.

CO2 levels are measured in parts per million (ppm) with the recommended indoor level capped at around 600 ppm.

Anything beyond 1,000 can lead to drowsiness and the risk of more serious effects is heightened significantly when levels pass the 2,500 mark. A study by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) suggests that CO2 increases from 1,000 ppm to 2,500 ppm result in a drop in employee performance of around 35 per cent during basic activities.

When employees are using information to complete a task this performance reduction is even starker at an average of 60 per cent.

When asked to use initiative during a task, the increase to 2,500 ppm brings about a massive 91 per cent drop in performance.

In more recent times, the causes and effects of sick building syndrome have been incorporated into studies pertaining to overall ‘well-being’ within the workplace and although this has given rise to whole new industry addressing our physical and mental health at work, more needs to be done to determine the impact HVAC systems on indoor air quality.

Most of us spend a staggering 80-90 per cent of our lives indoors and the common desire to reduce CO2 emissions and build low carbon buildings means that many homes and commercial properties are becoming increasingly air-tight A clear metric Regular cleaning and inspection of ventilation systems and air conditioning filters may be a quick and relatively straightforward way to make an instant impact but all available evidence suggests that a standard air quality metric should be introduced in order to highlight unacceptable pollutant levels and accurately measure the influence of different ventilation systems.

There may be an assumption that complying with building regulations

naturally means that indoor air quality levels will be roughly comparable between systems and generally up to scratch. In reality, ventilation systems that comply with regulations can differ wildly in terms of impact on indoor air quality. Indeed, ventilation rates laid out in standards around the globe can differ by up to four times.

In the UK, Approved Document F contains recommended performance levels for indoor air quality and further guidance can be E

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Advertisement Feature

Forensic audits: energy, water and telecommunications Why have so many public sector organisations partnered with PCMG?

A small matter of £50 million in recoveries for the public sector might have something to do with it.

We are PCMG, the leading cost consultancy in the UK, experts of recovering energy, water and telecommunication overcharges for the public sector. We have recovered over £400 million for our clients from their suppliers.

PCMG specialise in the analysis of ‘settled’ supplier and infrastructure charges. Looking at a period of six years, we undertake a forensic audit of historical billing data identifying errors and overcharges.

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Why would I choose PCMG? We are the leaders in this field. Largely a team

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of analysts, which includes industry experts who have helped shape charging policies and improve fairness within the marketplace.

Our technical experts also carry out on‑site investigations where necessary.

Based in Blackpool and London, part of the Ayming Group, a 160 million euro turnover Consultancy with 1200 staff in 16 countries.

In the UK alone, PCMG has worked with over 300 public sector organisations within the NHS, higher/further education, local authority, emergency services and central government.

These audits have delivered over £50 million in refunds and savings, this figure continues to rise.

University of Northumbria: Annual energy expenditure of £4,000,000 Total refunds and first‑year savings identified: £700,000 Refunds and savings achieved to date: £552,000 PCMG were commissioned to undertake a six‑year forensic audit of the university’s electricity, gas and water expenditure in 2017. Upon receipt of a site list and letter of authority, PCMG were quickly able to collate all the necessary information from the university’s present and previous utility suppliers, enabling the analysis to commence.

Through a combination of desk‑based analysis and site visits, PCMG were able to formulate recommendations in the following areas: voltage classifications; VAT declarations; closed account balances; and water tariffs.

One of these recommendations resulted in the application of a completely new set of distribution rates and loss factors at the university’s North Campus, resulting in a 10 per cent reduction in annual costs that was also backdated six years.

Swansea Council Total refunds and first‑year savings achieved: £342,500 Electricity Recoveries: £189,725 Water Recoveries: £55,000

Telecoms Recoveries: £97,800 The council provided PCMG with a selection of invoices covering six years. These were supplemented with data obtained directly from the council’s energy and telecoms suppliers and information sourced from industry third parties. A painstaking line‑by‑ line analysis of 680 sites was carried out by PCMG, uncovering 13 refund and nine saving opportunities across 14 major locations. These findings were compiled into a detailed report.

Once the council had reviewed the findings and agreed to proceed, PCMG initiated the cost recovery process with their suppliers, providing detailed evidence packs including calculations and relevant industry data. All refunds across electricity and the majority of the telecoms recoveries were secured within seven months and the remaining future saving opportunities were implemented shortly after.

Neil Payne, Accounts Payable & Purchasing manager at City and County of Swansea Council had this to say about PCMG’s cost recovery service:“PCMG have achieved significant energy and telecoms refunds and savings for the council. I was impressed with their specialist expertise and professional manner and would have no hesitation in recommending PCMG.” Our results speak for themselves: market leaders for twenty five years; recoveries of over £400 million achieved across public and private sectors; minimum client involvement; end to end claim management; accredited ISO 27001.

Organisations can access PCMG via multiple OJEU compliant frameworks including the new Crown Commercial Services SARS II Framework RM3820. L FURTHER INFORMATION Additional case studies can be found here: www.pcmg.co.uk/case-studies Or contact James Paine, Key Account Director at PCMG by emailing: jpaine@pcmg.co.uk

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION

Facilities management

 found in The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992, which outline general duties in providing a working environment that is both safe and without risk to health.

The 1974 Act does state that workplaces must be adequately ventilated and should draw fresh clean air from an external source in order to achieve this. It is also noted that the ventilation system should remove and dilute warm, humid air and provide air movement, to create a sense of freshness without causing a draught. Unfortunately, this is not enough in terms of accurately assessing performance in ventilation systems.

Addressing this issue, the European Ventilation Industry Association (EVIA), in conjunction with seven other European Associations, has been working hard to develop an assessment method for determining the impact ventilation systems have on IAQ – an initiative that has FETA’s full support. It is hoped that this will eventually lead to the introduction of a recognised metric that stipulates methods of calculation and identifies device characteristics, calibration intervals, tolerances and analyst competences. This valuable tool would help to evaluate the true impact of ventilation systems and go a long way in helping to formally recognise and address issues surrounding indoor air quality. L

Energy usage is key part of the design process but indoor air quality is rarely afforded more than a fleeting thought in planning a new build £10m boiler scrappage scheme for London businesses The Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has launched a new £10 million boiler scrappage scheme that will help small businesses save money on their energy bills, as well as help to improve the capital’s air quality.

Amid the recent hot Summer weather, the first-of-its-kind Cleaner Heat Cashback scheme will provide between 30 to 40 per cent cashback to small and mediumsized businesses (SMEs) when they replace older, polluting boilers, with new, cleaner heating systems. It is hoped that it will help to make London’s workplaces more energy efficient and cut the capital’s carbon emissions, and also fulfil the Mayor’s ambition to make London a zero-carbon city by 2050.

Commercial gas consumption is currently responsible for seven per cent of London’s NOx emissions, but this proportion will increase. The Cleaner Heat Cashback scheme is part of a wider £34 million Energy for Londoners programme which aims to make London’s homes warm, healthy and affordable, its workplaces more energy efficient, and to supply the capital with more local, clean energy.

Shirley Rodrigues, Deputy Mayor for Environment & Energy, said: “There are thousands of small businesses in London who have older boilers and this hugely innovative scheme not only helps them to save money, but it also reduces carbon emissions and improves the capital’s air quality.

“Businesses could save hundreds of pounds a year on energy bills by switching from an older, inefficient boiler or heating system – and this is exactly the kind of initiative that will help us achieve the Mayor’s ambition of making London a zerocarbon city by 2050. Tackling London’s filthy air is one of the Mayor’s top priorities and this is just the latest in a package of measures that he has introduced to improve the quality of the air we breathe.”

www.feta.co.uk

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Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS28/09/2017 MAGAZINE 11:49:04

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The importance of planning so that towns and cities can adapt to accommodate an ageing proportion of older people is to urban regeneration, as is the need to create modern schools that better reflect their communities and environments In December 2016, as part of the Estate which the government acknowledged Regeneration National Strategy, the then are far more likely to succeed and Department for Communities & Local reach their full potential when carrying Government stressed the importance that the backing of its local authority. local authorities have an understanding and Soon after the strategy publication, 105 estates were granted funding from the £32 improve the places that they represent, and million Estate Regeneration Fund, which was therefore set about empowering local places distributed among local authorities to have more control over decisions and housing associations affecting their areas. While the alongside £140 million of main fruit of this has seen Marlbo additional loan funding. transport budgets passed Having been named as to devolved authorities, Primary rough CBRE’s best commuter the less recognised part S c was the hool town in 2015 for of this concerned estate recipien recent its close transport regeneration links to London, it schemes, RIBA Lo t of a 2018 ndon A is easy to see why and a 2 ward Essex town Basildon is a prime region for RIBA N 018 ation regeneration projects.

Award

al

Urban regeneration

The role of good design in the built environment

Basildon’s been gradually developed and enhanced over the decades and is currently undergoing one of Britain’s most ambitious regeneration projects. Over the next 20 years or so, Basildon will receive 2,000 new homes, a new college, a new cinema, new shops, offices and public squares, all of which will further invigorate the town.

The Beechwood Village project, a partnership between Swan Housing, Basildon Borough Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, has seen developer NU Living construct over 400 homes, occupied across a mix of tenures. Beechwood offers a variety of exceptional two, three, four and five bedroom houses, all with parking spaces for two vehicles, private gardens and built to the highest quality standards.

Furthermore, Swan New Homes, a subsidiary of Swan Housing, is delivering precisionengineered modular homes to the estate, offering prospective residents at Beechwood the chance to customise the place in which they live. According to Swan, of the 570 homes planned for the site, 250 private sale homes will be fully customisable by the buyer.

More recently, Basildon Council was awarded £9.8million of funding from the government’s Housing Infrastructure Marginal Viability Fund for town centre regeneration, which will predominantly focus on a new cinema complex, but with the council also offering 54 new flats in the town centre and promising to expand car park capacity.

Kidbrooke Village Located in the Royoke Village is one of London’s most significant new housing-led developments, with the Royal Borough E

Photograph © Paul Riddle

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Studio Partington: Leaders in regeneration and low energy housing Picked out by the Royal Institute of British Architects as one of this year’s most awarded practices, Studio Partington (SP) has over 20 years experience in urban master planning and residential design.

Recent successful urban regeneration projects include community-led plans to redevelop the sprawling 1064 home 10 hectare Andover Estate in Finsbury Park, North London for Islington Council.

SP won outline planning approval to create 199 new homes, 5000sqm affordable workspace and an improved public realm with green spaces and play areas with detailed consent for a first phase including 64 homes. More than 2,600 letters were sent to every estate resident and only 16 objected, testament to the team’s commitment to community engagement.

The scheme was the Masterplan & Area Strategies winner at the New London Architecture Awards 2018 and was also shortlisted for Planning Permission of the Year at the Planning Awards 2018.

Also in London SP has recently completed the refurbishment of the listed community space at the heart of the Golden Lane Estate for the City of London Corporation.

SP is taking forward a ground-breaking

26

urban regeneration project for Nottingham City Homes retrofitting older houses using the revolutionary ‘Energiesprong’ model, pioneered in the Netherlands, that upgrades a home with new outside walls and windows, a solar roof, and a state of the art heating system. Residents of ten homes are the first in the UK to benefit from innovative energy saving and energy generation measures with a 30-year construction and energy performance warranty. The same approach is now being applied to a further 200 social-rent homes.

In York SP is regenerating a strategic urban site bounded by York Racecourse and the listed Terry’s of York buildings. The unused industrial site had been a local concern for over ten years; the Chocolate Works housing project for David Wilson Homes has acted as a catalyst for the restoration of the existing buildings. All 320 homes, including apartments and family houses, are currently being built with many already occupied.

SP has developed a reputation for combining technical design ability with excellent organisation and delivery. With a wide base of industry contacts and in-house expertise (including Passivhaus, landscape design and energy modelling) we are able

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

to provide an exemplary service, providing high quality designs that are functional and buildable. Our clients include local authorities, housing associations, housing trusts and private developers, giving us valuable insight into the aspirations, concerns and requirements of such bodies.

FURTHER INFORMATION For the latest news please visit: www.studiopartington.co.uk/ news/archives/2018

2018 RIBA award winners Writing the winning entry for the 2018 RIBA London Award, Dixon Jones stated that the ‘community created in school buildings is paramount to the educational outcome of the children that attend’. Transforming an urban site into a series of terraces, the capital’s Marlborough Primary School opened in November last year, celebrating an increase in outside space of 70 per cent, with purpose built playgrounds having gone from 1,500 sq m to more than 2,600 sq m. Space inside the school building has also been dramatically increased from less than 3,800 sq m to nearly 5,700 sq m.

The school now boasts an art room, creative media suite and dance studio, while the games area on the roof and first floor provide additional sports areas.

There is a biodiversity roof and the site has more trees and green space than the previous school offered. Specialist autism provision will support 16 local children with autism, providing them with opportunities

According to Beverley Homes, over 1,500 new homes have been delivered in Greenwich’s Kidbrooke Village, including 753 affordable homes, 170 of which are specifically designed for older people to learn alongside mainstream children.

Children, staff, parents and local residents are delighted with the new building which provides far more flexible teaching space and play areas than the previous building.

Residents are also use a number of community areas outside of school hours, including the games areas and halls.

Cleverly recognised by Dixon Jones, year groups are cleverly separated by level, meaning ‘pupils quite literally rise through the school’. Variety is promoted through places for learning with views to the outside, with the architecture linking the school to the city whilst providing a ‘terraced place of learning that is readable, fresh and distinctive’.

Commissioned by the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, the primary school also won the RIBA National Award 2018.

West Hampstead’s Kingsgate Primary School was also recognised by RIBA as having created ‘a surprisingly generous inner-city school’.

Part of the London Borough of Camden, the primary school includes ‘intelligent urban design’ for parents to drop-off and pick-up their children without causing congestion, as the school is set back from the street. The newly created public space also opens up a new connection to the neighbouring park.

Like Marlborough Primary School, Kingsgate uses a clever arrangement of classes to encourage pupils to move through open spaces, with connection to the outdoors ‘framed at every turn’ with generous windows, including on the roofline.

Local authority-led change Community and local authority-led development can be a way forward to create

Urban regeneration

 of Greenwich and the Mayor of London pledging £1 billion in regeneration funding to transform the area into a new community.

According to the project, over 1,500 new homes have been delivered, including 753 affordable homes, 170 of which are specifically designed for older people.

In January, the project revealed that it has delivered 1,564 homes, 811 private homes, and 2,213 construction starts in just seven years. Additionally, through the regeneration project, 14 hectares of brownfield land has been reclaimed, seven hectares of land has been brought into beneficial use, alongside 35 hectares of green space. Looking at community satisfaction, 91 per cent of residents already feel like they belong to the neighbourhood, compared to 62 per cent across London, and over £260,000 has been raised for Demelza Hospice, the local children’s charity, over the last six years.

Delivered by Berkeley Homes, the project has now submitted an application for the second phase of its major regeneration project. The developers will eventually build thousands of homes in Kidbrooke Village, along with shops, offices, a pub and a primary school.

Berkeley Homes has also launched a smart home filled with the latest and best technology in the Kidbrooke Village development, showcasing Eon’s Future Energy Home. The energy provider’s model comes with EV charging points, ‘solar glazing’ built into a glass canopy that can apparently supply up to 60 per cent of the house’s energy needs, as well as battery storage systems, all with the aim of providing a ‘lower cost, less carbon-reliant’ lifestyle.

Karl Whiteman, divisional managing director at Berkeley Homes, said: “Our industry needs to have a clear focus on sustainability and efficiency - in the homes we build, the way we build them and in how we run our business.

As technology progresses, we also want to see energy management becoming second nature to consumers; our goal is to help them on the journey there by showing them how it can become a seamless addition to their homes.”

a robust model for new and refurbished housing. That is the view of RIBA, who recognised the work of Kings Crescent Estate which has seen existing housing on the original Kings Cross Estate upgraded with large balconies, winter gardens and garages converted into new flats, as well as the establishment of three courtyards with very different emphasises from contemplation to play and a gardening club.

Karakusevic Carson Architects and Henley Halebrown, the two architects commissioned by the London Borough of Hackney to carry out the work, have been widely seen as having formed a sense of community and ownership through the scheme, reconnecting the estate to the outside world through a tenure-blind scheme and ensuring all entrances are light and airy by installing dual aspect qualities that give a ‘sense of delight and intrigue’ to courtyards and shared amenities.

The first two phases of the Kings Crescent Estate masterplan involve the creation of 269 new homes and the refurbishment of 101 existing homes as well as significant public realm improvement. Three new buildings, that vary in scale from five to 12 storeys in height, create a fine balance between variety and consistency, alternating between the two architects to avoid the visual monotony of many estates designed by one hand whilst working within a robust masterplan framework. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.architecture.com

Photograph © Paul Riddle

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Realise Futures Eco Furniture manufacture outdoor play equipment from recycled plastic that is safe, tough and durable.

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Made entirely out of 100% recycled plastic

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To discuss your requirements call us on

01473 242527

or email: info@realisefuturesecofurniture.co.uk

Eco Furniture is a division of Realise Futures, providing products and services alongside work placements, employment and training opportunities for people with disabilities and/or disadvantages.

www.realisefutures.org/eco-furniture

In the not too distant past the waste world The price for recycled materials rarely made the national headlines unless There is a basic issue about what is and there was an issue about weekly collections isn’t recyclable. If you ask most material of bins. That has all changed in the past specialists and packaging technologists they 18 months or so and not a day seems to will tell you that nearly all the materials go by without a headline about plastic, and products they design are recyclable, exports of waste or littering. In some at least technically. For technically read ‘in respects, this focus on the sector could theory’. The reality is that something needs be a good thing but it does not appear to to be recyclable in an economically viable have translated yet into a real awareness manner for it to actually get recycled. So, do by individuals about how their actions, the costs of collecting, transporting, sorting when they purchase goods and then throw and processing a material get covered by items away, has the biggest bearing on the price a manufacturer is willing to pay for the situation. So far, we appear to have it? This may be a moving feast as recycled calls on retailers, producers, councils and materials are competing against virgin other organisations to take action but materials in this respect and the price of no great upsurge in recycling levels as a virgin materials can ebb and flow as can the result of individuals changing behaviour. demand and price for recycled materials.

All this interest does not change the basic The start of 2018 saw severe restricts principle of waste management, placed on material that exported you need to get stuff people to China for recycling. China don’t want and ideally give up to that point had been The it to people who can use a huge global consumer UK’s so r t i n it, be it through direct of recycled material g capacit reuse or after a process and a destination for y v a w r ies idely an has got a material plastics and paper dictated d will have into a usable form from the UK, and largely for processing into many other countries, the ma by rket co new products. This including vast volumes ndition that pre requires a series of from the USA. Paper s va operations: collecting had been exported they we iled when re built the material from as a mixed grade, so it households, sorting it contained newspapers into different material types and magazines, brown card, and then processing it into grey card and other paper. This something that can be used in was all clean and ok and, in some a manufacturing process. And all these instances, would be further sorted into the require various bits of infrastructure that different streams once in China. Not all paper can be long in development, costly and products are the same, grey card and other not very easy to change or update. paper is not good for making newsprint or The pace of mobilising waste brown card and brown card is best suited infrastructure can be at odds with the pace at which packaging material and product development appears to be able to move, driven by the large influence of the huge retailers as they look for commercial advantages and cost efficiencies. Packaging technology has been very good at developing solutions to protecting the products inside but has been less interested in how that packaging could be recovered and recycled at the end of its life. This has meant the sorting infrastructure of the waste industry has not been able to keep pace with these developments, leaving some plastics tricky to identify and with limited markets having been developed to then recycle them.

Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Written by Lee Marshall, Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee

There is a basic issue about what is and isn’t recyclable.

Lee Marshall explores current sorting infrastructure and reprocessing capacity in the UK

Recycling

Local authority waste infrastructure

for production back into cardboard boxes.

The restriction though in effect meant that this mixed stream was not long allowed to be exported into China which left two options, either find a new market, along with several other countries, or undertake extra sorting into the different streams. Either way the prices paid for paper declined.

Several waste companies have chosen to undertake further sorting where their facility allows. For those that had sorting plants not designed to sort into different grades the option was to look at retrofitting the plant to enable this. A simple business decision in some cases, in others the layout of the plant makes it a nonstarter. Except with materials traded as global commodities and prices constantly fluctuating the business case may not be so simple. Machinery and fitting can be hundreds of thousands of pounds with no guarantee of a payback over the sort of period a business would normally expect.

Where extra sorting has been taking place in the UK there is a cost associated with that and this gets passed on the councils who supply the material in the first place. Whilst it may mean they do lose as much as if the E

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Recycling

 material had remained unsorted and gone to a different market it is still a reduced income that comes when councils have spent nearly a decade making budget cuts. It is a situation that has always been there and the markets for various materials have swung before, but with ongoing budget issues and changes in material markets now are more keenly felt.

Local sorting infrastructure Whilst there is not a direct connection between supplying better quality material and getting a higher price there is certainly a case for councils to look to improve the quality of the material they collect where possible. It may attract a slightly higher price and could also mean there are more end markets available for that material. Producing a quality material is a bit of a dark art though with varying factors that can work or against.

One of the key ones is the availability of local sorting infrastructure. Whilst the UK has a decent spread of sorting plants their capacity and capability varies widely and will have dictated largely by the market conditions that prevailed when they were built. This means some might place more emphasis on the separation of the different grades of paper while others might be more focused on the range of plastic polymer types and sorting those. A councils proximity to these plants is an element of luck and so will dictate the materials they ask the public to put out.

Some councils operate collection services that require materials to be less sorted, because they get the public to put them in separate boxes and use multi compartment vehicles to keep them separate. This relies more on the public doing the right thing and still only does an initial sort, so plastics and cans are still together and need further sorting and most have all the paper grades together, sometimes with card separate.

The recently published National Infrastructure Assessment that was published by the National Infrastructure Commission was fairly light on how to tackle the recycling infrastructure issues. More focus was given to increasing food waste recycling through the use of anaerobic digestion that might then negate the need for more mass burn energy from waste plants. On plastics the focus was more on reducing the amount and types of polymers used than how to effectively recycle the ones we have. Good aims but ones that may take a while to work their way through.

In the meantime, without investment in the sorting infrastructure and reprocessing capacity in the UK, councils continue to work hard at communicating the current systems to the households and hope that they will play their part in ensuring that the quality of the materials provided meet the markets specifications. It will take a big policy drive and focus on infrastructure in the forthcoming DEFRA Resources and Waste Strategy to change any appetite for investment and it is not clear if that will be a focus of the new strategy. L FURTHER INFORMATION

Only a third of plastics in packaging recyclable Only a third of plastic used by households is able to be recycled, according to Local Government Association (LGA) analysis. It found 525,000 tonnes of plastic pots, tubs and trays are used by households a year but just 169,145 tonnes of this waste is able to be recycled.

The LGA wants to stop unrecyclable packaging from entering households in the first place and is calling for manufacturers to work with councils to achieve this.

Packaging for food can be made from a variety of polymers – molecules which make up plastic – which need to be separated out to remove ‘low grade’ and non-recyclable polymers such as polystyrene.

www.larac.org.uk

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

In addition to developing a plan that ensures recyclable packaging is used where possible, councils are calling on the government to consider a ban on low-grade plastics, and for producers and manufacturers to contribute to the cost of collection or disposal.

The LGA says that inclusion of these challenging polymers in so much packaging is making it extremely difficult for councils, and have that to increase recycling rates, it’s essential that manufacturers prevent materials entering the environment in the first place.

Cllr Judith Blake, LGA Environment spokesperson, said: “It’s time for manufacturers to stop letting a smorgasboard of unrecyclable and

Recycling

£300,000 available for community litter groups Building on the government’s wider Litter Strategy for England, Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey has opened the second round of funding for community projects that get tough on litter.

damaging plastic flow into our environment. Some of the measures that could help us reduce landfill and increase recycling are no- brainers; for instance, microwave meals should be stored in a container that is any other colour than black, to enable quicker recycling.

“We’ve been calling for producers of unrecyclable material to develop a plan to stop this from entering the environment for years. That needs to happen urgently, but the government should now consider banning low-grade plastics, particularly those for single use, in order to increase recycling.

“If manufacturers don’t want to get serious about producing material

which can be recycled and protecting our environment, then they should at least contribute towards the cost that local taxpayers have to pay to clear it up. We need an industry-wide, collaborative approach where together we can reduce the amount of material having an impact on the environment.

But if industry won’t help us get there, then the Government should step in to help councils ensure we can preserve our environment for generations to come.”

As part of the Fund, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs is also preparing to launch a ‘digital innovation challenge’ to help find innovative digital and technological solutions to local litter challenges.

The first round of funding saw a number of councils, charities, businesses, and public projects awarded almost £125,000 to take innovative steps to tackle littering in their communities, including measures to tackle littering by football fans, and working with hauliers and business owners to reduce roadside litter.

A worrying one in five people admit to dropping litter, with a recent study showing one in four people admit to ‘careful littering’ such as leaving drinks cans or coffee cups on window ledges. The Litter Innovation Fund application window closes on 5 October.

Coffey said: “This government is tough on tackling litter which if left unchecked makes our towns and cities less pleasant places, poisons our wildlife, and blights our countryside. That is why we are providing grants of up to £10,000 for communities to come up with creative solutions to tackle litter in their local area and I encourage local groups to apply. It is only through government and communities working together that we will affect the long-term behavioural change that is needed to tackle this scourge, and leave the environment in a better state than we inherited it.”

Keep Britain Tidy’s Allison OgdenNewton said: “Innovation is a vital part of turning the tide on litter. We need to find new ways to change the behaviour of those who think it is OK to drop their rubbish on the ground and new solutions that make it easier for people to do the right thing. It is fantastic to see the government supporting innovation through this scheme, which is helping organisations and communities develop exciting new ideas and approaches, and at Keep Britain Tidy we are delighted to be receiving funds to enable us to test new behavioural interventions through our award-winning Centre for Social Innovation.”

As part of the Fund, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs is also preparing to launch a ‘digital innovation challenge’ to help find innovative digital and technological solutions to local litter challenges.

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Move your business forward by efficiently turning waste to energy

The document shredders is an Internet based shop owned managed and operated by Rapide Reprographics Limited.

We supply complex and simple document management solutions for all your document storage, scanning, shredding and recycling needs.

We have specialist trained advisors for any of your document management needs We have secure document destruction programmes built around you Securely destroying Uniforms hard drives paper documents and other bespoke medias Over 25 years of knowledge within all market place sectors We are fully accredited to BS ISO 9001-2015 and the European Standard EN15713 for confidential shredding

Valmet’s sustainable waste-to-energy solutions are designed to maximize your plant profitability. Our advanced fluidized bed technologies, as well as our pioneering gasification technology, will give you outstanding electrical efficiency and high fuel flexibility with solid recovered fuel (SRF). Efficient combustion also ensures extremely good environmental performance.

Full audited solutions with Electronic and paper based auditability

Valmet’s advanced services and automation solutions improve the reliability and performance of your processes.

Find out more at valmet.com/wastetoenergy

We are proud to be an independent, family-run business, committed to supply products for the capture and containment of waste and recyclables

www.MoistTech.com

A more resourceful company

Moisture Sensors t: 01977 686868

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e: info@cromwellpolythene.co.uk

www.cromwellpolythene.co.uk

from Lab to Line.

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

941.727.1800

FeatureExhibition RWM Heading

Entering a recycling environment Thousands of recycling and waste business and local authority professionals attend the RWM Exhibition each year, making for a diverse and relevant visitor base. As a regular follower of the event, Government Business details the specialist zones, the display of innovation and how the show is promoting its recycling agenda There are five main zones to the RWM Exhibition, running at the NEC Birmingham on 12-13 September. The first of these zones focuses on energy from waste, a solution capable of diverting materials that can’t be recycled away from landfill, as well as one that offers practical ideas to help meet modernresource needs. The Energy from Waste Zone is dedicated to highlighting the latest technology and solutions in this industry and plays an important part in ensuring we extract maximum value from materials.

The Recyclers & Reprocessors Zone at RWM is home to companies that specialise in the innovative handling of waste - including municipal, C&D, C&I and hazardous materials recycling - with the goal of diverting it from landfill or in ensuring as much value as possible is extracted from it.

Whether it’s wood, paper or plastic, hazardous, C&D or C&I waste streams, you’ll find experts that can help here, whether that be representatives from commercial and industrial waste producers or decision makers from a wide range of local authorities and public sector bodies looking to save or make money from waste.

Previously known as Professional Services, the expanded Data Tech & Services Zone incorporates businesses specialising in everything from smart data to insurance

and, for the first time, software solutions, as well as the legal and recruitment specialists that traditionally exhibited under its previous name.

collaboration, driving up recycling rates and ways of generating revenue from resource management.

The final show zone focuses upon machinery and equipment. The Machinery & Equipment Handling and logistics sector at RWM showcases the latest Transporting, collecting and handling technology needed for businesses to maximise materials efficiently and safely is often revenue from waste through the latest lifting, the first link in the chain of any successful sorting, shredding, baling and compacting resource management operation. Therefore, machinery. Investing in the correct equipment the Handling & Logistics Zone is dedicated is vital in ensuring a business is maximising to solutions that improve the performance profitability, achieving the highest recovery of your business, ensuring that revenues rates and reducing reliance on landfill. Visitors are maximised. Visitors are able to typically come from a wide range explore a full range of vehicles of backgrounds, including skip The and services that take into yards, waste transfer stations, Innovat consideration not just full MRF sites and waste their business needs, but management companies.

Awards ion will their carbon footprint recogn i as well. They also Local authority innovatse the most have the opportunity collaboration making ive services to inspect the latest The Kings House a s i g refuse vehicles, Reuse Project changed n i ficant impact sweepers and skip the way that Brighton a c r o ss the recyclin loaders and to test & Hove City Council g and w them out first hand in thinks about its own a m s t e anagem the Ride & Drive area. waste. The project industr ent The Municipal and involved emptying the ies Materials Recovery Theatre largest office block in the city will bring together industry (100,000 square feet) of 170 experts and councils to focus on tonnes of furniture and equipment, E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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services knows that waste can save you cash, power the city and help the planet. That is why Bristol Waste has begun a campaign to urge residents to decorate their food bins with a set of eyes, nose, and mouths. Join Dudd and find out the behind-the-scenes about the campaign that has dramatically dropped the quantities going into landfill and encouraged people to recycle their leftovers instead.

has changed through the years and how it is evolving and developing in an age of new technology, information and traceability.

AECOM and Highways England will team up to provide the ‘Highways England’s approach to the circular economy’ seminar, wth David Smith and Simon Baldrey explaining Highways England’s corporate approach to the circular economy, including its use of ‘pathfinder

RWM Exhibition

 with not a scrap going to landfill. Brighton & Hove City Council worked in partnership with Freegle, a non-profit organisation that facilitates re-use, to make the project a success, ensuring that the authority minimised waste through reuse, changing staff behaviour, attitude and understanding in the process.

The project also saved the council money and benefitted local residents, universities, schools, hospitals, businesses, and charities.

Cat Fletcher and Steve Hartley will present on the project in the Local Authority Theatre in their session on ‘Reduce Waste, Save Money, Support Residents! Council and Reuse Charity Collaboration’. Fletcher is an awardwinning and tireless waste-prevention activist and at the frontline of facilitating reuse in Brighton and beyond. In 2009 she co-founded Freegle, the UK’s online free reuse network which now has 2.6 million members. Hartley is a project manager for Brighton and Hove City Council and works with a dynamic team responsible for modernising and managing change within the council.

Overseeing the national implementation of waste legislation and enforcement work for the Environment Agency, Malcolm Lythgo will give the view from the regulator’’s position, as the waste industry adjusts in response to significant domestic and foreign influences. In his ‘A Regulator’s perspective’ seminar, Lythgo will discuss how the Environment Agency is working with government and industry to influence, plan and adapt to these changes, as well as the priorities the Environment Agency is focused on to minimise the impact on the industry while seeking opportunities for positive change.

‘Slim my waste, feed my face’ will be presented by Cllr Kye Dudd and the Bristol Waste Company. Bristol City Council’s cabinet member for waste, energy and regulatory

In April, Costa announced that it will become the first UK coffee chain to commit to recycling the same volume of cups it puts onto the market and has developed a scheme to financially incentivise waste management companies to collect them Circular economy Reducing the volume of organic waste by up to 95 per cent within 72 hours can be a game changer for some businesses. Learn how a new revolutionary technology, which utilises a blend of specialist bacteria that creates an exothermic reaction, is achieving these results by listening to Larry Grant of Eden Eco Solutions speak in the Circular Economy Theatre. The reduced digestate output has a calorific value equivalent to biomass so if it isn’t simply disposed, learn how there is potential to gain energy from waste from it.

In the same theatre, it is also worth visiting Shaun Hamilton’s seminar on the changing face of waste collection through technology.

Having worked at East Yorkshire Borough Council as refuse collector and driver, and now sales director at Vehicle Weighing Solutions, Hamilton will look at how waste collection

projects’ to trial and develop approaches before wider implementation. The seminar will consider recent experience implementing circular economy and resource efficiency approaches to major infrastructure schemes and regional planning with examples of the challenges faced and successes and will conclude with a summary of current activity and next steps.

Waste matters In partnership with Dsposal and WasteAid, the Waste Matters Theatre will benefit from the thoughts of Professor David C Wilson, president of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management. Wilson’s ‘Waste - Our Shared Responsibility’ session will explain why, despite technological solutions for public health, environmental protection and a circular economy, there are still three billion people E

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Eden Eco Solutions | Good for your business | Great for our world

REDUCED TRANSPORTATION COSTS The XO solution reduces mass at the point of disposal. Once digested the residual material weighs less, is easier to handle and cheaper to transport.

Waste collection fleets can do many more pickups, ensuring your business can work at an increased capacity and maximise its profits.

REDUCES GATE FEE CHARGES Landfill standard-rate taxes are increasing every year. By reducing the volume and mass of your organic or mixed waste (much of which is actually water), you can reduce your tax charges considerably. Within 72 hours, the XO unit can turn waste into a 99% dry material, substantially reducing its

Technology is helping us to achieve a greener world. The XO unit from Eden Eco Solutions is one such alternative, reducing organic waste by up to 90%, and mixed waste by 50-70%, over just two to three days, with zero environmental pollutants. This means that as a waste collection service you would be doing your part to reduce harming our planet. You would also see significantly reduced costs in two ways. weight before it reaches its final destination and delivering significant cost savings.

We can also help you evaluate the latest innovations in technology that can enable you to directly benefit from the growing interest in producing energy from waste without pollution or environmental damage.

It’s time for you to discover the innovative XO solution which will help to deliver on your environmental promises. Spend a few minutes speaking with the Eden Eco team for more reasons why reducing your waste before it gets to landfill or incineration is the greener and cheaper path to take.

For further information on the Eden Eco Solutions range of services please contact:

UK Office | T +44 (0) 203 868 2530 E: info@edenecosolutions.com Larry Grant | T +44 (0) 7966 842293 E: larry.grant@edenecosolutions.com

Reducing Local Authority Landfill Aftercare Costs Extracting every ounce of energy from small or closed landfills makes good financial and environmental sense.

Alphagen Renewables provides a complete solution including gasfield assessment, management and fully financed and operated gas utilization where larger operators won’t www.alphagenrenewables.co.uk enquiries@alphagenrenewables.co.uk

Or call us on 0800 830 8660

Supplier Profile: IT and Electronic Waste & Recycling

Spinnaker Waste Management Ltd. is a specialist I.T. Disposal and Electrical Asset Management service provider.

From collection to disposal and recycling, our secure service is designed to remove and dispose of any electrical equipment, all within a secure and environmentally sensitive way under the WEEE directive.

With an extensive and successful working knowledge of the electronic waste industry, we appreciate the disposal of redundant equipment can often be a logistical strain, and with G.D.P.R in force, an outsourced solution such as Spinnaker Waste Management Ltd. can prove beneficial for several reasons: • Depending on the value of your redundant equipment, we can often remove it free of charge • Complete peace of mind that all data is erased either on or off-site • Certificate of Data Destruction issued to the customer • Fully accredited & CRB/DBS checked personnel • Large or small quantities accepted • High security vaults for complete peace of mind • ISO: 9001, 14001 (ISO 27001 pending) and Cyber Essentials accredited • All waste is disposed of under the waste hierarchy policy, so you can be rest assured that from collection to disposal, your carbon footprint is minimal.

For more information, please speak to one of our customer care representatives.

Tel: 02392 293234 website: www.spinnakerwaste.co.uk email: info@spinnakerwaste.co.uk

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

 without adequate waste services, 10 million tonnes of plastic entering the oceans each year, and pressing challenges in the UK around austerity, waste crime and behaviour change.

The CIWM’s President sharing his perspectives from a 40-year career is bound to be a highlight of the show.

Following the series of articles in CIWM Journal, Dr Jane Beasley’s seminar will present the findings from the hot-off-thepress Tip of the Binberg report. Following their novel approach to delving into the world of illegal operators, Dr Beasley will explore the full cost of waste crime in Greater Manchester, examine the general public’s understanding of Duty of Care and assess opportunities to intervene. The main question from the session asks what lessons can be learned from the example of Greater Manchester in the fight against waste crime across the country as a whole?

We currently have a wonderful opportunity, quite literally, in our hands. Plastic is the one calling card laying on every beach and riverbank around the world and is the most popular and most talked about environmental issue of our time. In sharing her personal story of campaigning against plastic as source, Michelle Cassar of City to Sea hopes to inspire visitors to RWM to recognise that we are all powerful change makers. It is through our local consumer choices that we hold this exciting opportunity for global environmental impact.

Where does producer responsibility end?

Should UK companies be responsible for waste management in countries where their products are sold? Mike Webster, CEO of WasteAid UK will explore existing models and discuss realistic options for a fairer, cleaner world.

Meanwhile the popular Innovation Awards will recognise and celebrate the most innovative products and services that are making a significant impact across the recycling and waste management industries. There are four awards to compete for at RWM 2018: Product of the Year, Circular Economy, SME Innovation and Energy Waste Champion.

New for 2018, the Product of the Year Award looks back over the past 12 months and honours the most innovative product or service which has made an impact on the market, while the Circular Economy Award, also new for this year, is presented to the most innovative business or local authority succeeding within the circular economy process.

The SME Innovation Award at RWM celebrates the businesses that offer products and services to SME Recycling & Waste Management Businesses. The winner will be the business that is deemed to have the most innovative solution for a small to medium sized recycling and waste business. Finally, the Energy from Waste Champion Award is quite self explanatory, and celebrates a leading organisation generating energy from waste.

A panel of esteemed judges will decide which exhibitors should take home the coveted accolades, after visiting each nominee’s

Zero Waste Cup Scheme As part of RWM 2018, Eunomia is trialling the NEC’s first ever deposit refund scheme with reusable cups. Under Eunomia’s Zero Waste Cup scheme, any attendees of the conference who forget to bring their own reusable cup will still be able to benefit from discounted hot drinks all through the event.

Whether it’s your own personal cup or one from Eunomia’s scheme, all NEC coffee shops will be offering a 25p discount on drinks ordered in a reusable cup, thanks to support from Amadeus, the centre’s catering partner.

To obtain a Eunomia Zero Waste cup, delegates will pay a small deposit. When they no longer want the cup – if they’re leaving the conference, or just want their hands free – they can return the cup and reclaim the deposit. Or if they prefer, they can just keep the cup and keep on preventing waste every time they stop for coffee.

On the topic of coffee, Oliver Rosevear’s seminar on joining the UK’s biggest coffee cup recycling revolution will definitely be worth a listen to. In April, Costa announced that it will become the first UK coffee chain to commit to recycling the same volume of cups it puts onto the market and has developed a scheme whereby waste management companies are financially incentivised to collect them. Rosevear, head of Sustainability at Costa Coffee, will explore this in depth as well as share how the company is doing in reaching its 500 million recycling target. L

RWM Exhibition

stand and giving them a chance to pitch their product. One nominee for each category will then be crowned the winner at RWM.

New to the RWM Exhibition for 2018 is the Product of the Year Award, which looks back over the past 12 months and honours the most innovative product or service which has made an impact on the waste and recycling market

FURTHER INFORMATION www.rwmexhibition.com

Celebrating innovation With the dedication to delivering the best solutions for all the industries involved, RWM boasts the best in focussed spaces for the most innovative companies at the event. With sponsorship coming from Innovate UK, RWM’s Innovation City will see start-up companies next to established giants who have been subsidised by Innovate UK to continue their pioneering research and development.

Innovate UK will be present at the helm of Innovation City, providing advice for future funding and how companies can apply and obtain said funding, and the benefits that the funding can bring, utilising the exhibiting companies as live and thriving examples. The exhibitors will be decided by Innovate UK and will be all localised in one spot at the event, creating the true innovation hub of RWM.

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Green spaces Written by Helen Griffiths, chief executive, Fields in Trust

Revaluing parks and green spaces Few public services have such a cross-cutting impact as parks and green spaces. Helen Griffiths explains why Parks and green spaces are arguably the most universal of all our public services.

They are used by the entire community, from pre-school children through to retired adults. Green space is a defining part of our local landscape and these publicly owned, civic spaces have something to offer to all.

Whilst we might think our parks and green spaces are pleasant places to stroll in the sun – or play on the swings with children or grandchildren, our new research, Revaluing Parks and Green Spaces, shows these spaces actually deliver over £34 billion of health and well-being benefits to UK residents each year. This represents people enjoying greater life satisfaction including improved physical and mental health, directly from regular use of parks and green spaces.

Since 1925, Fields in Trust has been protecting land for play, sport and recreation in perpetuity and campaigning for recognition of the community health and well-being value of these spaces. Whilst recognising the urgent need to build new homes, it is vital that all neighbourhoods, and particularly children,

should enjoy healthy active outdoor recreation within walking distance of home. All local authorities have tough funding decisions to make – and there is a temptation for cashstrapped councils to irreversibly auction off its green space assets; not only to generate immediate income, but also remove a longerterm maintenance liability. Our parks are facing increasingly challenged futures and local authority funding cuts could have a damaging impact on the nation’s health.

Yet unlike education or libraries, parks are a discretionary service which councils have no statutory duty to provide. Whilst the number of visitors to parks is rising, investment has decreased and maintenance has been reduced. The 2018 survey from the Association of Public Sector Excellence paints a bleak picture for publicly-funded services, with continuingly declining investment. Of the parks professionals who responded 95 per cent either ‘agree’ or ‘agree strongly’ that ‘lack of investment in parks and green spaces will have health

O re s e a rc u r that gr h shows actuall een spaces £34 bil y deliver ove lio r and wen of health benefit ll-being st resideno UK each ye ts ar

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

and social impacts’. Additionally, the 2018 Local Government Information Unit (LGiU) report demonstrates that this troubling situation is widespread.

Many councils struggle to cover the costs of delivering statutory services; no surprise then to find budgets for all other areas of discretionary spending squeezed. Whilst most council taxpayers assume their parks and green spaces will always be there, there are no guarantees that any local authority will maintain a local park when reducing budgets are stretched across the whole range of adult and children’s community services. LGiU reports that financial difficulties will force councils to cut many core community services.

Over half (53 per cent of councils) say they will be reducing parks and leisure activities in the current and future year’s budgets.

In recognition that the future of parks was at a ‘tipping point’, the House of Commons Communities and Local Government Select Committee (CLCG) established an inquiry in 2016. Our evidence submission emphasised the importance of revaluing parks and green spaces for the health and well-being contributions they deliver, ensuring public funding for parks and green spaces was commensurate with their positive impact on communities. The CLGC committee report recommended that local authorities should collaborate with Health and Wellbeing Boards and produce Local Plans, which articulate the contribution of parks to wider social objectives and set out how parks will be managed to maximise such contributions.

The committee also expressed the need for new valuation methodologies.

Green Spaces for Good It is in this context that Fields in Trust launched our new corporate strategy Green Spaces for Good. Fields in Trust champions and supports our parks and green spaces by protecting them

Green spaces

for people to enjoy in perpetuity. Because once lost, they are lost forever. This new strategy is underpinned by rigorous research which attempts to reframe the conversation. Rather than valuing parks for what the they cost to maintain – or could realise as a capital asset if sold for housing – we think we should measure the physical health, mental health and well-being values that they contribute to the individuals and communities who use them for play, sport and recreation.

Visitors don’t pay to visit their local park or green space – and we want it to stay that way. Yet just because something doesn’t have a price it doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a value. Our research shows what we all intuitively know; green spaces are good – they do good and they should be protected for good. We need to provide robust evidence to demonstrate this to policymakers and politicians, so our research was compiled using HM Treasury approved ‘Green Book’ methodology for valuing non-market goods.

Our report Revaluing Parks and Green Spaces demonstrates NHS savings of at least £111 million per year, just on prevented GP visits from those who regularly use parks – this doesn’t include savings from treatment or prescriptions so actual savings to the taxpayer will be significantly higher. Whilst in the overall NHS budget this is a small percentage, it could pay the salary of 3,500 additional nurses.

Our research also calculates that parks and green spaces provide a total economic value to each person in the UK of just over £30 per person, per year. When we applied welfare weighting for income to this calculation (the first time this has been done at a UKlevel), the value more than doubles when we look at individuals from lower socioeconomic groups and also people from black Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Responding to a challenging financial position, local authorities are exploring new models of ownership and management of parks and green spaces; many reliant to some extent, on volunteer support for alternative management structures. Yet, according to the government data sets Taking Part, Understanding Society and Community Life, BAME communities and lower socioeconomic groups are respectively nine per cent and 11 per cent less likely to volunteer than the national average. There is a real risk therefore that inequity in provision of good quality green space becomes exacerbated in areas with high levels of BAME communities and lower socio-economic groups. Despite these groups assigning a higher relative value to parks and green spaces than the national average, we could see a disproportionate impact on disadvantaged and underrepresented communities, precisely those who value them most and reducing service where there is the highest need.

Although central to none, conjecture on the role of parks and green spaces is present in many government policies. Defra’s recently published 25-year plan to improve the environment is remarkable in many respects – not least its ambition which extends across five parliamentary terms. One of the stated aims is to connect people with green spaces

LGiU reports that financial difficulties will force councils to cut many core community services.

In fact, 53 per cent of councils say they will be reducing parks and leisure activities in the current and future year’s budgets to improve health and well-being, recognising the need to focus on disadvantaged areas.

Reduced health inequalities The 2015 DCMS strategy suggests sport can make a meaningful and measurable improvement to people’s lives. Whilst evidence indicates the need for parks and green spaces close to where people live, the DCMS strategy is silent on the importance of these spaces that are fundamental to achieving the goals of a ‘more active nation’. Numerous policy areas such as the Child Obesity Plan for Action and The Welsh Government’s Well-being of Future Generations Act (2015) demonstrate that health problems disproportionately impact on lower socio-economic groups. As a devolved matter parks and green spaces have been considered by the Scottish Parliament Local Government and Communities Committee where we submitted evidence in person.

Our research draws on evidence that shows increased availability of good quality local green spaces across the social gradient can contribute to reduced health inequalities.

Yet the continued decimation of the UK’s parks and green space services is negatively impacting the lives of lower socio-economic groups more than other sectors of society.

Few public services have such a crosscutting impact as parks and green spaces.

If creating more joined-up service provision using fewer resources is key to the work of local and central government then

investing resources in one area of public service which delivers across multiple agendas is surely an efficient approach.

Our research enables a strategic position on the provision of parks and green spaces to be adopted and we are hopeful that we will make progress.

Welcoming the report, Rishi Sunak, Parks and Green Spaces Minister at the MHCLG, said: “Fields in Trust’s research highlights not only the vital role that outdoor spaces play in improving our health but also their economic value. These findings will play an important role in informing how we achieve our goal.

I look forward to taking this forward with Fields in Trust and the Parks Action Group as we work towards ensuring our parks work for local communities for generations to come.”

By identifying areas where investment will have the most significant impact on individuals, parks and green spaces can contribute to improved physical health, mental well-being, community cohesion and health inequalities. In the autumn of 2018 the MHCLG Parliamentary scrutiny committee will reconvene to consider progress made since their report into public parks. We believe that changing the conversation to recognise the role that parks can play in funding prevention, rather than cure, is crucial to sustaining their future. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.fieldsintrust.org

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Feature Risk management Heading Written by Victoria Robinson, head of Marketing and Communications from the Institute of Risk Management

The changing landscape of risk management – is the public sector prepared?

Victoria Robinson, head of Marketing and Communications from the Institute of Risk Management, looks at the ways that risk management is changing, and, as a result, how the public sector needs to adapt to those changes Are we about to see a fourth industrial facing now is more extreme. This arises from revolution? Our recent Risk Agenda 2025 both the speed of developments and the research highlighted technological profound impacts they are likely change as the biggest driver of to have on business models Less uncertainty for organisations and on human activity. today. From self-driving cars to Our research also than 40 online medical consultations, uncovered that less per cen t new technologies including than 40 per cent of o f th risk ma the internet of things, the risk management nagem e ent commu blockchain, artificial community feel intelligence, robotics and well equipped to well eq nity feel u data analytics are starting understand these i p p ed underst to transform how things changes and support and cur to re are done and present us their organisations in change s in the nt with a new landscape of this area. Part of our industr opportunity and risk. Change response to this is ‘Don’t y has always been with us, but panic!’ – the basic principles there is a feeling that what we are of good risk management will

stay the same – the fundamental approach of building resilient organisations with robust processes, a healthy risk culture and strong risk communications will still be very much required, albeit able to move at a faster clock speed. The context, however, is certainly shifting with new risks to address and the potential for new tools and techniques to help.

Digital Risk Management Later this year, the Institute of Risk Management (IRM) will be launching its new Certificate in Digital Risk Management.

This qualification has been designed to equip risk practitioners and others to apply their skills in an increasingly digital world.

We are working with leading academic and practitioner experts to develop world E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Risk management

 class study material which will cover how new technologies and digitalisation are disrupting businesses and changing the risk environment for organisations of all types.

It will look at how to carry out digital risk assessments, provide a detailed grounding in cyber security principles and practices and also look at the ethical issues surrounding both privacy and machine learning.

The qualification will, naturally, be delivered and examined globally on a fully online basis. It will be a relatively quick qualification to obtain, involving a multiple choice question examination and about 180 hours of study over approximately six months. It has been designed on a standalone basis to provide both a supplementary ‘future-proofing’ qualification for our existing members as part of their continuing professional development and also as an introduction to the subject for those from other disciplines.

Enrolment will open in Autumn 2018, and this will be publicised widely at that time, although you can get yourself added to our pre-registration list by contacting IRM. We are also interested in identifying potential examiners, question setters and module coaches, drawing on the skills that we have in our community. A combination of great risk management skills together with an up-to-date knowledge of the digital risk landscape should be an unbeatable combination for tomorrow’s risk management jobs.

breaches. Establishing an effective ERM framework will build the confidence of the stakeholders while bolstering the future of the organisation. In other words, ERM is essential.

Being a senior member for one of Hong Kong’s statutory bodies, my key responsible functions include ERM and Internal Audit. My interests in ERM date back over a decade ago when I worked at the Risk Advisory and Group Audit Department in the global headquarters of Roche Group in Basel, Switzerland. The world-class risk knowledge and training I received at Roche Group initiated an interest to begin implementing ERM. The experiences there prepared me as I took up

From self-driving cars to online medical consultations, new technologies including the internet of things, AI, robotics and data analytics are starting to transform how things are done and present us with a new landscape of opportunity and risk

Public sector risk Less than 40 per cent of the risk management community feel well equipped to understand technological changes and support their organisations in this area.

Here, we speak to IRM members around the globe about key drivers effecting risk management in the public sector.

Francis Lee: general manager, Internal Audit, Urban Renewal Authority, Hong Kong Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) is crucial and here’s why. The first training lesson I received on the topic of corporate failure when I joined Arthur Andersen as an external auditor over two decades ago included two primary reasons why companies failed: fraud and cash flow. Some years later, Arthur Andersen ceased to exist. There have been numerous after-the-fact articles analysing the failure of the once prominent global accountancy firm as it went down in history.

Perhaps the fate of the company might become different if they practiced what they preached and taken ERM seriously.

In today’s global, interconnected environment, a holistic ERM needs to be practiced. Comprehensive use of ERM will optimise the risks organisations are exposed to, enabling them to attain the sustainable future growth and the profitability they desire. When facing numerous uncertainties, including fraud, compliance, data security and the loss of reputation, organisations need to act quickly to avoid leaving themselves exposed to costly and brand-damaging

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the position as the head of Risk Management to establish a formal ERM framework at the largest Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) in Asia - the Link REIT, a blue-chip company listed on the Hong Kong Exchange.

At the Link REIT in particular, some of my roles included collaborating with the board of directors on the set-up of a formal risk governance structure, establishment of the ERM policies and procedures, developing key risk indicators, and revamping of their risk management section of the annual reports.

What I enjoyed most in this position at REIT was to support the board of directors and the management as they began to change

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Lettie Pringle: Risk & Safety Co-ordinator, NHS Borders There is no typical day within this role. The variety of work within this role is unbelievable and the diversity of the healthcare system makes sure it never becomes boring. It covers everything from financial, clinical, political and reputational risks to name a few.

Healthcare has micro businesses within it, so your role can range from being involved with project management risks of estates to supporting risk owners with risks relating to service delivery such as physiotherapy, laundry and facilities management.

I support everyone from front line staff such as nurses and medics to Directors and Executives, helping them understand their role and risk management processes of NHS Borders, assisting them through each stage of the process from identifying risks to reviewing them. It is always vital to remember why you

are doing the role; to improve and maintain the safety of those who use the services within healthcare and those who provide it. I have great pride in the risk management processes we implement as the decisions made from these help keep patients, staff and the public safe and reduce organisational liabilities.

Communication is so important in risk management. I love meeting people and getting different opinions about risks they face.

Speaking to people enhances not only their own knowledge base, but also your own and provides personal opportunities to improve and learn. Networking with internal and external stakeholders always helps give a perspective on risk that you may not have considered.

Culture within healthcare is orientated towards patient care, encouraging staff to widen their scope into clinical and corporate risks and ensuring there is an understanding of the importance of these types of risks to deliver a service can be challenging. For example, the importance of analysing risks around workforce and sustainability and the impact this can have on the delivery of care of a patient and patient safety. Overall, whilst it is imperative that a proportional response

to risk is given, it can be difficult when you are dealing with people’s health impacts.

A career in risk management There is no exact route for a career in risk and resilience, especially in the public sector, naturally there are lots of ex-emergency services and ex-military in the industry.

If you have a passion for understanding complex issues and enjoy designing simple solutions that people understand and might use then this could be a career for you.

Start to widen your knowledge and outlook, you don’t have to be an expert in every area but it helps to have a good general knowledge of risk and what is happening in the world.

Don’t be put off a career in risk or resilience just because you didn’t study a related subject at university. I believe the risk profession benefits from people from a diverse range of career background and with some life experience, as can be seen by the wide variety of IRM members and students globally. L

Risk management

their risk culture while they grew their riskawareness and initiated applying ERM in various aspects of operations, including their strategic decision-making process.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.theirm.org

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How to reliably predict and analyse flood events 20 May, London After heavy showers cause problems to the east of London, the BBC suggest more showers are likely on the 22nd. At this point the longterm forecast of the flood risk tool HydroMaster is consulted. This identifies several peaks on the 24th, 26th and the 29th indicating the development of further showers.

24 and 26 May, London Heavy thunderstorm track across London. HydroMaster’s forecast is validated.

28 May The latest forecast run comes in to HydroMaster suggesting that shower track lines on the 29 May are now likely to be directly over the catchment.

This causes pre-configured alarms to trigger and send warning texts and emails to duty officers and flood wardens 24 hours ahead of the event.

29 May, 9:00 As predicted, the first band of heavy showers hits the catchment at 15:00.

A second line of showers to the east of the location changes track and begins heading west across the area. The showers bring heavy down pours to the catchment leading to standing water. The showers linger until just after 18:00 pm.

30 May The event is archived in HydroMaster for post processing and evidence.

The forecast is compared to radar accumulation of the event and nearby rain gauge records.

More information: www.hydromaster.com

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Running alongside RWM and the Contamination Expo Series, the Flood Expo, recognised as the world’s largest exhibition and conference dedicated to our fight against flooding, will be welcoming delegates from 12 September at Birmingham’s NEC And with UK councils having spent almost In the UK alone, 5.2 million properties are £250 million repairing flood-damage at risk of flooding, but less than 10 per cent caused to roads, bridges, public rights of of homeowners and businesses have plans way and drainage systems back in 2016, in place for when a flood strikes. However, this year’s Expo has put more emphasis the Flood Expo is focused on closing that than ever on highlighting not only the most gap by showcasing, and providing expert efficient solutions, but also the most costknowledge on the latest solutions shaping effective, with the aim of easing pressure flood prediction, mitigation, resilience, on stretched local authority budgets. management and rescue around the world.

For example, on Stand 4E60, Every year, more than 3,000 Concrete Canvas will be professionals from the global displaying their waterproof, flood sector attend the Counci concrete-impregnated show, including flood and l s spent a fabric which is coastal risk managers, l m typically installed procurement managers, £250 m ost ten times faster town planners, senior repairin illion than conventional drainage engineers g fl ooddamag concrete, offering and more. e c roads, b aused to cost savings of up Delivering the CPDridges, to 60 per cent; and accredited seminars p r i u g blic hts o over on Stand 4E63, at this year’s Flood drainag f way and DATV UK will showcase Expo will be the likes e sys their Amphicruiser, of Ina Lambert from in 2016 tems an amphibious the United Nations emergency response Climate Change Secretariat, vehicle which removes the who will give an international need for deploying a vehicle and perspective on climate change vessel during flood response missions. adaptation and flood risk; as well as Mary Dhonau, who will discuss her work over the Extra government funding last few years as project manager of the Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey has Cumbrian Resilience Showcase Project. announced that 13 flood schemes across the country will benefit from £40 million of funding for improved flood defence schemes.

First announced in the Budget, the funding will help leverage an additional £24 million from other sources, enabling the flood schemes to go ahead. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

The Flood Expo

Looking at the solutions to combat flooding

claims that more than 7,000 properties will be better protected against flooding because of the investment, including over 5,000 homes.

Five flood schemes in the north of England will receive almost half of the total funding (£17.4 million), with Rochdale in Greater Manchester receiving a total of £5 million to develop one of the largest inland flood schemes in the region.

Coffey said: “This extra funding for flood defences will unlock schemes that will better protect thousands of homes and businesses against flooding, supporting regeneration in important towns and villages in the north and coastal communities. It will boost our resilience as a nation and help our communities to grow and prosper.

“The north of England is a hotbed of culture, innovation and growth and this multi-million investment in flood schemes will help protect more than 2,700 homes and businesses from flooding. The defences will also enhance the environment and bolster economic growth as part of our commitment to better protect 300,000 homes from flooding by 2021.”

The Environment Agency Theatre Flooding and coastal change risks to communities, business and infrastructure is identified as one of the top six priority climate risks for the UK. Speaking in the Environment Agency Theatre on day one of the show will be Alex Cutler, senior advisor and technical climate change lead in the National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management (FCERM) Directorate. Her presentation will summarise the key climate impacts and challenges to FCERM, highlighting the Environment Agency’s approach to ensure FCERM is climate resilient.

Also speaking in the same theatre will be Jon Hollis, Natural Flood Management Programme Manager at the Environment Agency. His seminar will set the context of the £15 million Defra funded Natural Flood Management programme, and look at the role of partnerships and communities to implement NFM interventions. A case study will focus on the role of community and how together they and the project team have overcome some of the challenges faced like using government grant to fund community groups, engagement and maintenance and liability concerns. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.thefloodexpo.co.uk

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Smart cities Written by Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce

Smart cities: embracing continuous change Collaboration is the key to unlocking the full potential of data in the UK. Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, details what is happening in the Scottish city and how smart digital technologies will impact city centre experience

Smart city infrastructure requires collection of data, which is best described as the fuel that powers smart cities. Smart cities are designed to inform decisions by capturing massive amounts of data about the population and its patterns, such as traffic flows and water use.

The product of this is big data gathered via surveillance, and the ease and affordability of sensors, AI and advanced analytics will mean this function will be completely automated.

The data can be collated from a variety of sources, including traffic lights and cameras, pollution sensors and building control systems – all feeding giant data stores held in the cloud. This will enable decisions that make the best possible use of resources such as space, fuel, energy, water and electricity - with an emphasis on sustainability.

Smart technologies are an opportunity for city centres if they are embraced positively and with imagination and flexibility, but urban centres which fail to adapt could face stagnation.

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Smart should data used to also be how Gl showcase centre ‘ asgow’s city st compar acks up’ in other u ison with rban the UK centres an beyond d

In a city like Glasgow the changing methods of delivering retail and public services will mean that the use of the city centre will involve accelerated and continuous change. But at the same time, fast evolving consumer and citizen preferences and behaviours mean that there are new opportunities for the city centre to develop its role as both a multi-functional destination, and as a focus for digitised transactions, information, and incentives.

City centres must adjust to these changes and opportunities and develop a confident new approach, and in Glasgow a project called Tomorrow’s City Centre was developed by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Urban Land Institute.

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The aim of the project was to consider how constantly evolving smart digital technologies would influence consumer behaviours and potentially impact Glasgow city centre experience. The project involved the delivery of a Tomorrow’s City Centre retreat and conference, which were held in Glasgow in the aftermath of the Commonwealth Games in late 2014. As an output of the project, a report was generated to capture key questions, challenges, and opportunities facing the centre of Glasgow.

An evolving digital landscape While the findings of the report were specific to Glasgow, many of the lessons are applicable throughout the UK and indeed the world, as all urban centres begin to address the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The Urban Big Data Centre In the time since the report, there have been some important developments in Glasgow, led by the city’s two oldest universities. The Institute for Future Cities at the University of Strathclyde has created the City Observatory as an integral part of Glasgow’s £24 million Future City Demonstrator project.

The City Observatory is a tool that uses data to understand cities in new ways, to help develop innovative approaches to solving urban problems in areas such as crime, health, economics, sustainability, and deliver positive outcomes for cities.

With more than half the world’s population now living in cities, the Institute’s research seeks to improve quality of human life in urban areas across the world.

The Urban Big Data Centre, an exciting project linking business and academia was

Smart technologies are an opportunity for city centres if they are embraced positively and with imagination and flexibility, but urban centres which fail to adapt could face stagnation ranked top in the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) call for ‘new approaches to Data Science’ and was awarded £3 million in funding in January this year. Led by the University of Glasgow, the project brings together global businesses with data scientists, statisticians, control engineers and urban social scientists to find solutions to ensuring large scale data-driven systems perform optimally.

By working closely with businesses who need answers to big data problems, academia can learn what really matters to the data owners. The project funded by the EPSRC will co-create solutions through this partnership approach. It will test how to keep data useful and current in a number of areas, including personalisation of hearing aids, analysis of cancer data and adapting the computing resources for a major bank.

The partnership includes the University of Glasgow, JP Morgan, Skyscanner, Widex, the Urban Big Data Centre, the Data Lab and Glasgow Polyomics. Amazon are also keen to support the work on this project via Amazon Web Services and engagement with Amazon Research.

Professor Roderick Murray-Smith, who leads the Information, Data and Analysis Section at the University of Glasgow’s School of Computing Science, said: “Our world is developing incredibly rapidly.

We are acquiring data from billions of devices in our homes, businesses and environments. Analysis and interaction with these vast amounts of data is at the core of the challenge for us all. When monitoring living cities or companies and the data that flows through them we are not able to run ‘clean’ experiments on them. We get data which is affected by the way they are run today, which limits our ability to model these complex systems.

Smart cities

There were 10 key findings that the report said Glasgow city centre should prioritise.

Firstly, build upon and renew historic strengths and traditions and develop ambitious visions for becoming a global leader in the digital age. Glasgow has a rich manufacturing culture and that can be used to help establish itself as a forerunner in digital innovation.

Secondly, use and share data efficiently and effectively to quickly respond to what people want from their city centre. Smart data should also be used to showcase how Glasgow’s city centre ‘stacks up’ in comparison with other urban centres the UK and beyond.

Additionally, Glasgow should strive to be a hyper-connected city centre, ensure ubiquitous, high-quality wireless and broadband connectivity to drive productivity and innovation. Next, Glasgow city centre should focus on putting people at the centre of digital strategy, including how digital systems can be customised to individual needs.

Moreover, invest in smart car parking that frees up the time spent in the car looking for parking. This will allow for more time enjoying city centre attractions and increase productivity. Glasgow should also re-use urban spaces in a way that allows for more artisan, incubator or pop-up business to experiment and become more entrepreneurial.

Update and deregulate policies that restrict the ability of city centre businesses and spaces to adapt to real time changes in the demands from customers and citizens.

The report also suggested the importance of creating a permanent Strategic City Centre Operations Group to respond to the needs of the city in real time, and making the innovation economy in Glasgow City Centre more visible both to its citizens and potential innovation angels and investors.

Better define the innovation districts in the city centre and their identity and location.

Finally, the city should encourage more people to live in the city centre. Glasgow could have a much larger city centre resident community in the same way as cities such as Manchester. It should also define the circumstances needed to shift towards reduced car use. In the longer term, find better transport solutions using smart data to incentivise alternatives to car use.

“Many organisations and cities have little choice but to ignore the large volumes of data they are producing as they have no way of analysing it. Our project is about how to learn from data and optimise performance when a system is running.”

Professor Mike Barrett, director of Glasgow Polyomics, said: “Research in the Life and Biomedical Sciences today collects data on an unprecedented scale. We need ways of finding useful information from the massive data sets appearing from genome and other big data projects. Linking to data science will enable a better understanding of the processes of life and where they may go wrong. In turn this will help in our quest for new drugs and ways to equilibrate the environment.”

Gillian Docherty, CEO at The Data Lab, which brings industry and academia together as a vital component to the UK data science ecosystem, said: “Scotland is a trailblazer when it comes to data science and initiatives like this further enhances our international reputation as an epicentre for data science excellence.

“Collaboration is the key to unlocking the full potential of data in the UK. This partnership with the University of Glasgow goes right to the heart of what we do, harnessing data to find solutions which enable data-driven systems to operate to their best ability.”

So what is becoming clear is that it is vital that academic and data owners work together so that we can find solutions by testing systems, working live with people with real goals and constraints to see how they adapt and where they need to change as users impact on the data. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.glasgowchamberofcommerce.com

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Fleet management Written by Poppy Welch, Go Ultra Low

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Local authorities can set the standard for the electric revolution Poppy Welch, head of the joint industry and government funded Go Ultra Low campaign, looks at the role of local authorities in driving a green driving agenda and the schemes available to them Electric cars are on the rise. Pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles achieved record-breaking levels of popularity in 2017, with registrations increasing by more than 27 per cent on the previous year. These numbers have continued to grow in 2018, with a further 28,000 new plug-in cars already registered in the first half of the year. If this trend continues, the UK is set for another strong year, in which we could see annual registrations pass 60,000 for the first time.

Just last month, the government launched its Road to Zero Strategy, setting out one of the most

comprehensive packages in the world to support the development, manufacture and uptake of ultra low emission vehicles in the UK. By 2050, government wants almost every car and van in the UK to be zero emission.

Elsewhere, industry is bringing

out increasing numbers of models to help people make the switch. Local authorities have a significant part to play in helping motorists transition to ultra low emission cars and vans too. By taking advantage of available funding and leading by example they can become important drivers of change.

As of the Rpart Zero St oad to govern rategy, the almost ment wants van in tevery car and he zero emUK to be is by 205 sion 0

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Funding for infrastructure For local authorities, there is a ÂŁ4.5 million fund available to support the installation of on-street residential chargepoints.

The scheme, launched in 2016, provides grant funding for local authorities to offset the cost of installing on-street residential

Fleet management

charging facilities. The scheme covers up to 75 per cent of the cost of procuring and installing chargepoints for electric vehicles.

With millions of homes in the UK currently without off-street parking, on-street residential chargepoints can help ensure everyone across the country is able to charge their plug-in car at home. Of course, by enabling more residents to opt for an electric vehicle, councils will also be helping to improve local air quality across their communities. To date, 22 local authorities have applied for the scheme and over 800 chargepoints will be installed as a result this year alone. 50 chargepoints have already been installed and the remaining 750 will be installed by March 2019.

Making the most of grants The On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme is by no means the only financial support available to aid the uptake of electric vehicles.

The government’s plug-in car grant offers both public sector fleets and consumers money off the purchase of eligible pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The grant gives up to £4,500 off the purchase of eligible 100 per cent electric vehicles, £2,500 off eligible plug-in hybrids and up to £8,000 off the price of eligible plug-in vans. Similarly, the Plug in Taxi Grant of £7,500 is available to support the purchase of new purpose built electric taxis.

As well as this, the government’s Electric Vehicle Home Charge Scheme provides a grant of up to £500 towards the installation of domestic chargers, whilst the Workplace Charging Scheme offers businesses, charities and the wider public grants of up to £500 per socket for installing up to 20 charging sockets for their employees and fleets. To date, more than 1,200 installations have been undertaken in almost 400 organisations.

The government is already funding 10 local authorities across the country to install dedicated chargepoints for electric taxis; £14 million was awarded in 2016. A further £6 million is currently available for bids from local authorities by the end of October 2018. Many local authorities across the country have also already taken action to improve their bus fleets by introducing low emission buses and/or retrofitting existing buses to improve local air quality. There are already more than 2,500 low emission buses out of the 40,300 buses across Great Britain with a further 5,700 retrofitted.

Given that there continues to be varying levels of awareness about such schemes, local authorities have a key part to play in raising awareness about the support on offer in order to drive electric car uptake in their community.

Leading by example Encouragement to start driving an electric vehicle is even more compelling when it comes from a local authority that is leading by example and demonstrating the benefits of owning an electric vehicle. A great example of this is Nottingham City Council (NCC). Innovative and proactive in its fleet operations, NCC has been leading the charge for other local, private and public-sector organisations to follow, by giving its own employees the opportunity to drive electric vehicles. The council currently has 25 plug-in

With government highlighting its commitment to electric vehicles with the recent publication of the Road to Zero Strategy, the opportunity for local authorities to drive change is clear vehicles on its fleet and plans to increase this number to 80 by 2020 thanks to an ambitious three-year electrification plan.

Elsewhere in the country, Bristol has also demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to promoting electric vehicle uptake. After a successful bid for government funding, Bristol City Council will offer 100 Hackney Carriage owners incentives totalling more than £3,000 if they purchase an ultra-low emission taxi.

With taxis being a key part of mobility in our towns and cities, initiatives like this will play a vital role in improving air quality in local areas.

In May 2018, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan launched a new taskforce dedicated to boosting electric vehicle infrastructure across the capital. By bringing together London councils and a host of business, industry and government stakeholders, the taskforce is a positive step and will make a strong contribution towards London’s transport system becoming zero emission by 2050.

Nottingham, Bristol and London, along with Milton Keynes, are all part of the Go Ultra Low Cities initiative. Launched in 2016, the scheme provided £40 million of government funding to take steps to promote electric vehicle uptake in their local areas. The scheme also includes £5 million of development funding for specific initiatives in Dundee, Oxford, York and

the North East region. This has enabled the cities to develop ideas designed to increase uptake of ultra low emission vehicles and to act as exemplar cities for others to follow.

Also leading by example, the UK government has committed to ensuring that 25 per cent of its car fleet is ultra low emission by 2022, reaching 100 per cent by 2030. In December 2017, new Government Buying Standards were introduced with a commitment that all new government vehicles will be zero or ultra low emission by default, with alternatives considered only in exceptional circumstances.

With government highlighting its commitment to electric vehicles with the recent publication of the Road to Zero Strategy, and continued investment from the industry with myriad of exciting new models being launched, the opportunity for local authorities to drive change is clear. For more information on grants available, the savings on offer and the cars available, as well as information on other public sector fleets and companies who are adding ULEVs to their fleet through the GUL company scheme, visit the Go Ultra Low website. L FURTHER INFORMATION goultralow.com

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CONNECTIONS C A N TA K E Y O U ANYWHERE

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September’s Emergency Services Show will feature a Communications Seminar Theatre for the first time this year, looking at the future of connected vehicles in responding to emergency incidents.

GB looks at this new edition, as well as all the other seminar sessions and key exhibiting companies Taking place in Hall 5 at the NEC, Birmingham International from 19-20 September 2018, the Emergency Collaboration Forum Services Show will focus on learning from An exciting programme of seminars focusing past incidents and collaborating to protect on collaboration between the emergency the public and save lives. Free-to-attend, services has been developed in partnership it brings together all disciplines from with the Resilience Advisors Network and the the emergency services and government Emergency Services Collaboration Working departments to discover innovative Group. International collaboration case technology and operational solutions, share studies will be presented each morning by experiences and prepare for future incidents. representatives from Canada, USA, Belgium, Four separate free-to-attend seminar the Netherlands and Slovakia. Protection programmes at the Emergency Services from the new CBRN threats post-Salisbury, Show offer visitors unrivalled learning psychological support for call handlers opportunities - Lessons Learnt (sponsored and opportunities for UK experts to work

by UCLan PROTECT), within the European Civil Protection Collaboration (incorporating Mechanism are among the topics As an International to be discussed. Expert speakers Collaboration Forum from Emergency Services we approa sponsored by the Collaboration Working Resilience Advisors Group, Kent & Essex the UK ch Brexit, ’s autom Network), Health Police Directorate, Shared inclusio atic & Wellbeing, and Service Architecture, n in man interna Communications Canterbury Christ Church y tional in (sponsored University and i-Three will i t a i atives nd prog

by Excelerate lead afternoon sessions in have be rammes Technology). the Collaboration Theatre.

en into qu thrown estion

Emergency Services Show

Harnessing collaboration, learning and communications Jon Hall, managing director of Resilience Advisors (Europe) Ltd, who has helped to co-ordinate the programme said: “As we approach Brexit, the UK’s automatic inclusion in many international initiatives and programmes have been thrown into question.

As part of this year’s Emergency Services Show, the Resilience Advisors Network have bought together key speakers from the UK, EU and USA to discuss the impact of this and, more importantly, to highlight opportunities that will still be available for UK emergency services and individuals to stay connected with international colleagues to make sure that the very best of world developments can be seen and introduced to national and local solutions.”

Lessons Learnt In the Lessons Learnt theatre, sponsored by UCLan Protect, Paul Argyle, multi-agency strategic advisor to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester and the Combined Authority will open the first day by covering the key learning points from the Manchester Arena attack. Professor E

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ENGINEERING A NEW AMBULANCE FROM THE GROUND UP ENABLING A NEW WORLD OF MOBILE PATIENT CARE International Ambulances is launching the world’s first, entirely purpose built ambulance. Innovation that enables our remarkable paramedics to bring the most effective and fully connected care into the community, and deliver better patient outcomes.

SADS UK Campaign for defibrillators in all schools Support SADS UK putting lifesaving defibrillators in cabinets in schools and the community.

Sign the SADS UK e-petition backing signposts of defib locations and also using digital displays in bus shelters and at train stations to indicate where to find your nearest defibrillator.

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Communications and technology New for 2018, the Communications Seminar Theatre, sponsored by Excelerate Technology, will among other topics focus on the future of connected vehicles. Seminars will look at the future of communications for fleet responders including satellite technology and blended communications.

As autonomous and connected vehicles come closer to being deployed on UK roads, speakers will also examine how the future of vehicle communications can positively impact emergency service operations.

Health & Wellbeing The effectiveness of the UK’s emergency services depends not only on the training, equipment and technology they are provided with, but also on the way in which their physical and mental resilience is supported.

Speakers in the Health & Wellbeing seminar theatre will include emergency responders who have experienced mental health challenges, and organisations who are implementing change and offering support including Mind, Oscar Kilo and the charity PTSD999. Rebecca Binstead, strategic relations manager for Maritime & Coastguard Agency will introduce the well-being and mental health framework for UK Search and Rescue volunteers. Response Pastors, a unique volunteer resource that has been deployed to major incidents including the Grenfell Tower fire and Manchester Arena attack will give an overview of the ways in which it has helped the communities and emergency service workers affected.

Medical training Always a popular feature of The Emergency Services Show, the 30-minute College of Paramedics workshops remains open to all emergency responders. Meanwhile the ATACC Group, an established market leader in pre-hospital training, clinical education and clinical governance, will also be offering advice and free CPD-accredited training at the show. Hosted by West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) and judged by UKRO, the

Extrication Challenge will take place live on the exhibition floor enabling visitors to get up close to the action. Competing teams from UK fire and rescue services will carry out extrications from simulated crash scenes. In the First Aid & Trauma Challenge, competing teams will experience visual and audio from an incident that has been set up and filmed specifically for the scenario, which takes place in an Educational Immersive Tent.

Emergency Services Show

î † Paresh Wankhade from Edge Hill Business School will lead an interactive-TED-style talk examining the organisational and management challenges for emergency services in the light of the Kerslake Report.

Martin Carnell, group commander, Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, will look at reducing vulnerability through intelligent data use across the public sector. He will discuss how the bringing together of organisational data in an intelligent and targeted manner can reduce individual risk and vulnerability leading to demand reduction.

Incidents covered include the Manchester Arena attack, Liverpool Echo Arena multi storey car park fire and the Didcot Power Station collapse. There will also be a session from the Metropolitan Police on acid attacks, and another on how to protect yourself from occupational exposure to opiates such as Fentanyl, led by health and safety expert, Ansell.

The use of social media in building community flood resilience efforts, intelligent data use and the European SAYSO project to strengthen civil protection operations are among the other topics covered.

There will also be a session from the Metropolitan Police on acid attacks.

The exhibition Around the indoor and outdoor exhibition, visitors can see and touch the latest equipment and discuss their requirements with over 450 suppliers, some of whom will also be offering free workshops and training on their stands. Companies and organisations exhibiting at the show include leading names in firefighting equipment, smoke detection, medical supplies, drug testing, communications and IT, protective clothing and uniforms, bodyworn video, surveillance technology including drones, training and safety. With over 60 companies exhibiting for the first time, there are also plenty of new names to discover.

TARGET will be demonstrating its panEuropean serious gaming platform featuring new tools, techniques and content for training and assessing skills and competencies of Security Critical Agents (SCAs), including counter terrorism units, border guards and first responders across all emergency services. E

Emergency and rescue vehicles of virtually every type, including fire appliances, ambulances, fleet cars, boats and UAVs will be on display throughout the indoor and outdoor exhibition areas

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Emergency Services Show

 Connected Vehicles The Connected Vehicles Zone will showcase a wide range of vehicles and the diverse technologies in use for mobile data, communications and control.

International Ambulances is set to unveil its advanced ACESO ambulance prototype. The ground-breaking ACESO features a wealth of vehicle and ambulance innovations to enable paramedics to deliver better patient outcomes. Designed around the paramedic, rather than conventional commercial vehicle architecture, its superior specification provides improved comfort, ergonomics, safety and hygiene. The design and technology offers a level of flexibility and future proofing for equipment and features. Its integrated communications and connectivity capability provides paramedics with the support they need for mobile diagnosis and treatment, enabling them to ‘see, treat and refer’ patients where they are. All the right information is shared rapidly to support safe and effective decision making within urgent and emergency care, and the wider healthcare community.

Emergency and rescue vehicles of virtually every type, including fire appliances, ambulances, fleet cars, motorbikes, boats and UAVs or drones will also be on display throughout the indoor and outdoor exhibition areas. Vehicle suppliers at the show include BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Jemca Toyota and Volvo Emergency Services Cars as well as a wide range of chassis manufacturers and specialist vehicle converters. Excelerate, Carnation Design, Primetech and Premier Communications will be showing

As autonomous and connected vehicles come closer to being deployed on UK roads, speakers will also examine how the future of vehicle communications can positively impact emergency service operations the latest advanced communications equipment for vehicle installation.

Rosenbauer, Emergency One, Terberg and Volvo Trucks are both expected to bring their latest fire appliances to the show.

Angloco will demonstrate its ladder and other fire fighter vehicles in the Outside Area. The show will also see the UK premiere of Aebi Schmidt’s flexible and versatile MT 750 fire truck, which is particularly adept in the small narrow streets.

Among the many ambulance suppliers exhibiting this year are AMZ Vehicles, BAUS and WAS UK. Alfa Dropbox will again showcase its ground-level loading ambulances. O&H Vehicle Conversions has announced it will launch a new vehicle.

Collaboration Zone In the networking hub of the show, The Collaboration Zone, over 80 emergency services, voluntary groups, charities and NGOs will be sharing details of the support they offer, while members of other partner agencies will be available to discuss co-response and other areas of partnership working.

For example, British Cave Rescue Council (who played a key role in the Thailand cave

rescue operation) will be exhibiting in the UK SAR Zone alongside Mountain Rescue England & Wales, the Association of Lowland Search & Rescue, NSARDA Search Dogs and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Public Health England (PHE) is exhibiting to raise awareness of the health protection services which are underpinned by evidencebased scientific and medical research.

Its Emergency Response Department is promoting its trusted health EPRR services providing assurance that emergency plans are fit for purpose and applicable to any event. Its Radiation Protection Services is also represented, presenting its mission to advance knowledge of the risks of radiation, and how to identify and mitigate such risks.

The Emergency Planning Society (EPS) is looking to attract the next generation of resilience professionals from among those involved in an operational, managerial or professional capacity in emergency management, and those engaged in full time study related to emergency or disaster planning. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.emergencyuk.com

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Fire safety Written by BAFE

Fire safety and contractor competence BAFE, the independent register of quality fire safety service providers, comments on the recent report released post Grenfell and how checking contractor competence is a simple, but important step to help reduce risk within a building With the final report of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety being released, an even stronger focus of responsibility will be aimed at the appointed responsible person/duty holder of buildings.

This will be especially focused on high rise buildings and we await further clarification on what else this will expand out to.

Dame Judith Hackitt’s report discussed the term ‘so far as is reasonably practicable’ (SFAIRP) as a regulatory exercise for duty holders ‘to exercise their judgement with making the safety case to the regulator’. The report continues to state: “The presumption is always on the duty holder to manage safety and reduce the risk. This can be challenging as it requires the exercise of reasonable judgement by both the duty holder and regulator.”

Responsible people/ duty holders must reduce

risk, especially regarding fire safety, so far as is reasonably practicable. This however is nothing new, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) explain fire safety legislation stating: “Employers (and/or building owners or occupiers) must carry out a fire safety risk assessment and keep it up to date.

This shares the same approach as health and safety risk assessments and can be carried out either as part of an overall risk assessment or as a separate exercise. Based on the findings of the assessment, employers need to ensure that adequate and appropriate fire safety measures are in place to minimise the risk of injury or loss of life in the event of a fire.”

With this, BAFE strongly believes that checking that your chosen contractors or providers are third party certificated is reasonably practicable to ensure adequate and appropriate fire safety measures are in place.

Wh happenat ed at Grenfe l l T o w er can never happen be allowed to one sho again and n ould hav e t o in fear live a their sa bout fety

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Assessing competency The Independent Review of Building Regulations and Fire Safety report failed to take the opportunity to endorse the value of third party certificated competence for service providers at this stage. The government however does endorse third party certification in their guidance documents which encourage the use of these providers as they will have demonstrated their competency to fulfil the required task.

Fire safety risk assessment Government Guidance states: “Third party certification schemes for fire protection products and related services are an effective means of providing the fullest possible assurances, offering a level of quality, reliability and safety that non-certificated products may lack. This does not mean goods and services that are not third party approved are less reliable, but there is no obvious way in which this can be demonstrated. Third party quality assurance can offer comfort, both as a means of satisfying you that goods and services you have purchased are fit for purpose, and as a means of demonstrating that you have complied with the law.”

In the report there was a stated requirement for proposals from the construction and fire industries within one year, for a body to oversee the ‘delivery of competent people’ and BAFE will work with all relevant parties to deliver this. This ‘delivery of competent people’ has been present within the fire industry for some time now, but in the complete absence of any mandatory requirements to demonstrate competency, BAFE strongly believes that third party certification, for both companies and individuals, is the best measure of this. We are committed to working with the fire industry and the wider construction industry to develop comprehensive measures to support the need for enhancing skills.

We support this activity across the UK. This, therefore, comes down to education, what exactly is third party certification and does the end user/public understand this?

Stephen Adams, BAFE chief executive, commented: “It is an ongoing challenge to inform the public about the importance of third party certification and what this means in practice. Companies work meticulously to gain this level of independent certification to prove their competency. This results in a standard that the end user/specifier can easily identify to show they are using the right people to fulfil a specific requirement. The duty holder should not have to know every minute detail of the relevant codes of practice and standards for the fire safety provisions they require, but they should have access to categorically know if the company they choose does (and keeps this level of knowledge and competency up to date). Clear and reliable evidence of this is third party certification.”

The method to check if a contractor is third party certificated is extremely simple as the BAFE register, has an online directory where you can confirm this. If your chosen contractor states they are BAFE registered for example, what area of fire safety are they third party certificated to provide? This can be easily checked on the BAFE website

Fire risk assessment On the day the Hackitt review interim report was released (18/12/17), Lord Porter, Local Government Association chairman, said: “What happened at Grenfell Tower can never be allowed to happen again and no-one should have to live in fear about their safety, be that in the buildings they live in, work in or visit.”

This referred to the materials being used on high rise blocks but should also apply to the fire risk assessment, all fire safety provisions and systems installed (and regularly maintained) in the interest of life safety. Many people take this for granted, and believe these are all correct and operational working in the background, as discovered in a recent study by Eaton. In their survey of 2,000 UK based respondents, 54 per cent of them admitted that they are not concerned that the building is not adequately protected against fires triggered by electrical faults.

This complacency may result in a heightened threat to life in the event of a fire.

A survey found that 54 per cent of people admit that they are not concerned that their building is not adequately protected against fires triggered by electrical faults

Fire safety

which clearly states exactly what they have been independently assessed in to prove their competency for a specific service.

The simple checking process to determine the correct third party certification, which takes less than five minutes to complete, will demonstrate you have taken reasonably practicable positive steps to ensure your chosen contractor is competent for the works you require.

Third party certification has never been more important than it is now when sourcing fire safety work in today’s climate. The focus on getting this right to reduce the risk, especially for multiple occupancy and high risk premises, is paramount. Using independently assessed companies to ensure their competency can help meet these fire safety obligations.

About BAFE BAFE is the independent register of quality fire safety service providers across the UK. All companies that appear on the BAFE Fire Safety Register are certificated in specific areas of fire safety to ensure quality and competence to help meet your obligations.

BAFE develops third party certification schemes to support quality standards within specific services in the fire safety industry. This third party certification (assessed via UKAS accredited certification bodies) independently acknowledges a company’s competency to provide specific fire protection services.

A completely independent organisation therefore resulting in a thoroughly unbiased party to help competent companies and people in need of fire protection services

find each other. There are registered companies throughout the UK spanning from large nationals and smaller regional businesses who have all achieved the same high quality standards. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.bafe.org.uk

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First aid

Assessing the first aid training industry

Written by Ian Kershaw, First Aid Industry Body

First aid training are a necessity for all industries, including the public sector. Ian Kershaw, of the First Aid Industry Body, looks at the training courses available The Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 introduced first aiders in the workplace by employees being trained on a 24 hour First Aid at Work (FAW) training course.

Between 1982 and 2009, over 2,000 training organisations were approved and monitored by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to offer the FAW course.

Following a consultation with employers, trade associations and training providers in 2009, the FAW course was reduced to 18 hours and saw the introduction of the Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course of six hours duration. A First Aid Annual refresher of three hours was also introduced. First aid courses are applicable to all industries, including the public sector.

Löfstedt Review (November 2011) The Professor Ragnar Löfstedt Review of Health and safety legislation recommended that the Health & Safety (First Aid) regulations 1981 should be amended to remove the requirement for HSE to approve the training and qualifications of appointed first aid personnel. It was accepted fully by government.

It also recommended a review of the First Aid Approved Code of Practice and Guidance (ACOP) as well as revised guidance clarifying

what is suitable for different environments to help businesses adopt measures that are suitable for their workplace. These changes will give industry greater flexibility to choose what is right for their workplace, and possibly reduce costs. It was also accepted fully by government.

Löfstedt envisaged a more open market in terms of training provision, giving ‘more flexibility’ and providing a certain standard of training and qualification was maintained.

Professor Löfstedt said: “The future shape of the first aid training sector going forward is a matter for the industry to determine. I understand that feedback to HSE shows that many employers will simply seek to find in built assurance similar to that they gained from HSE approval in whatever guise it is or becomes available. This assurance may be found in a trade body approval and monitoring scheme [an example being the First Aid Industry Body], or from a nationally approved and accredited qualification delivered by an Ofqual awarding organisation. Some training providers may choose to attach themselves to one approval system or another, whilst others such as yourselves may choose to continue as a standalone unit relying on their quality and reputation to secure market share. Any choice of future associations lies with the individual training organisations.”

It is no accepta w to cond ble courses uct some FAW an , such as d blendedEFAW using combin learning, ing and dis classroom ta learningnce

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The Health and Safety Executive Changes (2013) As from the 1 October 2013, the HSE was no longer involved in the approval and monitoring of first aid training providers. The only involvement that HSE would have in the future was in relation to the content of the first aid courses. These course are the FAW, 18 hours teaching time over a minimum of three days, the EFAW, 12 hours teaching time spread over a minimum of one day and the First Aid Annual refresher which is three hours teaching time.

The Department for Education Apart from the first aid courses under the jurisdiction of HSE, there is also a Paediatric First Aid (PFA) and an Emergency Paediatric First Aid (EPFA) course under the jurisdiction of the Department for Education document Statutory Framework for Early Years Foundation Stage (2017). Annex A of this document gives details of the content of the PFA course which is 12 hours teaching time and the content of the New EPFA course which is six hours teaching time.

Certification The HSE FAW and the EFAW course is certificated for three years and the First Aid Annual Refresher is certificated for one year. The PFA and the EPFA is certificated for three years. All of the above courses, with the exception of the First Aid Annual Refresher, must be refreshed before the

HSE guidance for Employers (October 2013) As part of the recommendations of the Löfstedt review, HSE produced guidance for employers which made clear that an employer must provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and personnel to sure their employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or taken ill at work.

The guidance advises on the levels of due diligence that an employer may be required to follow. When selecting a training provider an employer should check: the qualifications expected of trainers/ assessors; monitoring and quality assurance systems; teaching and standards of first aid practice; syllabus content; and first aid certificates. All of these checks are conducted by the First Aid Industry Body.

However, the guidance does not promote, recommend or support any particular route to delivery. It does not comment on the quality of individual training courses or the service provided, nor does it provide an assessment of the quality assurance systems of any provider or class of provider.

It is now acceptable to conduct the following courses (FAW, EFAW and PFA (12 hour) using blended learning, which is a combination of classroom and distance learning so long as certain guidelines are followed.

HSE produced guidance for employers which says an employer must provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and personnel to ensure employees receive immediate attention if they are injured or ill at work Introduction of Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) HSE stated that from 31 December 2016 workplace first aiders should be trained in the use of Automatic External Defibrillators (AED’s) as the Resuscitation Guidelines 2015 now state that the management of a casualty requiring Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is to request an AED. As a minimum this should include how to switch on the AED and where to place the pads.

Finally our wish is to see trained first aiders in as many places as possible and not just for the workplace but the standard of training must be properly monitored and regulated. We are also pleased to see the introduction of basic first aid procedures to children in schools and nurseries. Surveys have been conducted in the past that indicate first aiders in the workplace can have a positive effect on general health and safety. Remember first aid can be a lifetime skill but it must be refreshed on a regular basis.

First aid

end of the three year period otherwise the certificate is not valid in the workplace.

The First Aid Body (FAIB) was created in 2012 at the request of training providers many of whom were previously approved by the HSE. The main focus of FAIB is achieve high quality first aiders across all areas of Industry including the public, private and voluntary sectors. We also feel that at the root of good training providers is competent trainers which is why FAIB introduced the National Register of Trainers/Assessors in 2016.

FAIB is totally Independent and provides support and guidance to both employers and training providers alike.

Our training providers are monitored by FAIB inspectors who have many years of experience and no conflict of interest. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.faib.co.uk

At PJH Safety Training we believe that choosing a first-rate first aid course shouldn’t make you ill - Hence we’ve put together a few helpful tips on how emergency training differs from first aid at work, what you can expect them to cover and which is more suitable for you and your business.

For friendly, professional H&S advice you can trust simply call PJH Safety Training today on: 01925 812095 | 07969 344673 or email us at: info@pjhsafetytraining.co.uk

Emergency First Aid – 1-day course (£75 + VAT)

First Aid at Work – 3-day course (£180 +VAT)

This is a course for low-risk environments for staff who need to be qualified emergency first aiders. Here you will learn about dealing with a sudden unexpected accident or collapse. Highly useful, staff that successfully complete this 1-day training course will receive the QA Level 2 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (QCF) qualification, which meets your employers’ responsibilities under HSE legislation. The emphasis of this course is very much around dealing with an immediate emergency.

Incorporating all of the emergency first aid content from the 1-day course, this option provides a far wider and deeper appreciation of Health & Safety in the workplace.

This is extremely useful for staff that are expected to take the lead when it comes to the requirements of the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981. Covering such topics as overall incident management the 3-day course includes training on dealing with specific injuries and collapses which may happen in the workplace.

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Play

Prioritise outdoor play to give young people an advantage The onus on schools to be a key provider of play opportunities has recently taken on a whole new significance in recent years, with local authorities unable to fund park and play maintenance. Here, we look at how play can help children learn, develop and defy current obesity trends We all share a responsibility to ensure that children are able to play and exercise enough to safeguard their physical and mental health – parents, schools, communities, local authorities and government all have a role to play.

However, competing priorities can often mean that facilitating children’s outdoor play can get pushed down the to-do list.

The positive impact that outdoor play has on children in terms of their concentration, academic achievement, physical fitness and overall well-being means those schools which don’t prioritise play could be at a serious disadvantage.

The effects upon children of unstructured outdoor play, preferably with some built-in risk, are profound.

Play is the foundation for learning. In fact, play is learning. It allows children to develop their creativity, imagination and problem-solving skills.

Play is the earliest manifestation of a child’s desire to learn and of their

thirst for knowledge. It is second nature to them which means learning is too.

To curtail play is to curtail learning.

Play also improves a child’s ability to focus and concentrate. Incorporating physical activity into a child’s day has a positive effect on their behaviour and their ability to focus for longer periods of time. Children are inherently active and without regular opportunities for outdoor play they can have a tendency to let off steam at far less appropriate times.

A child’s ability to interact well with those around them and develop positive relationships is an important factor in their overall school success and play is vital in developing essential social skills.

For children to get the most out of play they have to display empathy, negotiate roles, take turns, resolve conflict, navigate rules and assess risk.

The o on scho nus be a ke ols to of play y provider o has rec pportunities e on a w ntly taken ho signific le new ance

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Psychological well-being Outdoor play fosters children’s emotional and psychological resilience. Through free, unstructured and active play children learn how to manage their impulses and emotions.

Children instinctively test and learn what their limits are, often through challenging or risky play. They experiment with emotions such as fear, aggression, trust, anger and loss – all at a pace which feels safe to them and that they control. Additionally, a stimulating outdoor environment will help children develop fundamental moving skills from an early age, developing into more complex capabilities later on. Unstructured, free play builds motivation, confidence and competence to move and helps to reinforce the idea that regular movement and exercise is the norm.

Nowhere to play The onus on schools to be a key provider of play opportunities has recently taken on a whole new significance. Evidence is mounting showing an alarming decline in community play provision and the sad truth is that for many children, particularly in deprived areas, the outdoor playtime they get at school might be their lot.

Play

The Association of Play Industries’ NowhereToPlay report uncovered an alarming decline in community playground provision. Between 2014/15 and 2015/16 local authorities across England closed 214 children’s playgrounds with plans to close a further 234. And the Heritage Lottery Fund report highlighted cuts to budgets for the running of parks, with 92 per cent of park managers reporting cuts to their budgets over the past three years.

The downward trend in park and playground provision is happening fast and, in many cases, it will be irreversible; once a community playground or park is lost it is often lost forever. The result is that free play and activity is not a given for many children. Furthermore, it is the children in deprived areas who are hit hardest by the cuts as they are less likely to have access to gardens or outside space in which to move.

Outdoor play and obesity We now know that the obesity crisis among children though widespread, is much more prevalent in poorer areas.

Obesity has increased since 2014/15 with over a fifth of children in Reception and a third in Year 6 now overweight or obese.

Children living in the most deprived areas are twice as likely to be obese than those living in the least deprived areas.

Inactivity and the lack of outdoor play is a lead factor in the childhood obesity epidemic.

Playing out with friends has been replaced by solitary, indoor and sedentary activities

involving TV, tablets and phones and only a third of parents in a recent study said their children’s favourite activity was outdoor play.

Obese children are far more likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity is associated with increased risk of a number of serious health conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. The obesity crisis will continue to grow as the opportunities for children to play outdoors diminishes.

The role of schools in play It is now more important than ever that schools are able to provide the play spaces and equipment which children so desperately need. Schools can go some way towards compensating for the lack of opportunities for outdoor play in the UK. Schools can also play an important part in changing the fortunes of some of those children without anywhere else to play – indeed, they can transform their lives and improve their prospects into adulthood. But for many schools their time and budgetary constraints mean it can be difficult to prioritise.

Channelling ‘childish’ behaviour Children are hard-wired to be active and play.

An holistic approach to education, which recognises the central role of free play and activity in a child’s physical, psychological and emotional development, is an approach which maximises each and every child’s full potential.

Incorporating outdoor play into the school day works with, rather than against, a child’s

natural instinct to learn through movement, activity and play. Unstructured play will improve their school experience in so many ways – by engaging their imaginations, enhancing their social interactions and stimulating their physical activity. It will also positively impact the classroom environment by improving learning and behaviour.

Learning is heightened by channelling children’s desire to move, play, invent games, challenge, tease, compete, cooperate, fall out, make-up again, design their own rules and then modify them as they go along. Through play and activity they explore, not just their physicality, but their reasoning skills, language, numeracy, social skills and emotions.

The aims of schools, of government, of parents – and of children themselves – all align. We all want young people to fulfil their potential and achieve academically.

We want them to have a well-rounded education so that they leave school well-prepared for further education or employment. We also want them to be happy, healthy, well‑adjusted and thoughtful individuals. All these objectives are wellserved by providing great opportunities for outdoor play in schools. L

This article first featured in Education Business magazine.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.educationbusinessuk.net

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Unrivalled emergency lighting performance Commulite is the only LED communal and emergency lighting system specifically tailored to the needs of social housing.

In a power loss or emergency situation, Commulite provides bright, uniform light levels throughout the building for over nine hours.

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Lighting

Supporting the commercial lighting industry The Lighting Industry Association and British Standards Institute have partnered to combine their knowledge and extensive expertise in assurance and testing within the lighting sector to launch a new BSI Kitemark™ for commercial lighting To celebrate the partnership and launch of ‘time to market’ for new products. the new BSI Kitemark, a special event was The BSI Kitemark™ for Commercial held at the Lighting Industry Association Lighting is a step forward in product safety offices in Telford on 27 June, which and quality, which will drive was followed up with a live up standards and further webinar on 23 July. The reduce the risks of product T h e two events combined recalls and returns. It BSI item gave an opportunity encompasses a wide a r k i s a wel for businesses in the range of lighting l symbol -known lighting sector to products and of course, p ro d u c t h a t t h e find out how the includes LEDs. ts the p BSI Kitemark™ Whilst recognising c ome in ublic for Commercial the achievements of to Lighting can help their commercial lighting with ar contact business in providing: manufacturers that and rele safe competitive advantage; consistently meet iable access to new markets; the highest possible faster product testing standards, the BSI Kitemark times; fewer risks and faster also provides an important

marketing tool for manufacturers of commercial lighting products.

Speaking about the partnership, Greg Childs, Electrical & Gas Certification group manager at BSI said: “We’re delighted to be working with the LIA in order to help organisations achieve the BSI Kitemark for Commercial Lighting, as well as developing other product testing and certification solutions. We’re committed to helping manufacturers deliver lighting products that are highly efficient and safe to use and this collaboration will enable us to continue to help businesses face new industry challenges.

“The BSI Kitemark is a symbol that around 70 per cent of the British public recognise, and one that has given millions of Britons over the last century the knowledge and comfort that the products they come into contact with are safe and reliable.”

The use of the LIA Laboratory facility means that BSI is able to provide assurance that products will be tested to the highest possible standards by specialists in their field. As one of the most recognised symbols of quality and safety, the BSI Kitemark offers true value to customers, businesses and procurement practices.

Commenting on the new partnership, Steve Davies, chief executive of the LIA, said: “Testing to this BSI Kitemark cements the position of the LIA Laboratory as a leading provider for testing and certification within the lighting industry and we are proud to be in partnership with BSI, to support commercial lighting.”

Emergency lighting If you take a look around as you go about your day to day business, you’ll notice just how often you’ll see examples of E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Are you in control of your lighting?

Automated lighting control systems can be a great tool for helping you save money for your business. You can control costs, go green, stay flexible, increase efficiency, achieve quick payback and improve your working environment.

At Coco Lighting, we can advise on a wide variety of wireless control solutions to provide energy and cost savings for your business.

Call us today on 01376 331 515 or email sales@cocolighting.com for a no obligation quote on how we can help reduce your energy and improve your building’s working environment.

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LED Lighting • Emergency Lighting • Interior Lighting • Exterior Lighting • Lighting Controls • Lighting Conversions

Emergency lighting in operation Emergency lighting can be provided in a number of different forms: self-contained and central battery systems. Self-contained: meaning a system with a light source, a lighting control (known as a control gear i.e. LED driver and a battery charger) and a local battery this is charged by the buildings main power source and provides illumination in the emergency situation. This can be

The BSI Kitemark™ for Commercial Lighting is a step forward in product safety and quality, which will drive up standards and further reduce the risks of product recalls and returns referred to as an emergency luminaire.

Central battery systems: as an alternative to the above, a building contains a central point with a battery bank which comes into effect at a normal mains failure, the bank providing power in emergency to a loop of lighting units throughout a building.

Emergency lighting tends to have two modes of operation. Maintained mode, meaning the light is in operation when powered from the mains and then again in emergency mode. The second being nonmaintained and as you can imagine, the light only operates when the system is in emergency. Another element of an emergency luminaire is the light source. Traditionally fluorescent lamps were the most common.

However, with the recent reduction in cost, emergency LED lighting is booming Finally, another interesting product on the market is automatic test systems.

This is empowering smart systems within the emergency lighting sector. These systems are a central point, which are constantly monitoring emergency lighting units, providing fault detection data and automatically performing the required safety checks, (normally performed manually). However, smart lighting control systems can incorporate ‘self-test’, which also perform the required safety tests but is an independent control which does not need a central control point. L FURTHER INFORMATION

Lighting

 emergency lighting without even knowing it’s there. It is found in offices, sports stadiums, shopping halls to name but a few. And the next time you’re in a hotel lobby, which has multiple LED spotlights in the ceiling, look out for the one with the green LED indicator next to it. That’s your emergency light. But where does emergency lighting come into play and why is it important?

Well, the definition is as simple as the title suggests - emergency lighting comes into operation when a building’s main power fails. It provides illumination, allowing the occupants to safely find their escape.

However, emergency lighting systems are becoming increasingly complex and whilst development continues, quality and safety must remain a fundamental feature.

The importance of emergency lighting is clear: no one should be subject to additional pressures whilst in a potential life threatening situation, such as having impaired or even no visibility. As a consumer how can you ensure an emergency light will perform as required in an emergency situation?

The question I always ask is, has it been tested? The key thing I look for is the BSI Kitemark™ symbol and KM licence. I often inspect products already installed in shopping centres, cinemas and any other commercial buildings. When I see the the BSI Kitemark™ symbol, I know the manufacturer cares about quality and understands the importance of getting their product verified by an impartial party in the interests of the public.

www.bsigroup.com

LuxLive

LuxLive, which returns to London’s ExCeL on 14-15 November, features eight inspiring, free conference tracks and over 100 expert speakers, covering crucial topics including emergency lighting, safer cities, lighting for transport and infrastructure, workplace and wellbeing lighting and much more.

The show, which Government Business will feature in our October publication, is a great chance to chance to discover innovation, compare the latest products and lighting technology, and see how leading companies are driving lighting change in our case studies.

By visiting hundreds of the trade’s most innovative suppliers and manufacturers under one roof in just a few hours, delegates will save time and stay up-to-date with the latest lighting regulations and news.

LuxLive features the largest education programme ever seen before in the lighting industry, with a show floor packed with panel debates and sessions from the experts across eight conference tracks. The event will also be a great place to network, stay in touch with current contacts and meet new ones.

www.thelia.org.uk

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Advertisement Feature

3D Printing finds its mark Like many technologies 3D Printing has taken its time to find its true vocation where the gains in digital processing are discovered by both leaders and followers

how they work and nearly all using a technology that is related to fusing an already solid material. These printers have the benefit of relatively low costs but suffer in terms of speed and precision.

3D Prototyping Resins available for model making or rapid prototyping not only include the full range of normal plastic type materials in a full range of colours but also bio compatible resins that are certified and come from a range of suppliers.

These resins match exactly the wavelengths cured by the MoonRAY and are suited to a range of applications from ear implants to dental crowns and bridges to podiatry. There are variable material strength properties as well as flexible resins allowing movement.

Prototypes are not just confined to engineering. For example, the speed requirements of producing new medical devices and one off solutions to urgent problems can be tested and honed within hospital, clinic, design or support premises.

With very tight deadlines to adhere to and restrictions on the number of times something can be tried the medical sector is often beyond normal engineering methods. The 3D printing speed of the design to make process or the scan to make process makes many of the medical applications feasible.

Often, new technologies need time to be matched with other skills and processes in order to be fully efficient.

The advances in software, 3D scanners and 3D printers and light sensitive resins has now certainly reached this point.

Awesome Apps Ltd is a European Distributor for the new MoonRay series of DLP printers that are revolutionising the worlds of dental production, investment casting applications and rapid prototyping, among others.

A lot of our work is actually adapting and explaining where 3D printing fits within the modern workflows and while the health sector has experimented with 3D printing; it is less clear and how to use it in everyday processes. The dental sector is now starting to use the tools on a daily basis but the needs of implants and tools is yet to be fully addressed.

The MoonRay 3D printer The MoonRay 3D printer works using the newest technology with an led based light source of defined wavelength. It uses an array of microscopic and individually controlled mirrors to project an ultra violet light onto very thin slivers of a UV resin held in a shallow tray. The layer is cured and begins to solidify before the light is re-focussed on the next layer and cured in the same way. The layers can be as little as 20 microns in height or

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about a quarter of the width of a human hair.

The detail produced is more than enough for many applications and there are three differing resolution versions to match the applications. The technology prints particularly accurate models that are dimensionally consistent across the entire build platform and items are not distorted by where they lie on the platform. Driven by easy to use software for the Mac or Windows platforms, the user can position, scale, rotate and duplicate the model at the click of a button. The software runs on a perfectly normal PC or laptop and requires no specialist training to operate.

For parts requiring supports during the process the software automatically generates these, such that they are both easy to remove and useful in ensuring a correct solidification process. The system is commanded by the software via an Ethernet or wireless link and is free to perform other tasks during the actual printing.

This type of 3D printing technology has the net advantage that its is faster than the earlier laser driven (SLA) printers and can produce multiple parts in the time that the laser generation printers take to produce just one and is much less fussy in its handling and life span requirements.

Within the health sector 3D printers have been used largely to demonstrate

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Easy application Many health sector entities have rightly prioritised the digital connection between departments, populations and suppliers but there are areas where greater digital communication can be further enhanced by more tactile productions. Pictures and presentations are all good for getting the points across but to really get the feel of a new process or new device an in-house 3D model not only provides a realistic rendition of the idea but also details with room for improvement or modification.

While such investments were initially restricted to outside of the office environment and often costed as major capital spend items, todays 3D printers cost less than a communications server or a web site update.

What seems like a technology leap that is difficult to integrate and even more difficult to relay to administrators students and colleagues can often become straightforward when demonstrated in the form of a realistic model. The rapid turnaround of ideas into concrete examples is the essence of 3D printing and applicable to many more enterprises than are currently in use.

The MoonRay 3D printer offers a compact, speedy, professional and elegant solution backed by the software and thirty year, technology expertise of Awesome Apps Ltd. FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01242 370453 www.awe-apps.com

DATA

UK universities cyber security work recognised

Lewisham residents contacted about suspected data hack

Three UK universities have been recognised as Academic Centres of Excellence in Cyber Security Research by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) for leading cyber security skills and research.

The NCSC and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (ESPRC) have identified the University of Kent, King’s College London and Cardiff University as having firstrate research with scale and impact, with the educational institutions now joining 14 other institutions in a scheme forming part of the government’s National Cyber Security Strategy.

As part of their new Academic Centres of Excellence in Cyber Security Research (ACE-CSR) status, the universities can now bid for funding to develop cuttingedge research in cyber security.

Minister for Digital Margot James said: “These universities are doing fantastic research in cyber security and they are rightly

Lewisham council officers are contacting around 6,000 people who they believe may have had their financial data hacked.

Data from council tax, housing benefits, adult social care, education and planning could have been stolen. The incident first came to light on 24 April when the council was subjected to a ransomware attack. The council is not aware of inappropriate use of the data but are warning people as a precaution.

A ransomware attack is when the data on a computer is locked by encryption. The owners of the computer are then asked to pay a ransom in a virtual currency, such as Bitcoin, in order to release the data.

The council had been using a portal outside of the main IT network to conduct data analysis for a homelessness project, which was infiltrated by an outside agent.

Police are now investigating the incident.

being recognised for their pioneering work.

We have some of the best minds in the world working in the field and thanks to this scheme they can now help shape our National Cyber Security Strategy and develop the talent and services of tomorrow.”

Chris Ensor, deputy director for Cyber Security Skills and Growth at the NCSC, said: “The UK has world-class universities carrying out cutting edge research into all areas of cyber security. It’s fantastic to see three more universities recognised as Academic Centres of Excellence and I’m especially pleased that we now have centres in all home nations.

The NCSC looks forward to collaborating with these institutions to make the UK the safest place to live and work online.”

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y7xfn94h

ONLINE SAFETY

New UK Council for Internet Safety

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y8rq7l2g

BROADBAND

£9 billion superfast broadband boost Regions covered by the government’s rollout of superfast broadband have seen local businesses amass a combined £9 billion increase in turnover since the boost to their broadband speed.

An independent assessment of the impact the rollout has had in its first years finds that, alongside a £9 billion surge in turnover for businesses, the rollout has also delivered £12.28 benefit for businesses for every £1 invested by the government and local authorities and a strong indication that high take up rates have encouraged the telecommunications industry to expand their own commercial broadband projects.

Rollout of superfast broadband to those areas deemed ‘commercially un-viable’ has helped take nationwide coverage to 95.39 per cent and seen approximately five million homes and businesses who would

have been stuck in the digital slow lane now having access to superfast broadband.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport estimate that more than one million extra UK homes and businesses will gain access to superfast speeds, taking superfast coverage to 98 per cent of the nation over the next few years.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y9tg8c9o

GT News

CYBER SECURITY

Minister for Digital Margot James has announced the government’s first step to establish a new UK Council for Internet Safety (UKCCIS) to improve online safety.

Opening the application process to appoint members of the UKCIS Executive Board, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport says the UKCIS will bring together a partnership of more than 200 organisations representing government, regulators, industry, law enforcement, academia and charities.

Priority areas of focus for the council will include online harms such as cyber bullying and sexual exploitation, radicalisation and extremism, violence against women and girls, as well as hate crime and hate speech.

James said: “Only through collaborative action will the UK be the safest place to be online. By bringing together key stakeholders, from the tech giants to the third sector, UKCIS will be the cornerstone of this effort; driving the development of technical solutions and equipping UK citizens to tackle online harms.”

David Wright, director of the UK Safer Internet Centre at SWGfL, said: “To build a safer internet, we need to work across sectors and disciplines, making sure we learn from the experiences of a wide variety of citizens. We welcome the new opportunities provided by the UK Council for Internet Safety, and look forward to working closely with the new council”.

READ MORE tinyurl.com/y8rdksya

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Technology Written by Georgina Maratheftis, programme manager for Local Government, techUK

Re-imagining local public service delivery While the pace of change may be slightly slower in the public sector, it is an exciting time in local government digital transformation, says Georgina Maratheftis, programme manager for Local Government, techUK With the news of councils needing to radically cut services hitting the headlines of late, local governments universally face the challenge of managing tightening budgets, whilst having to deal with increasing demand and rising expectations. However, many councils are seeing this challenge as an opportunity to do things differently, utilising the potential that digital can bring when it comes to providing improved services for citizens.

Local areas are individually faced with a range of challenges: from demographic change, traffic congestion and housing, to unemployment Whi and local economic decline. the pacle These challenges can no longer be faced alone, change e of maybe and digital can help to slightly s l enable the integration o public s wer in the of services to improve exciting ector, it is an the quality of processes and outcomes, enabling govern time in local greater self-service and m transfo ent digital empowering citizens rmation to manage their own situation where necessary.

Some local councils are already making some great progress in making these digital dreams a reality.

Being more predictive We often talk about ‘digital transformation’ and ‘smart places’ at the local level as if they are separate issues. Whilst they may appear different in their outcomes, they are both enabled through the adoption of a collaborative and digital-first approach. Digital is more than just shiny new technology. It is important that digitally-enabled solutions also integrate a collaborative and user-centric approach to doing things smarter. We are seeing far more councils embrace digital to deliver smarter services, and in turn helping them create smarter places and communities where citizens want to live, work and thrive.

Essex and Hertfordshire County Councils are a good example of this, working together to pilot UK innovation in smart city services.

Some of the smart city solutions in the project include gully monitoring to alert and even predict flooding, highway wind monitoring that instantly alerts the highways team of

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

strong winds or gusts and builds a data set that helps to predict dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, the data sets from infrastructure monitoring can be used to spot trends across departments, leading to more joined-up working and better decision making.

Not a rubbish idea Bin collection and pot holes always seem to be the most popular topics at local government events. Waste collection is a core responsibility of local authorities across the UK and a service where citizen satisfaction can easily be measured. This explains the excitement around the future of bins!

Waste collection offers a major opportunity for innovation and cost savings. With the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart city technologies there is every opportunity to revolutionise

Self-repairing cities In March this year the government announced a further £100 million to help repair potholes.

This is on top of the £75 million in government funding already given to councils from the Pothole Action Fund. Not only are potholes a driver’s nightmare, but their eradication is a resource intensive, costly service. Data and technology can be better utilised to prevent them happening in the first place.

UCL and Leeds University are working with

Leeds Council to trial the use of drones to scan roads, looking for small cracks. It is part of a drive to create ‘self-repairing cities’.

The government is also investing more than £900,000 in innovations using connected vehicles to help councils more efficiently manage and plan maintenance works. These trials will ultimately help provide councils E

Technology

bin collection to empty them based on fill level and traffic conditions, making the process more intelligent and efficient.

This can help improve productivity by reducing travel time, and in turn saving fuel and CO2 emissions. Hull City Council is to trial new smart bins. It will involve installing 30 sensors to monitor waste levels in 15 bins in high streets, parks and public spaces.

They are being fitted to two types of bin and the pilot will run for six months. The sensors can also detect a sudden motion or shaking, which automatically trigger vandalism alerts, and sudden spikes in bin temperature, trigger fire detection warnings.

Even though artificial intelligence is still a rather nascent market for the public sector, local government is leading the way in its adoption and understanding of its value in transforming services for citizens

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“My cybersecurity team can see all the bad stuff that happens on our network” (Really?)

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Technology

 with data to enable them to repair potholes before they occur as well as maintain their other assets more effectively as part of their asset management plans. This will help prevent further potholes and other road defects occurring over time. Blackpool Council has been given £100,000 to lead on a digital inspector scheme with eight councils. This will see high definition cameras mounted on vehicles to collect data on road and path conditions, which will then be analysed to highlight where roads are deteriorating.

Boosting customer services with AI Even though artificial intelligence is still a rather nascent market for the public sector, local government is leading the way in its adoption and understanding of its value in transforming services for citizens. AI can help reduce demand and meet rising citizen expectations, whilst also freeing up employees’ time to focus on other key areas.

Chatbots, for example, can help provide a good customer experience by enabling citizens to engage with a local public service out of hours, as demonstrated by Aylesbury Vale District Council. It has introduced a service that learns from previous council residents’ conversations and can improve council response time to resident queries on services, such as council tax, benefits and bin collection.

AI can also enable a more data-driven council and make services more predictive.

Hackney Council has launched the Early Help Predictive System that uses artificial intelligence to identify families that may benefit from extra support from the government. Its goal is to provide support to families as early as possible to prevent the need for high-cost and highrisk services further down the line.

Digital is more than just shiny new technology.

It is important that digitally-enabled solutions also integrate a collaborative and user-centric approach to doing things smarter Harnessing digital to improve outcomes While technology can act as enabler to redesign service delivery and achieve savings, the real reward is in improving outcomes for citizens and solving social challenges. The LGiU’s Annual State of Local Government Finance Survey alarmingly highlights that children’s services are now the biggest pressure for councils. This is above adult social care for the first time in at least three years, suggesting that councils are no longer able to shield these services from the worst of the ongoing budget cuts in local government. These stark figures show that many councils will not be able to continue to deliver children’s services as they currently are.

We need to re-imagine how services can be delivered to give families the information they need and to empower individuals to access the right services at the right time. There are a number of good examples of councils taking a data-led transformation approach to children’s social care. For instance, Newcastle City Council’s data-informed changes to children’s services help social workers deal with complex family needs better, whilst also being able to identify factors that can predict a child becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training), enabling earlier intervention.

Art of the possible While the pace of change maybe slightly slower in the public sector, it is an

exciting time in local government digital transformation. The more progressive councils will see digital as an opportunity to do things differently to gain value in reducing demand on services; improve efficiencies; enhance customer experience and drive better decision making from data insights. The government’s GovTech Fund competition is a good example of public sector recognising how technology can help solve problems and the need for collaboration across industry and the public sector. It is an opportunity for innovative tech companies to help solve public sector issues.

If you are a council looking at or looking to begin your digital transformation or want to explore what the ‘art of the possible’ is, then do get in touch. techUK has an active public sector programme which connects central and local government stakeholders with suppliers of all sizes to access innovative tech services to transform public service outcomes. techUK represents more than 950 tech companies and cover the breadth and depth of the market.

There is the opportunity to workshop through ideas on re-imagining service delivery, as well as inform you of the latest tech innovations in this space. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.techuk.org

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Europe’s number one enterprise tech event IP Expo Europe, taking place at London’s ExCeL on 3 October, is Europe’s number one IT event for those looking to find out how the latest IT innovations can drive their business forward

Co-located at Digital Transformation Expo, IP Expo Europe is the must-attend IT event of the year for CIOs, heads of IT, security specialists, heads of insight and tech experts, bringing together under one roof more than 300 exhibitors and over 300 free to attend seminar sessions.

The show also features an array of leading speakers, with Colonel Chris Hadfield opening the first day of seminar sessions by showing the audience how to ‘think like an astronaut’.

Sharing the useful and practical lessons he has learned throughout his remarkable career in the fields of leadership, teamwork, collaboration, and science and technology, ‘the most famous astronaut since Neil Armstrong’ will use his vivid and refreshing insights to motivate audiences to achieve dreams higher than the clouds, and will change, completely, the way everyone views life on Earth.

As the threat of cyber crime continues to grow, businesses are looking to hackers to share their knowledge and insight into identifying vulnerabilities and the best ways to defend against attacks. Seeking to explain how to combat hackers, the Cyber Hack, a live open-source security lab at Cyber Security X, will see experts, White Hat hackers, security gurus, speakers and enthusiasts meet to see hacks take place in real time and share insight into how businesses can prevent hacks.

in the future AI will become a core part of every company’s technology strategy. Learn what is already possible with AI directly from the companies using or developing this technology and discover what will be possible in the near future in the Hot Topic Panel.

Some of the questions likely to be answered include: who should be responsible for AI in your organisation? Should there be executive oversight? What are the typical barriers to adopting AI? How do AI projects work – should you have a ‘lab’? What’s the difference between the stories about AI you read in the press and the way AI works in reality? And, what, if anything, is the impact of GDPR on your AI/analytics strategy?

Feature IP Expo Europe Heading

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Cyber security Every day we read headlines of data breaches, hacks and malware attacks. Often they’re identikit newspaper stories where you could easily just change the names of the companies involved and the number of customer records they have had stolen from them. But every now and then something extraordinary happens. Like the companies who pretended to be hacked when they hadn’t, or the attackers who went to extraordinary lengths to steal millions from their employers. In the first presentation in the Cyber Security Keynote Theatre, computer security veteran Graham Cluley shares some unbelievable tales of cyber attack.

Scott Helme is a hacker, researcher and builder of things, currently working as BBC hacker in residence. Scott and his team recently hacked a very popular smart camera.

Targeted at homes and small businesses they could view the live, HD feed from anywhere in the world. It turned out that anyone else could too. His session in the same theatre is sure to draw the crowd’s attention.

AI and your organisation It is projected that by 2035 there will be over The IP Expo Europe series of panel debates one trillion ‘Things’ connected to the internet. provides exclusive access to see the world’s That’s 142 devices for every human on this leading tech platforms ‘clash’ as experts planet. Despite cutting edge technology discuss where the leading companies are and exciting new use cases in fields such as taking technology in the next few years. medical care, smart homes and autonomous The panel debate series consists of IP vehicles, these devices are routinely hacked.

Expo Bytesize panels, giving attendees an Since compromised IoT devices can be used executive overview of the latest trends to pivot inwards and attack an organisation’s in IT, and the IP Expo Hot Topic Panel internal network or, conversely, used to create which will be focusing its attention on a botnet to attack many organisations at all things artificial intelligence (AI). once, IoT security affects all of us, whether No longer purely in the realms of science we use personally use IoT or not. fiction, the use of AI has exploded in the past Research by F5 Labs has shown that IoT few years, already being used to improve attacks have been lurking in the shadows for healthcare, enable self-driving cars, longer than you might think and used and stop security breaches. to carry out far more than just Undoubtedly the hottest crude denial of service attacks.

AI is topic in IT right now, AI is Threat campaigns using IoT redefin redefining how we live, devices include data theft, i n g how we live interact and do business fraud and cryptojacking.

– it is set to have a David Warburton will and do , interact b profound impact on speak in the Cyber u s i ness – it is set our everyday lives.

Threat Protection Theatre t o have a profoun Most companies about what devices d impa already use AI to are vulnerable, how IoT c t our eve o some degree, for devices are found and ryday n example it is now then compromised, the l i v es commonplace as part trends in IoT based attacks, of a spam filter. However and how to plan for and defend it is accepted wisdom that against the rise of the Thingbots. E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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FEATURE HEADING Written by

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the excellent education facilities that Edinburgh is widely renowned for.

Additionally, Edinburgh First also offers conference accommodation in Edinburgh, with 153 en‑suite bedrooms available year‑round plus an additional 1,885 bedrooms from June to September. It has private dining rooms, restaurants, bars and cafés too – as well as all of Edinburgh’s attractions right on your doorstep – offering plenty of opportunities for post‑conference team‑building and networking.

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Services Edinburgh First’s event management service provides a one‑stop‑shop service to host, deliver and manage events at any one of its facilities in Edinburgh. The service can help provide advice and guidance, as well as designing and supporting events through website development, event registration and payment handling.

With a choice of historic mansion houses and modern conference facilities, we offer a blend of professionalism and flexibility that makes us equally suited for events of all sizes.

Ultimately, Edinburgh First delivers an efficient and cost‑effective solution for any event. L

Edinburgh City Famed for its listed buildings, Michelin star restaurants and as one of the UK’s leading cultural hubs, Edinburgh offers an attractive destination for those organising a conference or event.

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has ranked the city as the most popular conference destination in Scotland and the second‑most visited in the whole of the UK. It continues to have an international influence in science, business and education, and hosts the world’s largest annual arts festival.

Playfair Library and McEwan Hall. As well as offering unique conference spaces, we also provide high‑specification conference facilities, private dining rooms, restaurants, bars and cafés that can cater for your every need.

Edinburgh First As part of the University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh First offers first‑class conference options for those travelling to Scotland’s capital. It can cater for events of all sizes, from small meetings to large conferences for 1,000 delegates.

Edinburgh First boasts more than 70 meeting rooms across 16 distinctive venues in the city, from its state‑of‑the‑art conference facilities at the John McIntyre Conference Centre (JMCC) to the scholarly environs of the historic

Facilities Similarly, while we operate two year‑round hotels and self‑catering apartments, our ability to open up our Halls of Residence during the summer period allows thousands more delegates to spend time in the heart of Edinburgh, all within walking distance of our many conference venues. The added bonus is that any profits generated from our conference venues and accommodation go straight back into the University, so future students continue to benefit from

FURTHER INFORMATION www.edinburghfirst.co.uk

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 Email is far from dead. It is estimated that over 281 billion emails are sent globally every day, cementing it as one of the primary mechanisms for business communication. However, when relied upon by staff to share personal data, email also becomes a major cause of data breaches.

Join Egress’ Neil Larkins as he examines the ways email security technology can adapt to tackle security threats in a time when organisations are under more legislative pressure than ever before, including the evolution of encryption, preventing user error and risk-based authentication.

Smart IT Functionally networks transport data from A to B but there’s a lot that can be learned by understanding the journey of all those little packets. For over a decade Cisco Meraki has allowed customers to discover underlying trends about their networks with simple, out-of-the-box historical analytics from the intuitive Meraki dashboard. Join the company as it discusses how it is building on this experience to now also provide IT and network admins tools to pre-emptively identify faults or bottlenecks as well as advice on corrective action, all with the classic Meraki simplicity.

The days of ‘big-bang’ changes in IT infrastructure are over. Operating in the digital world means you must embrace what McKinsey has dubbed ‘Perpetual Evolution’ with an approach that supports continual changes in your business processes and IT. Find out how to baseline your organisation’s current state, monitor the dynamic changes taking place, and assess their success with a platform that constantly learns, adapts and protects. From analytics, cloud-based management and containers, to microsegmentation and the zero-trust model, Cisco’s resident Solutions Architect Neil Trevains will give the audience insights from A to Z in Data Centre engineering for a multicloud world, as part of his session in the Intelligent Networks Theatre.

Addressing delegates on the Cloud Architecture Theatre, Dr Jai Menon discusses the approaches to cloud adoption and why companies are moving their focus to the consumption experience of operating a private cloud, discovering the benefits of digital transformation and repatriation.

Businesses are adopting cloud technologies almost universally, and most of them expect a future state in which a combination of on-premises cloud, hosted and public cloud resources are integrated and used in combination to execute business functions.

In this session in the Cloud, Networks and Mobility Theatre, Liam Eagle, research manager at 451 Research, will outline business trends around hybrid cloud (referencing an enterprise adoption study conducted in association with NTT Communications and Dell EMC), and look at how planning for a hybrid future can and should impact present-day technology decision making. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.ipexpoeurope.com

IP Expo Europe

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LIGHTING UP YOUR JOURNEY TO THE CLOUD Systems Integration

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Altiatech provides organisations with a transparent and holistic approach to assist in the management of your IT infrastructure using tailored and comprehensive IT solutions that fulfil your business requirements. Contact us to find out more about how Altiatech can empower your organisation.

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A total of 3,505 suppliers have been awarded places on the new Crown Commercial Service G-Cloud 10 framework, with more than 90 per cent of them SMEs The 3,505 suppliers on the G-Cloud 10 framework, which gives central government, local councils, NHS trusts and other public sector bodies a way to purchase cloud-based services such as web hosting from a single, central website, is 649 more than featured on the previous iteration of G-Cloud 9.

G-Cloud 10, which could eventually be worth £600 million, is the latest cloud-based framework agreement which has seen more than £3 billion of cloud and digital services procured by public bodies since 2012, with 48 per cent of that spend going directly to SMEs. Alongside the Digital Outcomes and Specialists framework, the G-Cloud framework is transforming government procurement.

These two frameworks mean government can buy the right technology and services from the right suppliers at the right price. By making procurement clear and simple, they are opening up the marketplace to suppliers of all sizes and from all parts of the country. They are creating a level playing field that means that all private sector enterprises can be involved in helping government work better for everyone.

It is for use by the UK public sector to buy cloud computing services covering hosting, software and cloud support on a commodity based, pay-as-you go service. A commercial agreement of 12 months’ duration, CCS has said that the duration may be extended for any period up to a maximum of twelve months from the expiry of the initial term, which is set at 1 July 2019.

Discussing the new framework agreement, which went live at the start of July, Oliver Dowden, Minister for Implementation, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, delivering innovative solutions in partnership with the

public sector, fuelling economic growth and supporting the delivery of efficient, effective public services that meet the needs of citizens.

The success of G-Cloud demonstrates how we are breaking down the barriers for SMEs who want to supply to government.”

Simpler for suppliers Writing on the Government Digital Service blog, Ben Welby and Patrick Opoosun explained back in April how GDS has made things simpler for suppliers on G-Cloud 10, and, now that it is open for business, the content is worth revisiting. G-Cloud 10 is run as a collaboration between the Government Digital Service and the Crown Commercial Service and is operated through the Digital Marketplace.

G-Cloud 10 is in response to supplier needs to refresh services and open the market up to new suppliers, but, because CCS and GDS were able to meet these needs without overhauling or radically changing G-Cloud 9, it took a minimum viable product (MVP) approach, meaning it could launch quickly and give the market what it needed.

“The success of demons G-Cloud are brea trates how we barriers king down the fo want to r SMEs who s governmupply to ent.”

G-Cloud 10 is an iteration of G-Cloud 9, which means existing suppliers should be familiar with it. But a few important improvements and extensions have been made. As well as cloud services, suppliers can now apply to sell cyber security services on G-Cloud 10. This includes services that are assured under these National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) schemes: Cyber Security Consultancy; Penetration Testing (CHECK); and Cyber Incident Response (CIR).

GDS has also created a new supplier section on the Digital Marketplace, which lets suppliers store essential information such as company contact details and registration information centrally. The supplier section runs across both the G-Cloud and Digital Outcomes and Specialists frameworks and means suppliers no longer have to fill out information for each individual application. They can just enter the information once and use it again and again, saving time on applications.

While new suppliers applied to G-Cloud 10 by creating a supplier account, existing suppliers on G-Cloud 9 also needed to apply, but to make things simpler for them, GDS redesigned the process to allow them to simply copy over their G-Cloud 9 declaration and services into G-Cloud 10.

G-Cloud 10

Every government cloud has a silver lining

Three Lots There are three Lots to the G-Cloud 10 agreement, looking at Cloud Hosting (Lot 1), Cloud Software (Lot 2) and Cloud Support (Lot 3). To be included in Lot 1, are cloud platform or infrastructure services that can help buyers do at least one of deploying, managing and running software and provision and use processing, storage or networking resources.

Lot 2 companies must be applications that are typically accessed over a public or private network e.g. the internet and hosted in the cloud, while those included in Lot 3 must help buyers set up and maintain their cloud software or hosting services.

Cloud adoption in 2018 Back in March, notfor-profit provider technology company Eduserv and Socitm published a report, Local government cloud adoption in 2018, E

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What could Intelligent Connectivity do for you?

If you’re planning for digital transformation, Intelligent Connectivity is where it all begins.

It lets you access your data and stay in control of your organisation from anywhere, on any device. So you can make decisions faster, and give the people you serve better and more personalised experiences. It’s a new, smarter way of working.

Moving to a new age of networks Whatever your digital transformation plans look like, you’ll need the right network to make it happen. Intelligent Connectivity is our solution.

It combines network access, management and a software defined overlay that all adds up to a more powerful and efficient network.

Traditional networks often involve making a choice between the reliability and performance of a fixed network, the affordability of the internet and the flexibility of a mobile network. This can create silos of technology in your organisation. It can lead to slower applications and, as demand for bandwidth across your network spirals, it can be a struggle to keep up.

Intelligent Connectivity is different. It means we can give you a hybrid network with the best bits of fixed, online and mobile, along with unrivalled security and reporting. Better yet, you can choose the right mix of access to fit your organisation.

Choosing a connection that delivers When it comes to finding the right hybrid network, we’ve got a whole range of options. Our 10Gb Fibre Network Access is SD-WAN ready and gives you cheaper and wider network coverage.

On top of this, we work with some of the industry’s best partners to use their technology in our SD-WAN solutions.

With a smarter network on your side, you’ll have the tools to manage an explosion in traffic and switch to cloud-based applications, like Office 365.

And when there are spikes in demand or big opportunities that require change, you’ll be able to easily manage your networks. Better yet, virtual network functions mean it’s easier to manage from wherever you are, helping you work smarter and save money.

New technology often means the threat of cyber attacks is never far behind. With Intelligent Connectivity, you’ll be able to protect and manage critical sites and data centres over agile, high security connections. And because security’s embedded into everything we offer, you’ll always have peace of mind.

Whatever your plan, start with us If it’s time to put your digital transformation plans into action, it’s time to speak to us. You’ll get our leading fixed and mobile networks, along with the know-how that comes from helping customers across the globe. You don’t have to take our word for it either, we were named a leader in Gartner’s 2017 Magic Quadrant for Network Service Providers. We can be a consistent partner in a time of constant change. And together, we’ll help you achieve your smarter digital future.

To find out more, contact your BT account manager, call 0800 032 0025, or visit bt.com/business/ intelligentconnectivity

G-Cloud 10

 which surveyed 373 local councils across England, as well as interviews with a range of technology leaders on local government.

It found that, five years on from the Cabinet Office’s ‘cloud first’ policy, the majority of councils have yet to formalise the way they will use cloud in their organisation.

With previous research from 2016 finding that 39 per cent of councils had a cloud IT policy, the 2018 iteration of the research reports that 38 per cent of councils have a policy governing the deployment of Software as a Service (SaaS) and cloud infrastructure, 43 per cent have guidance or a strategy for the use of Saas and 44 per cent have guidance or a strategy for cloud infrastructure.

Public cloud is now the most commonly used form of cloud computing among councils. The two authoring organisations claim that councils are clearly ‘cloud aware’, and while there may not be a formal strategy for the whole organisation, they are making decisions on a case-by-case basis and being opportunistic about where cloud IT

G-Cloud 10 is an iteration of G-Cloud 9, which means existing suppliers should be familiar with it. But a few important improvements and extensions have been made, with suppliers now able to sell cyber security services on the framework can play a role. With policy taking a long time to filter down through organisations, the somewhat strange decision of not having an organisation-wide cloud strategy becomes slightly more understandable. It appears that council IT teams are content to adopt cloud as and when, especially if they can support operations areas which will see immediate benefits.

Roy Grant, head of ICT at York City Council, said: “In the past, councils have focused on delivering big IT infrastructure projects,

often across the council and normally in partnership with the big IT suppliers. In doing this, we have ended up with the equivalent of a slow-moving oil tanker where changing direction takes time and is far more complicated than it needs to be. The way we are approaching our IT is to focus on our users and bring in agile ways of working which can deliver change at a faster pace.

That means working at different speeds with different parts of the business. It also means identifying and deploying applications E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Cognisco – Now Available on G-Cloud.

With Cognisco, people solve a whole host of employee insight, evaluation, assessment and data challenges…

“I can evidence my capability, skills and competence and show how confident I am in using them.”

“We can use any of the 360 degree assessments to better-understand how our peers and colleagues feel about our work.”

“I can identify and quantify learning needs and knowledge gaps and get straight to the right resolution or course where necessary.”

“I can support compliance processes, mitigate risk, and evidence due diligence in the process.”

“I can create my own assessment content or work with experts to design something specific to my needs – no matter how complex or ‘Civil Service specific’.”

“I can help my department with their development and career planning much more effectively and accurately now.”

“I can baseline a group or programme before any learning and then re-evaluate afterwards to see how we’ve improved.”

“I can evaluate people’s real potential in the recruitment process rather than relying on just qualifications.”

“I can show a real and tangible ROI for the investment I make in learning. ”

Now that we’re on G-Cloud you can be solving them too!

Find us on G-Cloud or Contact us information@Cognisco.com to find out more.

data centre and 64 per cent of councils use both on-premise and cloud hosting. Society pinpoint the decision of councils to run cloud alongside on-premise systems rather than displace existing IT infrastructure. The result is that a ‘hybrid model for IT’ is now domanant in local government, with nearly two thirds of councils deploying IT in this way.

However, for many organisations, greater cloud use is being delayed by the need to first

The UK government’s initial introduction of the G-Cloud framework was groundbreaking and provided a level playing field for government technology suppliers that has been copied across the world Ground breaking G-Cloud UKCloud, an SME based in Farnborough, has been a G-Cloud supplier since the agreement began in 2012. Since then it has grown from a start-up employing 6 to now employing 200 - with wellestablished undergraduate and apprenticeship programmes.

Simon Hansford, CEO of UKCloud, said: “The UK government’s initial introduction of the G-Cloud

framework was ground-breaking and provided a level playing field for government technology suppliers that has been copied across the world. With each iteration the framework has seen enhanced functionality and an increased volume of transactions as it has supported a thriving ecosystem of UK tech SMEs that have succeeded in winning business through it.”

bring stability and then rationalise existing IT infrastructure. There is no escaping that the demands of legacy IT will continue to consume resources which might otherwise be directed at delivering a more rapid move to cloud. L

G-Cloud 10

 and infrastructure which allows us to meet the priorities of the business as they emerge.

Moving away from ‘big IT’ has allowed us to quickly deliver projects which in the past have taken a long time to go nowhere.”

Other figures from the report highlight that 62 per cent of councils store data in the cloud, up from 52 per cent in 2016. Furthermore, 81 per cent use one or more on-premise datacentre(s), 42 per cent use a third-party

FURTHER INFORMATION https://ccs-agreements. cabinetoffice.gov.uk/g-cloud-10

Driverless car tech to enhance data Highways England has utilised Crown Commercial Service’s traffic management technology offering to rollout connected and autonomous vehicles across the UK. Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) will improve gathering and dissemination of data, together with better information provision, leading to better informed drivers and improved journeys.

In order to realise the real world CAV testing on the Strategic Road Network, Highways England required a flexible resource pool of skilled and experienced experts in vehicular communications, cyber security, in-vehicle systems, traffic data management, and business models.

Highways England ran a competition via the Crown Commercial Service Traffic Management Technology 2 (RM1089) framework. The contract has a maximum contract term of four years and an initial contract value of circa £1.5 million. Due to the scope of contracting authorities permitted to use the framework, Highways England was able to aggregate its demand with its other CAV project partners, resulting in reduced day rates and a reduced contract management overhead.

WSP will work closely with Highways England, the Department for Transport, and other transport authorities such as Transport for London and Kent County Council to rollout a world class ecosystem for connected and autonomous vehicles across the UK. As part of this project, a team of specialists at WSP, supported by its supply chain partners, will provide a range of services including programme management, design of CAV technology solutions, vehicle to vehicle and vehicle to infrastructure communications, system architecture design, data and cyber security solutions, trials evaluation, business case development, road safety case development, and data analysis and modelling.

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How govroam works the wi-fi network linking public services

Your staff can access govroam networks at participating organisations, using credentials managed by you.

Give staff seamless internet access at participating public-sector networks – while authenticating users securely

It’s a joined-up approach offering ‘zero-touch’ internet access in the public sector.

In today’s public sector, workers often spend time at third-party sites such as hospitals, council offices or primary care settings. But to get the job done, they need seamless access to the internet and to online resources when they get there.

With govroam, you can offer that access, while authenticating users securely.

Meanwhile, visiting staff from those organisations use their credentials to connect to your govroam network.

Benefits Reuses existing network infrastructure already in place Configure once for ‘Zero touch” experience for the end user.

Promotes standardisation to best practices of guest WLAN provision Authentication incorporates a real-time “member in good standing” check Reduces overhead of providing guest connectivity Eliminates temporary credentials, therefore reducing attack surface Reduces/eliminates need for costly SIM based data products Encourages collaboration and increases productivity when roaming Allows real-time control of roaming behaviour of your staff Enables audit of offsite connectivity usage Available via the G-Cloud 10 procurement framework

Find out more about govroam

To find out more about govroam, please visit jisc.ac.uk/govroam or contact govroam@jisc.ac.uk.

FuseMetrix is designed to replace the need to run separate software packages for different functions: it is one real‑time technology platform that automatically links records across departments. It enables everyone to use the same technology for everything, other than payroll.

It powerfully improves efficiency, which lowers running costs. This year, FuseMetrix Group joined the G-Cloud 10 Digital Marketplace.

Some FuseMetrix modules can stand alone if an organisation is unable to migrate to a single platform. For example: FuseMetrix’s intelligent claims management and loss funding systems process extensive and complex insurance claims. They are used to manage insurance loss funding, claims handling and property and asset management in local authorities.

Organisations using these systems experience reduced cost of losses, faster settlements, and new levels of information transparency from initial reserve to final settlement. Admin burdens plummet since correspondence is automatically captured, and there’s a full audit trail of cost and reserve updates.

FuseMetrix’s CRM module contains built‑in tools to support GDPR compliance. It’s similar to mainstream, large‑scale CRM systems, but can be linked to other business functions and processes to improve efficiency.

FuseMetrix’s HR module increases data control and GDPR compliance. It delivers operational improvements – to productivity, cost control, procedural efficiency and internal communication, including information availability for staff.

Centralised real-time management of all staff information, provides transparency, which often has a positive effect on workforce’s behaviour. Staff become aware that attendance and maintaining accreditations are tracked, while applying for and approving annual leave becomes easier.

www.fusemetrix.com | 01908 522444

get your suppliers paid instantly Previse’s smart technology helps you take care of your suppliers by offering instant payments without changing your payment processes, terms or tech.

Set the new standard for supplier payments: • Pay all valid invoices upon receipt • Improve working capital management for you and your suppliers • Access payment process analytics • Identify opportunities for cost efficiencies To find out more, search “Previse InstantPay” on the Gov.UK digital marketplace www.previ.se

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G-Cloud 10

IaaS and the cloud – considerations for the public sector Developments in Infrastructure as a Service is encouraging more public sector IT managers to reconsider their platform options. Paul Timms, managing director at MCSA, explains why Like most industries, public sector organisations are under increasing pressure to reduce costs and streamline operations. In a heavily scrutinised environment, reliability and value for the money are two of many key drivers to improving return on investment for IT assets. As a result, Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) is now becoming an increasingly relevant and viable option for any serious business IT user.

With ‘as a service’ offerings expanding rapidly, IaaS provides familiar computing resources - such as vm’s, servers, storage, networks, applications and services - which can be provisioned and managed to suit

changing business requirements over time.

In the past, organisations raced to explore on-demand cloud computing platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft AZURE platforms. However, we are now seeing public sector organisations that need a technically and financially stable IT platform building their strategy around pay per use models. The new generation of IaaS provision can deploy a physical infrastructure hosted either on-site or at their trusted IT provider’s data centre. This development

is encouraging more public sector IT managers to take another look at this once overlooked option.

The IT infra new p u rc h a s t r u c t u re reflects sing model t the subhe fact that sc economription evolvin y is g

Overcoming obstacles Although the early ‘as a service’ offerings have helped show that a pay-per-use model has great financial benefits, E

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Digital Operations Management

Maximise operations and staff engagement with ActiveOps Cloud-based solutions from ActiveOps deliver dramatic increases in productivity Data Verification My Account

Improve staff engagement with accurate performance data Monitor, plan and optimise staff and robot capacity from a single solution Benefit from a single real-time data view of all operations, complimenting existing RPA, BPM, workflow, ECM and other systems

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Single Team

Single Team Dashboard – Applications (North) TEAM STATUS

PROGRESS AGAINST THE PLAN

CORE

5

DIVERTED

1

LOANED

1

BREAK

4

DOWNTIME

0

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2

UNAVAILABLE

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Last Updated: 01:13 PM

SHORTFALL (-) / SURPLUS (+)

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+1

27 / 63 HRS

WIP

BALANCE (HRS)

7 / 8 HRS

PERFORMANCE

Work Out 27 / 63 HRS

Core Time 37 / 79 HRS

47%

PRODUCTIVITY

73%

9% from plan 17% from 1d ago

Diverted Time 5 / 4 HRS

Downtime 14 / 0 HRS

UTILISATION

89%

6% from plan 6% from 1d ago

 it is fair to say there have been some issues around education and management of these kinds of services in the public cloud.

Failure to grasp the direct correlation of management versus cost has led to many organisations incurring big public cloud bills.

Indeed, with data security high on the agenda for all businesses, use of the public cloud can be an issue in itself – for many public sector organisations there is a requirement to know precisely where and how data is held.

There can also be resistance to moving from legacy IT systems to a new IaaS model. For individual organisations, certain applications will have been designed to work on certain platform in a certain way and there can be understandable reluctance to moving to an ‘as a service’ platform over which they have little control.

‘As a service’ platforms can also create staff and resourcing questions.

Organisations will have people inhouse who have managed the IT and underpinned the business for years and are loyal toward them. There are clear business benefits to keeping such skills in-house or at least re-focusing on the

new wave of applications and services which could add value to the core business function. Having an infrastructure foreign to those people is not ideal.

However, introducing IaaS based on a physical configuration that is known to the customer can overcome these obstacles. It can be a familiar technology platform, known to be stable and flexible so that applications will continue to work for the period of the service. A public sector organisation can choose to have its services on site or in any number of data centres across the country, depending on preferences.

Benefits of IaaS Public sector organisations seeking to futureproof their IT infrastructure in an everchanging marketplace where expenditure is closely scrutinised are turning to IaaS in increasing numbers. The drive to ‘do more with less’ means that budgets to replace ageing hardware may not always be available, while the pressure to adopt new technologies in order to improve public services and operational efficiencies continues to rise.

Cost saving One of the main reasons why IaaS is so appealing to the public sector is its cost saving potential. It is a consumptionbased model where organisations pay only for what they use, thereby avoiding large fixed monthly or annual fees for services they may not use. It is the natural progression for an organisation who sees a benefit of not investing all their budget on new IT infrastructure on day one, without a chance of seeing the full benefit realised until day 1,000.

G-Cloud 10

In the past, organisations raced to explore on-demand cloud computing platforms.

However, we are now seeing public sector organisations that need a technically and financially stable IT platform building their strategy around pay per use models

Budgeting IaaS is a good fit for organisations that recognise the benefit of spreading the cost of IT over time. By shifting IT infrastructure spend from capital expenditure to monthly operational costs, organisations get greater stability and visibility on their IT costs.

Scalability Another key benefit of IaaS is the ability to scale up and down quickly in response to a public sector organisation’s requirements.

This on-demand scalability provides added flexibility and greater agility to respond to changing opportunities and requirements.

Business continuity With cyber attacks targeting critical public services never far from the headlines, business continuity is high on the agenda across the public sector. Organisations will often have several disparate locations with different technologies, disaster recovery and business continuity plans, making management very difficult. E

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Atom IT Smarter, Simpler Networking for complex branch office networks Supporting branch offices (libraries, surgeries, depots and localised contact points) can be onerous, time-consuming and an inefficient use of expensive technical resources. Atom IT Solutions offer a low-cost managed service approach to wifi and networking through G-Cloud 10 (The Digital Marketplace from Crown Commercial Services).

WiFi networking should be easy to setup, easy to manage, and easy to use It should always be available, widely and seamless for every user. Datto Networking WiFi access points deliver powerful, easy-to-use wireless networks, with seamless roaming for always connected WiFi. And with Datto Networking’s cloud management system, wireless networks can be quickly and easily deployed and with minimal effort. Smarter, simpler WiFi means better performance, less maintenance and a better customer experience.

Cloud-managed networking switches enable users to work faster and smarter, including:

with Datto Networking WiFi access points • PoE+ (802.3af/at) on every port to provide power flexibility for all kinds of IP devices

• Gigabit networking • Easy, cloud-based management

With 8, 24 or 48 port options, Datto Networking Switches meet the demands of all branch offices.

• Seamless integration

The Datto Networking Appliance delivers everything your branch office network needs, all packaged in a single device: • Intrusion detection and • Network edge routing prevention • Firewall • Fully integrated 4G LTE failover and failback • WiFi

Networking Pricing Appliance3 No Contract DNA-EA5 (Vodafone)

£699

1 Year

2 Year

3 Year

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Monthly Service Fee – Per Device2, 4, 5

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Device Cost1

L24

£99

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E8

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E48

£149 £379 £599

Monthly Service Fee – Per Device

2, 6

AP42 Device Cost1

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5-Pack Cost1

£299 Monthly Service Fee – Per Device2, 6

Switch L8

Wifi

1-5 Devices £8.60

6-10 Devices £8.29

11-20 Devices £8.00

21-40 Devices £7.75

41-80 Devices £7.45

81-150 Devices £7.15

151-300 Devices £6.85

301-500 Devices £6.57

501-1000 Devices £6.29

1,001-5,000 Devices £6.00 5,000+ Devices £5.75

For further information, search for Atom IT Solutions or Datto on G-Cloud 10 (Cloud Hosting), email Gcloud@atomit.co.uk, or call 0115 727 0392 – Cloud-managed device support also available Atom IT Solutions Ltd, Rufford Court, Eakring, Nottinghamshire. NG22 0DF

 IaaS facilitates a consolidated disaster recovery approach, reducing costs, improving manageability and maximising system up-time for employees from wherever they happen to be.

Operational improvement IaaS sees public sector organisations engage in a closer relationship with a trusted IT provider to underpin their IT in a world where it is critical to operations.

Ultimately, free from the day to day burden of managing and maintaining IT infrastructure in the first place, the in-house team can focus on looking at how the current world of IT can help and improve their organisation.

The IaaS model also means that organisations can refresh systems more quickly and upgrade to new technologies more easily. IaaS providers generally have the latest, most powerful storage, servers and networking technology to accommodate the needs of their customers.

The new IT infrastructure purchasing model reflects the fact that the subscription economy is evolving. As consumers we are becoming used to paying for things on a monthly basis – mobile phones, cars and streaming services, to name but a few. Now IT service providers are reacting to this change in buyer behaviour with an increasing number of ‘as a service’ offerings, and forward-thinking public sector organisations are beginning to recognise and exploit the benefits when it comes to futureproofing their IT infrastructure. A ‘cloud first’ offering, IaaS has now matured into a viable option for public sector IT teams to consider when developing a sustainable, stable, secure and scalable future IT strategy. L

G-Cloud 10

A ‘cloud first’ offering, IaaS has now matured into a viable option for public sector IT teams to consider when developing a sustainable, stable, secure and scalable future IT strategy.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.mcsa.co.uk

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G-Cloud 10

Richard Whomes discusses specific IT problems that local government faces, and how tackling these could improve services while also increasing operational efficiency The Palace of Westminster is long overdue a everything online, from booking bulky waste major refurbishment. MPs have already agreed removals to renewing parking permits, to the plan, but work is unlikely to begin can help free up valuable resources. before 2025, causing Parliament to relocate Local government could also benefit from for a minimum of six years. At the same time, the ability to aggregate data for analysis. the Palace’s neighbour, Big Ben, is undergoing Because local council IT systems have evolved a renovation which will keep its famous bell organically over time, data is often held in silent until at least 2021. The message is clear: separate repositories. This infrastructure, things can move slowly in the public sector coupled with complex internal bureaucracy, due to older infrastructure and red tape. can make it difficult to share The same could be said of public information between departments sector IT systems according within one council, or with Upgrad to a recent report from other related authorities. ing Eduserv and Socitm, The ability to link data t o cloudLocal Government from different functions based I Cloud Adoption 2018. and make it available T s y s tems is an ef The report reveals to cloud-based to impr fective way that although there applications would ove ser is cloud-first intent allow local government vic while in across local authorities to identify trends creasinges and a hunger to use and produce valuable operati onal new applications and community insights. efficien infrastructure enabled cy by the cloud, adoption Keeping the old, remains slow because of adding the new lock-in to current contracts and the The benefits of cloud-based demands of maintaining existing systems. systems include efficiency, productivity, modernisation and agility but that doesn’t Time for an upgrade mean local councils need to undertake a At a time when local authority budgets complete rip and replace of their current are under increasing pressure, upgrading IT infrastructure. Existing systems, such as to cloud-based IT systems is an effective mainframes or midrange systems, can be way to improve services while increasing extremely powerful and finely tuned to the operational efficiency. The public is now way councils operate. They also provide accustomed to accessing online services a secure place to store data, so local across multiple devices. Customer-facing authorities should not let investment in these applications that allow residents to do systems go to waste. Instead they can unlock

Written by Richard Whomes, director sales engineering, Rocket Software

Local government IT systems: renew not replace

the value of these systems using application programming interfaces (APIs) which are quick to implement and can connect older computers to web or cloud-based services.

By integrating modern applications with their existing systems, local authorities can enable their residents to access realtime information and perform routine tasks or transactions through mobile or browser-based user interfaces. This provides customers with the quick and easy interactions they have come to expect.

In addition to web-based interfaces for resident use, API tools can also streamline operations at local authority offices. Front desk employees can access a single user interface that spans the multiple disparate systems of different departments, using it to answer a wide spectrum of resident queries, both in person and over the phone. This reduces the need to train staff on different systems and allows requests to be dealt with quickly and efficiently, minimising waiting times and delivering a higher quality of service.

Finally, councils can implement data virtualisation, a virtual replication of stored data, which allows information to be shared across multiple systems for real-time analysis while remaining securely within its repository.

By merging data from disparate siloes into one centralised source, local government can benefit from an unprecedented level of insight that can be used to improve services. For instance, aggregating data on crime, anti-social behaviour, and truancy can help local authorities provide far more effective child-support services.

By using the API economy, local authorities can modernise IT infrastructure without the excessive cost and disruption of replacing their legacy systems. They can increase efficiency, streamline operations, and aggregate data to deliver valuable insights, all in a matter of weeks. While Westminster may have to wait years for Parliament’s refurbishments, local government need not wait to bring its IT infrastructure into the modern age. L

Richard Whomes is director sales engineering at Rocket Software.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.rocketsoftware.com

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G-Cloud 10

G-Cloud – the impact of moving from 9 to 10 Andrew Mellish, public sector business manager of Six Degrees, discusses the initial benefits of the decision of the Crown Commercial Service to push G-Cloud 10 live in June, and how it has provided opportunities for new cloud suppliers to pitch for government work According to UK government figures, sales through the G-Cloud framework reached over £2.8 billion at the end of 2017. SME vendors played a big role in this figure, accounting for 47 per cent of total sales by value and 73 per cent by volume. Overall, 83 per cent of total business was from central government and 17 per cent from the wider public sector.

These figures support the fact that the G-Cloud framework has facilitated the increase in cloud adoption and broadened the pool of SME suppliers for public sector organisations.

It is why we welcomed the Crown Commercial Services’ (CCS) decision to push G-Cloud 10 live in June, which provided the opportunity for new cloud suppliers to pitch for government work and existing ones on the framework to update their service offering.

solutions for the public sector. It reduces time, cost and risks for suppliers and customers, resulting in an attractive solution being procured within a much shorter timeframe.

Essentially, the G-Cloud framework has been the gateway for many SMEs to work in the public sector, securing key business that in many instances has helped to shape them, their offerings and their market approach. But, while G-Cloud has done much to open opportunities, create transparency and level the playing field to a large degree, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing.

G-Cloud and its opportunities for SMEs Since it launched in 2012, the G-Cloud framework, with its sleek procurement processes, has created opportunities for SMEs to provide innovative, cloud-based IT

for G-Cloud 9 was supposed to expire in May this year.

But the government took the decision in November 2017 to extend it by another 12 months to give the CCS and the Government Digital Service (GDS) time to ‘deliver a revolutionary transformation to the platform to meet more user needs – both central government and wider public sector’.

This was met with a barrage of criticism from SMEs, who as suppliers are unable to alter prices or update their service offerings, because of the constraint of having to wait until the next iteration is available to make updates. This seems to work against the very essence of what G-Cloud is supposed to represent and enable. If we consider that most of the innovation is being driven by SMEs, by locking down the framework for two years and blocking E

Sin it launc ce 2012, t hed in he framew G-Cloud ork has created o p p for SME ortunities innovat s to provide ive, IT solut cloud-based ion The importance the pub s for of the CCS’s lic about-turn s e c t o The framework agreement r

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RCOconnect In a digital world the need for fast and accurate evidence has never been more important. RCOconnect enables completion of secure video interviews and consultations, reducing costs and increasing turnaround times.

The recorded, multi-participant online interviews can be completed on any enabled device and with no requirement to download a mobile app, a telephone enquiry can quickly be turned into a secure video interview by way of an email or SMS link.

RCOconnect overcomes location and language issues as interpreters can join and participate as required. Screenshare functionality allows participants to review evidence in real time whether its comparing images, sharing maps or CCTV evidence.

• Platform for Video Interviews and Consultations • No Mobile App required to join • Time and Cost-Effective • Multi-Participants or Blind Participants • Screenshare Function • Upload / Download Document and Imagery • Configurable Bookmarks and Forms • Pay Per Use or by Licence • Secure Cloud Storage • Fully White Labelled For further information or to arrange a demo, please contact: info@robertsonandco.com or gemma.westbrook@robertsonandco.com Phone : 01277 508 518 / 07472 495693 | www.rcodigital.co.uk

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G-Cloud 10

 technological advances the government is effectively working against SME suppliers and ultimately hindering change and progress.

The good news is that the CCS has now subsequently reversed its decision, announcing earlier in March that a new iteration of G-Cloud would be delivered in June. Oliver Dowden, minister for implementation acknowledged that ‘small businesses are the backbone of our economy, so it’s crucial we listen to them when shaping policy’.

Challenges may not change in the near future So, while public sector suppliers have welcomed the government turnaround, some argue that the high proportion of suppliers still not engaging with the framework suggests a radical overhaul to G-Cloud is required to make it work better for all, and a year’s delay is a price worth paying for getting it right.

There is some merit in this argument, as many suppliers agree that with G-Cloud there’s no visibility of tenders and opportunities – knowing if you’re in the running for an opportunity is a key area for improvement. Another issue already mentioned is the fact that the framework is inflexible when it comes to suppliers needing to adjust pricing, particularly third-party price increases that are out of the control of suppliers.

Leaving the framework ‘as is’ however would also likely have a detrimental effect on new suppliers to the public sector market, to those developing new services

Essentially, the G-Cloud framework has been the gateway for many SMEs to work in the public sector, securing key business that in many instances has helped to shape them, their offerings and their market approach and any that need to make pricing changes.

Delaying changes by 12 months means the buyer (and, by extension, the tax payer) is being denied innovation and the positive effect of increased competition.

That is why the benefits of moving G-Cloud from iteration 9 to 10 far outweigh the disadvantages of simply

extending the current framework. And we’re hopeful that the challenges will be ironed out as iterations progress. L FURTHER INFORMATION https://ccs-agreements. cabinetoffice.gov.uk/g-cloud-10

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Advertisement Feature

FORS – the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme Amid the rise of vulnerable road users and an increase in freight traffic, FORS aims to improve safety and transport standards across the industry Nowhere is best practice more visible for local authorities than on the road – particularly in towns and cities where utility vehicles are in close proximity every day with vulnerable road users, notably cyclists and pedestrians.

The road transport industry in general is often under the spotlight, and especially with respect to incidents which, invariably, assume a ‘high profile’ when fatalities occur.

Case-in-point; in December 2014 a Glasgow council-owned refuse truck crashed and killed six people, injuring 15 others.

Just seven weeks later, four people were killed in Bath by a tipper truck. In less than two months, dozens of lives were shattered and two people jailed for manslaughter. In both cases, reasonable precautions, which we will discuss later, could have prevented both incidents.

Vulnerable Road Users In recent years, the UK has seen a significant

increase in numbers of vulnerable road users, set against a comparable growth in construction and, consequently, increased volumes of freight traffic. With the government’s aim to make ‘active travel’ part of everyday life by 2040, £64 million of funding was made available at the start of 2017 to help promote a range of active travel projects across the UK. This forms part of a broader package of over £300 million to further encourage walking and cycling. In line with the government’s investment, local authorities are also working to improve active travel infrastructure and networks. All well and good.

In the meantime, however, commercial vehicle movements remain essential to the daily functioning of our towns and cities. This is why FORS, the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, exists to provide a benchmark level of best practice for any commercial vehicle operator, regardless of their size

and make-up, by providing a platform for them to improve safety, boost efficiency and increase environmental performance.

Further, FORS is a progressive accreditation scheme which actively encourages development (from FORS Bronze to FORS Gold accreditation), thus continually driving-up standards among its members and throughout their supply chains.

Managing work related road risk (WRRR) is everybody’s responsibility, even when transport is ‘bought in’. The delivery of goods and services generates road transport and any collisions involving suppliers can affect productivity and, ultimately, reputation.

How FORS can help Using responsible commercial vehicle operations in any supply chain offers peace of mind for a local authority in its pursuit of managing WRRR. Specifying FORS undoubtedly helps achieve this. FORS helps commercial vehicle operations to measure, monitor and adapt performance in order to achieve best practice. It is open to operators of vans, trucks, minibus, coaches and other vehicles, and to the organisations that

Make no mistake on road risk When it comes to setting out your road transport requirements, you can’t afford to make mistakes.

Work Related Road Risk (WRRR) is everybody’s responsibility - even if you don’t have your own fleet. The delivery of goods and services generates road transport and any collisions involving your suppliers can affect your business and, ultimately, your reputation.

FORS, the Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme, is a nationwide, best practice accreditation scheme committed to driving up standards of road transport in our towns, cities and across the UK. Join the growing band of organisations that manage WRRR and air quality by including FORS in your procurement policies and supply chain contracts.

FORS - make no mistake on road risk.

Safety, Efficiency, Environment

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Advertisement Feature

award contracts, such as local authorities.

FORS can be used by local authorities to ensure that the safest, most efficient operators are used. By specifying FORS in contracts, local authorities are protecting and enhancing their reputations and helping to improve transport standards. FORS offers valuable benefits and is why an increasing number of specifiers are making FORS a condition of business.

Why become a FORS specifier?

To drive best practice: as a promoter of FORS, specifiers are actively helping to improve safety, efficiency and environmental protection within the industry.

To strengthen the supply chain: transport services can emerge as the strongest link in the supply chain by specifying FORS-accredited suppliers to boost operational efficiency and performance.

To deliver a better service: FORS enables specifiers to continually improve its experience for the public, building loyalty and boosting reputation.

To improve sustainability: FORS accreditation delivers lower fuel consumption, cuts carbon emissions and helps to reduce environmental impact.

To maximise safety: well-trained drivers and well-maintained vehicles mean FORS ensures that your suppliers employ improved road safety standards.

To provide a benchmark for outsourcing: as the go-to provider of best practice across the transport sector, FORS is the benchmark of excellence for Local Authorities outsourcing their transport services.

Specifying FORS in supply chains Any local authority can become a FORS Champion. A FORS Champion is any organisation specifying or promoting FORS in its supply chain – and there’s no charge. That same organisation may request that its supply chain and, specifically, its transport providers earn FORS accreditation. Best practice requirements as laid out in the FORS Standard can be requested of suppliers through contracts, and developers through planning.

Requesting, but not enforcing the FORS Standard, allows time to phase-in change.

Local authorities may also implement FORS

through procurement and contractual clauses – known as ‘Responsible Procurement’.

Responsible transport operations would be accepted and included as part of supplier contracts; the approach and requirements should be accessible and manageable to encourage widespread uptake.

To assist with Responsible Procurement, FORS has developed a series of contractual options, ranging from the requirement to demonstrate Responsible Fleet Operations through a non-scheme specific independent audit, through to specifying FORS exclusively to simplify compliance monitoring.

Procurement and commercial professionals may choose the option that best suits their organisation.

Option 1 – Responsible Fleet Operations through independent audit.

Option 2 – Responsible Fleet Operations through FORS or alternative scheme.

Option 3 – Responsible Fleet Operations through FORS. How to monitor compliance Local authorities can check that their suppliers meet their contractual obligations in a number of ways. This may be a gradual process to assist in phasing-in change. Desktop checks can be carried out via FORS Online and the ‘Who’s on board’ link – ensuring a transport operator is a FORS member against their specific accreditation status (Bronze, Silver or Gold).

FORS Champions can also access the FORS Overseer Dashboard – a tool developed to help with the management of supply chain compliance. FORS Champions can identify specific supply chain operators against their FORS status alongside the period of time before re-accreditation is due. To ensure up-to-date compliance, FORS operators are automatically downgraded or removed from the scheme on the day their accreditation expires. They can also be removed from the scheme if they breach the FORS Terms and Conditions.

Gate and on-site checks provide a more indepth analysis of suppliers’ compliance and help can be provided in gearing-up site staff to be capable of undertaking such checks.

FORS Bronze accreditation is the first

step in scheme, confirming that operators employ good practices and comply with all legal conditions of business.

FORS Silver is awarded to high quality operators who are committed to becoming safer and more efficient, while reducing their environmental impact.

FORS Gold accreditation is awarded only to exceptional operators who have met specific, exacting targets and are continuing to improve their performance.

Which FORS level to specify FORS Bronze accreditation is the first step in scheme, confirming that operators employ good practices and comply with all legal conditions of business. FORS Silver is awarded to high quality operators who are committed to becoming safer and more efficient, while reducing their environmental impact. And FORS Gold accreditation is awarded only to exceptional operators who have met specific, exacting targets and are continuing to improve their performance.

Performance matters FORS members are amongst the safest, most efficient and greenest operators.

Statistics drawn from 200 FORS Silver and Gold members operating almost 3,700 vehicles evidence a six per cent improvement in fuel economy, 15 per cent less CO2, an eigt per cent reduction in PCNs and a sixper cent reduction in damage only, slight, and serious injury incidents.

James O‘Mahoney, director at 250th FORS Gold member, Heathrow Haulage, said: “Achieving FORS Bronze accreditation encouraged us to aim for FORS Silver, and seeing the improvements made to both fuel use and business operations while working towards these levels encouraged us to continue utilising the FORS tools and practices up to Gold. FORS accreditation ensures our employees and clients that we are performing using best practices in road safety and are working to reduce our carbon footprint and we are proud to reach Gold.”

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fors-online.org.uk/cms/

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Frameworks

Lower billing and improved servicing through public sector procurement We take a look at how the Crown Commercial Service is helping customers gain better value for money by accessing lower billing and improved servicing in water services and through facilities management agreements water and wastewater services of 122 public Since April 2017, public sector business sector customers, amounting to £40 million customers have been able to choose their spend. The results of the competition were water provider for retail services. The Crown communicated to participating customers.

Commercial Service (CCS), in collaboration The recommended suppliers for the monthly with public buying organisations YPO, billing and quarterly billing options were Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation Castlewater Ltd and Business Stream Ltd. By (ESPO), North East Procurement Organisation 31 December 2017, 34 customers, comprising (NEPO), West Mercia Energy and The Energy central government departments, councils, Consortium (TEC), have put in place the first NHS trusts, schools and colleges, had signed public sector water framework agreement call off forms, with customers achieving an to enable customers to access the market average four per cent reduction against the Recognising customers pay anything up retail market average, with some customers to 13 per cent for retail water services, CCS achieving up to 10 per cent reduction. wanted to help customers gain better value

In financial terms, this equates for money by accessing lower and to between £100 and £10,000 transparent billing and improved saving per year depending on servicing. It therefore Blackpo the size of the estate. All delivered the UK’s first customers who participated aggregated further Council ol is in this further competition competition for water hoping t o and submitted call off and wastewater r e d w u ater cos ce forms by mid-February services for public a sustain ts through will benefit from these sector customers, great rates and other with the RM3790 to wate ed approach r monit framework benefits framework enabling a o nd redu for the next two years customers to switch cing waring and will have the option supply as early as ter consum ption to extend by one year.

1 January 2018.

All public sector customers A further competition, are still able to access he which took place in October framework via further competitions.

2017, brought together the

Background The Water Act 2014 established the framework to create a new market that will be the largest water retail market in the world, allowing 1.2 million businesses and other non-household customers of providers based mainly or wholly in England to choose their supplier of water and waste water retail services.

The key organisations responsible for delivering the new market are: Defra (Policy/ Legislation), Ofwat (Regulator) and MOSL (Delivering core IT systems that enable registration, switching and settlement between wholesalers and retailer). Collectively they and the programme for overseeing and managing the implementation of the new market are known as Open Water.

Historically non-household customers have received water supplies and sewerage services through a statutory, regionally based licensed water supply company. For public sector customers with cross regional estate, this results in one organisation having to manage and process billing through multiple suppliers.

In the new market, customers will have a single point of contact for water - a contracted relationship with the retailer who transacts with the wholesalers and delivers front end customer service, metering and billing.

Resilience is a key issue for customers. A changing climate and growing population will require the water industry to find new and more efficient ways of allocating, treating and using water. This needs to be done while protecting the environment and keeping water bills at acceptable levels. The Ancillary Services offering will help to support customers with reducing consumption and wastage.

Lot 1: Water supply and sewerage services is for customers who wish to compete their supply to achieve better value for money and compliance from competing their supply. The includes: water supply including emergency provisions; sewerage services including wastewater, trade effluent, roads and property drainage; metering; billing; data; and customer service. E

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Frameworks

 Lot 2: Ancillary services is for those customers who wish to implement water efficiency or water quality measures at a time to suit their requirements. This includes: automated meter reading goods and services; water audit; water footprint; leak detection and repair; cost/spend recovery; bill validation; benchmarking; tariff optimisation; and legionella services.

Lot 3: One Stop Shop is for customers who require supply and sewerage services and want their supplier to help them reduce their water consumption and improve efficiency at the same time. Lot 3 includes goods and services from both Lot 1 and Lot 2.

Self-supplying water retail market Blackpool Council will be able to supply its own water and wastewater services to its 120 sites after becoming the first public body to be awarded a self-supply licence by economic regulator Ofwat. The water retail market launched in April 2017 and is the largest of its kind in the world. Self-supply licences offer eligible businesses and other organisations the opportunity to manage their own water retail services, giving them more control over the service they get and helping to reduce administration costs.

Using around 170,000 cubic metres of water per annum, Blackpool Council is hoping to reduce water costs through a sustained approach to water monitoring and reducing water consumption across the borough. Although Blackpool Council is the first public sector body to be awarded a self-supply licence, four private sector

Blackpool Council will be able to supply its own water and wastewater services to its 120 sites after becoming the first public body to be awarded a self-supply licence by economic regulator Ofwat businesses have already been licenced to self-supply: Greene King, Marston’s PLC, Whitbread and Coca-Cola.

Emma Kelso, Ofwat’s Senior Director for Customers and Casework, said: “The water retail market offers eligible businesses of all sizes an opportunity to renegotiate their water services with their existing supplier or shop around for a better deal.

Some larger organisations are starting to see the benefits that self-supply can bring – such as more control and reduced costs and we expect more public bodies to follow Blackpool Council’s lead.”

Cllr Fred Jackson, cabinet member Responsible for the Environment at Blackpool Council, said: “This is an exciting initiative and we are looking forward to the opportunities that a self-supply licence offers us in managing our water usage responsibly, efficiently and cost-effectively. We are the first public sector organisation to apply for this licence. There are many benefits such as reducing administration costs and cutting out the margin that goes to others in the supply chain. We will pay the price that retailers pay to the water company which will deliver significant savings.”

University of Central Lancashire Through the Crown Commercial Service’s Water, Wastewater and Ancillary Services framework agreement, the University of Central Lancashire has saved £25,500 on water each year. As one of the largest universities in the UK, with a student and staff community approaching 38,000 across campuses located in Preston, Burnley, Westlakes and Cyprus, the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) sought to reduce its water bills across their UK estate by taking advantage of the recently deregulated water market.

By reducing their bills, valuable savings could be redirected back into education and support services at the university.

By using RM3790, and signing up to the CCS led aggregation, UCLan appointed Castle Water Ltd as their sole water supplier for their UK estate. Based on their first invoices, UCLan is set to save approximately £25,500 on their annual water bill.

Laura Carter, Energy and Carbon Management Officer at the University of Central Lancashire, said: “Joining the CCS tender was the best option for us, it took all the hassle out of the process and saved us E Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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Utilities Management Software Having open in April 2018, the Utilities Management Software, Metering and Ancillary Services framework agreement will provide customers with the key data required to unlock savings across their utilities portfolios. With no current framework agreement of its kind within the CCS, this relatively new agreement will complement the department’s existing energy supply contracts covering half hourly electricity, non-half hourly electricity and gas and assist customers in reducing their utilities consumption requirements.

As the framework agreement can be used by the whole of the UK public sector (including central government, wider public sector, health, and third sector) bidders must be able to provide full national coverage. The framework is for a duration of three years with an option to extend for a further year. Within the industry it is estimated that on average consumers using energy management software can deliver a five per cent reduction in their energy consumption,a according to the Carbon Trust.

The agreement is free, with no charge to contracting authorities, fast, providing a streamlined route for all customers to access a comprehensive range of external suppliers, flexible, designed to cater for a wide range of customers, and simple to use.

By 31 December 2017, 34 customers had signed call off forms, with customers achieving an average four per cent reduction against the retail market average, with some customers achieving up to 10 per cent reduction

CCS claims that the framework is very good value for money, ensuring customers have access to and understand their current consumption profile is essential for identifying additional savings opportunities and driving behavioural change within organisations. Customers will have access to management information to

Frameworks

î † a lot of time. I have been very impressed by the team so far. The customer service has been excellent and the transfer was very smooth.â€?

track/capture spend based on a common set of service codes allowing in depth analysis. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ crown-commercial-service

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BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT | www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Frameworks

£12 billion facilities management framework launched The Crown Commercial Service has launched the Facilities Management Marketplace agreement the first agreement under the new, simplified Public Sector Contract Giving the public sector access to a wide range of suppliers for their facilities management requirements, the deal is expected to save public bodies up to 10 per cent on the cost of procuring facilities management services like cleaning, maintenance, security and catering.

The agreement will cover expenditure of up to £12 billion over the next four years.

In total, 47 companies have been awarded places across three valuebanded lots. The winning bidders include 10 small and medium-sized enterprises, bringing diversity and competition into the market for public sector contracts.

These include the FM arms of Amey, BAM, Bouygues, Graham, Kier, Interserve, Imtech, Mace, Skanska and Vinci.

It is the first agreement to make use of the Crown Commercial Service’s new, simplified Public Sector Contract, which was designed to make it easier for businesses to apply for government contracts. A second

Facilities management contracts ‘phase’ for Workplace Services (RM6089), In 2016-17, the Crown Commercial Service which includes placement of agreements helped public sector organisations save in Security, Housing Maintenance and £50 million through the procurement Defence FM, is being developed. of buildings related services. Alongside John Kenny, CCS deputy director for the new FM Marketplace agreement, Workplace, said of the news: “The launch the government department also offers of the FM Marketplace allows the public services through Facilities Management sector to buy a wide range of facilities Services (RM1056) and Workplace Services. management services from the very best However, as it is developing the second suppliers the market has to offer, all at phase of the FM Marketplace roll-out, the competitive and sustainable prices.” new framework will encompass Defence Mark Fox, CEO of the British Facilities Management, Housing Services Association, added: Services and Security. The FM “We are pleased to The Integrator, Linen & Laundry work closely with the launch and Catering services will Crown Commercial of the F follow in future phases.

Service to deliver M Market As part of its a framework August update, Crown that will attract the pubplace allows l i Commercial Service existing suppliers c s ector to buy a w advised that the and new i d e range facilitie anticipated ITT issue entrants alike.” of date for this framework servicess managemen t fro is 14 September 2018. best su m the very Before the Facilities ppliers Management Services (RM1056) agreement, FM contracts and services were managed by each department and organisation autonomously. An FM strategy was developed by the Government Property Unit and Crown Commercial Service, in collaboration with central government departments and their arm’s length bodies.

This agreement has enabled us to combine two former offerings, Facilities Management (RM708) and NHS Building, Engineering and Maintenance Services, into one agreement, offering a complete Total FM solution and a complete range of hard and soft FM services across three lots.

This new contracting model is intended to enable the UK public sector to act as one, and improve the management of the service it is receiving whilst simultaneously maximising value for money. Savings are expected to be in the region of 15 per cent through better buying, leverage, aggregation and standardisation. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ crown-commercial-service

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With the use of data and apps growing with central and local government, as well as the wider public sector, the Data & Application Solutions is key for digital procurement Crown Commercial Service’s new Data & meet requirements for software services and Application Solutions agreement is primarily ancillary hardware to deliver a solution for for the procurement of software and services enterprise data and application solutions, that can meet complex and specialist local government specific solutions, health business needs, and is set to replace both and social care solutions, police and the Local Authority Software Applications emergency service specific solutions and (RM1059) agreement and the Corporate education specific solutions. The deadline Software Solutions (RM1042), which expire for selection stage bids closed on 6 August. in August and October 2018 respectively.

Earlier this year, CCS estimated that Through the agreement, customers the value of the framework over the will be able to procure much of potential four year lifecycle the same softwares as they would reach £2.8 billion, The could on the Corporate despite earlier market simplifi Software Solutions engagement predicting framework, including the market to be worth Public S ed e c CRMs, HR, Payroll, £1.4 billion-a-year. t o r Contra EDRM and ERP. It will This framework has c t d is esigned be the first technology 14 Lots, which have easier f to make it Framework within CCS been organised or busin to implement the new into five groups: esses to appl Public Sector Contract. y govern for The simplified Public m Sector Contract is contrac ent designed to make it easier ts for businesses to apply for government contracts, removing duplication from the application process and streamlining procurement for companies. The move will make it easier than ever for smaller businesses, who may lack the resources to read and digest reams of complicated terms and conditions, to supply goods and services to government.

Chris Stanley, a lawyer within the Government Legal Department’s (GLD) Commercial Law Group has spent the past year condensing some 50,000 words of the existing CCS contract terms into the new slimline Public Sector Contract. Not having to wade through dense contracts will save money and resources not only for SMEs but also within government itself.

Announcing the contract, Emma Jones, Crown Representative for Small Business, said: “The new CCS contract is shorter and easier to understand and takes a more standardised approach. This should save SMEs time and money when deciding to bid for CCS deals and I welcome the approach.”

Frameworks

Procuring for the provision of Big Data

Enterprise Data and Application Solutions; Local Government Specific Solutions; Health & Social Care Solutions; Police & Emergency Service Specific Solutions; and Education Specific Solutions. Within group one are: Resource Planning & Management Solutions including Financial & Commercial (Lot 1a); Workflow & Case Management Solutions (Lot 1b); Data Collection, Storage & Management (Lot 1c); and Data Intelligence & Analytics (Lot 1d).

The Local Government Specific Solutions will serve Business Applications (Lot 2a), Environmental & Planning (Lot 2b) and Citizen Services (Lot 3c), while Health & Social Care Solutions will serve Enterprise Applications for Health (Lot 3a), Health Information Management (Lot 3b) and Community Health & Social Care (Lot 3c).

Group 4, Police & Emergency Service Specific Solutions, will involve Blue Light Operations (Lot 4a) and Blue Light Data & Information Management (Lot 4b), with Group 5, Education Specific Solutions, covering Learning Applications & Platforms (Lot 5a) and Academic Scheduling & Management Solutions (Lot 5a).

Advise Cloud, public sector procurement specialists and G-Cloud consultants, have written a very detailed account of the differences between Data & Application Solutions and G-Cloud 10. Within that piece it is noted that Data and Application Solutions has focused only on software and support services. With more than £267 million having been spent on cloud hosting services via G-Cloud since 2012, creating another route to market could prove overly and unnecessarily complicated. E

Data and Application Solutions Data and Application Solutions opened for applications on 3 July 2018 with the aim of creating appropriate contracting routes to

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SOME SEE A FUEL CARD

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Frameworks

 Croydon Council Croydon Council needed to appoint a strategic cloud delivery partner who would support them in delivering their ICT Sourcing Strategy, between September 2017 and November 2019.

The ICT Sourcing Strategy is based around leveraging cloud technology and changing the council’s ICT delivery model by moving away from their current single supplier ICT contract to a mix of specialist vendors managed by an inhouse team. In the process, the council aimed to improve the organisation of their internal ICT infrastructure to increase the level of control and accountability for the new supply arrangements.

Using CCS’s G-Cloud framework allowed Croydon Council to benefit from a really competitive procurement process. They saw a variety of different suppliers, both large and small, who brought their own unique approaches and cloud experience. Croydon deserves credit for having engaged with the market early and not picking a onesize-fits-all approach. This enabled them to shape and refine what they were looking for and get the right result for them.

Other organisations could learn from Croydon’s approach: to be bold and creative, focused on user needs, and trusting SMEs who know their areas of expertise. They also made culture and values an important part of their selection process, rather than just focusing on pricing and a list of requirements.

Matthew Wallbridge, head of ICT & Transformation at Croydon Council, said: “Crucial to the success of our ICT Good 2 Great programme was selecting a delivery partner that gave us the best opportunity of making a real difference to people’s lives and give the organisation the great ICT ecosystem they deserve. To do this, we used the CCS framework to ensure there was a truly competitive procurement process, and that we received bids from a variety of different suppliers, both large, medium and small, who brought their own unique approaches and experience.

“Through the procurement process, along with prior engagement and clarifications, Croydon has managed to get the best result with a provider who not only has the real delivery experience in the disaggregation of services in ICT, but has the right culture and values to work with as a truly joined up team that are driven by getting to great.” L FURTHER INFORMATION https://ccs-agreements. cabinetoffice.gov.uk/node/6894

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Volume 25.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

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AIR QUALITY

URBAN REGENERATION

Reducing risk of exposure to airborne asbestos

Promoting a belief in the design process

Alert Technology Ltd has developed ‘ALERT’, the world’s first warning device that can distinguish airborne asbestos fibres in real time. Like a sophisticated smoke alarm, ALERT offers a vital first line of defence where none currently exists helping improve living and working environments.

Extensive use in over 3,500 products has left the UK with an absestos legacy to deal with for years to come. Asbestos containing materials can be found in private residential, industrial and commercial buildings. Safe if encapsulated and undamaged, asbestos only poses a serious risk when degraded over time or damaged by removal, DIY, remedial work or demolition resulting in toxic respirable fibres being airborne.

Asbestos related diseases caused by prolonged exposure can take decades to develop, and are responsible for one in every three occupational cancers – claiming

Your Architect London is an awardwinning London architectural firm with a belief in the design process: each project is the result of a close collaboration with clients to deliver a home that is bespoke to their needs and aspirations.

Your Architect London believes that architecture can make a meaningful difference to lives, which is why getting it right is so important. The organisation’s design-led approach enables it to develop innovative and contextspecific solutions that transform day-to-day lives. The principal architect, Iñaki Leite, has a wealth of experience with internationally renowned architecture practice.

His projects have been awarded numourous prizes, among them the ‘Most Innovative Contemporary Residential Design’ 2016 Architecture Awards by BUILD magazine and the ‘First of the Top Villas of Spain and Portugal’ given by The Sunday

107,000 lives a year globally and 5,000 each year in the UK. The ‘ALERT’ device can help reduce risk by providing a vital early warning when ACMs have been disturbed and fibres released into the air so safety precautions can be taken. ‘ALERT’ sample units are currently engaged in commercial field trials with potential future customers and have recently been awarded an innovation loan from Innovate UK to accelerate market launch in 2019 of the first model, ALERT Pro 1000.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 01803 546262 www.asbestos-alert.com

Times. He also taught as professor at the School of Architecture at UEM University, Madrid, focusing on global building systems and energy efficiency.

Your Architect London offers a range of residential architectural services, from planning permission, project management, design and build, through to completion, specialising in contemporary design and modern architecture.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0203 405 6820 https://yourarchitect.london/

ADVERTISERS INDEX

The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service Accruent IBC Activeops 86 Addex Group 34 Aecom 98,99 Affinity for Business 100 Alert Technology 114 Alphagen 36 Aliatech 76 Asbestosafe 24 Atom IT Solutions 88 Augments Group Limited 90 Awesome Apps 66 Base 3 Systems 106 Broad Consulting 91 Broden Media 51 BSRIA Limited 23 BT Plc 78 Chatsworth Communications 83 CoCo Lighting 64 Cognisco Ltd 80 Commulite Ltd 62 Cromwell Polythene Ltd 32 Eden Eco Solutions 36 Edinburgh First 74 Endace Europe 70 Energy Renewals 26 Evac Chair 8 Fuse Metrix Group 83 Gramm Barrier Systems Ltd 16 Hammond Drysuits 52

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Hitachi 34 Host Bio Energy 34 Hyrdonalix Ltd 44 I-Net Software 111 Imago Techmedia Limited 72 In Safe Hands 52 International Ambulances Ltd 52 ISS Mediclean IFC IXIS IT Ltd 91 Jisc Services 82 Kisters 44 Launch International 113 Less AS 54 Megger Ltd 20 Mindshare FORD 4 Moist tech Corp 32 NIIT Technologies Limited 96 Noonan Services Group (UK) 102 One Touch apps Limited 89 Onqu Holdings Limited 97 Parnanby Cycles 34 PCMG 22 PJH Safety 59 Premier Guarantee 40 Prysm Group 45,47 Quantum of Value 84 Rapide Reprographics 32 Realise Futures 28 Reed Professional 92 Riello UPS 26

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Robertson & Co 96 RTL Materials 54 SADS UK 52 Senator 104 Shell UK Oil 110 Specialist Fencing 61 Spinnaker Waste 36 Staffordshire University 50 Station 10 Ltd 94 Stedfast Inc 50 Studio Partington 26 Sugdens 50 System Store Solutions 23 T-Impact Ltd 6 T-Systems Ltd 108 The ATTAC Group 54 The House Doctor 16 Think Print GmbH 75 Total Integrated Solutions Ltd 57 Trolex Ltd 24 Valmet 32 Vision Office Automation 12 Wavin Limited 18 We Build Bots 112 Westbury Signs 57 Workfront Ltd 10 Xiatech Consulting Ltd 106 Yellowfin Client 113 Your Architect London Ltd 114 Zenith Hygiene 50

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