Business Times December 2024

Inside your edition this month

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Ready to rise to the £50 Challenge

Northampton is poised to see a significant boost in charitable support due to a fundraising initiative led by a law firm.

The 2025 Franklins £50 Challenge begins in February, which this year will raise money for a record 12 charities, including seven new beneficiaries.

The challenge, organised by Franklins Solicitors, gives £50 to teams from businesses across the region and invites them to use the cash to generate as much money as possible for their chosen charity.

Franklins received more than 40 applications from charities eager to benefit from the annual challenge, which first launched in 2018 and has raised more than £135,000 since.

“Each year, the £50 Challenge continues to grow and attract more participation,” said Franklins partner Andrea Smith. “This year, we were thrilled to receive over 40 applications from charities eager to join the 2025 campaign. It was an extremely difficult decision to narrow this down, so much so that we decided to select 12 charity partners—a 25% increase from last year.”

Lifting the lid on hospice emotions

If a picture paints a thousand words, so the song goes. And photographer Nick Freeman has done just that through a series of striking images highlighting the people at Cransley Hospice in Kettering.

The hospice trust commissioned Nick to take a series of photographs earlier this year for its new website. His images were so impactful that the hospice opted to use them to highlight the different emotions of staff working at or for the hospice.

Nick whittled a collection of 25 blackand-white portraits of nurses, volunteers, therapists, consultants, doctors, and support staff down to 12, which were displayed at the Every Moment Matters exhibition at the Rooftop Arts Centre in Corby.

“After more than 30 years of being a photographer, I am used to telling stories through photos and capturing candid facial expressions and body language,” said Nick. “It has been an enormous privilege to use this exhibition as an opportunity to lift the lid on the realities of hospice and palliative care through raw, dramatic portraits of tired doctors, friendly volunteers, and the smiles of support staff.”

Cransley Hospice has used Nick’s colour photographs on its new website. “We realised just how striking they were in black and white,” said marketing manager Jennie Rees. “Each face tells a story.”

This year’s benefiting charities are, in Northampton: Air Ambulance Service, Cynthia Spencer Hospice, The Lewis Foundation, Northampton Hope Centre, Rainbows Hospice, and YMCA.

“We are really excited to be working with local charities who do amazing work in our communities and rely on public support to help make this happen,” said Andrea.

“We encourage as many businesses as possible to sign up and make a difference.”

The Franklins £50 Challenge, under the tagline Local Help and Hope for Every Generation, begins on February 24 and runs until May 24.

Find out more, including how to enter, at franklins50.co.uk.

“As well as raising money to help make a positive impact in the local community, it provides a collaborative opportunity for team-building, networking, creativity, and fun,” said Andrea.

Grants application deadline looms

The deadline is looming for rural businesses in North Northamptonshire to apply for grants of up to £50,000.

North Northamptonshire Council has relaunched a scheme backed by money from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. Applications focusing on rural diversification are invited for capital projects that can be delivered in full by the end of February,

particularly projects supporting the visitor economy.

Council leader Jason Smithers said: “We know that the previous four rounds of this grant scheme have had such a big impact to a variety of rural businesses.”

Applications for the final round of funding must be received by December 16. To apply, email ukspf@ northnorthants.gov.uk.

TV presenter and businessman Nick Hewer joins Franklins partners

Simon Long and Andrea Smith to launch the Franklins £50 Challenge 2025

Nick Freeman at the Every Moment Matters exhibition

MP celebrates a community HERo

One of Northamptonshire’s leading female business owners has been awarded an MP HERoes Award in recognition of her achievements in business and her commitment to Northamptonshire’s charity and nonprofit sector.

Jessica Pilkington, founder and director of Northampton-based PR and marketing company Pilkington Communications, was nominated for the award by Mike Reader, MP for Northampton South, and received her award at Westminster Palace.

In her new role as an MP HERo, she will now attend regular events at Parliament and be called upon to champion female entrepreneurship in the UK.

“This is a huge honour,” Jessica said. “I am particularly proud as this is the first year a Northamptonshire person has been selected for this award. This is all about building a talent pool of local role models, successful business owners with ambition to grow, who lead the way for other women.

“I am passionate about this and proud to be in such incredible company.”

The MP HERoes programme, now in its

PR agency founder Jessica Pilkington receives a MP HERoes award for her work with the county’s third sector.

third year, champions successful women business owners across the country.

The programme is run by the think tank Savvitas in partnership with NatWest and pairs each MP with a successful female business owner in their constituency to encourage, celebrate, and support female entrepreneurship.

Mike Reader, who secured the Northampton South seat in July’s General Election, said: “Jessica and her team demonstrate how local businesses can make a real difference in our community. Their work making high-quality marketing services accessible to charities and social enterprises helps amplify the impact of vital organisations across Northampton.”

Pilkington Communications has offices in Delapré Abbey and specialises in working with charities, social enterprises, and not-for-profits. Clients include Groundwork Northamptonshire, Deafconnect, Community Law Service,

Brackmills Business Improvement District, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, 60 Miles, Made With Many, and Commsave Credit Union.

“Our team are driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to great marketing and communications support,” said Jessica. “In the charity and wider not-for-profit sector, budgets might be restricted but ambitions rarely are. I passionately believe that brilliant, clever, and creative comms should be available to all. Making a difference to these organisations is incredibly rewarding.”

The company is also a supporter of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, donating monthly to the charity’s Corporate Giving Network.

Outside working hours, Jessica is a trustee of Northampton Community Spaces. She is also a founding member of a charitable fund that provides bursaries to support secondary school students with neurodiverse challenges.

Harry’s Fund was launched earlier this year by Jessica and her husband, and Pilkington Communications co-director, David Chadwick, in memory of their son Harry, who died six years ago aged 19.

Jessica Pilkington

A forum of business and local authority leaders has taken the first steps to strengthen trade links between the Silverstone region and the booming Chinese economy. Andrew Gibbs reports.

China: Ready to reconnect and ready to do business

Initial steps are being taken to forge a new commercial relationship with China that could bring a multi-million-pound boost to the South Midlands economy.

The “Crown Jewel” of Silverstone will be the epicentre of a movement to develop strong collaborative links with Chinese cities and provinces mirroring the Silverstone region across Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire with its specialisms in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and motorsport.

Senior Chinese representatives have indicated that their homeland is ready to welcome businesses in Milton Keynes and the wider region with a view to nurturing those relationships. Speaking at a forum at Silverstone Park, Madam Bao, Minister for Economic & Commercial Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in London, said China was preparing to remove market access restrictions in manufacturing, to increase the number of nations it would consider for investment, and to open its telecoms, internet education, culture, and medical sectors more to the rest of the world.

China’s trade figures overseas have

grown in more than 160 countries and regions around the world this year, she added. Imports and exports are at a record high, and the Chinese government is implementing a five-pronged plan to stimulate economic growth.

“We have to change the narrative from a negative one to a more balanced perspective.”

Northamptonshire already has established links with China since 2018, when the University of Northampton helped to facilitate the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by the then-Northampton Borough Council and the city of Dalian in north-east China.

“We have over the years developed some significant relationships between the Northamptonshire region and China, with Silverstone at its heart, given its insights and experience in generating an industrial cluster with a supporting ecosystem based around a racetrack,” said Associate Professor Adrian Pryce DL

of the University of Northampton, one of the forum organisers.

The region is looking to work with both the UK and Chinese governments. Following Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s visit in October, China has agreed to restore full dialogue and cooperation with the UK, marking progress in a previously frosty relationship between the two nations. Its government is also ready for “mutually beneficial cooperation” in trade, finance, green development, science and technology, health, education, and culture, Madam Bao said in her presentation to the forum.

China wants business communities on both sides to seize the opportunities, she added. She encouraged regional businesses to explore the Chinese market and foster “fruitful exchanges.”

Adrian said: “We have to change the narrative about China from a negative one to a more balanced perspective, based on a reconnection in which the UK challenges, competes and collaborates with China as appropriate.

“In terms of trade, investment and

non-sensitive R&D, the focus should be on collaboration. There is strength in working together. You cannot enter and win in the Chinese market on your own; it has to be done in stages, city by city. Regional civic-business alliances working with the British and Chinese governments are key to exploiting the opportunities and managing risk.”

Chinese technology has moved forward apace, to the point where the worry among Western corporates that China would simply welcome their products only to copy and produce them at a far cheaper price is now a concern within its own economy.

“The level of engineering now is so advanced that they are worried about their own IP and R&D,” said Adrian. “We should be trying to secure fresh investment through R&D partnerships.”

The Silverstone UK-China Business Forum was chaired by John McLean, who chairs the China UK Business Development Centre, the London branch of the Institute of Directors and is a senior adviser to the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK. He holds an OBE for his work in China over 25 years.

“The aim is to take a proactive position on Anglo-Chinese relations,” said John. “If China is opening up then we must be proactive in embracing that opportunity.”

The UK already receives requests to visit from between 40 and 50 Chinese delegations a year. “Many are attracted by the Silverstone Technology Cluster and there is an appetite to do business,” said John.

Speaking at the forum was Steve Lynch, former managing director of the British Chamber of Commerce in China and now executive director at the Eastern Powerhouse and director at Beijing to Britain, and Professor Shaowei He, of the University of Northampton.

They were joined by Jeff Astle, managing director at global public affairs and strategic communications

consultancy APCO Worldwide and China Group Ambassador at the IoD, as well as senior representatives of West and North Northamptonshire Councils and Buckinghamshire Council. Also round the table were representatives of the Federation of Small Businesses as well as other trade and professional bodies.

The forum aims to follow the successful path of Liverpool China Partnership, an award-winning organisation set up in 2015 to expand Liverpool and the city region’s business, academic and civic partnerships with China.

Shaowei said: “There is a recognition of a need for a strong regional platform as an umbrella for this collaborative relationship and to follow the LiverpoolChina relationship. We want to build the Silverstone UK China partnership for Northamptonshire and align it with the emerging Silverstone ecosystem strategic vision that the university is working on with Buckinghamshire and West Northamptonshire Councils, Silverstone Park, and Silverstone Circuits.”

“It is a massive market, a great influence on the world economy and we would be fools to ignore it.”

Liverpool China Partnership president Gary Millar has led many delegations to China and hosted more than 200 visits to Merseyside. “My own experience highlights just how effective and pioneering our teamwork has been,” he said. “It has been recognised that we have helped create strong friendships and outstanding mutual cooperation between our two great countries.

“Our networks are extensive, and

our connections the envy of other global cities.”

Now the call has gone out to businesses across the NorthamptonshireBuckinghamshire region either looking for new import/export markets or to forge close collaborative links with China to join the forum.

“In two years’ time I would like to see a thriving relationship with at least one major Chinese city and/or province where we have created a bridge for Northamptonshire businesses to collaborate successfully with Chinese businesses in terms of trade, innovation, and investment flows,” said Adrian. “We want to persuade people to take notice. China is ahead of us in so many ways. It is a massive market, a great influence on the world economy and we would be fools to ignore it. If we engage, we can profit from it.”

Today’s China is changing fast, with Western influences combining with the country’s traditional way of life.

“The emerging middle class represents untapped demand, and they have a strong interest in premium as well as up-and-coming artisan brands,” said Adrian. “If yours is a business that has the potential to grow, the Chinese market is enormous.

“With the university’s many existing links in China and John McLean’s China UK Business Development Centre working together with local authorities, we can create a solid platform for inward investment and R&D to drive growth and productivity as well as opening up significant new markets.”

n To find out more about the Silverstone UK-China Business Forum, email Adrian Pryce at Adrian.pryce@northampton.ac.uk

The Silverstone UK-China Business Forum took a tour of their host venue Silverstone Park, including the Innovation Centre

Adrian Pryce

Northamptonshire Business Awards

Businesspeople, you are incredible

Hundreds of Northamptonshire’s leading businesspeople and companies were at Sywell Aerodrome to toast the winners at the Northamptonshire Business Awards.

A total 16 awards were presented on the night to the county’s leading businesses, businesspeople and community organisations.

The big winner on the night was The Chester House Estate, which took the Small Business of the Year award back to Irchester. Its business manager Jack Pishorn received the Business Person of the Year award.

Another double winner was Northampton kickboxing school Proaction Martial Arts & Fitness, which collected the

Customer Commitment award and was named West Northamptonshire’s Business of the Year.

The Pinnacle Award, presented by Northamptonshire Business Awards’ headline sponsor Wilson Browne Solicitors, went to O’Sullivan Financial Planning, based at Lamport near Brixworth.

The Northamptonshire Business Awards were organised by Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce. Its chief executive Louise Wall said: “What a night. The Northamptonshire Business Awards 2024 celebrated everything that is fantastic about our local community and the incredible businesspeople within it.

“Their stories, their journeys and their achievements were a joy to witness.”

The 300 guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course dinner and entertainment on the evening.

The Chamber’s group commercial director Sunny Singh said: “A huge thank you once again to our sponsors, all attendees, the brilliant staff at Sywell Aerodrome and the Chamber team for all their hard work in organising a wonderful event. We look forward to doing it all again in 2025”

Photos: Nick Freeman Photography.

“Our awards champion hard work, tenacity, determination and success and I speak on behalf of the entire team at the Chamber of how proud we are not just for all the awards winners but every single one of this year’s amazing finalists.

CHARITY OF THE YEAR

CUSTOMER COMMITMENT

WORKPLACE WELLBEING

Sponsor: Retail Technology Services

Finalists: hireful; Northamptonshire Health Charity; Silverstone Leasing.

Sponsor: Learning & Skills Academy CIC

Finalists: Accommodation Concern; Northamptonshire Rape Crisis; Northamptonshire Sport.

Winner: The KidsAid Foundation

BEST NEW BUSINESS

Sponsor: Dunore

Finalists: EquiTech Group; Milestone Projects; SinglePoint Calls.

Winner: Simply Techspace

YOUNG BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: University of Northampton

Finalists: Jamie Jackson (S&A Hotels); Teegan Jones (Proaction Martial Arts); Richard Parkes (High Voltage Systems & Services).

Winner: Oliver Stacey (Artemis UK)

DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE

Sponsor: Mannol UK

Finalists: Issured; Paradigm Shift Consulting; Tresham College.

Winner: hireful

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: Paradigm Shift Consulting

Finalists: Beccy Hurrell Voice & Arts; EquiTech Group; Silverstone Leasing.

Winner: The Chester House Estate

Sponsor: Tresham College, part of the Bedford College Group

Finalists: Artemis UK; dbfb; SinglePoint Calls.

Winner: Proaction Martial Arts

WEST NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

Sponsor: West Northamptonshire Council Finalists: Agilivo; Great Central Plastics. Winner: Sedgebrook Hall

NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

Sponsor: Wise Parking

Finalists: Encore Environment; Marlec Engineering; Tresham College.

Winner: See Limited

WEST NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: West Northamptonshire Council

Finalists: HES Sales; The NX Group; Wallace Hind Selection.

Winner: Proaction Martial Arts

NORTH NORTHAMPTONSHIRE

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: North Northamptonshire Council

Finalists: Beccy Hurrell Voice & Arts; High Voltage Systems & Services; hireful Winner: Accommodation Concern

Winner: Miracle Design and Play

GLOBAL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: RS Group

Finalists: Synergy in Trade; Teltronix UK; Viridian Nutrition.

Winner: C&T Matrix

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: O’Riordan Bond Estate Agents

Finalists: Jas Nicholson (Proaction Martial Arts); Scott Norville (Silverstone Leasing).

Winner: Jack Pishorn (The Chester House Estate)

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: Azets

Finalists: Artemis UK; Miracle Design and Play; Silverstone Leasing.

Winner: VMS

HIGH GROWTH BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Sponsor: Mannol UK

Finalists: Acorn Analytical Services; Moulton College; O’Sullivan Financial Planning. Winner: Paradigm Shift Consulting

PINNACLE AWARD

Sponsor: Wilson Browne Solicitors

Finalists: Miracle Design and Play; Silverstone Leasing.

Winner: O’Sullivan Financial Planning

The brand just fits my personality

Graphic designer Ashley John lost everything during the pandemic. Without a home, he, his wife, and their newborn baby were forced to sleep in their car.

A business acquaintance, willing to help, came to his rescue by offering him a job, which helped him get his family back on track. Then came a life-changing offer from a close friend—to invest in Ashley and set him up in his own business.

“I was trying to build myself back up, but I was so sick of doing design as I was never paid my worth, and I doubted myself a lot. My friend, seeing how disillusioned I had become, said, ‘We are going to get you your own office and clients,’ and he invested in my business to help me find my own space and brand it how I wanted.”

He and his agency OYNK moved into Vulcan Works in Northampton in August. However, the agency had long been a dream of Ashley’s. He bought the OYNK web domain in 2018.

“I was looking for four-letter domains for websites as they are easier for people to remember and rank higher on the internet. I came across OYNK, and it just fits me. It is a talking point.”

Ashley John

Homeless, his prospects seemed bleak until support from a friend enabled Ashley John to get back on his feet.

Now OYNK has its own base in Vulcan Works’ St John’s Building.

“At the beginning, it is like being the new kid in school, but there are people walking around who you can have conversations with, and I have already taken part in business sales coaching meetings for help with sales.

“Before that, I was afraid of talking to

other companies as I was worried about being a pest.”

The in-house training has already paid dividends. Until recently, Ashley’s clients came entirely from word-of-mouth referrals. Now, networking and personally selling OYNK’s services is starting to pay off.

“Your brand should be your personality,” said Ashley. “You run a company the way you are as a person, and if you do not have that connection, then who are you trying to sell to?

“I am an observer, and I use that to help create a brand. But being autistic, I see things very differently from other designers.”

He had originally planned to view a different building, but before he could secure an appointment, he discovered serviced office space at Vulcan Works in the heart of Northampton’s Cultural Quarter.

At the viewing, centre manager Garrick Hurter outlined the business support on offer at the centre. “Ashley is an inspirational business owner, and it is fantastic for Vulcan Works to be a part of his story,” Garrick said. “OYNK has been a fantastic addition to our community.”

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Spotlight shines on small business

Small firms in Northampton are ready to take centre stage for Small Business Saturday this month. And the town had a taste of what is to come on December 7 when the Small Business Saturday national roadshow rode into town.

‘The Tour’ undertook behind the scenes visits to several small businesses in the county, including Abraxas, a familyowned kitchen shop run by sisters Helen Sparrow and Sarah George at the Heart of the Shires shopping village near Weedon and Grandbies coffee shop and boutique in Northampton.

The roadshow team also met with business coach Lucienne Shakir and carried out a series of interviews with local leaders including from West Northamptonshire Council for social media ahead of the national Small Business Saturday.

The campaign aims to highlight small business success, encouraging consumers to shop local and to support businesses in their communities.

Cllr Daniel Lister, West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for local economy, culture and leisure, said: “Putting a spotlight on the

Abraxas kitchen shop at the Heart of the Shires shopping village welcomed the Small Business Saturday roadshow ahead of the ‘big day’ on December 7

incredible businesses we have in this area is a top priority as we endeavour to deliver inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits every local resident and business. We cannot wait for Small Business Saturday on December 7 and implore everyone in this area and beyond to hit the streets on Small Business Saturday and support small businesses all year round.”

Full of beans at reseller deal

Independent coffee roaster Well Roasted Coffee has become the official regional seller of a new plastic-free coffee cup that its creator says sets new eco standards. The company, based near Desborough, has partnered with The Good Cup to become its official seller in Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Rutland.

Well Roasted Coffee founder William Scott said: “We believe that our customers and fellow coffee lovers a will appreciate the practicality, sustainability, and sleek design of The Good Cup. It is time to enjoy coffee with a conscience.”

Michelle Ovens, director of Small Business Saturday UK, added: “It was fantastic to visit Northampton and hear the ambition and passion of its local small businesses.

“Small businesses make an invaluable contribution to the local community here and across the whole of the UK and it is so important we all support them on Small Business Saturday and beyond.”

www.moore.co.uk

Our focus is to understand our clients and their business

Industry expertise

Look for a broker who understands your specific industry.

They should be familiar with the unique risks your business faces and recommend policies tailored to your needs. For example, a broker experienced in construction may offer insights on liability, while one focused on retail might highlight product risks.

The main question is: Does the broker understand your business?

Market access

Ensure the broker has access to a broad network of insurers. This allows them to provide competitive quotes and find specialised coverage options that suit your business needs.

Limited access might mean fewer choices and higher premiums.

Reputation and references

Research the broker’s reputation by checking online reviews or asking for client references.

A strong track record of service and reliability can indicate their ability to handle claims, provide ongoing support, and act in your best interest.

Danny Flowers,

managing director of Motum

Insurance Services, puts himself in the client’s shoes when it comes to choosing an insurance broker.

Customer service and communication

Evaluate their responsiveness and willingness to explain policies clearly.

A good broker should act as a partner, offering proactive advice and being available to answer questions or assist with claims throughout the policy term.

Find out about their aftersales service, a broker which only focuses on selling you a policy is unlikely to provide any real service post sale.`

Cost versus value

Consider the balance between price and the value of their services.

The cheapest option is not always the best. Focus on the broker’s ability to provide comprehensive coverage, risk management advice and claims support, which could save your business money in the long run.

By prioritising these factors, you can select a commercial insurance broker who will best serve your business needs.

Culture

Are your business cultures aligned? People buy people and if you cannot get on with your broker at some level, the chances are your relationship will not last beyond the initial policy period.

A good relationship allows both parties to be open and honest about any challenges with both the policy and the business.

At Motum we focus on understanding our client and their business. For us, making sure we provide the right levels of cover at the right price is equally as important as ensuring our values align.

Danny Flowers

Recognised for what I do every day

The winner of Micro Business of the Year at the National Business Women’s Awards has reflected on what the accolade means for her and her thriving HR business.

“HR is not often seen as a positive thing, but I really hope to change that perception of my profession,” said Natalie Ellis, owner and director of Rebox HR.

She founded the company, based in Daventry, in 2020 and was one of ten finalists in the category. Natalie and her colleague, HR consultant Faye Ramsey, attended the awards ceremony at the Leonardo Royal Tower Bridge Hotel in London.

“I still cannot believe what happened—it still feels like a blur,” said Natalie. “It means a lot to be recognised for what I do every day, and it was so lovely to celebrate in a room filled with ambitious and likeminded women.”

The awards judges hailed Natalie, who has worked in HR for 18 years, as being “well-respected and loved in her

“I still cannot believe what happened - it is all a bit of a blur.”

profession. We look forward to seeing more from her and her business in the future,” their citation added.

Damian Cummins, the awards’ managing director, said: “The National Business Women’s Awards shine a spotlight on females in the field doing Britain proud and providing confidence in business to those climbing the ladder, looking for inspiration from women in business.”

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Natalie Ellis with Rebox HR’s award as Micro Business of the Year.

Below: Natalie with awards director Damian Cummins

Lionel Naidoo, MD of Dragon Information Systems, on navigating tech jargon when

you are a small business.

Helping SMEs to cut through the tech speak

When you are a growing business with big ambitions, having the right technology in place can make all the difference. But with so much jargon and ‘tech speak’ around, it may feel like a challenge to navigate.

According to a recent study, 57% of small firms do not understand what the term ‘digital transformation’ actually means - and that could see them missing out.

For those that have digitalised, revenues grew by 8.1%, with two-thirds of small businesses saying digitalisation made their business run more smoothly, 28% saying it helped them get paid faster and 38% saying it improved their customer experience.

At Dragon IS, technology is our passion and for more than a decade we have been supporting SMEs to gain the greatest value from their IT systems. We aim to make things simple - and a big part of that is how we communicate.

We will never bamboozle anyone with jargon or tech speak. In this article, I attempt to explain and demystify some terms small businesses are likely to encounter.

CMS (Content Management System)

A CMS is a platform that allows you to create, edit and manage your website content without the need for any specific type of technical expertise. In recent years we have seen more and more CMSs popping up and that means it has never been easier to

Prepare your organisation’s IT environment for AI

manage a website with little or no experience. Why it matters: Using a CMS can help to simplify website management, saving you time and boosting productivity.

Responsive Design

This refers to the ability of a website design to adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes. So, whether someone visits your website on a desktop computer, tablet or mobile, the experience will be optimised for the device they are using.

Why it matters:: Having a responsive website is crucial to provide a positive user experience and stopping people ‘bouncing’ off – simply leaving the site as soon as they arrive (and potentially head straight to a competitor). It can also help to boost SEO.

Cloud Computing / Cloud Telephony

Long gone are the days of businesses needing to have an onsite server and dedicated hardware. With cloud computing, employees can access company systems and data from anywhere and at any time. All they need is an internet connection. The same goes for telephone systems. Rather than being chained to a phone on a desk, with cloud telephony and the move to digital, employees can communicate from anywhere. Why it matters: Cloud services offer scalability, cost savings and flexibility. They make working remotely or on the move easy.

CRM (Customer Relationship Management System)

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CRM software can help businesses to manage contacts and sales leads, record interactions and marketing efforts all in one place. They can be great for helping teams to spot trends and ensure they do not miss new business opportunities. Some popular examples include HubSpot, SalesForce and Zoho. Why it matters: A good CRM system can streamline customer communications and help you to nurture leads effectively.

Phishing

Phishing is a form of cyber attack where scammers will impersonate a legitimate entity - pretending to be a bank, the Post Office, HM Revenue & Customs or other company, for example – in order to trick users into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or their credit card details. Why it matters: Recognising phishing attempts helps prevent data breaches and financial losses.

Social engineering

Social engineering is the name given to cyber attacks that prey on humans, such as phishing emails, text messaging (smishing) and phone calls (vishing). In each case, a cyber criminal will attempt to trick an employee into clicking on a malicious link or volunteering sensitive information. The approach will usually include a time-sensitive call to action.

Why it matters: Unfortunately, all it takes is one employee for this type of attack to be successful. It is a weak spot to which even major multinational corporations have fallen victim.

Here at Dragon IS, we work with small and medium-sized businesses, helping them with a broad range of issues relating to their IT infrastructure and cybersecurity. Email info@dragon-is.com or call us on 0330 363 005.

Photo:

David Wilson South Midlands

My bowlfuls of wellbeing inspiration

The importance to business performance of a healthy mind and body is a key message at the FSB Business Bootcamp next month. The FSB’s Jennifer Thomas explains.

Ihave just bought a soup-maker. Yes, we are about to enter the season of baked camembert and toffee pennies… and I am preparing. It seemed like a no-brainer, having overheard someone say last month at a business event that they eat homemade soup every day, helping them save time, save money, and stay healthier. It is a simple idea, but I needed the recommendation from a like-minded person to put it into action.

In last month’s article, in the run-up to the FSB Business Bootcamp: New Year Refresher event at the end of January, at which we focus on “getting your mind, body, and business ready for the year ahead,” I wrote about planning a strategy for the year ahead.

I encouraged taking time before the Christmas rush to think about what you want to achieve in business, how you might get there, and where you might find advice, support, and information.

This month, I am focusing on the ‘mind and body’ element of the Bootcamp. If you are like me, you are about to embark on a month of eating, partying, and stressing. I am by no means a health and wellbeing specialist nor even an outstanding enthusiast, but this Bootcamp aims to provide some achievable and flexible tips—including tips on mindset, nutrition, and physical wellbeing—for you as a business owner to feel better and do better in business.

Health and wellbeing mean something different to everyone. For me, it simply

means feeling good and being able to focus on what is important to me with minimal (or ideally no) stress, exhaustion, or discomfort.

A few years ago, I regularly worked myself ill, ending up suffering from either exhaustion or tonsillitis as I tried to enjoy time off with my young family. Having developed (and failed to take time off for) shingles, I ended up with a permanent scar on one eye, which affects my vision and is a constant reminder that nothing is more important than our health.

I will tell that story to anyone who will listen if I think they are compromising their health for their work.

Last year at Bootcamp, one presentation from We Are PEAC focused on finding joy in running your business, which is often an afterthought or seemingly unachievable luxury for those working long hours in their own businesses.

The presentation outlined some scientific pillars for individuals to consider personally, from our behaviours, emotions, and thoughts to the importance of the brain, gut, and heart, resting finally on three areas of focus to find your joy: ‘Connection,’ ‘Playfulness,’ and ‘Your Strengths.’

We also heard from Dr Nicholas Peat and his wife Vanessa Peat, founders of Northamptonshire-based nutrition specialist Uniquely Created U, about nutrition and physical health, including harmful and healing foods, what to eat for lunch to overcome afternoon sleepiness, and how bad posture can risk organ damage such as heart disease, an overproductive pancreas, and some cancers.

It is not just about advice from the experts. What tips would you share about keeping your mind and body healthy (making fresh soup every day, for example)? At January’s Bootcamp, we want everyone to discuss and consider valuable tips and recommendations, whether you are looking for a professional to offer some deep-dive information, oneto-one guidance, or just a few tips from like-minded laypeople.

Discussing health and wellbeing, sharing tips, and listening to advice from both experts and people just like you could be

the most valuable thing you do this year for you and your business.

Wishing you a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year, and see you on January 30. Book your place on the FSB website fsb.org.uk, email me at jennifer. thomas@fsb.org.uk for general info or sponsorship, or scan the QR code on this page.

n Next month, I will focus on the last instalment of the FSB Bootcamp buildup for the January edition—staying competitive, connected. Our speakers at FSB Business Bootcamp on this subject will include Kerry Lewis-Stevenson, director of Business Times publisher Pulse Group Media.

Jennifer Thomas is the FSB’s development manager in Northamptonshire.

Dr Nicholas Peat and his wife Valerie at the 2024 FSB Business Bootcamp

Jennifer Thomas

South Midlands Growth Hub

Network of partners boost our support offer

In light of the recent budget announcements relating to SMEs, now more than ever businesses need to know where to go to understand these changes and ensure they are not only compliant but also implement these changes in the most efficient way for their business.

That is where your Growth Hub can help. Most readers of this magazine are eligible for fully funded support from us at the South Midlands Growth Hub as long as they have a business in Northamptonshire, Milton Keynes, or Bedfordshire.

Our support can look very different for every business, depending on the challenges you are facing and your growth aspirations. Alongside our free events programme and our library of free resources, all SMEs in the region can access our business adviser team for tailored one-to-one support for as long as needed.

You will have the opportunity to undertake a deep dive diagnostic with our advisers, produce an action plan to implement to help achieve your goals, and have regular review sessions to monitor progress and overcome any obstacles.

Some challenges are niche and require tailored advice from industry experts. That

is where our network of partners comes in. We have worked hard to develop relationships with more than 70 key partners and stakeholders in the region so we can access the most appropriate guidance for you.

There were some big changes announced in recent weeks by the

HIGH QUALITY OFFICES AVAILABLE TO LET

Chancellor which will have an impact on the majority of businesses in the South Midlands. The Growth Hub is proud to have partnered with TC Group, a local accountancy practice with an expert tax team, to share some of these key changes for employers and what they mean, particularly the rises in Employer National Insurance Contributions.

Read the full report at tc-group.com/ autumn-budget-hub/.

We will also be working with TC Group throughout 2025 to deliver a dedicated workshop on preparing exit strategies and exploring how the changes to both inheritance tax and capital gains tax could impact a successful exit.

This is just one example of how we can support businesses far beyond our own in-house knowledge when it comes to needing expert advice and guidance. Our partners are always forthcoming in helping us and, in turn, the businesses we support across the South Midlands. This ensures that stability, growth, and prosperity remain central to our mission of supporting businesses.

n Find out more at growthhub. southmidlands.org.uk/

Ruth Roan, Growth Hub manager

Warehouse to be focus of growth plan

Pro Tiler Tools has signed a 15-year lease for a 138,000 sq ft warehouse unit (pictured) at Prologis Park Pineham on the outskirts of Northampton.

The company, part of the Topps Group, supplies tiles and tiling equipment. The warehouse will serve as a base for its growth plans following a major refurbishment.

Ash Patel, head of property at Topps Tiles, said: “Finding the right partner and location was key to expanding our operations, and Prologis and Pineham Park provided exactly that. Being close to our existing operation for our staff while also

having the prime distribution location by J15A M1 perfectly meets our logistical and operational needs.”

and

Nursery operator buys new building

Demand for quality childcare has driven a Northampton day nursery operator’s acquisition of a building that formerly housed another day nursery in Kingsthorpe.

The Redbrick Day Nursery has paid an undisclosed sum for the building, previously a day nursery registered for 32 children.

Director Quentin Wade said: “We felt it was essential to open another day nursery in the area as the demand for quality childcare has been outstripping supply. Families in Kingsthorpe and the surrounding communities deserve accessible, high-quality childcare, which supports their children’s growth and

Forterra building for sale at £2m

The freehold of the office building currently occupied by building supplies company Forterra in Northampton has been listed for sale.

The 10,818 sq ft office block is expected to catch the eye of regional, national, and international investors. It is being marketed at £2 million + VAT.

Nick Bosworth, agency surveyor at commercial property consultancy Kirkby Diamond, which is marketing the building on behalf of its current owners, said: “We are confident it will attract a range of investors. Its prime location in Northampton and attractive yield make it highly appealing.”

Forterra Building Products Ltd is the current occupier, having agreed a five-year lease. The annual rent on the property is just over £158,000. Nick described the property as “an

development. The Redbrick Day Nursery will not only help meet this growing demand but will also positively contribute to the local community. It aims to create jobs and provide a nurturing environment where children can thrive.”

The property was marketed by specialist business property adviser Christie & Co following an extensive redecoration.

“Further evidence of existing operators having confidence in the current market.”

David Eaves, director of childcare and education, said: “It was clear there was significant opportunity for a new operator to add value. The property was already well configured, and I am delighted that Quentin and the team have opened the setting to new families, expanding the previous capacity by utilising the property to its fullest potential.

“This has been a great example of matching the right property with the right buyer at the right time and is further evidence of existing operators having confidence in the current market by bringing a vacant property back into use to satisfy the increasing demand for high-quality childcare and education.”

exceptional investment opportunity.”

The building is a modern, detached, two-storey office unit built in 2008. It includes ground and first floor office accommodation, a reception area, suspended ceilings, a lift to the first floor, and 36 allocated car parking spaces.

It is situated on the Grange Park logistics business park to the south of Northampton town centre, close to Junction 15 of the M1 with access to the A45 and A43 trunk roads.

“Opportunities to acquire properties of this calibre in such a strategic location near the M1 are rare,” Nick said.

The park is also home to leading brands, including supermarket giants Sainsbury’s and Morrisons, BMW,

Wincanton.

Collaboration: The economic impact

The University of Northampton, in its current form, is one of the youngest universities in the UK. However, the institution has foundations dating back to 1924, with the establishment of Northampton Technical College.

Following several mergers and iterations over time, including Nene College and University College Northampton, research degree awarding powers and university status led to the establishment of the University of Northampton in 2005.

The next major milestone for the university occurred in September 2018 with the opening of its Waterside Campus, a capital investment designed to build a whole new, sustainable university that enhances the experiential learning of its students, including accommodation, facilities, and modern teaching spaces. The Waterside Campus is close to Northampton town centre, alongside the River Nene, and brought together UON’s two campuses into one central location, easily accessible for students, staff, and the wider community.

UON’s purpose is to create social impact and was recently ranked in the top 100 universities in the world by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for its role in reducing inequalities, supporting students, and improving sustainability. In 2023-24, the university

The University of Northampton is preparing to publish the findings of its Economic Impact Assessment report

was home to 15,370 students, and directly employed 2,580 staff. It is recognised as an anchor institution—an organisation with a significant presence in its locality through a combination of being a largescale employer and a major purchaser of goods and services. As one of the biggest employers in the county, UON contributes economically, socially, and culturally.

Earlier this year, the university commissioned BiGGAR Economics to assess its economic and social impact over the past six years. Economic impact focuses on the financial and nonfinancial changes created within the local economy.

UON assessed two widely accepted economic measures:

Gross Value Added, which measures the monetary contribution that an organisation adds to the economy through its operations. Employment, measured in terms of headcount jobs supported.

There are three significant types of economic impact:

Direct impact: Direct employment and economic output generated.

Indirect impact: Associated with supplies of goods and services.

Induced impact: Associated with staff spending their wages in the economy.

The scope of the commissioned work includes the county, the wider Oxford-Cambridge Arc, and the UK as a whole. The study reached out to other anchor institutions, including councils, healthcare trusts, major employers, and leading players in key sectors for Northamptonshire, such as logistics and manufacturing.

The Economic Impact Assessment will highlight many ways the university collaborates with businesses and other partners, showcasing the power of working together to support one another and the county as a whole.

At the report’s launch on December 4, key partners and stakeholders will hear a speech from Mike Reader, the MP for Northampton South, on the importance of the higher education sector as UON outlines its economic impact locally, regionally, and nationally.

n The full report will be discussed in the next edition of Business Times.

The next generation: Important for us and the industry

Students are carving out a bright future for themselves thanks to a thriving partnership between a world-leading specialist joinery company and Moulton College in Northampton.

You will find examples of its work in St Paul’s Cathedral and the Barbican Concert Hall in London, as well as at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Leading commercial and prime residential architects in the UK turn to a company on the Northamptonshire border for cabinetry and interior woodwork expertise.

More than four decades later, NBJ (London) continues to supply the world’s leading architects and designers with joinery crafted by blending traditional values with cutting-edge design and innovation.

Having founded the business in 1982, aged 23, in a small village on the border

of Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, Neil Burke opened for business in a former garage. Forty-two years on, NBJ (London) employs more than 55 skilled staff and is passing on its skills, experience, and expertise to the next generation of joiners.

NBJ (London) works closely with Moulton College in Northampton, providing work placements and apprenticeships, advising Furniture Studies course tutors on curriculum content, and delivering industry insights.

“Working closely with colleges and schools to inspire the next generation of bench joiners and specialist craftspeople is vital, not only for the future of our company but also for the woodworking

“There are so many job opportunities out there for the right people.”

trade and the wider construction industry,” said Neil.

Proof of the value of NBJ’s input is evident at its factory, where former Moulton College student Jonah Cotton and current third-year student Jonathan Bull are employed on-site at the firm’s head office in Husbands Bosworth.

Moulton College collaborates closely with employers from a range of industries to develop its students’ skills. This includes workplace behaviours and expectations such as communication, time management, teamwork, and resilience, alongside general and sector-relevant practical skills.

In recognition of the close relationship and the opportunities the company offers its students and staff, Moulton College has presented NBJ with a Skills Heroes award.

“Neil and his team have done so much for our students by helping to develop their skills, which in turn improves their career prospects,” said Furniture Studies lecturer Adam Palmer. “There is a growing skills gap in heritage joinery, specialist woodwork, and the furniture-making industry, meaning there are many job opportunities for the right people.”

The courses focus on furniture design and manufacture, crafted with significant input from employers. “By working with potential future employers such as NBJ, our students get first-hand experience of bench joinery and heritage craft projects, as well as access to the specialist tools in our college workshop to create bespoke pieces of furniture,” Adam added.

Neil and his son Chris—a director in the firm—received the award from Adam at the firm’s head office. “We are delighted to have received a Skills Heroes award from Moulton College,” Neil said. “Our partnership with Moulton College allows us to help shape the curriculum, ensuring students learn relevant skills, while those interested in work placements with us can learn from our dedicated workforce. It is also a great opportunity for us to welcome future talent to NBJ.”

Lecturer Adam Palmer (centre) presents the Skills Heroes award for NBJ (London) to Neil (right) and Chris Burke

Inspectors praise Northampton College’s work targeting its curriculum to employers’ skills needs.

‘A culture of excellence’

Its work with employers and other key stakeholders to ensure its curriculum meets the skills needs of Northamptonshire, the region, and the national economy is a cornerstone of Northampton College’s “culture of excellence,” according to Ofsted inspectors.

The college, ranked the fifth bestperforming in the country in the most recent National Achievement Rate Tables, was subject to a four-day inspection by Ofsted in October.

Ofsted awarded the college a “Good” rating, commending its “welcoming, calm, and supportive environment.” Inspectors also highlighted Northampton College’s continued commitment to equipping students with high-quality skills needed to progress in their learning and future careers.

“Our students are at the heart of everything we do,” said college principal Jason Lancaster. “We are proud to be the leading college in the region and look forward to continuing to supply

future-ready talent to leading employers in Northamptonshire and beyond. We are fortunate to work in a college with a highly positive culture that is built on care for students and a collaborative learning environment.”

The report highlighted specialised courses introduced by the college to address Northamptonshire’s skills needs, including full-time logistics courses in Daventry, footwear apprenticeships, and the launch of a green technologies centre.

Anne-Marie Kilday, Northampton College’s chair of governors, said: “The

Go green with your website at workshop

Eco-friendly web practices are the theme of a free workshop taking place in Northampton this month.

The event, hosted by Poppy Eco Hub and taking place at Vulcan Works on December 4, will highlight eco-friendly ways to elevate a website’s performance, grow visitor engagement and reduce its carbon footprint.

The topics to be covered include: Eco-Optimised Performance: Green hosting, low-code design and image

optimisation can boost speed and reduce emissions.

SEO and Sustainability Synergy: A fast, efficient website enhances SEO, ranks higher and drives organic traffic.

Quick Wins for a Greener Site: Actionable tips on lightweight themes, efficient video codecs and energy-saving hosting options.

The event runs from 9am to 11am. Presenting are Poppy Eco Hub’s founders Marie Cox and Daniel Lister.

challenges for our students are huge, but we are providing them with the tools they need to secure a bright future while working closely with local employers to help shape the curriculum and ensure we meet the local skills agenda.

“Achieving such consistently strong results across all measures is remarkable and a testament to the hard work and professionalism of the staff.”

Jason added: “A rating of ‘Good’ rounds off a successful year for Northampton College, and it is gratifying to see the hard work of both staff and students recognised.”

Northampton College

CLARIFICATION We have been asked to point out that Jason Lancaster is principal at Northampton College and apologise for previous related errors.

Jason Lancaster

Marie Cox and Daniel Lister

Supply chain deal key to health firm’s growth

Consumer healthcare giant Karo Healthcare has agreed a strategic partnership with Northamptonbased Yusen Logistics to support its growth strategy and strengthen its supply chain.

The company, headquartered in Sweden, is a leader in the commercialisation of branded, original over-the-counter products and prescription medicines available in over 90 countries, primarily in Europe and the Nordic regions.

Karo Healthcare aims to build a fastgrowing, pan-European portfolio by expanding its footprint in key markets and increasing the accessibility of its distinctive brands. Yusen Logistics (UK), based in Northampton, will use its Good Distribution Practice-compliant EU road network, along with ocean and air freight solutions, to streamline the distribution of Karo’s products, ensuring they are more accessible to consumers.

Yusen Logistics’ healthcare and global key account director, James Colson (inset), said: “Yusen Logistics’ GDPcompliant services are designed to meet the specialised needs of the healthcare industry, ensuring that high-quality products are delivered to customers in a timely and efficient manner. As a global logistics provider, we offer supply chain solutions through different transport modes that will help Karo to scale their operations to achieve their growth targets.”

Training firms seal acquisition

A specialist in non-clinical healthcare training is set to expand after its acquisition by a fastgrowing driver training business that aims to broaden its reach into new sectors.

The deal for Telford-based TTC Group to acquire Miad Healthcare was brokered by corporate finance specialists at Northamptonbased Watersheds. It means that TTC will begin expansion into the healthcare sector.

Karo’s senior sourcing manager, Jens Lamberth, said: “Partnering with Yusen Logistics allows us to leverage their extensive logistics expertise and robust infrastructure, supporting our growth strategy while upholding the highest standards of efficiency and service.”

Ex-military support earns gold award

Logistics company XPO, which has bases in Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes, has received the UK Armed Forces Covenant’s Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award.

The business employs more than 200 former service personnel. Frederick Hopkins, Head of Engagement at the East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, commented: “XPO has been a leading light in offering support not only to its military veteran colleagues but also to military spouses, volunteers, and reserves within the company.”

XPO has attended various events to support defence personnel with employment and to provide a better understanding of the demands placed on them within the business. This has led

the company to review and reevaluate its policies, including granting extra holiday allocation. XPO has also supported fundraising projects and supply logistics for cadet force operations.

Its Armed Forces Network, with around 200 members, maintains regular communication, and the firm has appointed Chris Green as its director-level Armed Forces Champion.

“This appointment underscores how much of a priority defence is for XPO,” said Lynn Brown, the company’s vice president – human resources – UK & Ireland.

“This prestigious award recognises the collective efforts XPO makes to support and understand the demands faced by our UK Armed Forces colleagues.”

Miad’s growth depended on extra resource in terms of staffing, technology and operational efficiencies, said Watersheds partner John Stopher. “Miad has a successful track record and maintains a pivotal position in helping to improve the healthcare offering in the UK,” he added.

“There is significant growth potential on the horizon.”

n The operation that runs the UK’s main DNA paternity testing laboratory and supplies forensic analysis services to the police has new owners. Orchid Cellmark Ltd, which trades as Cellmark Forensic Services, has been acquired by the Eurofins Scientific Group after clearance by the Competitions and Markets Authority.

As well as carrying out forensic analysis at crime scenes, Lancashire-based Cellmark provides specialist laboratory analysis and interpretation services in the investigation of criminal activity. It carries out forensic analysis and case review for the defence and provides DNA analysis and drug and alcohol testing to government departments, law firms and the public.

The deal was brokered by Northampton-based corporate finance specialists Watersheds. Partner John Stopher (inset) said:

“The process of gaining CMA approval for the transaction to be cleared is uncommon for a deal of this size so this was a fairly unusual one for us. While this did add another layer of complexity to the deal, we were very pleased to have the acquisition approved.”

Policing: A passion, not just a job

Her police hero is Sgt Catherine Cawood, the policewoman played by Sarah Lancashire in the BBC series Happy Valley. Inspired by her determination, resilience, and hard work, Anna O’Donoghue was set on following in her hero’s footsteps.

A year after signing up for the Police Constables Degree Apprenticeship at the University of Northampton, she began her role as a frontline police constable with Northamptonshire Police.

While most apprentices conduct secondary research by analysing existing studies, Anna undertook an original study examining the experiences of women in policing, focusing on misogyny and sexual harassment in the workplace. She sent questionnaires to 1,285 female officers from across the country, of which 250 replied detailing their experiences.

Now, a year after graduating with First Class Honours from the programme, Anna is presenting her research findings and proposed solutions to police officers, staff, and partners at training days across the UK, aiming to raise awareness and drive cultural change.

Detective Superintendent Ganesh Thayanithy of Northamptonshire Police

PC Anna O’Donoghue

said: “It is clear to see that policing is not just a job for Anna. It is a passion, and it has been my absolute privilege to see the impact that can be made by a dedicated police officer. This is just the start, and I cannot wait to see her continue to grow in her role and have further positive influence on policing.

“People who bring fresh thinking and professional curiosity into policing are key in making the changes we need to uphold

the promise we all made when we joined: to serve with fairness, integrity, diligence, and impartiality, upholding fundamental human rights and according equal respect to all people.”

Anna’s research, its results, and subsequent presentations earned her a place among the national finalists at this year’s Department for Education Apprenticeship and Skills Awards. “I have received a lot of recognition and praise around my research, and it is my proudest achievement so far,” she said.

Simon Feist, deputy head of criminal justice studies at the University of Northampton, said: “Her bravery and support for senior leaders at Northamptonshire Police were specifically cited in the award. It takes a strong will as a young woman to enter a workforce and hold up a mirror to them to show exactly what needs to change.

“The fact that she is being listened to is also a testament to the force and its desire to be open, transparent, and above all, inclusive.

“It is great to see Anna recognised at a regional level, but her work has ramifications for police forces around the country.”

News: Appointments

‘Deeply honoured’

Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce confirms appointment of new president Anna Clarke

Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce has named Anna Clarke as its new president.

She replaces Robyn Allen, who concluded her term and stepped down at the Chamber’s AGM last month.

Anna, group director of employer engagement, partnerships, and apprenticeships at Milton Keynes College, has been a non-executive director of the Chamber since 2022. She additionally assumes the presidency of the Chamber’s sister organisation, Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce.

Accepting the appointment at the AGM, she said: “I would first like to thank Robyn for her contribution during her presidency. I am deeply honoured to take on the role of president, and I look forward to working with our members and the Chamber team to further drive economic

growth, innovation, and a vibrant business community in Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.

“With a background in senior leadership roles spanning business development, management, partnerships, and community engagement, I am excited to collaborate with our expert team to deliver the Chamber’s strategic plan alongside my fellow directors.”

At Milton Keynes College, Anna’s role has been to nurture partnerships between businesses and education providers, advancing workforce development and ensuring local

“Her experience and passion for fostering collaboration will be invaluable.”

businesses can access the talent and skills they need.

Chamber chief executive Louise Wall added: “We are thrilled to welcome Anna as the new president of Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce. Her extensive experience and passion for fostering collaboration will be invaluable to the Chamber and our members.

“I am confident that, under her leadership, we will continue to strengthen our support for local businesses and drive ongoing growth and innovation across Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes.”

Towcester-based HR consultancy owner Rachel Collar (inset) has been appointed vice-president of both Chambers.

Four directors join technology

The board of the Silverstone Technology cluster has welcomed four new members. Nick Greenway, global director of marketing and sustainability at Northampton-based Cosworth is joined by Caroline Indge, head of partnerships

cluster board

and innovation at the Milton Keynes College Group, Jaltek business manager Stephen Blythe and Amir Khosh from ST Engineering Antycip.

Long-serving board member Mark Clement, a director at professional

services firm Grant Thornton, said: “From the outset, the STC has always had two representatives of member companies on the board and, with both Simon Holloway from Dynisma and Chris Horton from Performance Projects stepping down, we were looking for replacements for them.

“We also decided that bringing somebody on board with educational expertise would be a benefit, especially in light of our new Skills work stream.”

STC’s new board members (from left) Amir Khosh; Nick Greenway; Caroline Indge; Stephen Blythe

Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce’s new president Anna Clarke (left) with the Chamber’s chief executive Louise Wall

News: Appointments

Speaker, disabled adventurer and content creator Nick Wilson has become the new patron of the Wheelchair Alliance.

Having spent 14 years in the Army before he was forced to retire due to prolapsed discs in his spine, Nick has forged a new life raising awareness through his social media channels of the impact that accessibility, loneliness and suicide has on people with disabilities.

“As a disabled adventurer and creator of accessibility videos, I know first-hand how challenging it can be to navigate the world while living with a disability,” said Nick, who lives in Towcester.

“I see myself as an ambassador for the

Nick Wilson became the first person with disabilities to reach the highest accessible point of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) on a newly developed RockClimber allterrain powerchair without any physical support or assistance aids

The ambassador aiming to break down barriers

disabled community who is committed to breaking down barriers and advocating for greater accessibility in all aspects of life.

“By being a patron of the Wheelchair Alliance, I hope that I will be able to use my own experiences to improve awareness and help generate the vital income needed to cover its core costs.”

The Wheelchair Alliance champions

the needs of wheelchair users across England and lobbies for change on behalf of wheelchair users. Founded in 2015, the organisation now represents around 150,000 wheelchair users.

Chair and chief operating officer Nick Goldup said: “Having Nick as our new patron will be invaluable in helping shape our next steps and ensuring that the voices of wheelchair users are heard.”

A career highlight for the newly crowned ‘King of Spice’

He is being hailed as the ‘king of spice’… Abdul Hye has good reason to celebrate after being named Chef of the Year for the East Midlands at the Bangladesh Caterers Association awards.

Abdul is in charge of the kitchen at Saffron restaurant in Northampton and brought home the award after winning a cook-off against 74 other curry chefs, preparing and cooking from a box of ingredients for the expert panel of judges.

“I feel privileged just to have taken part but for my food to have been recognised as among the best in the country is a highlight of my career,” said Abdul, (pictured fourth from left) with the judges and awards hosts Angellica Bell and Ian Collins.

Saffron owner Naz Islam is the BCA’s press and publications secretary.

“Bangladeshi curry is part and parcel of

modern British life and these awards are a celebration of the incredible talent that continues to shine across our industry,” he said.

At the awards, industry leaders raised concerns over the potential scrapping of current business rate relief benefits, which are due to end on March 31 next year. The current system provides eligible occupied retail, hospitality and leisure properties

with a 75% relief, up to a cash cap limit of £110,000 per business. “Unless this decision is reversed will sound the death knell for hundreds of hospitality businesses,” warned BCA president Oli Khan.

“We need help, we need support and we need immediate reassurance that business rates relief will be extended, otherwise ministers will be waving goodbye to the nation’s favourite dish.”

Appointments

MP relishes challenge to remodel UK jobs market

Corby and East Northamptonshire

MP Lee Barron is the new chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modernising Employment.

Its brief is to focus on the UK becoming the world’s most attractive labour market. Lee was the Midlands regional secretary of the TUC before being elected to the House of Commons in July.

The APPG is made up of MPs and peers from the House of Lords.

“Our work is already under way as we focus on key issues impacting employment in the UK including making us the world’s fastest place to hire people, improve opportunities for all in the labour market, harnessing the latest technology and making our regulation the smartest in the world,” said Lee.

The group has already published its first report under Lee’s chairmanship, focusing on improving employment prospects for

those with criminal convictions.

“Past criminal convictions still present a very real barrier to people wanting to move on with their life and get good work,” said the MP.

“Studies consistently show that too many employers still use past convictions as a reason not to employ someone, irrespective of the relevance of the criminal record. To boost economic growth and help more people into work, it is essential we remove the unnecessary barriers holding people back.”

He urged employers to use the APPG’s report to enhance a fair and ethical hiring process.

Lee is joined on the committee by Conservatives Joe Robertson MP and Lord Lucas, the Liberal Democrats deputy leader Daisy Cooper, Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell and Labour MP Bambos Charalambous.

New era as manufacturer promotes MD

Corby-based See Limited has appointed Daniel McNerney as its new managing director. He previously was managing director at panel manufacturing company Bousfields, one of See Limited’s subsidiaries.

His new role sees him responsible for See Limited’s operating businesses in Corby and Halifax as well as continuing to drive the company’s growth.

Daniel’s appointment follows

the decision by chief executive Robert Thompson and deputy group managing director Jeff Thompson to step back from the day-to-day running of the business.

“They have been instrumental in helping me grow and develop my skills and their wisdom has been invaluable,” said Daniel.

Robert Thompson said: “Daniel’s promotion will bolster our efforts to drive success and growth.”

Council appoints governance chief

Sarah Hall is the new director of governance and monitoring officer at West Northamptonshire Council. She had been the deputy director of law and governance since her arrival in Northamptonshire two years ago from Mansfield District Council

Council chief executive Anna Earnshaw said: “Her extensive experience, commitment to public service and passion for developing people and services will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our governance and deliver for the people of West Northamptonshire.”

Sarah is also a non-executive director of Solace, the UK’s leading membership network for public sector and local government professionals, and a board member of EMLawshare, the UK’s largest legal consortium.

Duo join safety services firm

Ex-RAF firefighter Darren Manning and former laboratory analyst Caitlyn Merrick (pictured) have joined Northampton-based Acorn Safety Services as consultants. Their arrival follows growth in the company’s work delivering legionella and fire risk services. Caitlyn is working as a legionella consultant while Darren is a trainee fire and legionella consultant. Earlier this year Acorn Safety Services appointed operations manager Zeynep Guzelkasap after a move into bigger premises.

Corby and East Northamptonshire MP Lee Barron (centre) chairs the APPG on Modernising Employment

Sarah Hall

Shining a light on plight of homeless

Afilm which brings to life the realities of homelessness and recovery in Northampton is making a powerful statement on the international stage.

Streets of Change, created by One to One Development Trust in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council, is to screen at the Workers Unite Film Festival in New York and the Aesthetica Film Festival in York after featuring last month at the University of Northampton and at the 30th anniversary of the not-for-profit community organisation International Network of Street Papers, which tackles poverty and homelessness, in Glasgow.

“It is truly inspiring,” said Judi Alston, director of Streets for Change and chief executive of One to One Development Trust. “We are dedicated to bringing this project to new audiences and raising awareness of homelessness and poverty locally and globally. We look forward to further impactful projects like this.”

Local organisations including The Hope Centre in Northampton and the Tuesday Night Team are using the Streets of Change VR experience to promote wider understanding.

“It is incredibly powerful to see Streets of Change resonate not only within our local community but also on an international level,” said Cllr Rosie Herring, West Northamptonshire Council’s cabinet member for housing. “This project shines a much-needed light on the human stories behind homelessness and recovery, fostering empathy and

Downpours fail to dampen spirits

Determined golfers braved torrential rain to raise £27,700 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice at its annual golf day.

More than 130 players,including many from local businesses, teed off at Northampton Golf Club. The day, sponsored by marketing agency The Brady Creative, was won by the team from Northampton gym Selected Fitness.

Anita Frith, the hospice’s director of income generation and communications, said: “The efforts of our community make such an incredible contribution to our services.”

Cynthia Spencer Hospice will hold its Spring Golf Day on May 8 at Staverton

Estate agents in Corby have been collecting much-needed goods for Corby Homeless Project to mark National Homelessness Awareness month.

Belvoir’s office in George Street set up a collection point for donations of food and household items for Corby Homeless Project. “Their generous support will help ensure that none of our residents go hungry,” said Homeless Project lead Georgina Henson. “One of our newer residents is a budding chef so he will enjoy

understanding across borders.”

Added Mike Findlay-Agnew, chief executive of the International Network of Street Papers: “All too often, the real-life experience of homelessness is either overlooked or misunderstood. Streets of

getting creative with the donations.”

The project helps rough sleepers by providing small food parcels, clothes or sleeping bags. Surplus goods are shared with the local community, said Georgina.

More than 1,320 people were homeless in Northamptonshire last year. Belvoir’s Corby office manager Martine Crawford said: “Every day we help people move into their new homes. But we are fully aware that there are people who do not have somewhere to call home.”

Change addresses this in an authentic and artistic way that will resonate with our global network of street paper organisations working to end poverty.”

n Watch Streets of Change at youtube. com/watch?v=jLJFw2hzkUE

in Northampton - have raised more than £5,000 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice after completing

Park Hotel and Golf Club, Daventry. n Dan Crask, Max Wright and Alex Rust - colleagues at Acorn Analytical Services

the Three Peaks Challenge.

More than 100 guests, including supporters, dignitaries and community leaders, have dug deep to raise almost £13,500 for The Lewis Foundation.

The occasion was the charity’s annual Gala Ball and the record-breaking sum of £13,490 will enhance the charity’s work providing free gift packs to cancer patients in over 17 hospitals across the region.

The Lewis Foundation’s founder and chief executive Lorraine Lewis said: “It was a truly wonderful evening, bringing together so many people who are passionate about making a difference to the lives of the cancer patients we

Ball nets a record sum for foundation

support. Hearing the patient, hospital staff and family stories reaffirmed why we do what we do on a daily basis and this year’s ball was testament to the power of community in making a difference.”

The ball, held at Fawsley Hall near Daventry, was sponsored by Brightspace Events, The Well-being Company, KS Flowers, Prestige Nursing & Care, Richer View Media Productions, Tinderbox, Goldings Communications and REES

Media & Marketing.

n Employers and individuals are being urged to sponsor a festive hamper for adult cancer patients.

The Lewis Foundation will be handdelivering surprise hampers in the leadup to Christmas to patients in their homes and on the wards. Each hamper costs £45 and sponsors will have their logo and web address on the hamper tag, alongside a message to the recipient. The charity will also share the names and logos of sponsors across its communications and social media channels.

Find out more at thelewisfoundation. co.uk/christmashamper24

Volunteers celebrate King’s Award

Ateam that supports people with complex mental health needs has received the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

The Voluntary Services team from St Andrew’s Healthcare in Northampton has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service for 2024, recognising outstanding work by volunteer groups in their local communities.

The award is the equivalent of a MBE.

St Andrew’s Healthcare’s voluntary services manager Dawn Wright said: “Our volunteers are so generous and bring a special kind of magic to our patients, contributing to their recovery in a variety of different ways.

“We are thrilled to receive this award as it sends a strong message to our local community about how vital volunteers are to the people in our care. Our volunteers provide added benefit to the charity by complementing the work of our paid colleagues. They bring varied skills, experiences and ideas, very often

SUPPORTING LOCAL CHARITIES

providing one-to-one time with patients, which enhances their lives.”

The St Andrew’s Voluntary Services team will receive their award and certificate from James Saunders Watson, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, next year. Two representatives of the organisation will be invited to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace next summer, along with other recipients of this year’s award.

“We value our volunteers as they play

Celebrations begin after news of the Voluntary Service award for the team at St Andrew’s Healthcare

such an important role in our patient’s recovery,” said St Andrew’s Healthcare’s chief executive Dr Vivienne McVey.

“I know many of our volunteers personally and have seen them grow in confidence and gain additional skills. I have also heard many stories where volunteers have brought light to the lives of our patients, many of whom do not have family or friends who visit but have found support and friendship from our volunteers.”

Lorraine and Lee Lewis

GRIFFITHS AIR CONDITIONING

Heat pumps ready to replace gas

As we head towards the end of 2024 and the start of a new year, we reflect on what the past 12 months has brought us and look towards the future.

In the world of construction and especially the building services sector, the emphasis has continued to be energy efficiency and the fight against climate change.

Our government has realised that we cannot go on burning fossil fuels so, from 2025, no new homes will be allowed to have mains gas connected to them. There is much discussion about what will provide the heating and hot water in our houses but one technology that is already proven - and Griffiths have been installing for more than 16 years - is heat pumps.

For those considering replacing an old gas or oil boiler with a heat pump, initial cost has always been a factor. To assist with this, the government’s boiler upgrade scheme grant is now £7,500.

n Contact Griffiths by telephone on 01536 420666, at www.griffithsaircon.co.uk or call into the Energy Efficiency Centre showroom at 111 High Street in Burton Latimer, open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

Inheritance Tax: Budget may prompt an urgent review

Tim Woodgates, partner at chartered accountants Moore, offers some guidance to business owners and individual investors in the wake of the government’s proposed changes to Inheritance Tax.

Ahead of the Budget, the Prime Minister stated that it was time for the UK to face the “harsh light of fiscal reality.” We now know more about who will feel the full impact of that reality, at least in the short to medium term.

In delivering this Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has sought to strike a difficult balance between immediate revenue raising and spending cuts while also focusing on longer-term growth and investment.

This balancing act was shaped by the constraints of manifesto tax promises that limited the government’s options.

As expected, the Chancellor introduced significant changes to Inheritance Tax, which will most affect business owners, farmers and individuals with traditionally IHT-friendly investments such as AIM share portfolios.

AIM share portfolios, which include shares in smaller, growth-focused companies listed on the Alternative Investment Market, remain a key area for IHT planning due to their potential eligibility for tax reliefs such as Business Property Relief.

These groups will most likely need to reassess their current inheritance tax strategies.

IHT rules have remained unchanged for several years. The Nil Rate Band and Residence Nil Rate Band for IHT are currently frozen at £325,000 and £175,000 respectively until April 2028. The government has now extended these freeze periods until April 2030.

The government will also bring unused pension funds and death benefits payable from a pension into an individual’s estate for IHT purposes from April 6, 2027.

This change could lead some estates to surpass the £2 million threshold, at which

“Families may now have to find ways to cover the inheritance tax bill without selling or breaking up the family business.”

point the Residence Nil Rate Band begins to taper away.

Agricultural Property Relief and Business Property Relief will undergo reforms. From April 2026, the first £1 million of combined eligible agricultural and business assets will receive 100% relief. However, any assets above this threshold will only qualify for 50% relief.

Additionally, the government will reduce the rate of BPR to 50% for shares in companies not listed on a recognised stock exchange, such as those on AIM.

A new residence-based system for IHT will be introduced on April 6, 2025, which will close the use of offshore trusts to shield assets from IHT.

These restrictions on APR and BPR will pose a significant challenge for many business owners whose families may now have to find ways to cover the inheritance tax bill without selling or breaking up the family business.

Lifetime gifting and the use of trusts remain effective IHT planning tools but it is important to carefully consider the full tax implications before taking action. Reviewing your Will to ensure it remains tax-efficient under the new rules is also highly recommended.

Tim Woodgates

A leader’s relationship with a team reflects every day, not just a decision on a single event such as the office end-of-year party, arguesw Freddie Guilmard of leadership consultancy RTP

Leadership is not just for Christmas

As we approach the end of another turbulent and busy year, almost everyone will start to look forward to the office Christmas party. Some leaders will have been pondering whether they should go ahead with the expense, while others will not question the importance of recognising the team’s effort on this one day of the year.

In a recent coaching conversation with a leader of a fast-growing business, he shared his dilemma about wanting to do the right thing, yet feeling conflicted because the business performance had fallen just short despite everyone’s best efforts.

He recognised that a Christmas party was important to boost the morale of his employees, but he was truly concerned about how he would be perceived as a leader—whether for declining the expense or being seen as weak for approving it despite narrowly missing the target.

He was determined to be a great role model, “especially at this time of the year,” yet admitted it had been a very challenging year. Taking over from his father—a year in which he had not always been supportive of the team—he often found himself too focused on the wrong things, spinning too many plates, and struggling to solve everyone’s problems.

Ultimately, I believe he was trying too hard to please everyone and make his father—his role model—proud.

It reminded me of a recent conversation I had with a group of senior executives preparing for change. I asked them who they looked up to, both inside and outside their business. Who inspired them and why? What was their perception of their leadership reputation, and why would anyone choose to be led by them?

Many cited an external “guru” from a Ted Talk or a sporting icon who had inspired them in some way. But then one of them said: “Alex in the design team. She is one of our middle managers, always consistent in her behaviour, a great cross-collaborator, always willing to support others, and has the most engaged and high-performing team in the business.”

Freddie Guilmard

“You do not always have to look up to find your role models. Look sideways, look down, look for those shining stars who can make a difference and start to recognise and celebrate what they do.”

I bet Alex wouldn’t think twice about whether her team should have a Christmas party or not.

Jim Collins, in his research on what makes a great business, emphasises the importance of leadership at all levels for sustainable performance. In practice, this means individuals taking responsibility and being accountable for their actions.

Every day, in my work, I come across many brilliant people—not just in leadership roles—who truly inspire me. I also work with senior managers who have a deep desire to understand what they can do differently to build more human-centric businesses and be seen as great role models.

So, back to my client and his Christmas dilemma. What we ended up talking about was this:

■ Your team and colleagues will not just notice what you do at Christmas but what you do every day, how you treat them, and how you make them feel.

■ Leadership is hard and can feel lonely. You do not always have to look up to find your role models. Look sideways, look down, and seek out those shining stars who can make a difference—then recognise and celebrate what they do.

■ No matter your role, seniority, or status in life, what you do will impact someone, somewhere, whether you like it or not.

Enjoy your Christmas turkey and a well-deserved rest. Maybe start to think about next year’s Christmas party and ask yourself how your leadership role can make the next decision a no-brainer.

Merry Christmas..

Freddie Guilmard is the chief executive and a high-performance coach at RTP, a boutique consultancy that supports leaders in addressing their big issues by building human organisations.

freddie@the-redthread.co.uk the-redthread.co.uk

Holly Threlfall, partner and head of corporate & commercial at Wilson Browne Solicitors, looks at how the recent Autumn Statement might affect the thinking of those looking to sell their business.

Is now the right time to plan your exit?

We think it might be, but there is no straightforward answer to this as it depends on where you are in your business lifecycle, your plans (if any) for an exit strategy, and several other factors.

However, the recent Budget has thrown the issue of exit into sharp focus. The much-anticipated Autumn Budget has certainly left its mark this year. Politics aside, for anyone looking to buy or sell a company in the foreseeable future, there are some crucial changes that need to be taken into account.

The most obvious change is the immediate increase in gains on shares to 24%. This came into effect immediately and must be considered when planning your exit and what you will receive after taxes following your sale. This is no small increase and will undoubtedly affect vendors.

Although Business Asset Disposal Relief is not changing immediately, the rate is set to rise from 10% to 14% in April 2025 and again to 18% in April 2026. This could result in up to £40,000 in additional tax if you sell after April 2025, or up to £80,000 in additional tax if you sell after April 2026.

Adjustments to Employers’ National Insurance are expected to significantly impact the profitability of businesses. Buyers will need to update their forecasts, which could significantly affect the purchase price and any agreed earn-out.

Holly Threlfall

“You may want to plan for your sale sooner rather than later.”

It goes without saying that these are just a few of the core announcements that will impact deals in the foreseeable future. There will certainly be others that will affect cash flows, profitability, and ultimately, deal appetite for both buyers and sellers.

Most of the time, you do not know what is coming. In this instance, we now know about upcoming changes. If you are thinking of selling in the near future, you may want to plan for your sale sooner rather than later—most corporate sales take eight to ten weeks to complete from the agreement of heads, and even longer if you need to go to market.

If you want to know more about selling your company and succession planning, now is as good a time as any to find out. Download our guide at www.wilsonbrowne. co.uk/guide-to-selling-a-business or scan the QR code.

For a confidential, no-obligation discussion, contact Wilson Browne’s Corporate & Commercial team on 0800 088 6004.

Insurance scheme works for business

Does ‘no win no fee’ work for business cases or is it just for accident claims?

‘No Win, No Fee’ is generally used by the media (e.g., adverts showing car crashes, people tripping under ladders, etc.). These agreements work well for injury claims, and if someone has suffered a loss due to another’s negligence, they should be able to seek compensation.

People—and businesses—often think that this sort of funding is not available to them for non-accident cases, but Wilson Browne Solicitors has the country’s longest-running ‘delegated authority scheme,’ which enables it to issue the necessary insurance.

There are several types of ‘No Win, No Fee.’ Typically, there is a full 100% version in which we share the risk with clients. In cases where we lose, we do not get paid, so on cases that we win, we charge a higher uplift to cover that risk.

We can also offer a hybrid, or ‘50/50,’ which is better described as ‘No Win, Less Fee.’ In this model, you pay less if you are unsuccessful and then more (but not as much more) if you win.

It is essential to ensure that your opponent is ‘good for the money’ if you are successful—they need to have the means to pay or be insured.

Professional negligence claims are commonly funded this way. Over the last 20-plus years, I have dealt with a range of commercial litigation cases— from construction claims to engineering disputes and more routine contractual issues—using this type of funding. When you understand and assess the risk from the beginning, it can work well for everyone involved.

To learn more, start with a conversation.

Kevin Rogers

ASK THE EXPERT: Commercial Litigation, Kevin Rogers Partner, Wilson Browne Solicitors

Published in association with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston Solicitors

The government’s Employment Rights Bill, published in October, is an indication of big changes on the way, according to employment specialist Sharon Hundal.

The shape of things to come

By the end of 2026, employment rights are expected to be considerably different to those in force today.

“Although much of the detail will be the subject of consultation which then needs to be pinned down in regulations or codes of practice, the publication of the Employment Rights Bill in October 2024 indicates the big changes that are on the horizon,” said Sharon Hundal, a partner with Borneo Martell Turner Coulston.

Sharon outlines some main points in the Bill and the changes to employer’s National Insurance contributions which were announced at the autumn Budget.

Wider rights to claim unfair dismissal

One of the biggest proposed changes is that protection from unfair dismissal will become a day-one right. At present, employees usually need two years’ employment to bring a claim for unfair dismissal.

New limits on ‘fire and rehire’

At the moment, if an employer cannot get an employee to agree changes to their terms and conditions, they may be able to follow a process to fairly dismiss the employee and offer to reengage them on a new contract. This is often referred to as ‘fire and rehire’.

Under the Bill, this would result in an automatically unfair dismissal, unless the employer can show it was not avoidable due to financial difficulties.

New right to guaranteed hours

The Bill would require an employer to offer guaranteed hours to a worker on a zero-hours contract or low-hours contract based on the hours worked during a defined period.

There is no right at present to a

guaranteed number of hours’ work.

New right to reasonable notice of shifts and payment for cancelled shifts

Some workers will be entitled to reasonable notice of a shift that they are required to work. If the employer cancels a shift, the worker will have to be given reasonable notice of this. If not enough notice is given, the worker would receive compensation to reflect the loss of income.

“Much of the detail will be the subject of consultation which then needs to be pinned down in regulations or codes of practice.”

New obligation to inform about right to join a trade union

The law currently requires employers to include certain information in their workers’ contracts of employment or statements of particulars.

The Bill would add informing workers of their right to join a trade union to this list.

Widening obligations and liabilities for harassment at work

Employers will be liable for harassment of their staff if they fail to take all reasonable steps to prevent harassment by a third party, such as a customer or supplier.

The harassment could relate to any protected characteristic, such as gender or race.

Autumn Budget 24: employer’s NIC From 6 April 2025, the employer’s rate

Sharon Hundal

for National Insurance Contributions will increase from 13.8% to 15%. The threshold from which it becomes payable for each employee is reduced from £9,100 to £5,000 per year.

The employment allowance is increased from £5,000 to £10,500, meaning eligible employers (mostly small employers) can reduce their total NIC payments for the tax year 2025/26 by £10,500.

HOW

WE CAN HELP

Although the Employment Bill changes are not expected until 2026, they will bring a significant shift in how employers will need to operate to minimise the risk of a tribunal claim.

For instance, thorough recruitment processes and effective performance monitoring during probationary periods will become increasingly important.

We can advise you on how to prepare for these changes.

n For further information, please contact Sharon Hundal in the employment team on 01604 622101 or email

Sharon.hundal@bmtclaw.co.uk

Borneo Martell Turner

Coulston Solicitors has offices in Northampton and Kettering.

It’s Christmas... prepare for the worst

The festive season is almost upon us... Sara Marshall, of Franklins Solicitors, advises employers that it is important to strike the balance between having fun and maintaining standards of behaviour at the company Christmas party.

Christmas is a magical and happy time of the year for many and a work Christmas party is an opportunity to spend time with work colleagues and celebrate in a more relaxed setting.

However all too often, the combination of a relaxed atmosphere and too much alcohol brings out the worst in employees, leading to a negative impact on its workers or the company reputation.

Attending an alcohol-fuelled party can be a source of anxiety for many people and can have an impact on their mental health. An employee may not want to attend a Christmas party and they should not feel pressurised to do so.

Also, Christmas is a Christian holiday and staff should not be pressured to attend if they do not want to on the grounds of religion.

Conversations with managers about performance, salary and benefits should not be discussed at a Christmas party and senior managers should be reminded that their behaviour should lead by example.

Parties may lead to inevitable workplace gossip and care must be exercised to avoid this opportunity.

It is important to remember that any

work party or gathering can be argued to have effectively taken place at work. An employer may be vicariously liable for wrongdoing by an employee if that wrongdoing is “closely connected” with the employment.

Employees can therefore argue that any unfair treatment that they have received at a Christmas party took place within the workplace, opening employers up to liability and subjecting employees to disciplinary action for the same reasons.

It is therefore important for employers to prepare for the worst, hopefully in order to avoid issues arising.

Offending employees at the Christmas party should be asked to leave and a meeting arranged for the next working day to discuss their conduct.

Employers should have policies in place that specifically deal with potential problem areas. The standard of behaviour should be clearly outlined within the policy together with the potential consequences of infringing these expectations.

Reminding employees of these policies in advance of the staff party may prevent infringing behaviour from occurring in the first instance and will assist the

employer in disciplining fairly. The standard of behaviour expected should be communicated to employees and any breaches should be actioned reasonably.

Employees may be investigated and face disciplinary action if their employer suspects that they are under the influence of alcohol and drugs or for incidents of bad behaviour at the party.

Employers should be wary of the risks of harassment, misconduct, absenteeism, religious discrimination and unfair dismissal inherent during the Christmas party.

Drink driving after the office party

Other than giving the incredibly simple advice of ‘Don’t do it’, a company may want to think about organising transport to ensure everyone’s safety when leaving or offer accommodation close to the venue. Employees should be reminded that they must arrange alternative transportation home if they are intending on drinking.

Absenteeism

If the work party is to take place in the middle of the week, there will be a risk that employees will be absent the following day. A company may want to remind staff that they should arrive for work on time and in a fit state to perform their work.

If they are driving for their work, they should not be drinking alcohol the night before.

An employer can make deductions from employees’ pay if they turn up for work late the morning after the company Christmas party, provided that the right to make deductions from wages for unauthorised absence is reserved in the employment contract.

These are just a few examples of the things that can go wrong. It is important to strike the correct balance between ensuring that employees can enjoy themselves at the party but also comply with their employer’s expected standards of behaviour.

Advising employees of clear and consistent policies should avoid a number of issues from arising in the first place.

n Sara Marshall is an Associate Partner and Head of Employment Law at Franklins Solicitors. For any legal matters relating to employment, contact sara.marshall@ franklins-sols.co.uk or call 01908 660966.

Sara Marshall

Health & Safety

Risk and reward: Health and safety must top any business agenda

It is pivotal for the growth plans and culture of any organisation of any size, says compliance specialist Adam Fox

In today’s fast-paced commercial landscape, managing health and safety goes beyond mere compliance. It is a cornerstone of your business strategy, pivotal for fostering growth and safeguarding your company’s culture and reputation.

Let’s delve into why embedding robust health and safety protocols into your core business strategies is not only just smart… it is essential for maintaining smooth operations and ensuring employee safety.

Keeping the business buoyant

Prioritising health and safety keeps your business running smoothly. Effective safety measures significantly reduce accidents and health-related absences, minimising disruptions and maintaining continuous operations.

It is not just about sidestepping immediate costs and disruptions. Ensuring uninterrupted operations maintains client trust and enables businesses to stick to project timelines. Essentially, a solid health and safety policy acts as a safeguard for your business, protecting operational flow and stability.

Legal and financial benefits

While this might sound obvious, dodging legal trouble is a must. Neglecting health and safety obligations can lead to severe fines, legal issues and, in extreme cases, might even shut down your business.

Proactively managing health and safety not only mitigates these risks but also reduces insurance premiums and the costs associated with workplace incidents.

Happy employees, better output

A safe workplace boosts employee morale. When staff feel their welfare is a priority, job satisfaction and productivity increase. This uplift in morale can lead to more innovative and enthusiastic contributions to your business, enhancing culture and overall performance.

Retaining talent

With a commendable safety record, your business becomes an attractive place for top talent and, importantly, helps to retain your employees.

High turnover rates are costly and disruptive. By making your workplace safe, you will see skilled workers stay longer, reducing recruitment costs and operational disruptions.

Enhancing operational efficiency

Incorporating safety into your business operations often leads to better efficiency. Simple adjustments, such as organising workspaces to minimise risks, can make them more suitable for their intended tasks and even more efficient. Also, reducing time lost to injuries directly boosts productivity, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.

Innovation through safety

Who says safety cannot be innovative? Utilising technology to monitor health and safety can provide data that lead to broader operational improvements. Implementing modern safety measures often means your processes are not only safer but also more streamlined and cost-effective.

Polishing public perception

An exemplary safety record greatly enhances your public image. In an era where consumers favour companies that demonstrate corporate responsibility, a reputation for stringent health and safety practices can significantly differentiate you from the competition.

Fostering trust

Companies that consistently prioritise health and safety are viewed as less risky by investors and more stable by insurers. This perception can lead to better investment opportunities and more favourable terms from insurers, underpinning the financial health of your business.

Addressing implementation hurdles

Integrating health and safety into your business strategy comes with its challenges, such as initial investment costs and - more often than notresistance from your team.

Strong leadership and effective communication are key in surmounting these obstacles, ensuring everyone is on board with new safety initiatives.

“From enhancing operational continuity to improving your company’s market standing, the advantages are substantial.”

Practical tips to overcome obstacles

Engage all levels of the organisation in safety initiatives. Leverage technology to enhance training and monitoring and continuously refine your safety processes to ensure they remain effective and align with the evolving needs of your business.

Elevating health and safety from a compliance obligation to a strategic business focus offers immense benefits across various aspects of business operations. From enhancing operational continuity to improving your company’s market standing, the advantages are substantial.

Businesses that recognise and act on this insight are not just protecting their workforce but are setting themselves up for sustained success.

With more than 20 years of experience in asbestos management, health, safety and more recently business coaching, I have gained extensive insights into integrating robust health and safety strategies that propel businesses forward.

Trust me, prioritising this is not just good practice… It is essential for modern business success.

Adam Fox is director of Consulo Compliance consulocompliance.co.uk

Adam Fox

Martin Carmody, managing director of brand, creative, digital and comms agency Stratos, explains why he places significant value on respect, equality and inclusivity in the workplace.

A positive culture can power productivity

With a significant portion of our lives spent at work, ensuring a positive workplace environment is essential to the long-term health, happiness, and productivity of our people.

I was honoured to be asked to contribute to The Open University’s latest report on productivity, alongside Safaraz Ali, chief executive and founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship and Skills Alliance; Nerys Bolton, associate head of school, Curriculum and Innovation, School of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care at The Open University; Sir Cary Cooper of Manchester Business School; Anthony Impey, chief executive of Be the Business; and Dr Fidèle Mutwarasibo, director of the Centre for Voluntary Sector Leadership at The Open University.

The Powering Up Productivity report, which makes a case for investment in people, skills, and technology, recognises the impact positive workplace culture can have on every element of business growth.

At Stratos, we believe that it is our people who create our culture, and that is why we only employ those who share our commitment to caring, communicating, and compromising with one another, our partners, clients, and the wider

business community.

“In the most basic terms, if you’re a good person and you want to do good work, you’re our kind of person.”

The report is based on a survey of 500 employers, which found that one in four are reporting that their productivity has worsened in the last five years. This aligns with government figures that document the UK’s poor productivity performance compared to the likes of the United States, France, and Germany.

The Open University’s report makes recommendations to organisations looking to address and improve productivity by:

n Setting clear goals.

n Tracking and analysing utilisation.

n Investing in reskilling and upskilling.

n Adopting new technologies.

n Unlocking hidden talents.

n Supporting wellbeing.

n Making small, incremental changes.

n Seeking external advice.

Bucking the UK’s plateaued productivity trend, this year Stratos has doubled in size, taking on new creative and account management experts as well as some

“We

value our partnerships, working with other people and teams at the top of their games to make us all stronger. “

of the digital, comms, and client services team at former Milton Keynes agency Interdirect.

And while it has been a hugely exciting year for Stratos, communication has—and continues to be—crucial to ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard, opinions are considered, and needs are supported, as we navigate together the next steps to business and personal success.

Flexibility comes a close second to communication in my list of workplace productivity priorities, and it is something I have proudly championed at Stratos. We trust our people and value their ability to self-motivate and commit to producing the best possible outcomes for our clients.

That is why we have openly welcomed our team’s personal priorities and offer flexible office and home working. We have even accommodated some of our people moving and working from locations such as Liverpool, Bulgaria, and South Africa. When it comes to measuring team performance and productivity, I strongly believe that tracking and analysing utilisation is crucial to the success of any organisation—but it needs to be treated with respect and diligence.

The team must understand why it is such an important part of the business and appreciate that it is not in play to micromanage or ‘point fingers.’ It is there to get a true reading of the time and resources that we have available to us.

Stratos is realistic about what we are able to achieve as a small but mighty team, and that is why we value our partnerships, working with other people and teams at the top of their games to make us all stronger.

Leaning on specialist know-how, experience, and knowledge, we work alongside each other to create a tailored approach that adds true value to projects, businesses, and brands.

Likewise, The Open University— headquartered at its Walton Hall campus in Milton Keynes—works with more than 2,700 employers across the four nations of the United Kingdom to provide learning and development to staff.

Its research and innovation address some of the most pressing challenges faced by society.

n To learn more about the different ways to increase productivity in your workplace visit business.open.ac.uk/productivity.

n Stratos is based in Central Milton Keynes. stratos.agency

Martin Carmody

A strategic approach to team structure

How organisational

design can help a business to thrive

Business owners are already setting goals for the new year. An oftenoverlooked element of success is organisational design—a strategic approach to structuring teams, workflows, and roles within a business to improve efficiency and productivity. It is key to ensuring a business runs smoothly, according to HR consultant Rachel Collar. “It is about making sure the right people are in the right roles, communication is clear, and everyone knows their part in the company’s larger mission.”

As businesses reflect on 2024 and plan for 2025, now is the perfect time to review how teams are structured.

n Are employees well-placed to deliver results?

n Is communication between departments seamless?

“Improving how your teams collaborate can have a transformative effect.”

n Are decisions being made efficiently or are there bottlenecks that slow progress?

“One of the most common challenges we see is businesses operating with outdated structures that no longer serve their goals,” said Rachel, owner of HR consultancy Haus of HR, based in Towcester. “By realigning teams and workflows, businesses can streamline operations and boost performance.”

Organisational design does not stop at reshuffling employees. It also encompasses systems and processes, she added.

Effective structures ensure that the business is poised to move towards its strategic objectives without unnecessary friction and engaging with HR experts for organisational design may be the missing piece of the puzzle. “Improving how your teams collaborate can have a transformative effect on overall productivity and morale,” Rachel said.

Rachel Collar

The Chancellor’s challenge and a pensions dilemma for investors

In presenting her party’s first Budget in 14 years, the new Labour Chancellor was faced with a challenging task. Following her announcement of a “black hole” in the public finances, Rachel Reeves would need to strike a balance between the need to renew the Treasury’s coffers while also maintaining Labour’s manifesto promises.

A tall order indeed.

With the full details of the Budget now revealed, many have looked unfavourably on some of the Chancellor’s decisions, criticising it for a lack of growth-generating measures given the Chancellor’s rhetoric on the need to revive economic growth in the UK.

Away from the initial market reaction to the Budget, the largest fall-out for investors has clearly surrounded the fact that pensions will now form part of an individual’s estate, therefore anyone who has an estate valued above their individual allowances will now be hit by a tax on second death and pensions potentially locked into probate before they are released.

This will have a big impact on a lot of individuals as today a pension sits outside of the estate and, as such, most individuals would not be taxed (as long as couple’s joint estate without pensions is below the £1 million total threshold). From 2027 your pension - irrespective of what protection you have in place today (allegedly) - will form part of your estate and, being potentially assessed as part of your estate, will therefore be locked in probate.

This will cause three problems.

Chartered wealth manager Charlie Lodge takes an investment perspective on the Autumn Statement.

increased from 13.8% to 15.0% with effect from April 6, 2025 and the secondary threshold at which NICs are payable will be reduced from £9,100 to £5,000.

n The main rates of capital gains tax will increase with immediate effect to 18% for non and basic rate taxpayers and 24% for higher and additional rate taxpayers.

n The rate for business asset disposal relief will rise to 14% for 2025/26 and 18% from 2026/27.

n Inheritance tax business and agricultural 100% reliefs will be capped at a combined total of £1 million from April 2026. Above that, the rate of tax relief will be 50%. However, the cap will not apply to AIM shares which will just qualify for 50% relief.

n The additional Stamp Duty Land Tax rate for second homes and buy-to-let properties increased from 3% to 5% from October 31 this year.

n The temporary increases in the 0% SDLT band for first-time and other property buyers will end on March 31,2025.

n VAT at 20% will be applied to private school education and boarding services from January 1, 2025. From April 1, 2025, charitable relief for business rates will be withdrawn.

n Far more individuals’ estates are likely to be charged Inheritance Tax and charged at 40% on second death.

n Pension funds will likely not be immediately available and from 2027 locked into the probate process.

n There is an interaction between total estate and main residence nil rate band that is worth £175,000 per person for estates below £2 million in that if your estate goes above £2 million then you start to lose it.

If, therefore, your total estate goes

Charlie Lodge is a

Chartered Wealth Manager and operations supervisor at OCM Wealth Management.

“There is much still to digest, with a consultation period on the key pension changes still to be completed.”

above £2.35 million including pension then your allowance against which you pay no Inheritance tax reduces to £650,000.

In addition to the key headline, the other big news stories we saw were:

n The main rate of class 1 employer National Insurance Contributions will be

n Subscription limits for Individual Savings Accounts, Junior ISAs and Lifetime ISAs will be frozen until April 2030.

As ever, the Budget publication contains a wide range of detailed proposals and there is much still to digest, with a consultation period on the key pension changes still to be completed so let us hope they think in the round on that one.

Please also remember government and taxes rise and fall so what has changed today could very much reverse tomorrow.

n To discuss the budget and how it potentially impacts you, your family or your business, please do not hesitate to contact OCM Wealth Management.

ocmwealthmanagement.co.uk

Charlie Lodge

MInor tweaks can make a major impact on business performance.

Chartered accountant Adrian Goodman, of PPX Consulting, explains more.

Incremental improvements: The small steps that lead to big gains

For SME business owners, managing growth and profitability often feels like juggling multiple priorities. It is easy to focus on major initiatives or large cost-saving projects but sometimes the most impactful improvements come from making small, incremental changes across several areas of your business. Applied consistently, these minor adjustments can lead to significant overall gains.

Think of your management accounts as a performance dashboard for your business. They are more than just numbers; they are a reflection of your operations, efficiency and decision-making.

By identifying small improvements across different areas - revenues, costs, and operational metrics - you can compound their effects over time. This is where regular performance evaluation comes into play. Without reviewing the individual lines in your budget regularly, it is impossible to spot opportunities for these incremental gains.

Management accounts provide the insights you need to make those small but effective adjustments, ensuring you are always improving your business in manageable steps.

Boosting sales does not always require a major marketing overhaul. Here are some small but effective strategies:

n Review pricing A slight price increase on high-demand products or services, especially those where you already deliver great value, can improve margins without driving customers away.

n Upselling and cross-selling Train your team to suggest complementary products or premium options. Even modest success rates can lead to noticeable revenue growth.

n Customer retention It is cheaper to keep a customer than to acquire a new one. Simple loyalty initiatives, like discounts for repeat purchases, can encourage clients to return.

Cost reduction does not always mean slashing expenses dramatically. Targeted efficiency improvements can make a big difference.

n Supplier negotiations Regularly renegotiate terms with suppliers. A reduction of between 2% and 3% in costs for frequently purchased items or services can add up over the year.

n Energy efficiency Simple actions

Adrian

Goodman

“Big changes can be risky and disruptive whereas smaller adjustments compound over time to deliver lasting results.”

like switching to energy-saving bulbs or automating heating schedules can lower utility bills.

n Reduce waste Whether it is stock, materials or time, tackling waste can lower costs and improve productivity.

Operational tweaks are another area ripe for incremental gains.

n Streamline processes Look for repetitive manual tasks that could be automated. For example, use accounting software integrations to reduce administration time.

n Improve debtor management Tighten credit terms and follow up on overdue invoices promptly. A small improvement in debtor days can free up cash flow for growth.

n Staff training Equip your team with new skills or tools to work more effectively. Even minor productivity increases per employee can enhance overall output.

Chasing big wins such as significant revenue growth or drastic cost cuts can be tempting but it is not always sustainable. Like the fable of the tortoise

and the hare, the steady and consistent approach of making small incremental gains often builds a more resilient and successful business in the long run.

Big changes can be risky and disruptive whereas smaller adjustments compound over time to deliver lasting results.

To make incremental improvements work, focus on measurable actions and track progress. Start by reviewing your management accounts to identify areas where even modest adjustments could have an impact.

Then set realistic goals, implement changes, and monitor the results.

By embracing small, steady improvements and regularly reviewing your management accounts, SME owners can unlock the full potential of their business. Over time, these incremental gains will lead to a stronger, more resilient foundation for sustainable success.

Of course, the starting point is to get robust performance evaluation in place in the first place. If you need help with that, give PPX Consulting a call.

n Adrian Goodman is managing director of PPX Consulting and author of the book Achieving Profitable Growth, available on Amazon.

ppxconsulting.co.uk

adrian.goodman@ppxconsulting.co.uk 01536 856740

Mandy Young

Inspiring the careers of future superstars

Supercharging the growth of women’s sport is the name of the game for a new series of sports seminars hosted by the University of Northampton.

The university has a calendar of events planned in the run-up to the Women’s Rugby World Cup in the UK next September, including six matches at the cinch stadium at Franklins Gardens, home of Northampton Saints.

The seminars aim to inspire conversations on raising the profile of women’s sport and inspiring the next generation of professional players and participants.

The UON Sports Seminar Series is one part of the university’s festival of action taking place in the lead-up to kick-off on August 22, inviting the public to its Waterside Campus to hear insights and messages of inspiration from community sports organisations and international sportswomen.

The first session took place last month, at which Mandy Young, founder and chief executive at the Adrenaline Alley indoor skatepark in Corby, spoke about her ongoing work to encourage young women and girls into BMX, skateboarding, scootering and skating.

Adrenaline Alley offers free sessions for females which help them to develop the social

and life skills which enable female riders to become coaches and professional athletes. Among those helped by the centre is Charlotte Worthington, who went on to win gold at the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2020 in the BMX freestyle. She also competed at the Paris Olympics earlier this year.

“Without Adrenaline Alley my life would be so different. I would not have travelled the world, been a two-time Olympian or met the wonderful people I have that have helped me on my journey,” she said.

The seminars take place monthly and are free to attend. “It is an incredibly exciting time for Northampton as we look forward to a summer celebrating women’s rugby on an international stage from our very own Franklin’s Gardens –just a stone’s throw from campus,” said UON’s head of science Scott Bradley.

“It is incredibly important to continue ensuring future generations of women’s rugby and sports are supported from the grass roots up, which is at the beating heart of what we do here at UON.”

The Rugby World Cup Impact Programme, delivered by the RFU in partnership with the UK government and Sport England, also aims to create more opportunities for females across all levels of the game through its volunteer, coaching and internship programmes.

Weatherbys renews Cobblers deal

Racing administrator Weatherbys, whose in-house creative and printing facility publishes the racecards for every horse racing meeting in the UK, is continuing its backing of Northampton Town FC.

The company, based in Wellingborough, is a long-time supporter of the Cobblers.

Head of operations Steve Arnold said: “Weatherbys is extremely proud to be continuing our long-standing partnership with Northampton Town Football Club. We are a family-run business and wholly support and relate to the brilliant work the club does within the community. We are excited to play a part in those efforts again.

“We have partnered with the club for over 15 years now and the club’s commercial team have been a pleasure to work with, providing us with innovative opportunities and avenues for growth.

“We look forward to this continuing, particularly through the club’s business network that has proven to be a great platform for us to grow awareness of our market-leading print and fulfilment services.”

Weatherbys is keen to promote its creative and printing offer to businesses across the region.

Northampton Town’s commercial director James Corrigan said: “Weatherbys has been a valued sponsor of our club for many years. We are proud to have such a long-standing partnership with a local business that embodies dedication and true loyalty.”

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Quantity surveyor and Loughborough Lightning prop forward Isla Curphey knows that paid employment is a huge benefit as she works to achieve her dreams of playing rugby for England.

Having time away from the pitch and training ground to focus on developing her career as a quantity surveyor is providing a perfect balance for the mental wellbeing of Loughborough Lightning prop forward Isla Curphey.

She has begun her first year in employment after graduating in commercial management and quantity surveying at Loughborough University and is equally focused on cementing her place in Northampton Saints’ women’s Lightning squad as the season gets into full swing.

Her on-pitch ambition is to represent England. But she also realises that her rugby is sustained and fuelled by her professional employment which delivers the financial resources and life balance that she needs to keep her dreams of sporting success alive.

“I do believe having something externally from rugby is good for you,” Isla said. “I feel like rugby is an escape but also, with the level that we train at, sometimes you need an escape from the rugby just to relax.

“Working takes your mind off things but then with the rugby, it also takes your mind off the work so they work really cohesively together.”

Isla grew up on the Isle of Man, where she first discovered her interest in construction working with her father building animal sheds on farms and horse arenas.

‘The world would be our oyster’:

Rugby player has her life in perfect balance

“I got into it fairly young. I must have been about 12 or 13 helping build, driving tractors and things. I really enjoyed it.

“I went through school and did not really know what I wanted to do. I did A levels and failed and then decided to go to college for construction because that was what I enjoyed at home and at work.”

Isla’s story is one of nine highlighted in Premiership Women’s Rugby’s campaign Powered Differently, which aims to showcase the determination and resilience of women players.

Also featured are nurse Carys Cox, who plays for Trailfinders Women, marine conservation student Freya Aucken at Harlequins and tattoo artist Amber Schonert, who plays for Sale Sharks.

“Just to be able to sustain rugby in

Former England Test bowler Devon Malcolm has called for support from local people for plans that could see the village of Brixworth take ownership of its cricket and tennis club facilities.

West Northamptonshire councillors are to consider a plan for Brixworth Local Services Centre, on the southern edge of the village just off Northampton Road. It includes 16 affordable homes, a convenience store, a spa and wellbeing centre and a gym as well as a Section 106 agreement should the scheme get the go-ahead that would see the freehold of Brixworth Cricket and Tennis Club transferred to a Community Interest Company or similar to take on full management and ownership.

It is an opportunity which would help to

reality motivates me because, obviously, in women’s rugby it is not as high level as we would like it to be with funding. I am able to assist that so that I can then do my best at rugby,” said Isla. “In my free time I will work to be able to make sure that I am able to concentrate and really do rugby full-time and can spend all the time that I need to at training.”

Her job away from the pitch is valuable for her wellbeing, providing an escape from the high-octane environment that surrounds elite sport. “You also never know what’s going to happen. You do not want to rely on the rugby and then maybe get injured. Anything can happen so being able to have that career that you can then go into to be able to live a life is important.”

safeguard the cricket club’s future, said Devon Malcolm, the club’s president. He has been involved in the club since the move to its current ground 17 years ago

Isla Curphey

Devon Malcolm

Just champion: Leisure centre nets national award

Moulton Leisure Centre is among the winners at leisure operator Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions Awards.

General manager Andrew Joy (right) is pictured with the Site of the Year award presented by four-time Paralympic gold medallist Maisie Summers-Newton (also pictured), who trains at the centre with Northampton Swimming Club.

“The Sporting Champions scheme

and said he cannot sit back and watch the opportunity slip away.

The former fast bowler, who has lived in the area for almost 30 years, said: “It would be remiss of me to sit back and see all the work that the community has put in drift away. It is massively important to see the club continue.”

Without the security of a long-term lease, the club cannot apply for England & Wales Cricket Board funding. “If we do own the ground, the world would be our oyster,” said Devon.

Brixworth residents have voiced concerns over the proposal from a countryside development and traffic angle. Brixworth’s parish council is opposed to the scheme.

Brixworth Cricket and Tennis Club

has been very successful in providing exceptional support to emerging talent and we were delighted to showcase this,” said Andrew. “It is fantastic to see how the scheme has expanded over the years.”

Moulton was a joint winner of the award with Middlesbrough Sports Village.

Everyone Active runs more than 230 leisure and cultural centres across the country, including Moulton Leisure

facilities are currently owned by a former Brixworth village GP, Dr Dallas Burston. He personally funded the building of the sporting facilities in the early 1990s. Since then, Dr Burston has only charged £1 a year in rent and has sponsored equipment and functions.

The grounds are worth around £500,000, an amount of money which Devon said the clubs just do not have.

If Dr Burston’s plans for Brixworth Local Services Centre are approved, the village would own the grounds as part of a Section 106 – an agreement between a planning authority and a developer that ensure certain extra works related to a development are undertaken for the benefit of the local community.

A covenant would be included to

Cricket targets female superstars

Northamptonshire County Cricket Club is targeting the female players of the future with the launch of its new Emerging Players Programme for girls.

The club is looking to support and develop players of regional cricket standard or who could join the county’s new Tier 2 team Steelbacks Women.

Northamptonshire wants the programme to help to bring on players to play at regional and Steelbacks level.

It will also support all aspects of player development including technical, physical and wellbeing and give players access to expert resources in and outside of cricket.

A squad of 12-15 girls will be selected from NCCC’s under-13 to under-18 county age groups and will be based at The County Ground.

The programme will be led by Paul Harris, the club’s current head of girls’ pathway, with the support of head coach of Northamptonshire Steelbacks women David Ripley.

Centre and Daventry Leisure Centre, in partnership with West Northamptonshire Council. Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for local economy, culture, and leisure, said: “This achievement underscores the importance of accessible, high-quality leisure facilities in supporting not only elite athletes but also encouraging broader community involvement in sports and wellbeing across West Northamptonshire.”

prevent future residential or commercial use of the grounds or buildings.

Brixworth’s current facilities are used by Northamptonshire County Cricket Club as a secondary training ground. Its membership is full, including a thriving female section.

“From my point of view, what is important is the wider contribution of the cricket club and getting young people involved in playing cricket,” said Devon. “The long-term benefits of cricket are so valuable.

“We have tried to make the club more diverse and we are the envy of most clubs in terms of our facilities and what we have done. If we managed to take ownership of the cricket club, it would open up more funding opportunities for us.”

Andrew Joy (right) with Moulton Leisure Centre’s award

Business Soundbites

A snapshot of what business people have been telling us.

“Shopping at local stores is more than just a purchase. It is an investment in the community’s long-term prosperity.”

Simon Cox, director of Northamptonshire membership group NNBN, urges support for the Small Business Saturday campaign on December 7.

“A genuine ‘pinch-me moment’ for the management team.”

Howes Percival chairperson Geraint Davies on the law firm’s inclusion for a fifth year in the list of the UK’s 100 Best Large Companies To Work For.

“One thing we often talk about at Saints is the virtuous circle between commercial and on-pitch performance.”

Northampton Saints chairman John White after the 2023-24 Gallagher Premiership champions reported a 12% increase in revenue, a rise of almost 10% in commercial income and a £1.8million improvement in the club’s trading loss.

“The BoE will have to devise a longterm strategy for handling inflation as the 2% target is not likely to be met on a sustained basis for a few years.”

Professor Joe Nellis of Cranfield School of Management predicts that upward pressure on prices will push inflation higher, forcing the Bank of England to be more cautious on interest rates.

“SMEs now face making some tough decisions.”

David Bharier, head of research at the British Chambers of Commerce, fears for small businesses in the wake of the increase in NIC contributions, the rise in the National Living Wage and the impact of the Employment Rights Bill.

“The sector has been hit time and time again and simply cannot take any more.”

Oli Khan, president of the Bangladesh Caterers Association, warns that plans to abolish the 75% business rates relief for hospitality businesses will sound the death knell for many in the sector.

Iain Stewart, who was MP for the former Milton Keynes South constituency for 14 years until the General Election in July, talks to Andrew Gibbs about his new career and life after Parliament.

A privilege for 14 years. Now my priority is to earn a living

It is the day that every MP dreads, but one way or another, they know it to be inevitable. “I wanted to win in July, but I was conscious that it may not happen, so I was mentally ready for it.”

Iain Stewart was MP for the former Milton Keynes South constituency from 2010 until he lost the campaign for the new Bletchley and Buckingham seat at the General Election in July.

His political career was blossoming. He was chair of the Parliamentary Transport Select Committee for two years until the election and had previously held positions as the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Scotland—the land of his birth—as Lord Commissioner (HM Treasury), Assistant Whip in the House of Commons, and Parliamentary Private Secretary to thenTransport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

But the Labour landslide numbered him among the Tory casualties, losing the Bletchley and Buckingham seat to Labour’s Callum Anderson by 2,421 votes.

We are talking days after he cleared out his constituency office for the last time. After a summer of reflection, however, Iain’s appetite for work remains. He has joined Milton Advisers, the consultancy set up by his former Parliamentary assistant Alex Walker, the ex-Conservative leader on Milton Keynes Council. Milton Advisers offers strategic communications and government relations services to businesses and administrations around the world.

Iain has joined the firm as a senior consultant, specialising in Parliamentary, governmental, and transport-related matters.

“When I was elected, there was a need for a constituency perspective for Milton Keynes because transport is essential to its future well-being, but also a need to look at policy nationally and internationally.”

At Milton Advisers, he focuses on issues such as new technologies, data, Artificial Intelligence, and transport in a strategic sense—how it fits into wider policy plans. “My role is to be focused and challenge, using my experience of transport and how it fits into the wider agenda. That is where I feel I can add value.”

Iain has lived in Milton Keynes since moving to the city more than 30 years ago as an accountant with Coopers & Lybrand. “I realised early on that accountancy was not my calling, but I used it as a good introduction to business.” He worked as an associate at executive search company Odgers Berndtson until his election in 2010. He first stood for election in 2001. Three general elections later, he was elected as MP for Milton Keynes South. “The pressure on you as an individual, on your family and friends, is significant, but I have always had a passion for it. It is something I have wanted to do for a long time, and I am incredibly grateful that I had the chance to do it. I had the opportunity to represent half of Milton Keynes and its businesses, charities, and community groups, and that was a privilege.”

Four highlights come to mind: helping radio station MKFM to secure its FM broadcasting licence; the East West Rail project linking Oxford with Bletchley, Milton Keynes, and Bedford—and ultimately to Cambridge—that is set to run its first passenger service next year; his role in

Iain Stewart served for two years as chair of the Transport Select Committee and numbers the delivery of East West Rail among the highlights of his political career

Iain Stewart received a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List in June for his political and public service

securing city status for Milton Keynes in 2022 after unsuccessful bids in 2000, 2002, and 2012.

Iain also worked with Bletchley Park to secure a posthumous pardon for code breaker Alan Turing, who had been convicted in 1952 for gross indecency after being arrested for having an affair with a 19-year-old man. This conviction meant Turing lost his security clearance. The pardon was granted under the Royal Prerogative of Mercy in 2013.

He was a minister for Scotland as the nation was discussing a second vote on leaving the UK. “The threat of another independence referendum was very high on the agenda. I am a passionate unionist, and I do not want to see my country and the UK split up. I am thankful that Scotland moved away from that course.”

The low point: the pandemic. “That was the most challenging period. We were making decisions when there was not a good option, no ‘advice book’ from previous pandemics, and we had to make judgment calls on what was best.

“With lockdown, we had to balance protecting people’s lives against the implications of an economic hit and other considerations such as the impacts on mental health and children’s education.

“That was the most difficult time, and we did the best we could.”

His hope is that the UK Covid-19 Inquiry into the nation’s response to the pandemic and the lessons to be learned for the future focuses on the latter. “I hope that the inquiry does not become a blame game. I want it to be more of a learning experience so if something like that happens again, we can look back to inform our decision-making.”

Iain relished his time in Parliament and welcomed the opportunity to hear and debate differing viewpoints. “Nobody goes into politics without having a fairly hard

skin, and I do not mind people criticising me—that is debate, which is fine—but personal abuse is difficult to handle.”

To the point where Iain is no longer active on social media. “The level of comment was vile, and it started to affect my mental health. I do not mind people disagreeing with me, but questioning my integrity is something else. Social media is often vile, and it is something we have to address.

Ministers and Parliamentarians need to be held to account and challenged. That is absolutely right, but taking it to a personal level is not.”

Away from the Commons, Iain aims to use his new role to continue to have an input into the transport measures under way when the General Election was called. Most notably, the Rail Reform Bill that aims to set up GB Rail to deliver a more integrated structure for the UK’s rail network.

The network generates its funding from three sources: tickets, government subsidy, and extra income sources such as land and property. Now is a great opportunity for the UK to bring the funding of its rail network in line with more progressive countries such as Japan and France, he said.

“We do not do it as well as in other countries. Japan’s rail system generates around half its revenue from property, with shopping malls under stations and commercial offices on top. We need to look urgently at how we can do better in this country, then we can amend what the taxpayer and the rail user pays.

“The industry needs to think through what the customer wants, and I want to be involved with that, whether that is through consultancy work, a full-time role, or a portfolio career.”

His departure from Parliament has opened up new opportunities. Iain sees it as a positive, both professionally and personally. “Right now, I do not feel an immediate urge to return to politics. If you ask most politicians, they will say it is a bug we have always had, and it never goes away. That may well hold true for me, but my immediate priority is to earn a living and start the next chapter in my working life.

“I also have to consider my family. My partner has put up with a lot over the years—politics is a seven-day-a-week job. I want to spend more quality time with him, and I have to look out for others in my family. My parents are both 80, and I am an only child, so I have a duty of care there.

“I do not know about going back into politics—it is way too early to make a call on that. The next election is four or five years away, and it will depend on what the next steps in my career are. But I look back on the 14 years in Parliament as a great opportunity. If someone had offered me a contract for those 14 years at the start, I would have signed it immediately.”

Tributes paid to executive chairman

Asset hire company Dawsongroup has announced that its executive chairman Peter Dawson has died after a short illness.

He joined the family haulage business launched by his father in 1953 and was instrumental in its expansion before launching the Dawsonrentals division in 1974.

The company brought its operations under a single entity in the 1980s and Peter became sole shareholder when his brothers Tony and Nicholas left to set up businesses of their own.

In 1988 he floated the company on the stock market and began the development of a new purposebuilt head office in Milton Keynes at Tongwell, which remains its HQ today. The new building formally opened in 1990 and remains the group’s head office to this day. Ten years later, Dawsongroup was delisted and returned to 100% family ownership.

Chief executive Steve Miller, who joined Dawsongroup in 1986 and took on his current role 30 years later, said Peter always held his main board to account His values of honesty, integrity and humility set the tone for the company’s high standards and levels of conduct.

In an obituary on the Dawsongroup website, Steve said:

“Peter has been extremely supportive of his main board and encouraged and guided them to share his vision of the future, which has resulted in numerous successful acquisitions, setting Dawsongroup apart from its competition. Peter’s influence can also be seen in the way he insisted on strong financial discipline, which has ensured a sustainable, robust and secure business.”

A modest man who took neither success nor money for granted, his quote of ‘Don’t count the profit until the cheque has cleared the bank’, remains a Dawsongroup corporate mantra.

Peter Dawson

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3rd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Online. Contact: Kate Cherry, regional director Bedfordshire & St Albans. Tel: 07909 675333, email: kate.cherry@theathenanetwork.com or visit theathenanetwork.com

MEMBERS WINTER RECEPTION

December 4, 4.30pm-6.45pm: Mitchell Hall, Cranfield Sponsored by Fliweel.Tech. Informal networking. Chamber members only. Free event. Exhibition stand: £75 + VAT. AGM

December 6, 9.30am: Online Chamber members only. Free event. Book on to Chamber of Commerce events via events.chamber-business.com.

Tuesday 6.45am: The Turnpike, Harpole, Northampton ACHIEVERS

Wednesday 9.30am: Brewpoint, Cut Throat Lane, Bedford. PIONEER

Wednesday 9.30am-11am: Online. APOLLO

Wednesday 10am:

Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash, Milton Keynes. FUSION

Thursday 6.45am:

Abbey Hill Golf Centre, Two Mile Ash, Milton Keynes.

BLAZE

Thursday 6.45am:

Mount Pleasant Golf Club, Lower Stondon nr Henlow. PAVILION

Thursday 6.45am-8.30am:

The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton. PROSPERITY

Thursday 6.45am-8.30am:

The Kettering Golf Club, Headlands, Kettering. STERLING

Thursday 11.45am-1.30pm:

The Old Northamptonians RFC, Sir Humphrey Cripps Pavilion, Billing Road, Northampton. ENCORE

Friday 6.45am: Holiday Inn London Luton. LIGHTHOUSE

Friday 6.45am-8.30am: Old Northamptonians Association, Billing Road, Northampton. Contact: Duncan Webster. email: duncan@bnibreakfast.co.uk or call 07977 422220.

More information: bni.co.uk

December 10, 6.45am-8.45am: The White Hart, Buckingham Christmas quiz. Visitors: £10. More details: bucks-fizz.biz or contact David Babister 07796 136688.

Regional sponsor: Business MK and Business Times

Relaxed, informal, conversational B2B networking. All Business Buzz events run 10am-noon. Price: £10 + VAT.

BEDFORD

1st Wednesday: George & Dragon, Mill Street. BIGGLESWADE

4th Tuesday: Miss Vietnam, Market Square. BRACKLEY

1st Thursday: Paisley Pear, Northampton Road. DAVENTRY

3rd Friday: Arc Cinema, Mulberry Place. DUNSTABLE

4th Friday: Sugar Lounge at The Old Sugar Loaf, High Street North.

LUTON

2nd Tuesday: The Garden Cafe, Stockwood Discovery Centre, London Road.

MILTON KEYNES

3rd Friday: Pop World MK, Lower 12th Street, Central Milton Keynes. NORTHAMPTON

3rd Wednesday: Barratts Snooker Club & Bar, Kingsthorpe Road.

TOWCESTER

December 19: Towcester Mill Brewery, Chantry Lane.

WELLINGBOROUGH

2nd Tuesday: Castello Lounge, Market Street

All meetings payable in advance on the Business Buzz Booking App app.business-buzz.org/app or at the event.

Business networking and referral group. Price: £6.

MILTON KEYNES

4th Thursday, 7.30am-9.30am:

Windmill Hill Golf Centre, Bletchley. Meeting fee: £16 (first meeting free).

NORTHAMPTON BREAKFAST

3rd Wednesday, 7.30-9.30am: The Turnpike, Harpole.

NORTHAMPTON EVENING

4th Tuesday, 6.30-8.30pm: Cheyne Walk Club, Northampton.

WELLINGBOROUGH

2nd Thursday, 7.30-9.30am: The Hind Hotel.

VIRTUAL MEETINGS

Meeting fee: £6 (first meeting free).

WEDNESDAY BREAKFAST

4th Wednesday, 7.30am-9am.

THURSDAY BREAKFAST

3rd Thursday, 7.30am-9am.

FRIDAY BREAKFAST

2nd Friday, 7.30am-9am. THE ACCOUNTABILITY CIRCLE

Monday 10am-11am: Online

Time management and productivity.

Price: £6 per session or £12 per month. More information: buscomm.co.uk

Increasing the Buzz about Christmas

Networking in December is usually focused around delivering some relaxed festive cheer. But the hosts of the Towcester Buzz networking group are planning to go one step further.

They are hosting a pop-up expo after the final meeting of the year on December 19, giving Buzz regulars and guests the opportunity to showcase their products, services and expertise.

The group meets monthly at Towcester Mill Brewery, which will open its bar area after the meeting ends at 12 noon. The expo will take place in the venue’s Steam Room, located directly above the brewery and its beer brewing kettle and a regular host of social, bingo and open mic nights.

“As it will be our Christmas event, we thought we would offer something special,” said Towcester Buzz host Ian Taylor. “Our venue will be open straight after the Buzz event if anyone would like to stay for a bit of festive cheer and for those who would like to bring along their products., services or merchandise for a mini pop-up expo.”

To find out more, email Ian at ian.taylor@tinderboxbd.com

IGNITE

Ian Taylor (right) with Towcester Buzz co-host Simon Evans

Networking

December 6, 20, 7am: Windmill Hill Golf Centre, Bletchley Networking breakfast with speaker. Price: £15 nonmembers. Contact: businessgrowthclub.co.uk or Mark Orr 07903 655169.

December 9, 11.30am-3pm: Mitchell Hall, Cranfield

Special Christmas event for all groups. Includes networking, speakers and a festive lunch. Price: £65, members and non-members welcome. Book at https://mailchi.mp/505e9fb359a0/ ba863pmvf9

Brunchtime networking. Price: £26. BEDFORD

December 12, 9.30am-11.30am: Brewpoint, Cut Throat Lane, Bedford Host: Aruno Rao.

NORTHAMPTON

December 10, 9.30am-11.30am: The Chester House Estate, Irchester Host: Kirsty Parris.

TOWCESTER

December 18, 9.30am-11.30am: The Navigation Inn, Thrupp Wharf Marina, Cosgrove Host: Kirsty Parris. Contact: busynetworking.net/meetings

December 9, 11.30am-3pm: Mitchell Hall, Cranfield

Special Christmas event for all groups. Includes networking, speakers and a festive lunch. Price: £65, members and non-members welcome. Book at https://mailchi.mp/505e9fb359a0/ ba863pmvf9

Contact: busywomen.net or call 07957 284851.

NETWORKING BREAKFAST

3rd Friday, 7am-9am: Astral Park, Leighton Buzzard Breakfast networking with speaker. Price: £13. Contact: info@buzzardnetworking.co.uk or visit buzzardnetworking.co.uk

December 4, 7.30am-9am:

YMCA, North Sixth Street, Central Milton Keynes

The longest-established breakfast networking club in Milton Keynes. Christmas event in aid of MK Act refuge. Book at citybreakfastclub.co.uk

VIRTUAL

December 3, 10.30am-11.30am

December 10, 10.25am-11.30am: Online BREAKFAST, NETWALK & BRUNCH

December 5, 7.15am-8.45am; 9.05am-9.50am; 10am-11.30am

Willen Hospice Café , Willen Lake IN PARTNERSHIP EVENT with BUCKINGHAM businesses

December 5, 5pm-7pm: The Grand Junction, Buckingham LUNCHTIME NETWORKING

December 11, 12.15pm-1.45pm: Slug & Lettuce, Central Milton Keynes GOLD MEMBERS CHRISTMAS LUNCH

December 13, 12 noon-2.30pm: Delta by Marriott Hotel, Kents Hill

Book at the event booking diary web page at collaboratemk.co.uk.

Contact: Tim Lee, email: tim@collaboratemk.co.uk or 07786 527845.

Alternate Wednesdays 7.30am-9.30am: The Hind Hotel, Wellingborough Networking group run by its members for its members. Contact: cornerstone-northants.org or email: network@cornerstone-northants.org

Wednesdays 6.45am-8.30am: The Hopping Hare, Hopping Hill Gardens, Northampton

Breakfast networking + members’ presentation opportunities. Price: £10 visitors. Contact: enigmanetworking.co.uk. email: chair@enigmanetworking.co.uk or call 07889 967779.

BUSINESS BOOTCAMP: NEW YEAR REFRESHER

January 30, 9am-3pm:

The Woodlands at Hothorpe Hall, Leicester

The FSB brings businesses from across the Midlands to a woodland retreat to help you get your mind, body and business ready for the year ahead. To book on to FSB events, visit fsb.org.uk

COFFEE & CONNECT

December 12, 10am-12 noon: Frosts Garden Centre, Woburn Sands Informal networking. Price: £12.50. Book at: askgoto.com/event/coffee-connect-mk-20/

LBBC

LEIGHTON BUZZARD BUSINESS CLUB Wednesdays 7am-8.30am: The Dukes, Leighton Road, Heath and Reach Breakfast networking with speaker plus member presentations. Visitors: £10.

Contact: leightonbuzzardbiz.co.uk. Email LBBC chairman Steve Baker at steve@sbfinancial.co.uk or call 01296 641868.

#LOVEBIZ NETWORKING DERNGATE COMMUNITY

December 4, 11.30am-2pm: The Hopping Hare, Hopping Hill Gardens, Northampton Christmas lunch. Price: £34.50.

Contact: Julie Cameron at juliecameron@lovebiznetworking.co.uk or lovebiznetworking.co.uk.

LUTON COFFEE CLUB

1st Tuesday 8am-10am: Mano Coffee, George Street Informal networking. Free event.

To find out more, email organiser Stephen Wood at s.w@srwood.co.uk or call 01582 401221.

CHRISTMAS CHARITY LUNCH

December 11, 12 noon-2.30pm: Mercure Northampton Hotel, Silver Street Joint event with Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce and Next Generation Chamber. Twocourse lunch plus a raffle in aid of the Chambers’ Charities of the Year. Price: £35 + VAT Chamber members only.

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

MEET OF MK

December 5, 5pm-7.30pm: Urban Food Market, Unity Place, Central Milton Keynes

Price: £16.75

Contact: mkfm.com/events/mkfms-meet-of-mk/

Alternate Thursdays 7.15am-9am: Beefeater, Priory Marina, Barkers Lane, Bedford Breakfast networking with speaker. Contact: nibeds.co.uk

NNBN is a business membership organisation for all of Northamptonshire which aims to help businesses in the county to recover, build and grow for a brighter future.

MARKETING IDEAS FOR YOUR BUSINESS OR BRAND

December 2, 4pm-6pm: Online

Free event to NNBN members and nonmembers.

LEADERSHIP ROADSHOW: PREPARING FOR 2025

December 3, 9am-12 noon: The Holistic Club, Kent Road, Upton People and leadership trends. Price: £26.71 GO GREEN, GO BIG

December 4, 9am-11am:

Vulcan Works, Guildhall Road, Northampton Boost your website and revenue in the ecodigital economy. Free event.

CHRISTMAS MEET-UP

December 5, 5pm-7pm: Square Feet Coworking, Mare Fair, Northampton Informal networking. Free event (minimum £5 donation for a Christmas jumper photo by Samantha Peel of Welly Pictures).

PEOPLE, PLANET, PINT

December 5, 6pm-8pm: Brampton halt, Chapel Brampton Informal networking over a drink. Free event. FRIDAY@4

December 6, 4pm-5pm: Online

Networking. Free event. NETWORK & LEARN: THE SECRETS TO BEING A GREAT EMPLOYER

December 9, 9am-12 noon: North Northamptonshire Council, Kettering Hosted by the council and South Midlands Growth Hub. Free event. BUSINESS NETWORKING

December 9, 7pm-8.30pm: Chester House Estate, Irchester Networking. Free event for NNBN members; visitors £10.

LUNCH & LEARN: CREATE YOUR 2025 PEOPLE PLAN

December 10, 12 noon-1pm: Online Workshop. Price: £42. Proceeds to the Northampton Saints Foundation. MAKE WORK PAY: LABOUR’S 100-DAY PLAN

December 11, 12 noon-1pm: Online

Webinar for HR, business owners and managers. Presented by Gateway HR. Free event. NNBN CHRISTMAS PARTY

December 19, 6.30pm-9pm: Kettering Park Hotel & Spa

Three-course meal and entertainment. Price: £32. For more information and to book, visit nnbn.co.uk/events/

CHRISTMAS CHARITY LUNCH

December 11, 12 noon-2.30pm: Mercure Northampton Hotel, Silver Street Joint event with Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce and Next Generation Chamber. Twocourse lunch + a raffle in aid of the Chambers’ Charities of the Year. Price: £35 + VAT Chamber members only.

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

To book on to Chamber events, visit northants-chamber.co.uk/events

CYBER SECURITY:

ADDRESSING RISK IN A DIGITAL AGE

December 5, 10am-11am: Online

Presented by the Department for Business & Trade. An overview of the cyber security threats, including the most common facing small organisations. The webinar provides advice to organisations looking to increase their cyber security and highlights free advice and services available.

NETWORK & LEARN:

THE SECRETS TO BEING A GREAT EMPLOYER

December 9, 9.30am-12 noon:

North Northamptonshire Council offices, Kettering Hosted with North Northamptonshire Council. Workshop presented by Gateway HR on revitalising your recruitment process and being a good employer.

NETWORK & LEARN:

BUILD A WINNING SALES PROCESS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

December 12, 9.30am-12 noon: Arndale House, Luton Workshop led by sales transformation specialist Extended Revenue Services. How to develop a ‘winning’ sales process and the steps you need to take to do so.

Book your place at semlepevents.evolutive.co.uk/event/search/

Fridays 6.45am-8.45am:

The Cock Hotel, Stony Stratford Networking breakfast, with more than 40 members from a wide range of businesses. Businesses referrals, business support and training. Contact: tfinetworking.co.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/ 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

CO-WORKING DAY & WREATH WORKSHOP

December 6, 9.30am-4.30pm: Fairspace MK, Margaret Powell House, Central Milton Keynes

Networking, lunch + a wreath-making workshop run by Cerus Botanical Design. Price: £65, all proceeds to Milton Keynes Community Foundation.

FUNDRAISING FESTIVE LUNCH

December 11, 12 noon-3pm: Horwood House Hotel, Little Horwood Price: £50 WiE members; £65 non-members.. For more details and to book, visit womeninenterprise.co.uk.

BUSINESS ROOM

The Business Room is a one business per area group for business owners, those in employed positions, MLMs and franchised businesses.

BEDFORD

3rd Thursday 9.30am-11.30am: The Kingfisher.

KETTERING

2nd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: Kettering Park Hotel & Spa.

NORTHAMPTON

2nd Thursday 12 noon-2pm: Sun Inn, High Street, Hardingstone. OLNEY

2nd Wednesday 9.30am-11.30am: The Cherry Tree Restaurant & Bar.

SOUTH NORTHANTS

3rd Tuesday 12 noon-2pm: The Fox & Hounds, Whittlebury. WELLINGBOROUGH

3rd Wednesday 12 noon-2pm: The Stanwick Hotel, Stanwick. THE CONNECTIONS CLUB - NORTHANTS For business owners, influencers and decision-makers.

NORTHAMPTON

1st Tuesday 11.45am-2pm: Delapre Abbey, Northampton. Contact: Barbara Hodgson 07504 946 585 / 01933 652884, email barbara@yourbusinessmatters.co or visit yourbusinessmatters.co.