Business MK Newspaper Feb 23

Change must move to a new level, says diversity champion

Progress is being made but there is still a long way to go in the drive to make workplaces more diverse and inclusive, a major national awards ceremony has heard.

Diversity and inclusion are issues that are rising up the corporate agenda. An increasing number of organisations are making strides in developing business practices that are conducive to supporting equality across the workplace.

And now is the time for organisations to develop joinedup strategies that link individual departments to drive the culture change to a new level, says diversity champion Gamiel Yafei.

Mr Yafei pictured, founder of the best practice consultancy Diversity Marketplace which works with clients around the world was speaking at the This is Us awards ceremony celebrating the UK’s champions of diversity and inclusion. “The last three to five

years have seen massive change,” he said. “We are filling in those historic gaps in our policies and practices that exclude certain individuals. Now we are making decisions that enable us to tap into that talent.”

First Brexit then the pandemic have changed the working environment, changing the way the nation and the world works, Mr Yafei said.

“It has had a massive impact and we will never work in the same way again. It will keep evolving and government thinking is about getting the equality, diversity and inclusion policies right. It is just good business practice.”

The Black Lives Matter campaign, launched in the wake of the death of

“Everyone has a role to play,” he said. “Each department within a business should have an inclusive strategy that links with other departments’ inclusive strategies. We have made huge progress in terms of visibility but it is still not as fast and as significant as we need it to be.”

n Meet the This Is Us award winners from Milton Keynes and the region on page 12.

n Why diversity is the theme of this year’s Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards: page 13.

George Floyd in the USA in 2020, led to a focus on systemic change as a whole rather than in parts, Mr Yafei added.

Landmark office building to house new workspace

High-quality design-led workspace is to open in Central Milton Keynes this summer when refurbishment of Elder House next to Milton Keynes Central railway station is complete.

Flexible workspace operator Co-Space has signed a profit share lease for its third UK site at Elder House in Milton Keynes.

The company has taken 19,000 sq ft of the 70,000 sq ft property on a 15-year lease and aims to open private office and co-working space as well as a new cafe and business lounge.

The plans are part of the landlord’s work, already under way, to transform the building.

Co-Space already has premises in

Stevenage and Reading which are running at near full capacity, said founder and chief executive William Stokes. “We are excited to be growing into a new space and location. Milton Keynes’ economy is growing, particularly in the IT, tech and consultancy sector, and we are geared to support these businesses via a strong hospitality offer and connectivity.

“We look forward to partnering with the landlord to create high-quality, design-led workspace that will enable Elder House to attract occupiers looking for short- or long-term deals, no matter their size.”

Milton Keynes is regarded as one of the hot spots of office activity in the South East. Co-Space has moved to open in

Elder House after its centres in Stevenage and Reading became more than 90 per cent full.

“Located next to the mainline station, it is a superb home for enterprise,” said Will Kinnear, founder of commercial property agency HEWN which specialises in advising on flexible workspace and acts on behalf of Co-Space “Milton Keynes is booming, it has one of the highest rates of new businesses in the UK, with a colossal 42.7 per cent survival rate.”

Work has already began at the site and it is expected to be open and operational by the summer. Premises elsewhere in Elder House are available via the agents Avison Young and Louch Shacklock.

MP talks business banking on visit

MP Ben Everitt is pictured with Metro Bank director Thanbi Haque during his visit to the bank’s store at Oakgrove in Milton Keynes.

Mr Everitt, MP for Milton Keynes North, was keen to discuss the pressures facing businesses in Milton Keynes and beyond. He was told about how the bank works to support local firms, including smaller organisations and charities, as well as its focus on the community and on relationship banking.

“We discussed the many ways in which we proactively engage with and support local businesses and individuals and their genuine need for access to cash and face to face banking services,” said Mr Haque.

Partnership to take over management of market

ilton Keynes Development Partnership is to take over management of Milton Keynes Market from existing operator Bray Associates.

The decision follows MKDP’s search, which began last year, for a development partner to plan the future for the market, which currently is based

next to centre:mk shopping centre. Adam Sciberras, MKDP’s special projects director, said: “We started looking for potential development partners to work with us to create a stronger retail and food destination for Central Milton Keynes, with a more dynamic and modern customer experience. Having explored this in

great detail, we believe that an inhouse team who work in the city and in the main live in the area is best placed to manage the market and evolve the existing offer. This has the potential to bring great social value and improve what is an essential resource for a significant proportion of Milton Keynes’ residents.”

Elder House

Don’t miss it...YOUR Business Expo is set to deliver for the region’s businesses

The date: February 8 2023.

The venue: Hangar One at Sywell Aerodrome in Northamptonshire. The countdown to a superb event for businesses across the county to reach, engage and connect is nearing its end.

The occasion is the first Your Business Expo of 2023, brought to Northamptonshire’s business community by Business Times - the county’s leading business newspaper and sister title to Business MK - and full service marketing agency qoob as the expo’s headline sponsor.

Your Business Expo aims to create opportunities for quality sales

leads, to meet with the county’s key decision-makers and to increase awareness of your business brand.

More than 80 exhibitors, including many of Northamptonshire’s leading, brightest and fastestgrowing organisations, are ready to welcome the anticipated numbers of visitors.

And they will also have the opportunity to learn from the experts at insightful workshops delivered by industry experts on key business topics. These will include expert advice on marketing, delivered by qoob, and on HR matters in a discussion led by Your Business

www.yourbusinessexpo.co.uk

Expo fellow sponsor HR Solutions. Other sponsors of the expo include Northampton-based oil and lubricants specialist Mannol UK, Mainland Heating Solutions and training and development consultancy Competitive Edge.

Your Business Expo will begin with a networking breakfast led by the regional team at networking

group Business Buzz ahead of the main exhibition itself. Afterwards, delegates will take a tour around the 100-plus stands at the sold-out event and gain valuable business insights into topical themes at seminars delivered by some of the leading local experts in their field.

Your Business Expo 2023 is the first since the Your Business Expo brand became part of Pulse Group Media, publisher of Business MK and Business Times. Plans are under way to stage a Your Business Expo in Milton Keynes later in 2023.

“Already the buzz is starting,” said Pulse Group Media director Kerry

Lewis-Stevenson. “The reaction to our announcing the date has been overwhelming, frankly, and we are delighted with the response in terms of enquiries, the enthusiasm of the sponsors we have already secured and the quality of exhibitors. Sywell will be a wonderful venue befitting an event of the quality we are aiming to stage and we know that businesses will benefit by joining us.”

n Find out more, book your place at the networking breakfast and register for your free tickets at www. yourbusinessexpo.co.uk or email hello@yourbusinessexpo.co.uk

We all become stronger by working together

Forum debates collaboration, not competition, as key to tackling costs, skills and staff retention issues

Partnership working has a key role to play as businesses tackle the current economic challenges and work to emerge stronger from the recession.

Employers should be looking to work together rather than in competition with each other as well as forming connections and links with professional bodies, training institutions and their local Chambers of Commerce, delegates were told at a discussion forum hosted by Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce and The Open University in Milton Keynes.

Upskilling a workforce post recession should be a priority. Succeed and staff retention will improve, said The OU’s director of corporate development and partnerships Phil Kenmore. Consultation with peers enables discussion of key issues, challenges, best practice and potential solutions, he added.

Mr Kenmore was speaking at the forum during a Chamber-hosted Business Showcase which put the findings of the 2022 Business Barometer report by the OU to local businesses. The report reflected the views of 1,300 employers across a range of sectors, regions and UK

nations. Findings in the south of England include:

n 68 per cent of organisations are facing issues with skills shortages and the skills gap; n More than a third say skills gaps impact on their profitability, their ability to bid for work and to deliver on operational timelines; n One in ten are struggling to deliver on equality, diversity and inclusion.

The findings predate the war in Ukraine and the cost of living crisis, meaning that the situation now is even more challenging, Mr Kenmore said. “We are all facing hikes in costs, recession and issues around retention and the labour market. Our costs are going up, no matter how big or small our businesses are.”

Skills shortages are having a big impact on employees, with repercussions for mental

health and wellbeing, he said.

Sean Rose, head of policy at Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire Chambers of Commerce, stressed the importance of training and skills improvement in order to achieve business growth. “We all know people are the most important part of a business,” Mr Rose said. “It is the way we grow and get new ideas.”

Local businesses taking part in the discussion highlighted the value of apprenticeships and the importance of the Local Skills Improvement Plans, co-ordinated by Chambers of Commerce around the UK and bringing together businesses, training providers, funders and local stakeholders to plan for the skills needed to boost local economies and improve opportunities for individuals.

Delegates also discussed pooling resources and sharing insights and best practice in order for employers to improve the local talent pipeline, rather than competing for skills, poaching employees from other organisations and pushing salaries up. “We need to come together and get our supply chain together,” said one local training provider.

Others said recruitment costs were forcing them to look at new ways to attract and incentivise talent. “If you want to keep people, think about education and training,” said Mr Kenmore. “It comes back to what people really want - a better opportunity for the future.”

The OU Business Barometer reports that only 12pc of employers believe remote working benefits their business. However, employees want flexibility of when and where they work so employers should consider how to manage remote and hybrid work.

Sean Rose

Phil Kenmore

Employers look to boost staff numeracy skills

Staff looking to improve their numeracy skills are turning to employers to put on courses in the workplace.

Many are wanting to improve their skills at a variety of levels, with some employers looking to provide training tailor-made around budgeting and finance, general workplace numeracy skills or basic courses designed to improve those who do not have the skills levels required to progress their careers.

Government statistics suggest up to 17 million adults - 49 per cent of the working-age population of Englandonly have maths skills equivalent to those of primary school children

Now adults in Milton Keynes who feel they need support with their numeracy skills can take advantage of free Multiply courses being offered by Milton Keynes College in partnership with Milton Keynes City Council.

Companies can get involved by putting forward staff members for the training. Funding has come

from the government’s Levelling Up Fund.

“Once they have been away from school for a while, people often do not like to admit that they experience difficulties with everyday numeracy skills,” said Di Cook, project director for adult learning at Milton Keynes College. “It can be such a barrier to getting on in life but just because someone struggled to get to grips with the subject at school does not mean they cannot pick it up successfully in later life if they have the courage to come forward for help.”

The college has already received interest from companies with employees wanting to have courses put on in the workplace.

“Sometimes employers want something tailor-made around budgeting or finance to support their staff in their personal lives, especially in the current climate or they want to develop workrelated numeracy skills to support individuals to be able to progress

in the workplace,” Ms Cook said. “Sometimes businesses want to offer functional skills courses to staff as they have people who wish to undertake internal apprenticeships as candidates can be held back because they do not have the required skills in maths.”

People signing up for the courses do not have to commit to taking exams if they do not feel ready for it, especially if they have been out of education for some time and need help getting back into the habit of learning. “It does not have to be about sitting a test or exam. The important thing is helping people to develop skills which will make them more confident and their lives easier,” said Ms Cook.

“Sometimes people approach us just because they cannot help their

kids with their maths homework and want to be able to do more but some want to get a qualification to support them in career or educational progression.”

Having usable maths skills is not merely for doing the weekly shop or helping with homework. The evidence shows it improves social mobility, self-esteem and job prospects, she added.

Milton Keynes City Council is keen to support those looking to improve their life opportunities and is already delivering courses aimed at helping residents to improve their understanding of household budgeting, money management and homework. “It is an incredible and very welcome opportunity for local adults to get the maths support that may have been denied to them in

Multiply courses:

“The important thing is helping people to develop skills that will make them more confident and their lives easier,” says

Milton Keynes College’s project director of adult learning Di Cook

their earlier years,” said Suzanne Gibbs, curriculum manager for the Multiply courses at the council.

“We also intend to help our local community make sense of data that is often included in news stories which could further enrich their lives as they can then make better informed decisions.”

The training sessions will take place during the day or in the evening, improving both confidence levels and career prospects, she added.

“We aim to teach the confidence to embrace and engage with Maths. There are no exams - instead, just a better understanding of how maths works.”

Applicants must be adults aged 19 or over and not already have GCSE Grade C or 4 in maths or an equivalent qualification.

Part-time working can boost GDP, says report

Investment in part-time working can unlock a major boost to national productivity, says a new report.

Research into the flexible furlough scheme by Cranfield University’s School of Management is calling on the government and employers to invest in an expansion of parttime working.

Experts want to see a pilot scheme to capitalise on the experiences of flexible furlough, under which organisations could bring back staff on a part-time basis, and to encourage openness among employers to part-time working.

The research was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, part of UK Research and Innovation, as part of its rapid response to Covid-19. It found that the UK has a pool of newfound expertise in part-time working due to the success of the flexible furlough scheme. With around a fifth of working age people classed as economically inactive -such as those with caring responsibilities, people with disabilities and older workers

- this knowledge could be used to bring them back into the workforce.

The Part-time Working After the Pandemic report, looked at the experience of firms that used the flexible furlough option as the country exited lockdown. It found a growing demand for parttime jobs as well as increased awareness of part-time work and knowledge in how to offer it effectively. Around one in four full-time workers said they would prefer to work part-time, driven in part by the cost of living crisis as people look for extra jobs to boost their income.

But the Cranfield research also found that, postpandemic, employers believe people want to work fewer hours to achieve a better work life balance.

Lead author Clare Kelliher, Professor of Work and Organisation at Cranfield University said: “Flexible furlough was a unique experiment in part-time working and it was one that many employers and employees learned a lot from as they put it into practice. It is vital that we do not lose

that knowledge or willingness to innovate in the workplace. Employers should now be looking to build on what they learned to attract and retain talent.”

The world of work is going through unprecedented change with the move to hybrid working and events like the great resignation, she added. “Part-time work offers a route for employers and employees to successfully navigate upheaval and thrive into the future.

“The government rightly wants to see the economy grow. Investigating part-time working and encouraging its widespread use where

n 40% of those who had used the flexible furlough scheme said line managers are now better at managing part time working effectively and are more open to part-time working;

n Many employers see part-time working as something women, particularly mothers, are likely to ask for but there is little evidence to support the assumption that demand for parttime is low in male-dominated workforces;

n Many employers are more concerned with hybrid working and increasing work from home than engaging with the issues around hours;

n Labour shortages are driving openness to part-time working among employers.

appropriate could bring many millions of people currently excluded from work back into the workforce and boost the economy at a time when it is desperately needed.”

Fellow report author Dr Charlotte Gascoigne said the research confirmed the need for a formal, funded pilot scheme, which would allow employers to assess the costs and benefits of part-time working. “Too many people are currently excluded from the workforce and the whole country suffers due to missing out on the talents of those with caring responsibilities, the experience and expertise of older workers and the skills

of people with disabilities and long-term health conditions,” Dr Gascoigne added.

“Part time working offers an effective route back into work for many people and a real path to growth for the government and the economy more widely.”

Jo Swinson, a former government Business Minister and now Visiting Professor at Cranfield University, said: “Workplace practice and culture is rapidly changing in the wake of the pandemic experience. Onesize-fits-all working patterns no longer make senseoffering part time working is one of the important ways

employers can attract and retain talented staff. This insightful research should be read closely by everyone interested in the future of work. I urge employers and government to act on its recommendations to embrace the economic benefits that part time working can bring.” n Its work supporting small businesses and student entrepreneurs has earned Cranfield University accreditation by the Small Business Charter organisation.

The university joins 63 other UK business schools that hold the award. Assessors praised Cranfield’s role in the local business infrastructure and its dedicated entrepreneurial support, particularly its Business Growth Programme and Ready for Scale. They also noted Cranfield’s close links with businesses, partners and networks.

Professor David Oglethorpe, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and dean of Cranfield School of Management said: “To have this recognised by the Small Business Charter is a real achievement for everyone at the School of Management.”

Lunch club tucks into boosting charity coffers

Join a Mexican wave of generosity as business people tuck in to tacos and burritos at an event which raised funds for two key charities.

Hosted by commercial property consultants Kirkby Diamond, the Luton Lunch Club hosted property professionals from Luton and the surrounding area for an afternoon of networking and Mexican street food.

The event raised money for Luton Food Bank and Muscular Dystrophy UK. Organisers delivered 20 large shopping bags of food donations and £250 to Luton Food Bank, while Muscular

Dystrophy UK received a total £1,800.

Adam Smylie, head of valuation at Kirkby Diamond, said: “It is a testament to the local business community that we were able to attract so many property professionals to attend our event. Local businesses and our valued clients have dug deep this year, with the donation being one of the largest amounts we have ever received. The cost of living crisis is affecting many residents of Luton and thanks to the hard work of Kirkby Diamond’s staff and our generous clients, the food bank will be able to continue to help those in need.”

Muscular Dystrophy UK carries out research into the disease, which causes progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. There is no cure but medication and therapy can help manage symptoms and its progress.

Eamon Kennedy, head of commercial agency and head of the Luton office, said: “It is a fantastic effort from Kirkby Diamond’s clients to donate such a generous amount. The charity is close to our hearts and is one that is often neglected for charitable funding compared to other national charities.”

Kirkby Diamond is planning more Luton Lunch Club events this year.

Guests enjoy networking and fundraising at Kirkby Diamond’s Luton Lunch Club meeting

THE RESEARCH ALSO FOUND

Professor Clare Kelliher

‘It has worked out do amazing cakes’ perfectly... and they

“It’s just such a lovely community,” says Emma Gilead. “It was a decision we had to make as we grew but it’s the perfect place.”

Emma pictured is events and fundraising manager at the bereavement charity Harry’s Rainbow, which moved into office provider Capital Space’s Milton Keynes Business Centre at Linford Wood last year.

“It was a move we had to make,” Emma says. “We were meeting people who wanted our help in coffee shops and places that are not suitable for conversations about grief and bereavement.”

Now, in its new office at Milton Keynes Business Centre, Harry’s Rainbow staff can talk openly to visitors in the private Rainbow Room.

It has been a welcome and natural development for the charity, founded by Odette and Lee Mould after the death of their five-yearold son Harry in 2009.

Griefstricken themselves, they could find no bereavement support for Harry’s twin sister Jessica. “We know how difficult it can be to help and support your children through their pain, grief and loss at the same time as trying to deal with your own,” says Odette. “Therefore we aim to support the children affected by the death of a very significant family member, such as a parent or sibling.”

Harry’s Rainbow was founded in 2011. The charity’s website and social networking pages are a source of information and advice for young people aged up to 25 and the staff provide a range of bereavement support services including regular support groups, activities and trips, and individual tailored support.

The need for Harry’s Rainbow has grown, with last year its busiest yet – a 56

per cent increase in registrations as the charity helped 144 children. “A lot of that is down to the work we have done raising awareness of what we do,” says Emma.

Harry’s Rainbow relies totally on fundraising to finance its work, needing £250,000 each year to continue operating. Support comes from a variety of regular sources including some of the largest employers in the Milton Keynes business community; Rightmove, Ingram Micro, Marshall Amplification, Energie Fitness, Opus Restructuring, law firm Freeths and medical recruitment company SpecialistMed, a neighbour at Milton Keynes Business Centre.

Harry’s Rainbow was a beneficiary of the annual Wishing Well campaign at centre:mk in the run-up to Christmas.

Its work takes its toll on Harry’s Rainbow’s staff too. The charity organises monthly sessions for its staff with Milton Keynes-based mental health charity Arthur Ellis, which gives Emma and colleagues the opportunity to talk about their feelings and their work. “It’s quite an emotional job,” she admits.

But being in a wider business community at Milton Keynes Business Centre is a bonus and a support in its own way. Neighbours drop by for a chat to find out how they are doing and about Harry’s Rainbow’s latest initiatives and the charity invites Milton Keynes Business Centre tenants to take part in its fundraising campaigns, including its annual Rainbow Week.

“Moving here was the best decision we could have made,” says Emma. “It has worked out perfectly and we have the Woodside Café on site too. They do amazing cakes.”

MP backs grant to improve lorry parks

Haulage companies are being urged to take advantage of government funding to help them to improve facilities at lorry parks for their drivers.

The Department for Transport unveiled an HGV Parking and Driver Welfare Match-Funding Grant Scheme last month aimed at improving conditions in lorry parks across England.

Now Milton Keynes South MP Iain Stewart is calling on businesses that use haulage companies to transport their products around the UK and abroad to apply for a share of the fund to improve their facilities for drivers.

“While it is no secret that Milton Keynes is an ideal location to have a logistics hub, I know that the facilities and parking in the city for HGV drivers are not as good as they could be,” he said.

Mr Stewart, inset, has visited various logistics businesses, including John Lewis and Amazon at Magna Park near Kingston, to hear at first hand the issues that HGV drivers face on a regular basis.

“I am also fully aware that there are other distribution centres that would like to see better facilities and parking in Milton

Keynes for their drivers,” Mr Stewart said. “That is why I really welcome this funding opportunity from the Department for Transport to improve conditions in lorry parks and I hope that distribution and logistics businesses in Milton Keynes will apply to take up this opportunity.”

More than £32.5 million is available and the government is expecting that around 100 sites in England will be able to receive funding to improve services and facilities for HGV drivers.

Tech firm launches partnership with data specialist

Fintech software specialist Solifi, whose UK headquarters are in Milton Keynes, has announced its newest technology partnership with business data company Codat to make it easier for asset-based lending firms

to make credit decisions. It takes consented business data from small and medium-sized business banking, accounting, and commerce platforms to integrate into operational systems.

“Automating this process

and connecting disparate systems retrieves insights in real time to help ABL customers make faster and more informed decisions,” said Solifi chief product officer Bill Noel.

Solifi’s UK office is at Linford Wood.

MoneyGram Haas F1 team confirmed as the MK Job Show main sponsor

The MK Job Show is proud to announce that MoneyGram Haas F1 Team will be the main sponsor of our upcoming event taking place on March 24-25 at centre:mk.

This sponsorship enhances our event the MoneyGram Haas F1 Team is one of just ten teams competing in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

Established by American industrialist Gene Haas, founder and owner of Haas Automation, MoneyGram Haas F1 Team debuted in 2016, scoring points in its firstever Grand Prix, before going on to finish fifth in the Constructors’ Championship in 2018. Last season the team scored its maiden F1 pole position, with Kevin Magnussen heading the field in qualifying at the Brazilian Grand Prix.

2023 is our tenth year of organising the MK Job Show and we are extremely excited to have such an acclaimed organisation headline the MK Job Show. It highlights our commitment to providing quality opportunities for employers and jobseekers throughout the region.

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team will lead the line-up of more than 80 employers, including zone sponsors BP Pulse, British Transport Police, Counter Terrorism Policing, Lockheed Martin, MBA Consultants, Metropolitan Police, Milton Keynes University Hospital NHS Trust, Network Rail & University Hospitals Coventry and

Warwickshire NHS Trust.

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team is the only American team on the F1 grid but their workforce is truly global. They have more than 200 employees split across three sites in the USA, UK and Italy. Their Banbury factory is based in the heart of the UK’s Motorsport Valley, where several teams and suppliers are located, all within a short drive to Silverstone Circuit, home to the British Grand Prix.

The Banbury site houses many of MoneyGram Haas F1’s operations functions, including logistics, electrical engineering, vehicle science, control systems, vehicle performance and programme management, as well as othe race team support and communications department. They have dedicated support services ensuring constant communication and collaboration between sites, including accounting, administration, human resources, IT and purchasing.

MK Job Show visitors can fast-track their job search to a new career in Formula 1 by meeting with MoneyGram Haas F1 Team in person. Visitors can learn more about the squad and the amazing opportunities they have to join their team... and Haas F1 is keen to learn more about them.

Over the years thousands of people have secured a new job after attending the MK Job Show. So we encourage anyone looking for a new start to attend.

n Register free at MKJobShow.co.uk

Advertising Feature

Milton Keynes Business Centre

Expanded facility blazes upcycling trail

More than 1,000 vehicles a year are to be converted from diesel power to electric at the newly completed upcycling facility for Lunaz Applied Technologies at Silverstone.

The facility, the first of its kind in the world, is now fully operational and occupies a total 200,000 sq ft - almost four times its original size when it opened in 2018. The business has also created 300 new jobs.

The expansion means LAT can significantly increase production of its upcycled electric vehicles, with capacity to produce 1,100 vehicles per year.

Upcycling involves taking conventional diesel-powered refuse trucks and other commercial vehicles and converting them to fully electric power when they reach the end of their normal working lives. UEVs are proved to be cleaner, cheaper and better equipped than all-new equivalents, saving money for taxpayers and helping local authorities to achieve their net-zero goals, Lunaz says.

The additional space allows LAT to bring the majority of the upcycling in-house,

giving it total quality control throughout the production process.

Lunaz’s founder and chief executive David Lorenz said: “The expansion of the Lunaz Silverstone campus is a clear demonstration of our commitment to breaking the replace-with-new cycle. Lunaz now has the largest manufacturing footprint of any company within the Silverstone Technology Cluster.”

LAT is developing new technology to further improve the efficiency and costeffectiveness of the upcycling process. The company has already completely designed its own battery packs, fully assembled, tested and fitted on site at Silverstone. It has also developed a unique electric power take-off to drive the rear bin-lifting apparatus for its upcycled refuse trucks.

“Our new and fully operational facilities, which gives us four times as much space as we had before, enables us to continue scaling up production of our UEVs, meet the demands of more fleet operators and government bodies who want to benefit from our technology,” Mr Lorenz said.

“We will continue to grow this critical sector through the research and development of our proprietary EV technologies, too. Above all, it is a huge vote of confidence

in our own technology and upcycling model and in Silverstone as a location.”

Research shows upcycling also carries over more than 80 per cent of the originally

embedded carbon from the initial vehicle production process when compared to buying new. LAT works with partner facilities such as Millbrook Proving Ground near Ampthill in Bedfordshire to conduct its R&D to the same standards as original equipment manufacturers.

Project set to improve town gateway W

ork is set to start on the gateway Midland Road scheme, one part of the £22.6 million Bedford Town Deal secured last year.

Among the Town Investment Plan schemes proposed by the Town Deal Board is the regeneration of Midland Road, from Greyfriars to Ashburnham Road, and the train station. As part of the scheme, shopfronts and buildings will be enhanced in this important entrance to the town.

The improvements are modelled on the High Street schemes carried out by Bedford Borough Council, which will contribute more than £1.4 million towards the work. The project is a “once in a generation opportunity” to invest in Midland Road, the council says.

Samantha Laycock, chair of the Bedford Town Deal Board, said: “Midland Road is the primary gateway from Bedford train station into the town centre and this investment will help regenerate a key area of our great town.”

The council is speaking with Midland Road property owners to engage them in the scheme. The plan includes improvements to shopfronts and to the public realm.

Above: Lunaz founder and chief executive David Lorenz

Left: Lunaz’s newly expanded facility at Silverstone where the diesel-powered refuse trucks and other commercial vehicles are being upcycled

World-first manufacturing plant creates 300 new jobs

Let’s make money: Colleagues take on law firm’s £50 charity challenge

Businesswoman Rochelle

Anthony - owner of The Dollshouse Salon in Central Milton Keynes - has been among the contestants hoping to become Lord Sugar’s next business partner in the BBC series The Apprentice.

And law firm Franklins Solicitors

is giving local businesses the chance to join an Apprentice-style challenge to raise as much money as possible for three local charities tackling the cost of living crisis and improving wellbeing.

The #Franklins50 Challenge will see teams test their business acumen to turn £50 seed funding

into as much money as possible for their chosen charity over three months. Teams can choose to support MK ACT, Willen Hospice or MK Food Bank, as well as the Northampton Hope Centre and the Cynthia Spencer Hospice in Northampton, and will be working between February 12 and May 12

Choose the right structure to sell your business

Selling a business can be daunting. Being prepared can help you maximise your sale value and reduce stress by ensuring that you are fully appraised and confident in the decisions you make. Every transaction is unique. However, there are two key ‘sale structures’ commonly adopted: Share Sales and Business Sales. Here we explain the pros and cons of each method.

Share Sales

This is where you personally sell the shares that you own in your company to your buyer. The business itself remains ‘intact’ and therefore no property transfers, TUPE transfers or contract assignments are required which can help preserve the continuity of business and cause less disruption to the day to day running of the business.

Business Sale

A ‘Business Sale’ or ‘Asset Sale’ is where an individual or a company sells the components or specific assets which together make up a business.

While this can be a lower risk from a buyer perspective, it can cause more disruption to the business as you have to transfer each asset and obligation to the buyer for them to continue the business and may involve TUPE transfers, property transfers and contract assignments.

So which is best?

There are pros and cons to both structuring the deal as a Share Transaction or a Business/Asset Transaction.

Structuring the deal as a share transaction may:

■ Be more tax-efficient for a seller;

■ Involve a higher level of due diligence and disclosures;

■ Involve a substantial number of documents to affect the share

Andrea Smith

Andrea Smith, partner and head of business services at Franklins Solicitors, assesses the different types of sales structures to consider when selling a business

physically transfer the assets to the buyer;

■ Cause more disruption to the business, especially if there are employees who need to be consulted on the pending transfer of the business;

■ Involve more costs for the buyer, especially if property needs to be transferred which could incur Stamp Duty Land Tax;

to set their creative ideas to work and generate much-needed funds.

Denise Watson, associate partner at Franklins in Milton Keynes, said: “Local businesses have the chance to show what they are made of and take part in our Apprenticestyle challenge to help tackle the local cost-of-living crisis and

improve wellbeing. It is a brilliant team-building opportunity and we cannot wait to see what imaginative ways teams come up with to make some money.”

n Join the fundraising challenge. Find out more and register at www. franklins-sols.co.uk/50-challenge/

Tony Byrne, managing director of Wealth & Tax Management, is a champion of great customer care. It is why he may walk out of a restaurant if the service is not up to speed.

Three tasty ingredients to make your business a rip-roaring success

Ionce attended a webinar run by a successful entrepreneur who was an excellent marketer. He stated that customers will always want to buy things that are quicker, cheaper and simpler. It stuck in my memory because, of course, it is true.

One of the greatest examples of this strategy is Amazon, which has grown into the world’s largest retailer in just 25 years. Of course, we cannot all be like Amazon. Nonetheless, this is a business that can teach us how to run our own successful business.

Whenever I shop either online or in person, it never ceases to amaze me just how slow many businesses are to serve you. Restaurants are a great example. So often you turn up, they make you wait for 15-20 minutes then seat you.

They come back to take your drinks order ten minutes later, your food order another 15-20 minutes later and then you cannot get the waiter’s/waitress’ attention throughout the meal to order extra food or

drinks. Then they keep you waiting for ages at the end to pay your bill. It’s so annoying. These restaurants are not usually busy nor are they understaffed. Usually we just walk out before ordering the drinks.

On the other hand, restaurants where the staff are attentive, quick and build rapport with their customers win hands down. Sometimes they even offer extras such as belly dancing, free birthday cakes, waiters singing ‘Happy Birthday’, for example. Usually, these restaurants are busy yet the staff pack in far more entertainment and service. Often they are not the most expensive restaurants either - just better organised with better staff. They have the quicker, cheaper, simpler recipe for success.

www.wealthandtax.co.uk

transfer and change of ownership itself;

■ Increase the risk to a buyer as they inherit both liabilities and assets;

■ Cause less disruption to the operation of business itself.

■ Structuring the deal as a business transaction may:

■ Enable the buyer to ‘cherry pick’ assets and ‘leave behind’ certain liabilities;

■ Involve more documentation to

■ Reduce the direct liabilities of the individuals involved in the deal if they operate through a selling company.

Ultimately, every transaction will be different and it is about balancing the risks and benefits to the parties in each deal to agree a structure which both are happy to proceed on.

n To find out more, please contact the business services team at Franklins Solicitors email info@franklins-sols.co.uk

Staff at builders firm receive cost of living support

Employees at the Bletchley branch of builders merchants Grant & Stone are to benefit from a comprehensive financial support package to provide help during the cost of living crisis

Parent company Independent Builders Merchant Group has made a one-off £500 payment to its staff in their pay packets last month. Thanks to the company’s perks

package, workers will also receive discounts on a range of essentials, such as groceries, clothing, mobile phones, household bills and insurance.

IBMG has also launched an employee purchase scheme, which provides discounts on energy-saving products, such as insulation and draught proofing.

Managing director Peter Cudd said:

“We fully recognise that we would not be one of the leading construction industry merchants in the region without the hard work of our highly dedicated team so it is important for us to be able to provide this support.

“The initiatives are to assist our employees and their families during these extraordinary times and to help safeguard them against future increases in the cost of living.”

Meeting either at our offices or by a video conference call at our expense worth £270 to each of the first three readers who contact us before February 28 2023. You know it makes sense. We offer a great cup of coffee too. Ring us on 01908 523740 or for free on 0800 980 4516 or email wealth@wealthandtax.co.uk and quote FEB2023 offer to book your free discovery meeting.

Tony Byrne

‘It is about balancing the risks and benefits to the parties in each deal’

Investor buys majority share in IT service provider

Investment house Aliter Capital LLP has become the majority shareholder in Milton Keynes-based IT managed services provider and network connectivity specialist ITM Communications.

The specialist investor, which focuses on small to mid-size UK support services businesses, has completed its investment which adds a third platform business in Aliter’s recently raised £134 million Aliter Capital II fund, completed in December.

ITM directors Mike Jackson, Mark Barber and Lynda Ayris are to remain with the new business as a result of the acquisition. Aliter partner Greig Brown has joined the ITM board as a non-executive director.

The deal continues Aliter’s strategic focus on using its industrial expertise and networks to drive both organic and acquisitive growth, to gain scale and a national footprint. Aliter will be actively looking to acquire complementary businesses as bolt-ons for the ITM-led platform.

Mr Brown said: “ITM is a great example of the type of business we are looking to back, where we can use our sector expertise to support future growth. We have a strong track record in this sector and see clear potential to grow this business, both organically and through bolton acquisitions.”

ITM is based at Bradwell Abbey and employs 85 staff. Its three directors led a

management buy-out of the business in 2010. The deal follows a strategic review of the business carried out by the directors last year which identified the need for an investment partner.

The directors had been impressed by Aliter’s work with North after investing in the UK-wide integrated technology company that specialises in the Internet of Things, networking and connectivity.

ITM director Mark Barber said: “We have been aware of Aliter for some time and having seen what they achieved historically with North, a business operating in sectors similar to ITM, we believe strongly the added support of the right investment partner with significant experience and resources will help us accelerate the next stage of ITM’s development.

It is an exciting prospect and we are enthused by the opportunities this will bring to our customers, suppliers and staff.”

The board says it has secured the support of a specialist investment company with significant experience and resources to accelerate the next stage of ITM’s development. In the short term there will be no changes to the way ITM operates and it will be very much business as usual but the directors anticipate positive changes over the next few years.

Mr Brown said: “We are delighted to complete this investment.”

Environmental services giant acquires survey specialist

Surveying specialist MSL, which has an office in Milton Keynes, has been sold in a multi-millionpound deal.

Private equity-backed environmental services company Lucion Services, supported by Palatine Private Equity and HSBC, has acquired 100 per cent of the shares in the company.

Headquartered at Southam in Warwickshire, MSL provides

specialist services including measured building surveys, underground utility surveys, topographical surveys, 3D modelling and CCTV drainage surveys.

The company will continue to trade under its current name, run by its existing management team.

David Johnson remains as managing director. He said: “We are looking forward to a bright future as part of

the Lucion Group, one that will be beneficial to all our clients.”

Lucion Services has offices across the UK including an office at Auckland Park on Mount Farm. The acquisition creates a specialist topographical surveying division of Lucion’s wider testing, inspection and consultancy services, said a spokesman.

MSL is its fourth acquisition in the last 12 months

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Purpose

Sustainability

Martha Kearney, presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme and a celebrated journalist and broadcaster, is to join Camphill Milton Keynes as its first patron.

She has accepted the invitation from the charity, which works with adults with learning disabilities and autism, and will be a figurehead in its fundraising campaign to build 60 new accessible rooms at its sites in Willen Park and Pennyland.

Her brother-in-law was a resident at Camphill for around 30 years and Ms

Kearney and her husband are regular visitors. As a patron, she will advocate for the community and attend fundraising events.

Ms Kearney pictured said: “The community is dear to my heart and I look forward to working with the team to help them to secure such muchneeded funding. Camphill MK is unique in its approach and enables adults with learning disabilities to live full and rich lives.”

She will be supported by Camphill MK chief executive Tim Davies and head of development Lucy Davies.

Along with this new framework, we have invested in two new Hybrid style printers, which use less chemistry, less energy and water-based inks. The performance of these machines is superior, with a higher-quality output too.

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Ready to browse? We’ve included a sustainability catalogue with this edition. Take a look through and invest in the best sustainable promo materials for your company today.

Broadcaster becomes charity’s patron

New hub supports rural enterprises

Anew scheme is under way to support rural businesses. Rural Ngage replaces the successful LEADER Programme, which has been backing countryside businesses for 30 years.

The new scheme aims to help rural businesses to access funding and to support their growth, innovation and diversification plans.

Rural Ngage has set up a dedicated online business hub bbf.uk.com/rural-ngage which has details of support from rural capital grant schemes, including the Rural England Prosperity Fund, which replaces the LEADER Programme and RDPE Growth Programme.

Former LEADER programme manager Will Dallimore is leading the scheme as rural business development manager at Ngage Solutions. He said: “Supporting businesses with LEADER grants throughout the programme has been hugely rewarding and has benefited the lives of many. It has been a privilege to see new businesses started, jobs created and skills developed.

LEADER funding has been game-changing in how businesses operate, improving productivity, enhancing

animal health and welfare and providing huge environmental gains. I now look forward to continuing to provide rural business support, creating collaborations and maintaining the relationships we have developed in my new role.”

Rural business owners had the opportunity last month to question Buckingham MP Greg Smith at the latest in the MP Business briefings series of events organised by the business support group Buckinghamshire Business First.

The LEADER programme, run by Ngage Solutions from 2008 until its closure

at the end of last year, helped to create jobs, drive investment and support business growth. It supported 253 rural organisations with grant funding, helping create at least 400 new jobs in Buckinghamshire and, from 2015, in North and West Northamptonshire. The programme supported the creation of more than 50 new businesses and generated more than £23 million of investment in rural areas, with £8.8 million in grants awarded.

Ngage Solutions is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Buckinghamshire Business First group.

Follow BID’s lead and back skills programme

Business leaders praise results of course in schools

Young people in Milton Keynes are being inspired and equipped for their working futures thanks to a partnership between MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District and the charity Action4Youth.

The Inspiration Programme was developed by Action4Youth working with educators, entrepreneurs and business people from multiple sectors. Run in schools, the course enables students to develop essential life skills, including teamworking and self-development, as well as giving insights into careers they might never encounter otherwise.

Now business leaders are calling for employers across the city and beyond to follow the BID’s lead and support the programme.

Nicholas Mann, chair of Milton Keynes Business Leaders Partnership, said: “It goes a long way to helping them prepare to develop their abilities to work in a team, to communicate with other, all of the skills that business people are looking for from

their future workforce.”

MyMiltonKeynes BID isupports students at Bridge Academy and Shenley Brook End School on the yearlong programme. It provides education that is vital, says educationalist and businesswoman Dame Ann Limb inset

“The world for young people is difficult to navigate and the experience you get as a young person building your confidence, building your self-esteem from an inspiration programme, having to take on roles that you would not otherwise get through the work that you do at school is really, really critical to prepare young people for the world of work, and for life today.”

The Inspiration course enables schools to meet required Gatsby benchmarks in providing career guidance. Sessions are delivered by Action4Youth qualified teams in school or the charity can train school staff to run

the programme supported by materials on an app, the development of which was funded by Buckinghamshire business Stoke Park.

Simon Jones, headteacher of The Cottesloe School in Wing, says the programme delivers where schools struggle. “What the Inspiration Programme does is it brings a variety of people into school who are experts in their field, and that provides a real richness to the curriculum which we simply cannot produce.”

Action4Youth chief executive Jenifer Cameron said: “We know from talking to young people and to headteachers just how important high-quality informative life experiences can be. The Inspiration Programme is an eye-opener and an inspiring opportunity for young people, enabling schools to continue supporting their students’ future in these tough economic times.”

The Rural Ngage scheme aims to continue the work of the LEADER programme in delivering advice and support to rural businesses in Milton Keynes

‘Businesses and people are actioning real change’

Awards celebrate the champions of diversity

Businesses from Milton Keynes took centre stage at a major regional awards ceremony celebrating their work in diversity and inclusion.

Marketing agency the REAS Group received the company award for its work in promoting diversity, equality and inclusion throughout its organisation and Samantha Poole, founder of the Love Local hub in centre:mk and elsewhere, brought home the Women’s Empowerment trophy for her work at the community interest company Incubation Nation.

Other winners included Sabrina Shadie from D’Rose Development Consultancy, who received the Lifetime Achievement award, and Idrees Mohammed, an EDI business partner at Milton Keynes University Hospital.

The This Is Us awards brought together leaders and changemakers in business across the UK to celebrate their achievements and progress to date, highlighting those leading the way in championing the campaign in their sector.

The ceremony, held at the

Kettering Conference Centre in Northamptonshire, celebrated the winners in a total 12 categories.

“The judging panellists were seriously impressed with the quality of the entries, remarking them as inspirational, outstanding, and phenomenal,” said Meena Chander, founder and chief executive of ceremony organiser Events Together.

“The night was a fantastic celebration of D&I, and it was great to see new faces and learn and share in the experiences, initiatives and leadership of businesses and people that are actioning real change.”

The awards attracted sponsorship from organisations including North Northamptonshire Council, Milton Keynes Ethnic Business Community, Compass Group UK & Ireland, Change the Balance CIC and VTCT.

MEET THE WINNERS

Changemaker Award

Nav Ahmed (Arden University)

Community Upliftment Thomas Cliffe (Café Track)

D E & I Company

REAS Group & Konnek-App

Employee Resource Group

Idrees Mohammed (Milton Keynes University Hospital)

Lifetime Achievement Award

Sabrina Shadie (D’Rose Development Consultancy)

Organisational Champion Nav Ahmed (Arden University)

Tomorrow’s Leader Aaliyah Aries ( Ebony Lashes Crafts)

Training and Development Katie Neeves (Cool2BTrans)

Women’s Empowerment

Samantha Poole (Incubation Nation CIC)

Apprenticeship Award Esthetique Dental Care

This is Us Overall Champion Nav Ahmed (Arden University)

This is Us Heartfelt Award Jacqui Gavin

The celebrations begin for the This Is Us award winners. Below: Awards organiser Meena Chander (left)

Inclusion: A continuous process of improvement

development, as well as giving insights into careers they might never encounter otherwise.

Diversity and inclusion are closely intertwined, with businesses increasingly keen to demonstrate the values of their brand, employees, partners, and customers, through a clearly defined journey from awareness through to action and allyship. Implementing inclusive strategies and working with employees and stakeholders to ensure these behaviours and actions are ingrained within the very fabric of an organisation requires a huge amount of intent and a commitment to deliver. It is a continuous process of improvement, not a one-off initiative.

Consequently to choose Celebrating Diversity as the theme for the Milton Keynes Business Achievement Awards 2023 was not a decision taken lightly. However, we knew, as an organisation which works to support and represent businesses across our region, the huge amount of work, time and effort that organisations place on become increasingly diverse. We were also mindful

that there was a fair amount of nervousness from many that these important issues were tackled sensitively. Put simply, there is a fear of ‘getting it wrong.’

As a young and vibrant city, Milton Keynes is leading the way in many areas and for many years we have celebrated the technological prowess and innovative nature of the businesses within our midst. But we also live within one of the most ethnically diverse communities in the UK and for some time businesses have been working to bridge the gap between these different groups of people, creating opportunities while harnessing the best talent each community has to offer.

Most organisations do not have the budget to invest in

whole new departments tasked with implementing DE&I strategies but what is apparent is the small incremental changes, which are making a significant difference. These actions should be recognised and celebrated.

Additionally, we should not be scared or worried about speaking about and/ or challenging practices that discriminate any minority. This should be a two-way process. Only by communicating with each other can understanding and sensitivity be developed. This will lead to greater inclusion and access to opportunity for all.

The number of companies

Infrastructure group hails support by Chancellor for East West Rail project

The body overseeing the region’s transport strategy has welcomed the government’s decision to back the East West Rail project.

The opening of the line linking Oxford and Cambridge via Milton Keynes and Bedford is a key part of plans to grow sectors including life sciences, advanced manufacturing and digital - all areas in which this region excels on the global stage, says England’s Economic Heartland, which is planning and promoting the transport infrastructure and policy framework required to realise the economic potential.

EEH will continue to raise the importance of investment in the region’s infrastructure priorities to support economic growth, unlock opportunities for businesses and residents and work towards net zero.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt stressed the government commitment to EWR in his Autumn Statement.

EEH chair Cllr Richard Wenham said: “With our global presence in advanced manufacturing, life sciences and digital services, this region is pivotal to the Chancellor’s

ambitions for the UK to be the next Silicon Valley.”

EEH is working with partners to maximise the benefits of the government’s investment. This includes ensuring that stations are well served by public and othe rtransport links. “Clearly and as expected, the public sector will have additional budgetary challenges,” Cllr Wenham said. “A focus for England’s Economic Heartland is supporting local authorities with their capabilities to deliver the infrastructure required to support economic growth in the region while working towards net zero.”

EEH is a body of political and business leaders working to realise the region’s economic potential. It is one of seven sub-national transport

bodies, jointly funded by the Department for Transport and local authorities.

Cllr Steven Broadbent, Chair of the East West Main Line Partnership which is working to deliver a rail link from East Anglia to South Wales, said: “The Chancellor’s announcement on the future of East West Rail is a huge boost for the region’s residents and businesses, alongside the wider UK economy. East West Rail, delivered in full, will be a catalyst for economic growth and boost collaboration and innovation in our worldclass science and technology sectors.

“Communities will be more sustainable, while East West Rail will support the regeneration of town centres.”

entering MKBAA this year has been overwhelming and their ongoing achievements to cultivate a more diverse and inclusive workforce has come through loud and clear. Businesses should feel proud yet continue to push for even greater fairness within our community .

We know that implementing DE&I strategies alone is not enough. We are on a journey to create a diverse working environment today by applying changes and working with employees

and stakeholders to shape behaviours and attitudes that will benefit future generations.

It is our new incoming talent who will benefit from the foundations that we put in place today, which is why creating more equal opportunities for young people in order to attract and retain talent is so important.

Across the city, many initiatives have been created to inspire and equip young people with relevant skills, such as The Inspiration Programme, developed by the charity Action4Youth (see page 11), with investment and support from MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District. Run in schools, the course enables students to develop essential life skills including teamworking and self-

Programmes such as these go a long way to helping young people prepare and develop their abilities to work in a team and communicate with others. But this generationthe so-called ‘Gen-Z’ - which will make up a third of the workforce by the end of the decade, will bring their own set of skills to the table. From their digital capabilities to their instinctive and inclusive-first expectations, incorporating them into a multigenerational workforce will be integral for businesses in the coming years.

MKBAA’s coveted Lifetime Achievement award, which we hope will go to an individual who has had a sustained, active, and deep involvement in the communities of Milton Keynes, is demonstrative of how MKBLP is going full circle to build a better, more inclusive future for the next generation.

n There is still time to submit your nomination for the Lifetime Achievement Award 2023, which closes on February 14. Nominate online at www.mkbaa.co.uk or email lifetimeachievement@mkbaa.co.uk.

Steve Freeman Chairman

Supported

Nicholas Mann

Cllr Richard Wenham, chair of England’s Economic Heartland

Growth in employment work prompts expansion of law firm’s department

An increase in new instructions

has led regional law firm Howes Percival to expand its employment team in Milton Keynes and Northampton.

James Pitts joins the team as a newly qualified associate, having completed his training contract with Howes Percival, while Lydia Mills has been recruited from fellow law firm Spratt Endicott as an associate. Both will work across the firm’s offices in Milton Keynes and Northampton.

The employment department has seen a steady increase in work over the last couple of years due to the rapid expansion of Howes Percival’s

corporate commercial and banking division, particularly in merger and acquisition work and additional employment enquiries from CCB clients.

The increase in instructions is also as a result of the economic climate, with clients seeking advice on restructuring, changing terms and conditions, trade union negotiations and redundancy. Howes Percival has also welcomed new clients in the automotive, healthcare, food & beverage and transport & logistics sectors, a reflection of the firm’s reputation and level of expertise, said employment law partner Simon deMaid.

“We are delighted for James,” Mr deMaid said. “Training and retaining ‘home grown’

Help feed MK

Can you and your business help?

With Milton Keynes recently being awarded City status, there is much to celebrate about living and working in this City. However, the reality is there are tens of thousands of people living in poverty in Milton Keynes. With steep rises in the cost of living, the number of struggling individuals and families living within our community will only continue to increase.

More support needed

There are a number of Food Banks and local charities who support families living in poverty with food and every day essentials. However, demand for these services is increasing and there are fewer people in a position to help, due to the wider impact of the cost of living crisis.

This is where you and local businesses can help.

MK Food Reach exists so that vital funds can be raised by the business community so that pallets of food can be distributed in Milton Keynes. Every time £10,000 is raised - enough to fill an artic lorry with 26 pallets of food (retail value of approximately £52,000) a lorry will bring the much needed food to the City for distribution.

Who are HIS Church Charity?

HIS Church is an established redistribution charity, focused on providing food and supplies to those who need it most and preventing many products from going to landfill. They have helped over 15,000 charities nationwide and work with many of the leading food brands and supermarkets including Kellogg’s, Mars, Heinz, Lidl, Asda, Waitrose and Sainsbury’s.

now and it is not showing any sign of slowing down.”

Howes Percival has grown its offices in Milton Keynes at Knowlhill and the employment department has seen particular growth in employment tribunal cases and in complex disability discrimination and mental health cases due to the ongoing aftereffects of lockdown and the pandemic.

“We expect this to continue throughout 2023,” said Mr deMaid.

Manager wins advisory role to meetings group’s board

Naveen Leer, commercial manager business to business and head of business performance reporting at Whittlebury Park near Towcester, has joined meetings industry body IACC as a new board associate for 2023/24.

Mr Leer, who has worked in conference and events at Whittlebury Park for five years, will focus on identifying and advising the IACC board on emerging trends, particularly around the millennial market, and contribute to the annual conference planning group.

“IACC is a prestigious organisation dedicated to representing the best meeting venues globally,”

says Mr Leer. “This will be an exciting new challenge for me, which will further my knowledge of the meetings and events industry, expand my network, and allow me to learn from some of the most talented and passionate people in our industry.”

He will be in post as board associate until the end of November 2024.

“This is an important role for both the organisation and the leadership development of the board associate,” says IACC chief executive Mark Cooper. “IACC is a European community of industry trendsetters and bringing the views of the incoming generation into IACC initiatives is incredibly important.”

Academy Trust names new CEO

Areshuffle at the head of the Denbigh Alliance Multi Academy Trust in Milton Keynes has led to the appointment of a new chief executive.

Sue Collings, inset, has moved from a similar position in Hertfordshire, replacing Ian Joyce who has moved to a new senior position within the organisation.

“The focus of the trust has always been on care, education and opportunity

for students and staff and we are confident that Sue and Ian will continue to drive this with an innovative and dynamic approach,” says John Cove, chair of the Denbigh Alliance MAT board of trustees.

Ms Collings has worked in education for more than 30 years. Denbigh Alliance MAT is comprised of Denbigh School, Watling Academy and, when it opens in September, Watling Primary School.

MK Food Reach is partnering with His Church Charity to ensure the City continues to provide support to its citizens.

talent in this way has always been hugely important to us as a firm. Equally, we continue to

attract

the

best talent at every level and Lydia is a fantastic addition to the team.

“We have seen an increased number of new matters for quite some time

Simon deMaid (second from left) and the employment law team at Howes Percival

Naveel Leer

Q&A

All I could picture was a portakabin next to a landfill site.

On arrival, it was very different.

What was your first job?

My first job was working for Clarks Shoes which I started when I was 15. I actually lied on my CV to say I was 16 as I was keen to start making some money and gaining independence.

Why did you choose your particular career?

When I left school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do other than wear a nice suit and drive a flash car so I did a university degree in Business & Management.

Our third year was a work placement and I somehow - begrudgingly, at the time - ended up working for a waste company. Before the interview all I could picture was a portakabin next to a landfill but on arrival, it was very different. I haven’t looked back since. What’s the best job you’ve had and why?

The job I am in now. Cawleys is an excellent employer and has rewarded my hard work with two promotions in the six years I have worked here. Not just that but also the extra incentives where Cawleys go above and beyond to look after their staff. I have never been treated as well by another employer. …and the worst?

Probably my first sales job after leaving uni. Looking back, it was actually below minimum wage going door knocking but it helped build my character and started me on my sales career, which is the positive I take from it.

What’s the best advice you’ve received in business?

To manage a customer’s expectations. Never overpromise or underdeliver.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

As a salesperson, my performance is

measured by how much revenue I deliver in a given financial year so it has to be the largest contract I won which was a distribution centre for a large retail chain. It was worth double my annual sales target by itself.

…and the low point?

I was once put on a Performance Improvement Plan in a previous job as I was struggling to meet my target. In the end I knuckled down, put in the extra hours and pulled myself out of that particular hole, thankfully.

Who in business do you respect the most?

I struggled to think of someone less mainstream but Elon Musk has to be right up there. He’s not afraid to fail, dust himself off and go again. Persistence wins every time.

What annoys you the most in business?

Probably customers being mistreated by their incumbent supplier. We provide a better solution and when they tell their incumbent they are leaving, the supplier say they will match the solution and pricing I put forward… and the customer stays with them.

What’s the best thing/worst thing about where you work?

Best: Knowing our service delivery will back up what I tell my new customers it will be - more reliable than what they are currently getting.

Worst: The office being almost 40 miles from my home, although this has become a bit of a non-issue since Covid, thankfully.

What’s your career ambition?

If we’re talking ultimate career ambition, to become CEO of my beloved Liverpool FC. …and your life ambition?

To achieve financial freedom as early in life as possible

Tebay

What has been the best moment of your life?

Holding my first-born child for the first time.

…and the worst?

Quite a dark question for this interview...

How do you relax?

Messing around with my kids. Getting a sweat on exercising. Letting loose listening to music

What’s your guilty pleasure?

A nice bottle of full-bodied red wine and a good charcuterie board… and cigarettes.

What’s your worst fault?

I love my sleep more than a father of three is supposedly allowed to.

What’s your most treasured possession?

The watch my wife gave me on our wedding day

MY FAVOURITE...

FILM American Gangster.

TV PROGRAMME Match of the Day.

RESTAURANT Boisdale.

DESTINATION Ibiza.

-

What are you afraid of?

Anything that would mean I don’t get to spend every day with my wife and kids. Also falling from a huge height or being lost treading water in the vast ocean. But they are fairly generic fears, I reckon.

What annoys you most in life?

When driving, letting someone into my lane and they don’t signal to say thank you. I find it really irritating.

Tell us something you regret.

Anything I regret is far too dark to be mentioned in this interview

Tell us a secret about yourself.

No thanks… I’m starting to think this interview is a sting operation. LOL.

Which two historical figures would you most like to talk to and why?

n Whoever was in charge of Egypt when the Pyramids were built. Their precision always blows my mind.

n Jeffrey Epstein, to see what he really knew.

What are the first 3 things on your bucket list?

n To see the ancient wonders like the Pyramids and Puma Punku/Machu Picchu

n Diving the Great Barrier Reef

n I have never been to New York and I want to get a sandwich from Katz deli

What music/song would you like played at your funeral?

Living in a Box by Living in a Box.

Where business people discuss their motivation, ambition, experience

and themselves. In the spotlight this month is Dan Tebay, head of corporate sales at regional recycling and waste management specialist Cawleys

FOOD Medium rare steak, blue cheese sauce, salt, red wine.

MUSIC / SONG Anything by Jamie Webster.

BOOK The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey.

Dan

Business2Business

Businesses in Bedford are being offered a carbon dioxide monitor to reduce the risk of infection and sickness absence among their employees this winter.

Bedford Borough Council is piloting a scheme in which it loans businesses a free CO2 monitor to test air quality in different parts of their premises for two weeks. The aim is to help employers to identify areas that need more ventilation, such as meeting rooms, and to reduce the risk of their staff catching Covid and passing it on to others in the workplace.

“These actions will also

help to reduce the spread of other respiratory infections, such as flu, which can spread easily and may cause serious illness in some people,” said a council spokesman.

A similar scheme in Staffordshire showed that more than half of businesses that used the monitors have identified areas that need more ventilation. For many it was just a matter of scheduling times to open windows or following HSE guidance, the spokesman added.

n To take part in the pilot scheme, email invest. inbedford@bedford.gov.uk, subject ‘CO2 Monitor’.

Young aspiring film makers have the opportunity of a valuable insight into the industry at a showcase taster day event in Luton.

The event will show wouldbe videographers how a creative agency operate and is being hosted by Luton agency Clearhead to kick off the company’s 15th anniversary year.

Clearhead, which was set up by schoolmates Gavin O’Brien and Alex Lawrence, has grown to become an award-winning agency with state-of-the-art offices in Luton’s thriving Hat District.

The Creative Taster Day takes place on February 15 and is open to young people aged 16-21 who are studying subjects related to the creative industries such as film, animation, production, design and the performing arts at GCSE, A-Level or at further

education college.

A total 28 places are available, offered to local schools and colleges on a first come, first served basis.

Registration will close as soon as the places have been filled.

“We remember how exciting it was starting out as young graduates, but also vividly remember the challenges, so we want to make it a little easier for today’s young talent,” said Mr O’Brien. “We are doing this the best way we know how, by showing youngsters just how a creative agency operates.

“This event has been designed to build confidence among a new generation of local creatives and to provide our young and local talented students with opportunities to learn new skills so they can then move on to get the careers of their dreams, ideally here in Luton.”

The Taster Day will comprise four breakout sessions in the morning, including on film production, editing, and mastering the art of storytelling. After lunch students will create their own campaign for social media, with a theme linked to Luton. With support from Clearhead’s experts, students will be given all the equipment and advice they need to plan, produce and edit.

The winning group will then be awarded a place on Clearhead’s week-long Creative Camp, set to take place in the summer. Places on the Creative Taster Day are still available.

To register, visit https:// weareclearhead.com/ clearhead-skills-day-form/ “Luton has one of the youngest populations in the country and while this brings opportunities, it also means that many young people will

be leaving education at a time of significant economic uncertainty,” said Mr Lawrence. “We feel it is the duty of all businesses to do at least one thing to help our workforce of the future.”

Work is under way on a new industrial and office building at Butterfield Business Park in Luton.

Construction of the new £20 million unit, which covers 85,000 sq ft, is due to be finished by the summer. Park owner HBD says interest in the new site and Butterfield Business Park generally has been considerable.

The new building adds to more than 155,000 sq ft of industrial space developed since 2020, with Butterfield Business Park occupiers including an innovation centre and a Hilton Garden Hotel. The speculative development of The Quad scheme, designed for growing small businesses, saw five units let or sold before completion.

“We have seen a lot of interest from businesses interested in relocating to Butterfield, which reflects the strength of the Luton market and the continued demand for high-quality, well-located space,” said HBD senior director Adrian Schofield.

Adroit Real Estate Advisors, LSH and Cushman & Wakefield are the agents on the scheme.

Career paths take students back to the land

County firms highlight sector’s potential

Careers in agriculture were in the spotlight as Shuttleworth College near Biggleswade hosted its first major employer event for the land and environment sector.

Companies specialising in fisheries, farming, seed development, John Deere equipment maintenance and arboriculture management discussed career opportunities in their sector.

“We are very grateful to all these employers for taking the time to come and talk to our students about opportunities within their organisations,” said Shane Durham, head of land and environment studies at Shuttleworth.

“There is a huge range of employment opportunities under the banner of agriculture and they are open to people who do not come from traditional farming backgrounds.”

Work experience co-ordinator John Sirett completed his degree in agricultural science at Shuttleworth College as a mature student in summer last year. His previous experience in a range of rural-related businesses means he is well placed to understand what employers are looking for in potential recruits.

“Covid has broken some of the more informal routes into employment in the land-based

sector. These companies are looking for committed young people to join them,” he said.

Among the employers represented at the event was former Shuttleworth student Jenson May who now works for KWS, a German-founded global company specialising in creating new varieties of cereal through seed breeding.

Farmer Andrew Phillips, from Haynes, was looking for help at harvest with a view to offering more permanent employment to the right candidate.

Tuckwells at Maulden are the largest supplies of John Deere equipment, supplying ands maintaining not only farming tractors but also grass cutting equipment for golf courses.

John O’Conner has grown from a one-man business to a major outfit of arborists based at Barton. Meanwhile Deepdale Trees near Potton is a company that grows trees which are sold to estates and major developers.

Embryo is famous in the field of fishing. The company dug and now stocks fish nurseries on the Shuttleworth College site. These are managed by students to help preserve older breeds of fish which are disappearing in the wild.

Clockwise (from top left): Machinery supplier Tuckwells of Maulden, griounds maintenance specialist John O’Conner; fisheries business Embryo; former Shuttleworth College student Jenson May, who now works for cereal seed developer KWS

Tenants hail park base as key to growth plans

New tenants at Ascent Logistics Park in Leighton Buzzard have spoken of the importance of the location in their expansion plans.

Wholesale and retail clothing supplier AS Colour has moved into the largest available unit, joining healthcare provider HCA UK and essential business supplies firm Tate Business Group.

The deals mean that only one unit on the park, developed by real estate

investor Firethorn Trust and which was completed last year, remains unoccupied.

“Location, flexibility and specification is key to ensuring we can effectively meet diverse client requirements and provide a tailored solution that improves the efficiency of their supply chains,” said Tate Business Group managing director Richard Tate.

Scottie Lambright, chief executive in the supply chain function at

HCA, added: “Ascent will put us in a central location to further improve operations, ensuring HCA facilities can always access the right supplies and equipment, and in turn, deliver outstanding patient care across the UK.”

The three new arrivals mean seven of the scheme’s eight units are now fully occupied, with existing tenants including Spreetail, Airbox UK, Solution EU and Stone Hardy.

Chris Beer, senior associate at

Centre reflects on charity contribution

More than 600 hours of volunteering, helping 59 charities and more than £10,000 donated to local causes has marked the 50th anniversary celebrations of Luton’s The Mall shopping centre.

It has released a video showcasing the past 12 months of community support initiatives that have cemented its reputation as a major community champion in the town.

A total 11 charities were supported via The Mall’s Community Chest and the centre’s two charities of the year were also included, with the Foodbank Fifty challenge for Luton Foodbank, toy collection for Luton Smiles - a campaign organised by the foodbank to collect Christmas presents - and a uniform and winter clothing drive supporting Level Trust.

The Mall general manager Roy Greening said: “We are extremely proud and grateful to everyone who has been involved. We have certainly set ourselves a difficult task to top 2022, however we are determined to do so.”

The year saw six new episodes of The Mall’s podcast Luton Life, highlighting community and charity-led initiatives including the art installation Our River, International Women’s Day, Discover Islam during the month of Ramadan, NOAH Enterprise, The Hygiene Bank and Pride in Luton, marking 50 years since the first UK Pride march and the first ever in Luton.

Foodbank spokesperson Salma Khan said: “We have had an

absolutely fantastic relationship with The Mall Luton. They have set up a donation point for us, volunteering in the warehouse on a weekly basis and set up events to fundraise for us.”

The Mall’s marketing manager Lavinia Douglass said: “We are so proud of the team’s efforts

throughout 2022 and what has been achieved by working alongside some fantastic local organisationsit is wonderful to look back at these in our 50th anniversary year. We would like to thank our customers for continuously supporting our charitable campaigns and new initiatives to help our town.”

Support winter warm spaces initiative, firms urged

Businesses in Luton are stepping up to support the network of warm spaces in the town this winter.

A new website Luton Connects has been set up so more businesses can help organisations in Luton to open their doors and provide a space with respect, dignity, and warmth.

Companies are donating goods or money. The website lists the items most in demand from warm spaces,

such as warm clothes, thermal blankets, children’s toys and games and tea, coffee and sugar.

The initiative brings together Luton-based businesses including The Mall, Luton BID and Mary Seacole Housing Association with the support of Luton Council. Warm spaces are places where anyone can find a safe, accessible and warm environment during the day to help reduce the cost of heating their own

homes and to meet up with friends and neighbours.

Council leader Cllr Hazel Simmons said: “Luton Connects is a fantastic way for businesses to support local Luton residents who are using these warm spaces and I urge everyone to help out if they can.”

n Find out how your business can help at www.lutonconnects.co.uk

Firethorn Trust, said: “This is a significant milestone for Ascent Logistics Park as we near to full occupancy. The diverse mix of tenants reflects the scheme’s high-quality, modern and flexible specification, in addition to our team’s commitment to working closely with occupiers to ensure we are responding to their operational requirements effectively.”

Lawrence Railton, managing director at AS Colour, said: “The

tenancy at Ascent will allow us to enhance our UK supply chain and grow our shipping capabilities to meet customer demand even more effectively.”

Accredited by the UK Green Building Council for its netzero carbon construction, Ascent Logistics Park off Leighton Road holds a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.

All units are integrated with smart design, said Mr Beer.

The Mall’s general manager Roy Greening with Luton BID manager Julia Horsman promoting Pride in Luton. Below: Eden Williams, winner of The Mall’s sponsored writing competition, receives her prize

Networking

The

networking events

Networking lunch.

AYLESBURY

2nd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

MILTON KEYNES

2nd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online

BUCKINGHAM

3rd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

CAPPUCCINO CONNECTIONS

4th Thursday 10am-12 noon: Online

Contact: Anna Atkins-Carter, regional director North Bucks / West Chilterns. 07540 097776, email anna.atkinscarter@theathenanetwork. com or visit www.theathenanetwork.com

BEDFORD

2nd Wednesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

SOUTH & EAST BEDFORDSHIRE

4th Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Online

WOBURN

3rd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online

Contact: Kate Cherry, regional director Bedfordshire & St Albans. 07909 675333 email kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com or visit www.theathenanetwork.com

February 7, 21 7am-8.30am:

Villiers Hotel, Buckingham Breakfast meeting + speaker. Visitors: £10. Contact: www.bucks-fizz.biz

If you are serious about growing your business, BNI works. Last year BNI members in the UK generated more than £482 million worth of business for each other. To find out how, visit a local chapter meeting and see for yourself.

Each chapter has a personality of its own and finding where you fit best helps you get connected.

DIAMOND

Tuesday 6.45am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

APOLLO

No fuss, no membership, pay as you go... The Business Buzz format is relaxed, informal, conversational B2B networking.

Town focused events meet face-to-face, allowing visitors to build better, more robust relationships. These are complemented by regional virtual events.

All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon

BRACKLEY

1st Thursday: Paisley Pear, Northampton Road.

MILTON KEYNES

3rd Friday: Revolucion de Cuba, Savoy Crescent, 12th Street

BEDFORD

1st Wednesday: George & Dragon, Mill Street

BIGGLESWADE

2nd Wednesday: Yorkshire Grey, London Road

Wednesday 10am: MK Gallery

PHOENIX

Friday 9.45am: The Bedford Golf Club

ENCORE

Friday 6.45am: Holiday Inn London Luton

More information: www.bni.co.uk Airport

PIONEER

Wednesday 9.30am: Online meetings

More information: www.bni.co.uk

COPING STRATEGIES FOR NET ZERO CARBON SCOPE 3

February 22 2.30pm-4pm: Venue tbc

Speaker: Sustainability consultancy Energise. If you supply a larger company or tender for government contracts, you will be asked how you’re working towards Net Zero Carbon at some point. Energise gives an outline of the process involving supply chains.

Free event for GBN members.

Non-members £35.

To book, email info@greenbusinessnetwork. co.uk or visit www.greenbusinessnetwork.co.uk

MAXIMISE YOUR MEMBERSHIP

February 22 8.30am-10.30am: Northampton Active, Northampton Informal networking with other Chamber members and an opportunity to find out how to make the most of your membership benefits. Meet the Chamber’s third party suppliers icludingQuest, AXA and Westfield Health.. Free event. Chamber members only.

February 15 7.45am-9.15am:

The Bedfordshire Golf Club, Stagsden Sponsors: Ginger Cow Marketing; Mazars; Metro Bank; Woodfines Solicitors. Speakers tbc. Contact: Kerry Ransby email kransby@woodfines.co.uk or visit www. bedfordbreakfastclub.co.uk

Price: £6, payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App https://app.business-buzz. org/app or at the event.

EAST MIDLANDS

1st Friday: Online. Price: £10

BEDFORDSHIRE

4th Tuesday: Online

Price: £10, payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App https://app.business-buzz. org/app or at the event.

February 1 7.30am-9am:

Delta by Marriott Hotel, Kents Hill

The City Breakfast Club, Milton Keynes is the longest running, premier networking event that gives you the opportunity to meet the City’s top business leaders.

Club host Steve Freeman below, partner at MHA MacIntyre Hudson, will be joined by thought-provoking guest speakers who will discuss topics related to Milton Keynes and its development.

LOCAL SKILLS IMPROVEMENT PLAN

February 28 8.30am-10.30am: Milton Keynes College Networking + information event, funded by the Department for Education. Come along to our Local Skills and Improvment Plan event to have your voice heard about the skill gaps within your employment.

Free event, Chamber members and nonmembers welcome. This event will include a light breakfast and refreshments.

To book on to Chamber events, visit www.chambermk.co.uk/events

CONNECT OVER COFFEE

February 9 9.30m-11am:

Truesilver Marketing, Hitchin Street, Biggleswade

Networking event + an update on the benefits of Chamber membership. Free event for Chamber members; non-members £25.

To book on to Chamber events, visit www.chamber-business.com/events

NETZERO MK POWER HOUR:

STOP WASTING YOUR WASTE

February 28 10am-11am: Online

Hosted in partnership with Milton Keynes City Council.

An interactive session to hear the different ways businesses in Milton Keynes can tackle waste management.

Learn how to reduce the cost of municipal waste through simple changes to your waste disposal plans.

See how a closed loop approach could eliminate the need for landfill and bring longerterm customers.

NetZero MK is a project aiming to support businesses in Milton Keynes on their journey to Net Zero.NetZero MK is funded by Milton Keynes City Council and delivered by Ngage

Business networking and referral group.

Price: £6.

MILTON KEYNES

2nd Thursday, 7.30am-9.30am: Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

VIRTUAL NETWORKING

Tuesday Brunch

2nd Tuesday, 9.30am-11am

Wednesday Breakfast

4th Wednesday, 7.30am

Thursday Breakfast

3rd Thursday, 7.30am

Friday Breakfast

2nd Friday, 7.30am

THE ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE

Monday 10am-11am: Online

A regular virtual meeting helping small businesses get tasks from ‘to do’ to ‘done’.

Advice and tips on time management and productivity.

Price: £6 per session or £12 per month.

More information: www.buscomm.co.uk

Alt. Fridays 7am:

Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash

Networking breakfast with speaker. Price: £15. Contact: www.businessgrowthclub.co.uk or Mark Orr on 07903 655169.

www.citybreakfastclub.co.uk

MILTON KEYNES VIRTUAL NETWORKING

February 10 10am-11am: Online.

Speaker: Business coach Lorna Thomas, from Be The Best You In Business. Subject: How to conquer your fears and become a better business owner.

Hosted by James Anderson FSB Development Manager for Thames Valley. Free event. To book on to FSB events, visit www.fsb.org.uk

12 noon-2pm, networking lunch.

Bedford & Ampthill

1st Tuesday: The Swan Hotel, The Embankment, Bedford / Online Leighton Buzzard

3rd Wednesday: The Dukes, Heath & Reach / Online

Luton

2nd Monday: South Beds Golf Club, Warden Hills Road / Online

Sandy & Biggleswade

1st Wednesday: Stratton House Hotel, Biggleswade

Contact: Louise Yexley on 07989 020647, email louise.yexley@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk

Milton Keynes

1st Tuesday: The Brasserie at Milton Keynes College, Sherwood Drive, Bletchley

Contact: Edith Samambwa on 07802 581838, email edith.samambwa@wibn.co.uk or visit www.wibn.co.uk

NETWORKING COFFEE

February 22 10am-noon: Planet Ice, Central Milton Keynes To book, visit www.womeninenterprise.co.uk

business

this month across Milton Keynes, North Bucks and Bedfordshire

Solutions in partnership with Buckinghamshire Business First. Free event. To book, email events@bbf.uk.com

Speaker: Sukhi Gill, Amanda Creed and Sarah James, from Milton Keynes Council. Sukhi and Amanda will give an update from Invest Milton Keynes, the council’s inward investment arm; Sarah, from the council’s public health workplace health team, will present the council’s best practice framework and award scheme with a range of free health and wellbeing services to support employers. Book at

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If an ‘off the peg outfit’ is found, many assume a few inexpensive alterations will do the job to make it look like it was made for you. The reality is alterations are a skilled job with suiting, added to the fact there may not be enough seam allowance, if any to play around with. Jacket construction is far more technical than the unskilled eye would appreciate. Often it means taking the whole garment apart in order to get the correct contouring around the body. Shortening the sleeves for example means taking the whole sleeve out not just shortening next to the button holes.

Selecting the right cut of suit for your shape is the biggest challenge buying off the peg. Often in men, the shoulders can be far wider than the hips which means it is impossible with structured jackets to hang correctly, as the waist will cut far wider than is required. These men end up with jackets that sort of fit on the shoulders but always leave them looking like a sack of potatoes around the waist because the cut is designed for a far less angular body shape. If you work

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‘I was blown away’: Turf firm relishes new charity alliance

Partnership between a turf supply business and a charity working to help children in East Africa escape a life of poverty is aiming to raise thousands of pounds.

George Davies Turf has chosen as its charity partner Empowering Kids in Kenya, which provides free secondary school education to children in Bombolulu, a suburb of Mombasa, one of Kenya’s poorest cities.

The ongoing partnership will include regular monthly donations and a series of fundraisers by George Davies Turf staff to help finance the finishing touches to a new secondary school building and pay for uniforms, food and teaching materials for five young people.

George Davies Turf, based in Olney, is marking its 21st anniversary this year and had been looking for a charity partner. “Then I met Sally who is the charity’s chair of trustees,” says the firm’s founder and managing director George Davies.

“I was absolutely blown away by her commitment and dedication to giving these youngsters a chance in life and I knew Empowering Kids in Kenya would be the perfect choice for us to get behind as a team.”

Father-of-five George plans

to get his family involved in the charity as well. “We will all be able to meet the kids via video calls in the coming weeks and months to build a bond which will be really exciting for everyone to see the difference we are making.

“This is just the beginning though. We see this as a long-term partnership and are aiming to raise thousands over the years.”

Empowering Kids in Kenya is close to completing its ambitious secondary school building which will lead to a two-tier school system in Bombolulu, enabling children in the area to stay in education until the age of 15 for the first time.

“We want nothing more as a charity than to be able to give children in one of the poorest areas of Kenya the opportunity to reach their full potential and a chance to break the cycle of extreme poverty but we rely on fundraising and donations to make a difference,” says the charity’s chair of trustees Sally Searle pictured inset with the school manager Nancy

“We just need another £50,000 to make

the next part of our dream come true, and we are so very grateful to George, his family, and the George Davies Turf team for their

generosity. Their ongoing support will make such a huge impact and will give these children a brighter future and a real chance to thrive.”

n Find out more about Empowering Kids in Kenya at https://littlefaces.enthuse.com

Donate campaign raises £15k for homeless support group

Generosity of employees and visitors to Central Milton Keynes have resulted in a £15,000 donation to Milton Keynes Homelessness Partnership from the Tap To Donate initiative run by MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District.

The BID placed nine Tap To Donate machines around the city centre, including in Xscape, Midsummer Place shopping centre and Milton Keynes Central railway station. This year’s total raised has topped the original £13,000 target, said BID chief executive Melanie Beck.

“To have surpassed the original annual target over the summer was a fantastic achievement,” Ms Beck added. “The fact that we also exceeded the revised target of £15,000 showcases the kindness of the people of Milton Keynes and the commitment to resolving the city’s homeless issue.”

The Tap To Donate initiative has run since 2019, organised by the BID and backed by city centre retailers.

Homelessness is a serious problem, one which charities like MKHP are working tirelessly to resolve. “It is critical to enable our work to keep going,” said MKHP chief executive Tracey McCillen.

“Last year was particularly

challenging for so many people so we are hoping that the money raised will go a long way towards supporting them and the Tap to Donate scheme continues to raise much needed funds,” said Ms Beck, inset

‘Batter’ start flipping for the corporate pancake race

Companies are preparing for some flipping fundraising as the countdown to the annual Corporate Pancake Day Race begins.

The race, on Shrove Tuesday February 21, raises money for the Milton Keynes Rose Trust, which looks after the monument in Campbell Park that hosts pillars marking significant events associated with Milton Keynes past and present.

The Rose was opened in 2013 and last year was central to commemorations for Her Majesty the late Queen.

Pillars added last year also commemorated the Windrush generation and Black Lives Matter.

Teams of business colleagues are already signing up to race for the title of MK Corporate Pancake Day Race Winner, an accolade currently held by Fierce Gym. Entry is £50 per team of four colleagues.

There are five heats followed by a grand final when the top teams will go head-to-head.

All teams need to come dressed to toss, with frying pan, headscarf and apron.

The event is organised by the Parks Trust, which managed the Rose site.

“We are excited to invite local businesses to join the race and help to raise funds for projects and future pillars at the MK Rose,” says events and community engagement manager Julie Dawes.

100 per cent of entry fees paid by participating businesses will go to the MK Rose Trust, she adds.

The closing date for entries is February 13.

n Find out more and sign up at https:// miltonkeynesrose.org.uk/ home/events/ or email events@theparkstrust.com

the right services with each other to help individuals and families as well as reducing health inequalities and enabling access to better healthcare through outreach, or GP clinics,” said Ms McCillen.

“The donations enable us to respond to urgent situations - for example, the impact of the cost of living crisis - and how

MAKE THE HEADLINES

Business MK.

“These

news@pulsegroup media.co.uk

The new school is already built but requires the finishing touches that George Davies Turf’s fundraising will provide.

Left: George Davies

The Milton Keynes Homelessness Partnership is a network of statutory, charity and private sector organisations working together to end homelessness across the city.

funds enable us to continue to connect

we can reduce the risks for those who are at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness.

“In short, we want to ensure the right help reaches people who are in need.”

Network Rail’s national centre The Quadrant, next to Milton Keynes Central station , was one of the locations of the Tap to Donate machines.

‘We want to ensure the right help reaches people who are in need’

Send news of what your business is doing to help its community to