unLTD FEBRUARY 26 Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #95

HOW PENNINE FIVE IS POWERING THE CITY’S NEXT WAVE OF INNOVATION

THE NEXT CHAPTER

New leadership and a bold strategy for Sheffield Chamber in 2026

LAST ORDERS?

Hospitality is being pushed to the brink – here’s what needs to change

QUIET POWER Mark Storey on reinvention, responsibility and leading with values at SCCCC

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Treat yourself to a delicious cocktail or two!

CHOOSE FROM OVER 20 COCKTAILS TAGGED WITH THE 'CUBANA STAR' IN OUR DRINKS MENU FOR ONLY £7.00! PLUS...

>> House Spirit Double £7.00

>> Selected bottled beers £3.50 - Corona and Super Bock

>> Selected house wines £4.25 per glass or £18.50 per bottle. Choose from Pinot Grigio White, Pinot Grigio Rosé or Montepulciano Red

>> Prosecco - £22.50 per bottle

>> Sangria or Sangria Blanca £22.50 per jug

**DOWNSTAIRS BAR EXTENDED HAPPY OFFER**

We have extended all of the above Happy Drinks offers for a further two hours, until 8pm, Monday to Friday in the downstairs bar **only available in the downstairs bar

available until 6.00pm, SUNDay TO FRIDAY

Call in and chill out at the end of a hard day, unwind and soak up our relaxed Latino vibe whilst enjoying our ‘Happy Tapas’ deals. ANY 2 tapas dishes for £12.95 £5.00 off ANY Of our tapas set menus –– OR ––

Fantastic value when you dine early. APPLIES TO ALL TABLES SEATED AND ORDERING BEFORE OR AT 6PM.

Please note our Happy Drinks and Happy Tapas Offers are not available on Bank Holiday Sundays

FEB/

Improvers SOCIAL DANCING from 5pm FREE Swing Dance class from 8.30pm Live music from 9pm

5

THURSDAY

THE BIG SWING IS AN EXCITING NIGHT OF UPBEAT JAZZ AND SWING EVERY THURSDAY @ CUBANA’S DOWNSTAIRS COCKTAIL BAR.

“ A raucous

mix of live music

and dancing that everyone can’t help getting involved in!”

CHARLIE LUDLAM

Learning the piano from the young age of 7 and working as a professional musician from the age of 15 with his father’s band, Charlie knows his eggs as they say. He is now a seasoned and popular young performer in great demand!

F.B.I

Curated and fronted by Sheffield guitarist royalty Shez Sheridan, FBI play jumping West Coast Jazz and Swing! They played some of the very first Big Swing events and we’re very lucky they’re still part of the family!

THURSDAY

THE DIZZY CLUB

Sheffield’s most loved, long standing swing band. Their music often crosses the genre divide simply because they are so interesting musically. Influences of Hot Club, 40’s swing, Blue note Soul and Sinatra often with Latin rhythms gives them an edge.

THURSDAY

LOUIS LOUIS LOUIS

Playing classic Swing, Jump-Jive, Ska and red-hot Rhythm & Blues, Louis Louis Louis are guaranteed to get your feet tapping and your legs flapping! Thumping slap bass, honking saxophone, raucous four-part vocal harmonies and a driving piano boogie. Playing the hits of Louis Prima, Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong, Nina Simone, Toots & The Maytals, Joe Turner, Louis Jordan and more!

Here’s what our customers say

Simoda have been brilliant for us. They’re not like the usual IT support companies - really approachable, easy to talk to, and their support is never a hassle to use. Everything just feels smoother with them. Would happily recommend to anyone.”

Contents

28: HIGH FIVE

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of unLTD!

I trust that by now the cobwebs have been blown off and you’re fully settled into 2026, making steady progress with all those ambitious New Year’s resolutions you set back in January.

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Once HSBC’s regional HQ, Pennine Five is now a thriving innovation hub at the heart of the Sheffield Innovation Spine. With deep-tech tenants, community events and new café-bar Discovery, we discover how the fiveblock campus has big ambitions for the city centre’s ecosystem.

8: NEW FOUNDATIONS

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce unveiled its new 2030 strategy at its 168th AGM, welcoming more than 150 members to the City Hall. With creative keynote speakers and a new president in place, Ash Birch reports from the event signalling fresh momentum for the city’s business scene.

24: INSIDE TRACK: MARK STOREY

From stage hypnotist to CEO of Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care, Mark Storey reflects with Russ Thompson on values-led leadership, organisational transformation and ‘kindfulness’ sit at the heart of what they do.

38: LAST ORDERS?

Longbow Venues’ Rob Hattersley delivers a blunt assessment of the pressures facing hospitality – from VAT and business rates to rising wages and energy costs.

58: CONNECTING GENERATIONS

Best known as The Northern Wine Guy, Andrew Lofthouse has taken on an additional role with B:Friend, tackling loneliness among older people across South Yorkshire. From one-to-one befriending to vibrant social clubs, he explains how stronger business partnerships can help build lasting community connections. ON THE COVER...

No, me neither. But that’s fine. At the very least, this issue can offer a breather from the day-to-day – a chance to pause, flick through and catch up on everything that’s been happening across our region.

If, like me, you’ve been scrolling on socials a bit too much recently, you may have noticed the fad of posting a photo from 2016. Quite why that particular year prompted such a collective wave of nostalgia, I’m not entirely sure. Dabbing? Pokémon Go? Leicester City winning the Premier League? Whatever the trigger, timelines have been flooded with heavily filtered throwbacks from a decade ago.

Naturally, I had a scroll through the archives myself. As well as bemoaning a few suspect sartorial decisions, what really interested me was the Sheffield backdrop in many of those shots.

A post-gig photo near the City Hall showed Cambridge Street when the main draw was a wellpriced fry-up at the Benjamin Huntsman – a far cry from today’s thriving hub of independents, food spots and creative businesses. Charter Square looked similarly tired compared to its modern line-up of bars, shops and a cinema complex that’s now part of the furniture. Kelham Island? Pictures of a casual afternoon walk to The Fat Cat revealed a vista of industrial wasteland. Fast forward to now and Little Kelham stands there in full hipster glory.

And that’s just from a quick Facebook scrawl. Multiply that across the city and it’s clear that Sheffield – and South Yorkshire more broadly – has changed dramatically over the past decade. In my view, overwhelmingly for the better.

This month’s cover feature focuses on a building that aims to continue that upward trajectory. We paid a visit to Pennine 5 to hear how it's shaping up as a key hub for tech and digital innovation – supporting growing businesses, retaining top talent in the city and creating a space where collaboration happens naturally and ideas can flourish.

Elsewhere, you’ll find our usual mix of inspiring entrepreneurs, major developments, new appointments and insightful analysis. We’re also gearing up for another unLTD Business Expo –bringing the region’s business community together under one roof once again.

Enjoy – and we’ll catch up next month.

Joseph Food, Editor.

Joe Food

Joe@unltdbusiness.com

ONLINE EDITOR

Ash Birch

Ash@unltdbusiness.com

VIDEO CONTENT CREATOR

Lizzy Capps lizzy@unltdbusiness.com

DESIGN

Marc Barker

ADVERTISING

Phil Turner

phil@unltdbusiness.com 07979 498 034

Nick Hallam

nick@exposedmagazine.co.uk 07843 483536

FINANCE

Lis Ellis accounts@ exposedmagazine.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS

Dan Bumby

Steve Brown

Wendy Ward

Jill White

Keira Manning

unLTD is published monthly by Blind Mice Media Ltd Unit 1B Rialto, 2 Kelham Island Sq., Kelham Riverside, Sheffield S3 8SD

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Blind Mice Media Ltd and while every effort is made to ensure information throughout unLTD is correct, changes prior to distribution may take place which can affect the accuracy of copy, therefore Blind Mice Media Ltd cannot take responsibility for contributors’ views or specific listings.

LET’S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS

The unLTD Business Expo is back on Wednesday 14 October – and it’s shaping up to be a key date in the South Yorkshire business calendar.

Held again at Magna, this year’s event promises even more reasons to get involved – whether you’re looking to exhibit, network or simply explore the region’s vibrant business community.

Following the success of the last two expos, this year's event is set to scale up in every sense. With expanded workshops, curated talks and a host of new entertainment zones, attendees can expect a full day of insight, connection and inspiration.

“We’ve always focused on making the expo a useful and enjoyable experience,” says unLTD director Phil Turner. “This year, we’re doubling down on that –creating more things to do, more opportunities to connect and ensuring visitors are engaged from start to finish.”

Exhibitors will benefit from face-to-face access to hundreds of

potential customers, collaborators and decision-makers from across South Yorkshire. With over 60,000 businesses in the region, the Expo is the perfect place to showcase your products and services – or discover what others have to offer.

And for attendees, it’s completely free to visit. Alongside the exhibition stands, there’ll be expert-led workshops, insightful panel sessions and plenty of extras designed to keep energy high throughout the day. The popular speed networking is back too – free for unLTD Business Club members, with a small charge for non-members.

As ever, spaces are limited and stands are booking up fast. Exhibitor slots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis – so early booking is strongly advised to avoid missing out.

So, whether you’re a start-up, SME or established brand, this is an unmatched platform to raise your profile, meet new contacts and be part of something that celebrates and champions the region’s thriving business scene.

IN A NUTSHELL:

Date: Wednesday 14 October 2026

Venue: Magna

Time: 9.30am – 3pm

Entry: Free to attend

WHAT’S ON:

• Over 75 local exhibitors

• Expert talks and practical workshops

• Speed networking sessions

• New entertainment zones

• A full day of insight, ideas and connections

WHY EXHIBIT?

• Get your brand in front of key decisionmakers

• Showcase your products and services

• Make meaningful business connections

Stands are

NEW FOUNDATIONS

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) members gathered this month to unveil its new 2030 strategy, welcome Warp Films' Niall Shamma as keynote speaker and celebrate a year of business at its 168th Annual General Meeting. Words: Ash Birch

More than 150 members of the city’s business community gathered at the Memorial Hall in Sheffield City Hall to reflect on the past 12 months and look ahead to the future.

At the heart of the event was the launch of the Chamber’s new five-pillar strategy, designed to make it easier for members to do business. The framework focuses on: leading influence and advocacy, connecting markets and supply chains, enabling growth and skills, building resilience and capability, and driving social impact.

Louisa Harrison-Walker, chief executive of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “Our new strategy marks an important step forward for our members and our wider community. It is rooted in partnership and purpose –driving delivery by working together, cultivating a genuine sense of belonging and unifying the support landscape so members can access the right help at the right time.

“We’re stronger together in so many ways. When we leverage our collective scale to lead coordinated

social impact, we ensure our combined efforts deliver meaningful, long-term value for our people, our places and the regional economy.”

Guests also heard from keynote speaker Niall Shamma, chief operating officer at Warp Films, who shared insights into the company’s 20-year journey. He reflected on achievements including eight Emmys, four Golden Globes and 18 BAFTAs, as well as the risks taken along the way – including the decision to remain rooted in Sheffield where, he said, “you can do

great things”, rather than fully relocate to That There London.

The AGM also marked a leadership transition. Outgoing president Alexis Krachai was thanked for his commitment and contribution over the past two years, as he handed over to incoming president Jerry Cheung, who begins his term with a focus on international trade and inward investment.

Jerry, the first president from an ethnic minority background in the Chamber’s history, said: “It is a privilege to step into

Agenda

the role of president and represent our members. Sheffield is building strong momentum but, like many cities, it also faces significant challenges that will shape businesses and the wider economy in the years ahead.

“Through my term, and with a strong focus on international trade, I hope we can help members navigate change, build resilience and seize new opportunities for growth.”

AGM formalities followed, with members presented with the Chamber’s financial performance and given the opportunity to vote on key matters. Over the past year, the Chamber welcomed 112 new members and supported 801 businesses in total, including 17 patrons and 120 premium partners.

New council members were also welcomed, including Sam Earnshaw, who was re-appointed for a second term, alongside Chloe Wallace, Charlotte Thompson, John Henshall, Becki Ashley, Steve Brown,

Martin Collins, Hannah Duraid, Sue Bancroft and Yejide Adewakun.

Joining the Chamber board as non-executive directors were Roz Davies of The Green Estate CIC, Rachel Abbott of Cobra Sport Exhausts and Cobra Manufacturing, and Kate Hill of Simoda Technology Solutions.

Alexis Krachai stepped down from the board after eight years of service, alongside Faaiza Ramji, who concluded a five-year term. Both were thanked for their significant contributions.

Like many Chambers across the UK, Sheffield Chamber’s aim is to bring together board members, council members, patrons and champions to represent the interests of businesses across the city region, helping ensure Sheffield continues to speak with one voice.

Get in touch with SCCI to find out more: scci.org.uk/ contact

In Conversation with New SCCI President Jerry Cheung

Congratulations, Jerry. How are you feeling about taking on the role of President?

It’s a mix of excitement and responsibility. It’s a huge role, and I’m very aware of the task ahead.

You spoke about strengthening international trade. How do you plan to support that?

I joined the Chamber four years ago, so I’ve had time to think about what I’d like to achieve. One key focus will be leading a trade delegation to the Far East alongside the Master Cutler, working with partners including the council and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority. We’re also looking to involve businesses such as HSBC, law firms and others who want to build relationships overseas.

Is that about showcasing Sheffield to international partners?

It works both ways. It’s about building relationships, understanding each other and finding the right partners who complement each other in business.

How does it feel to be the first president from an ethnic minority background?

I’m honestly quite gobsmacked. When I came here 50 years ago, I never imagined I’d one day be representing the city’s business community. I feel very grateful and deeply honoured.

Does it feel like recognition for your work over the years?

That’s not really for me to say. I didn’t put myself forward for recognition. I think it reflects the trust people have placed in me, and that means a lot.

What would you like your term to be remembered for in two years’ time?

I’ve seen how the Chamber has evolved over the past four years, and I hope we can continue that progress and pick up the pace. I’d like to see more members joining, stronger collaboration and closer connections between the Chamber, the council and the combined authority. Together, we are stronger, and that shared approach is what will move the city forward.

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CHANCELLOR SAYS SHEFFIELD IS ‘LEADING THE WAY’

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves praised the University of Sheffield’s leadership in sustainable aviation and clean energy during a visit to the city’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

Joined by South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard, University Vice-Chancellor Professor Koen Lamberts and AMRC interim CEO Ben Morgan, the Chancellor toured the AMRC’s new COMPASS facility – a major innovation hub focused on fast-tracking lightweight aircraft production.

COMPASS (Composites at Speed and Scale), housed next to the AMRC’s Factory 2050, is one of the largest R&D investments in the North and was launched as part of the South Yorkshire Investment Zone. Its first project is a landmark research partnership with Boeing to develop faster, more sustainable manufacturing techniques for lighter aerostructures.

“It was fantastic to visit the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre... and see first-hand how South

IT WAS FANTASTIC TO VISIT THE UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD AMRC... AND SEE FIRST-HAND HOW SOUTH YORKSHIRE IS LEADING THE WAY IN CUTTING-EDGE INNOVATION,”

Yorkshire is leading the way in cutting-edge innovation,” said Chancellor Rachel Reeves. “This region has unique strengths that we’re determined to build on.”

Reeves also visited a new Factory 2050 facility where the University is working

with Rolls-Royce SMR to produce prototype modules for small modular nuclear reactors – supporting the UK’s clean energy ambitions and growing high-skill manufacturing jobs.

Professor Koen Lamberts said: “We’re proud to be

at the forefront of the UK’s sustainable aviation revolution... transforming air travel and powering the UK’s future growth and prosperity.”

The Chancellor’s visit also spotlighted Sheffield’s role in advancing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The University leads a £1.5 million UK Government-funded project to accelerate SAF production and hosts one of only two global SAF Clearing Houses, supporting industry certification for greener fuels.

Ben Morgan added: “From light weighting aerostructures to developing modular manufacturing with RollsRoyce SMR, we are bridging the gap between world-class research and industrial reality.”

SHEFFIELD TAKES THE REINS

Sheffield is set to welcome the Year of the Horse with its most ambitious Lunar Chinese New Year Festival to date, featuring a week-long programme of cultural events, performances and citywide celebrations.

Now in its third year as a major public event, the 2026 festival is led by Cultural Inclusive CIC, supported by Sheffield City Council, Sheffield BID, and new title sponsor Chery, following the global car brand’s UK launch. At its heart is a free, two-day celebration in the Peace Gardens on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 February, with lion dances, acrobats, food stalls, music and performances from across the region and beyond.

The festival kicks off on Monday 16 February with a light switchon at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, followed by the return of the Gala Spectacular at The Octagon on Wednesday 18 February – a ticketed evening of Chinese acrobatics, martial arts, dance and live performance, with proceeds going to The Children’s Hospital Charity. Meadowhall will also host cultural exhibitions throughout the week, ending with a free Friday night showcase at The Oasis.

A standout moment of the weekend will be the International Cultural Costume Show, hosted by former supermodel Heather Stewart-Whyte and featuring Miss South Yorkshire 2025/26 Whitney Dsane, with a welcome from Baroness Anette von Kohorn. The show is delivered by Cultura Creative, known for promoting inclusive representation.

The festival will spotlight cultures beyond Chinese heritage, with performances from South Asian, African, Roma, Filipino, Thai and Kerala groups, and schools across Sheffield will benefit from free workshops in language, arts and crafts, delivered in partnership with the Confucius Institute.

Festival organiser Jerry Cheung said: “This festival has always been about more than just performance... this festival belongs to all of us.”

NIBS

ELECTRIC STUDIOS ANNOUNCES OPENING EVENTS

Electric Studios has launched with a programme of live music and club nights from March onwards, featuring The Lemonheads, St Etienne, Goldie Lookin’ Chain and Overpass. Club events under the Electric Loves banner include names like Wilkinson and Toddla T. The venue says that it aims to support local talent with free studio space and future art exhibitions. However, its arrival remains controversial after they bought the iconic building in 2017 and evicted the former management team – a move that has divided opinion across the city.

TOUR DE FRANCE RETURNS

Sheffield will host the stage two finale of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in July 2027, welcoming the world’s top cyclists and thousands of spectators. The race begins in Leeds and finishes in Sheffield via Manchester and the Peak District, putting the city at the heart of a global sporting moment. As part of the UK’s largest free-to-watch event, the announcement brings major opportunities for local businesses and volunteers. It marks a proud return for elite cycling to Yorkshire’s hills and Sheffield’s streets.

NEW

LEISURE CENTRE TO BE RENAMED AFTER

LOCAL LEGEND

Sheffield’s Springs Leisure Centre will be renamed the Uriah Rennie Leisure Centre in tribute to the pioneering referee and community leader. Announced at a Town Hall ceremony on 2 February 2026, the news coincided with Rennie being awarded a Sheffield Legends star. The rebuilt, modern facility will reflect his values of inclusion, health and community. Rennie, who died in 2025, broke barriers as the Premier League’s first Black referee and was deeply involved in civic life. The site sits on the grounds of his former school.

PADEL TENNIS PLANS SUBMITTED FOR STEEL CITY STADIUM

Scarborough Group International has submitted plans to install three internationalstandard Padel Tennis courts at Sheffield’s Steel City Stadium. If approved, the courts would open by summer 2026, expanding the offer at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park. The courts will sit alongside the stadium’s café, changing rooms and co-working spaces, supporting SGI’s vision for a vibrant, multi-use campus.

CREDIT: SADIE WILSON

Agenda

SCRIPTED FOR SUCCESS

Showroom Cinema has secured a major funding boost to support aspiring filmmakers across the North, strengthening its role as a vital pipeline for young screen talent.

The Sheffield venue, the only organisation in the North to deliver BFI Film Academy Specialist Courses, has received £179,000 from the British Film Institute. The investment will fund specialist courses in film programming, archiving and curation, helping young people gain practical skills and early career insight into areas of the screen industry that are often hard to access.

The BFI funding underlines Showroom’s unique position within the region’s creative

ecosystem. Its free courses are aimed at 16 to 25-yearolds and focus on developing specialist filmmaking skills alongside professional

guidance and industry knowledge. Since 2013, more than 800 young people have taken part in the programme, many of whom have gone on to build successful careers in film and television.

Alumni of Showroom’s BFI Film Academy courses now work across some of the UK’s most prominent cultural and media organisations, including the BBC, ITV, Sheffield DocFest, Warner Bros, Leeds International Film Festival, Glasgow Film Festival, BFI Southbank and Pinewood Studios.

Victoria Firth, chief

STARS ON THE STREETS

Last month saw the unveiling of Sheffield’s newest 'Legends' – individuals whose achievements have left a lasting mark on the city and taken its name onto the national and global stage.

Often described as the city’s own walk of fame, the plaques are set into the pavement outside Sheffield Town Hall. Past honourees include Olympic champion Jessica Ennis-Hill and musician Joe Cocker. This year’s cohort brings together figures from sport, music, business and community life, reflecting the breadth of Sheffield’s influence.

The Sheffield Legends honour is awarded to individuals or groups who are, or were, at the top of their field, are widely recognised at a national or global level, and who have promoted Sheffield in a positive light. Nominations were assessed by an independent awards panel made up of representatives from across the city.

Among those recognised this year is Uriah Rennie, who will receive a posthumous plaque in tribute to his pioneering career as a Premier League referee and his role as a trailblazer within English football. Dame Julie Kenny is also being honoured posthumously, recognised for her leadership in business and her long-

standing commitment to South Yorkshire’s economy, heritage and communities.

Community fundraiser John Burkhill, widely known as ‘The Man with the Pram’, is being honoured after raising more than £1 million for Macmillan Cancer Support. Sheffield band Pulp are recognised for their international success and cultural impact, while boxer Herol ‘Bomber’ Graham receives the honour for his achievements at the highest levels of professional boxing. Musician Paul Carrack is also awarded a plaque for his decadeslong career as a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.

Two further honourees, golfer Danny Willett and England cricketer Joe Root, were announced previously.

Leader of Sheffield City Council, Cllr Tom Hunt, said: “The Sheffield Legends honours celebrate the people who have shaped our city’s story and recognise their great achievements.

“This year’s recipients are all people who inspire us and the world. They reflect the creativity, dedication and community spirit that define Sheffield. Their achievements have reached far beyond our borders but are shaped by the values that make our city extraordinary..”

Sheffield’s Walk of Fame – officially the Sheffield Legends –celebrates the city’s greats in stainless steel (naturally). Launched in 2006 with World Cup–winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks as the first inductee, it has since grown to 27 names. The public can nominate new additions – with Arctic Monkeys and Richard Hawley currently topping the wish list.

executive of Showroom Cinema, said: “We welcome the BFI’s endorsement of Showroom, as an incubator for the next generation of talent, delivering the skills to succeed through accessible and expert support.”

Mark Hilton, chair of Showroom’s board of trustees, said the funding would help ensure long-term impact for the region’s screen sector: “With this support, we will continue to build skills, create clear career pathways, and open doors for the young people shaping the future of South Yorkshire’s screen economy.”

The investment comes at a time of growing focus on regional talent development, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a centre for creative education and opportunity beyond London. showroomcinema.org.uk

Stripping back the biggest business stories – what happened, who’s involved and why it matters to our region.

SHEFFIELD’S LOCAL PLAN CLEARS MAJOR HURDLE

What’s the story?

Independent inspectors reviewing Sheffield’s draft Local Plan have confirmed that the strategy can be considered sound, subject to a number of modifications. Their conclusion follows public consultations and hearings held since 2023, marking a major milestone for a plan that will shape the city’s development for years to come.

A new round of consultation on the proposed modifications is set to begin in March.

Why does it matter?

The Local Plan is Sheffield’s roadmap for future growth – guiding decisions on homes, jobs, transport, green space and infrastructure up to 2039. It sets out higher environmental standards, stronger space requirements for new homes, and introduces a 10% biodiversity net gain target for developers.

The plan aims to unlock more affordable housing, regenerate urban areas, support investment and protect heritage and green spaces. More than 350 sites have been earmarked for development, with a strong focus on brownfield land. A small number of Green Belt sites remain included, but with strict conditions – including guaranteed delivery of affordable housing.

What’s changed?

Since the last public hearings, inspectors have proposed several key changes. A full schedule of modifications will be published ahead of consultation. These include technical updates and refinements to specific site allocations. Once the consultation closes, feedback will be reviewed before a final report is issued to the council.

What’s been said?

“Sheffield needs a Local Plan because we are a growing city, and growth needs to be planned, not left to chance,” said Cllr Tom Hunt, Leader of Sheffield City Council.

“This plan reflects years of work and listening... and is about setting clear rules for how the city grows, protecting what matters, and making sure development brings real benefits for Sheffield.”

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SKY-HOUSE CO SUBMITS PLANS FOR NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD

Sheffield-based housebuilder Sky-House Co has submitted a planning application for a new residential-led development in the city centre, marking its latest urban neighbourhood scheme.

The proposed development – named Porter Island Works – is set to transform a former surface car park on Sylvester Street, within the Cultural Industries Quarter, into a vibrant, mixed-use community. The plans include 31 twoto five-bedroom homes and a distinctive pavilion building incorporating a café-bar and a twobedroom apartment.

Situated alongside the Porter Brook, the scheme aims to enhance and extend the pedestrian river

With Jill White of Andy Hanselman Consulting

corridor, connecting with Matilda Street Pocket Park and creating an animated route of cafés, bars and cultural spaces through the city.

Sky-House Co has partnered with the Don Catchment Rivers Trust and Sheffield Wildlife Trust to support environmental improvements to the Porter Brook. These efforts align with the city’s wider ambitions to revitalise its waterways and green infrastructure.

David Cross, CEO of Sky-House Co, said the project builds on the company’s earlier city centre schemes at Devonshire Quarter and Copper Street – also known as Little Chicago –both due for completion in late 2026.

“This will be our third brownfield neighbourhood in Sheffield city centre,” he said. “We want to provide an alternative to apartment living by creating well-designed houses within the urban core.”

Subject to planning approval, construction is expected to begin in late 2026.

MBE-LIEVABLE EVENTS

We began the year with a retirement, an MBE and an Art Walk – plus a bit of Strictly!

I finished last month mentioning two special people and two special events. We said a fond farewell to John Barber – cofounder of Workwise, Skills Street and the driving force behind Get up to Speed.

Speaking of which – make sure you’ve got 18 and 19 March at Magna in your diary. It’s one not to miss.

It was great to see such a strong turnout for John at the super smart Skills Street. It’s been a while since I visited and wow – it’s absolutely fabulous.

John will be missed – Richard Caborn even got Royalty there to thank him! The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh had visited earlier and were hugely impressed with the facility – and rightly so.

Sticking with Royalty, I was beyond proud to visit St James’s Palace for the investiture of Sophie Maxwell MBE – a fitting reward for her inspirational journey with The Really NEET College.

I met Sophie 15 years ago at Sheffield Hallam, when she ‘had a dream’. None of us imagined where it would take her.

Congratulations, Sophie – you’ve made so many people proud. Not least the very fabulous Sheila Quairney from Hallam, who is sadly no longer with us. I know she would’ve been incredibly happy to see Sophie’s success.

Speaking of success, hats off to Sheffield Theatres and their January productions – Crown of Blood and To Kill a Mockingbird. Both were fantastic and really put Sheffield on the cultural map. As indeed are Warp Films. What an inspirational insight at the Sheffield Chamber AGM from their COO Niall Shamma. He even brought his Emmy! I loved his ‘Taking Over the World From Sheffield’ slide – I think we can all get behind that.

What else? Burns Night, the Master Cutler Challenge launch, 3D Connect, a Spa 1877 session and an Art Walk through Sheffield – finishing with an illuminating chat with Georgina Kettlewell at Yorkshire Artspace.

January, you were fabulous. Or should I say… FaB U Lous?

Follow Jill at uk.linkedin.com/in/jilltywhite or find Andy Hanselman Consulting at andyhanselman.com.

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SERVING FRESH

2026 is shaping up to be another big year for Sheffield’s hospitality scene, thanks to a wave of exciting new venues adding fresh flavour to the city’s food and drink offering. From Aussie café culture to TikTok-famous fried chicken, here are five new openings worth putting on your radar.

1. Drop Bear – Howard Street

Bringing a taste of down under to the streets of Sheffield, Drop Bear opened its doors this January near the train station. The Australian-inspired café is the latest venture from Alex and Gigi Moore – the husband-and-wife duo behind the popular Hygge coffee shops. With colourful drinks like iced ube cheesecake cloud lattes and peach horizon matchas, this spot has quickly become a magnet for creatives, students and coffee aficionados alike. The menu features affordable Aussiestyle sushi and rice bowls, including vegetarian options, all served in a relaxed setting that encourages you to linger.

The name is a playful nod to the mythical ‘drop bear’ of Australian folklore – and its cartoon koala mascot wearing a branded tee adds to the charm. Students benefit from 20% off, and there’s even a competition for a year’s worth of free coffee. @thebearscafe_sheffield

2. Watt Bar – Charles Street

After seven years of planning setbacks, including a global pandemic, Watt Bar is finally ready to light up Charles Street. Housed in a former electric substation, the multi-use venue opens later this month with long daily hours (8am–midnight, 2am on weekends) and a flexible menu that moves from morning coffee to late-night cocktails.

Expect breakfast dishes and acai bowls in the early hours, followed by stacked subs at lunch, and New Orleansstyle fried chicken come evening. The

venue – with booths, high tables, a dance floor and beer garden – also boasts an impressive events calendar, including live music, DJ sets and comedy nights.

Owner Andy Grice, a former soldier turned hospitality entrepreneur, has created a space that welcomes all: “I think a successful place should be loved by young people and older people and everything in between.” Watt Bar is also collaborating with the new kitchen brand Goobers, and will stock beer from Andy’s own Little Mesters Brewery. @watt_bar.

3. Dave’s Hot Chicken –Cambridge Street

Viral sensation Dave’s Hot Chicken is setting up shop in Sheffield this February, marking another UK milestone for the California-born brand. Known for its eye-watering spice levels – including the infamous ‘Reaper’ that requires a waiver to order – the chain blends fast food with influencer culture to create serious hype.

From humble beginnings in a Hollywood car park in 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken now has over 200 locations worldwide, with celebrity investors such as Drake and Samuel L. Jackson. The Sheffield outlet will replace Ask Italian near the Town Hall and feature a menu of spicy chicken burgers, tenders, wings and loaded fries, all served in a neon-lit LA-inspired interior.

@daveshotchickenuk

4.

Forbici – St Paul’s Square

Forbici, the acclaimed Neapolitan pizza restaurant, is set to bring its traditionalyet-scientific approach to pizza to Sheffield this spring. After winning praise from Marco Pierre White in Manchester, the brand is now expanding with a venue designed specifically for Sheffield’s food scene.

Translating as “scissors”, Forbici slices every pizza into quarters using large scissors, in the true Neapolitan style. Ingredients are imported directly from Italy, including flour from Molini Pizzuti and Fior di Latte mozzarella from Vico Equense. It’s pizza made with respect for tradition, but adapted for the city’s discerning diners.

@forbicirestaurants

5. Omomo – Division Street

Korean-British fusion finds a bold new home on Division Street with the arrival of Omomo, a restaurant promising exciting, dynamic dishes that reflect the Korean slang it’s named after (“oh my gosh!”). Think kimchi pancakes, Korean fried chicken and hearty army stew – all served with flair and a twist.

Following a successful first site in Derby, the Sheffield branch builds on the original concept with an expanded menu that caters for halal diets, vegans, and a wide range of spice preferences. Drinks include bubble teas, floats and soju bombs – which must be downed before they overflow.

@omomo.uk

LOCAL BREW ONE OF THE UK’S BEST-SELLING BEERS

LOCAL BREW ONE OF THE UK’S BEST-SELLING BEERS

Thornbridge Brewery’s flagship IPA, Thornbridge Brewery Jaipur, has been named the ninth best-selling cask beer in the UK, capping off a landmark year for the Derbyshire brewer.

In 2025, Thornbridge produced its highest volume of cask beer to date, with more than 3.5 million pints of Jaipur brewed for handpull. According to CGA data, the result places Jaipur firmly within the country’s top cask performers and highlights the continued rise of modern, hop-forward styles in a category traditionally dominated by classic bitters.

Jaipur’s national profile surged last year after being selected for JD Wetherspoon’s ‘Class Act’ showcase, a promotion celebrating standout British breweries. The beer also secured widespread pours across major pub groups including Mitchells & Butlers, Molson Coors, Fuller’s and Stonegate, giving it one of its broadest-ever on-trade footprints.

Support from the Free Trade has been central to the growth, with independent pubs continuing to champion the beer and helping cement its reputation as a dependable, quality-led cask option.

Co-founder and CEO Simon Webster said: “Following a couple of challenging years for the industry, the brewery is proud to report a return to profitability, marking an important step forward in its long-term sustainability.” He added: “This recovery reflects careful stewardship, a continued focus on quality and consistency and a clear confidence in the future of cask beer.”

Alongside Jaipur, Thornbridge continues to brew a wide range of cask styles and remains the home of the world’s only operational Burton Union system, which supports both heritage brewing and high-profile collaborations.

WHOSE ROUND IS IT ANYWAY?

The top Sheffield Beers by Untappd Ratings

Moonshine – Abbeydale Brewery – ~14,700+ ratings

Classic pale ale and one of the most checked-in local beers on Untappd.

Heathen – Abbeydale Brewery – ~9,600+ ratings

Another Abbeydale favourite with a strong number of checkins.

Pale Rider – Kelham Island Brewery – ~10,900+ ratings

A longstanding popular pale ale.

Deception – Abbeydale Brewery – ~8,960+ ratings

Well-loved pale ale.

Easy Rider – Kelham Island Brewery – ~5,145+ ratings Golden ale with solid check-ins.

THREE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED Agenda

JOIN THE CLUB

The unLTD Business Club is thriving – with a whole raft of new offers from our partners now included for 2026!

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⚫ 20% off your bill at all True North venues (Monday to Friday) with a True North Business Card

⚫ 20% off your bill at all True North venues (Monday to Friday) with a True North Business Card

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full supply and install of a new high efficiency Mitsubishi Hybrid system which targets the client’s energy efficiency-conscious operations, and further reduces their impact on global warming

“The installation of the first-floor hybrid system was completed with the utmost professionalism, integrity and care. The support from Airmaster in the office was outstanding, along with the support the engineers showed, which was brilliant! I have had grateful feedback from those within the office saying how they can tell the difference with the new system.”

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AESSEAL

LUXURY

BY STEVE BROWN, MD, FLUIDONE BUSINESS IT - SHEFFIELD

AN ACCESSIBLE OPPORTUNITY FOR SMBS FACING THE CHALLENGES OF 2026

For small and mediumsized businesses, 2026 begins with a familiar challenge: doing more, faster, with lean teams and growing budget pressure. In that context, the arrival of AI tools that are accessible, easy to deploy and genuinely useful marks a significant turning point. One such tool, Microsoft 365 Copilot Business, is proving to be more than a clever add-on – it’s a practical productivity boost that integrates directly with the apps SMBs already use every day.

Why is Copilot gaining traction with SMBs?

A lot of time is lost to repetitive tasks – starting documents from scratch, digging through email threads, or manually compiling reports. Work takes longer than it should. Good ideas stall in draft form. Projects slow down, even

when deadlines don’t.

Employees using Copilot save, on average, 2.3 hours a week*– time they can reinvest in highervalue work. Copilot accelerates common tasks using the data and tools teams are already familiar with. Unlike general AI tools, it operates within Outlook, Word, Teams, Excel and OneDrive – so it works with context, accuracy and your organisation’s security in mind.

What can Copilot do in realworld terms?

It’s designed to support your team in the flow of work, boosting productivity without increasing costs. Everyday use cases include:

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reports without the blankpage panic.

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Until recently, integrated AI felt out of reach for smaller organisations. Now, Microsoft has introduced a dedicated Copilot plan that makes it more affordable and accessible – with predictable costs and minimal setup. This levels the playing field. SMBs can now explore AI practically, without the need for big budgets or complex onboarding. It's a straight path to tangible productivity

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A promotional Copilot offer is available until 31 March, making this a low-risk, high-value time to explore what’s possible. Scan the QR code to find out more

The Inside Track: Mark Storey

REAL INSIGHTS FROM THOSE WHO MAKE THINGS HAPPEN

From stage hypnotist to the helm of an awardwinning Sheffield charity, SCCCC CEO Mark Storey talks reinvention, values-led leadership, and why kindness should be a rule for life.

Interview: Russ Thompson

MARK STOREY

CEO OF SHEFFIELD CHURCHES COUNCIL FOR COMMUNITY CARE (SCCCC)

If you’d told a teenage Mark Storey that one day he’d be running a millionpound charity with 55 staff and nearly 200 volunteers, he’d have probably laughed – and then politely disagreed.

“Did I ever see myself being chief executive of a charity? No,” Mark says. “I wanted to be a mechanic.”

And yet, ten years into his tenure at Sheffield Churches Council for Community Care – or SCCCC, as it’s known – Mark has overseen one of the region’s most compelling organisational transformations. It’s a journey that starts in grassroots community work, veers through Menorcan showbiz, and lands with purpose at the heart of South Yorkshire’s third sector.

Mark’s path began with a deeply personal motivator. “My cousin needed an apnoea monitor – she stopped breathing in her sleep. This was 1982 and the equipment cost £350, which was a huge amount at the time,” he recalls. At just 13, he raised not £350, but £3,500. “That was my first journey into fundraising. I just didn’t know then that it could be a career.”

What followed was an unconventional but steady shift into community development. After an early career in the motor trade was cut short by recession, Mark found himself working on one of Pendle’s “roughest council estates”. He later moved into

economic development at Burnley and later Bradford, helping communities build capacity, secure funding and, crucially, gain independence. “I was attracting millions in funding for training programmes and upskilling marginalised groups – particularly Asian women, who faced multiple barriers,” he says. “We were making a real difference.”

There’s a through-line here that becomes increasingly clear as we talk –people and purpose.

But just as you think you’ve got the measure of Mark Storey, he throws in a curveball: he was also an international stage hypnotist.

“Yes, that’s right,” he laughs, watching my eyebrows raise. “I spent a few years performing in Menorca, six nights a week. One and a half hours on stage, then editing VHS tapes of the show and selling them the next day. It was a great life for a while. I even met my wife Lisa there – she was a professional singer from Doncaster.”

This wasn’t a gimmick – Mark took it seriously. “Hypnosis is real. Magic is fake. It was about influencing people, creating rapport, engaging your audience. I didn't realise it at the time, but those are skills I use every day now.”

Eventually, the pull of stability – and a growing desire to make a deeper

YOU CAN TEACH SKILLS. BUT IF SOMEONE CAN’T SPEAK TO A PERSON WITH EMPATHY, THEY’RE NOT FOR US

impact – drew Mark back to the UK. After time spent working across a few northern cities, he eventually found his way to SCCCC in Sheffield. But even then, he hesitated. “I wasn’t sure about the job title – ‘Executive Director’ – and I asked outright if I needed to be a practising Christian. They said no, they wanted the best person for the role. So I went for it.”

That was over a decade ago. When Mark started, the organisation operated from the basement of a church hall, with seven staff and what he describes as “maybe 20 volunteers”. The charity was functional, but “the governance structures needed reviewing and strengthening, and we were seen as Sheffield’s best kept secret. I didn’t want us to be a secret. I wanted us to stand for something.”

He took stock, then set about rebuilding – not by imposing, but by asking the right questions. “We ran a workshop and asked everyone: what does SCCCC mean to you? What are our values? What do we stand for?” What emerged was a simple but powerful set of values: Caring, Committed, Compassionate, Credible –the Four Cs.

But what about the 'S'? “We were doing a rebrand in 2025,” Mark says, “and someone said, ‘Why are you changing the name? Everyone knows you as S and 4 Cs’. That got us thinking. Why not give the ‘S’ a purpose too?”

And so the ‘S Frame’ was born – a scaffold of care built on strength, structure and stability. “It became a framework for how we deliver those values,” Mark explains. “It’s the way we look after people.”

Under Mark’s leadership, SCCCC has evolved into a values-led organisation that still holds relationships at its core. Staff numbers have grown to 55, volunteer numbers are close to 200, and turnover has risen to £1.5m. Their services now stretch beyond Sheffield into Doncaster – and that expansion shows no signs of slowing.

Key to that success, says Mark, was implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) – a strategic framework that encourages autonomy and accountability – which he discovered through CEO coaching and peer advisory group Vistage. “I used to be the bottleneck. EOS changed that. Now we’re solving thousands of issues a year, at every level. Each team runs its own L10 meeting, issues are raised and

to lower energy bills

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The Inside Track: Mark Storey

THE IDEA THAT WE ACT WITH COMPASSION AND AWARENESS, WITH PURPOSE. IT STUCK WITH ME

solved. And we empower our people to act.”

He smiles. “We’ve got a 97% staff retention rate. That’s almost unheard of. And it’s because we recruit on values. You can teach skills. But if someone can’t speak to a person with empathy, they’re not for us.”

As CEO, he’s still deeply involved in team culture. “If someone goes above and beyond, I send a handwritten note to their home in a red envelope – like a Valentine’s card. That kind of recognition matters.”

SCCCC’s work tackles some of the most human issues – loneliness, isolation, hospital discharge, community support. “People used to ask what the name stood for,” Mark says. “Now I say: it stands for the way we look after people. That’s a powerful message.”

It’s not just the service users who benefit. The charity hosts students and volunteers who often start out nervous, unsure how to talk on the phone.

“They’re used to texting. But after a few weeks, you see the transformation. They develop confidence, communication skills. Some come back to work here full-time. That’s a huge win.”

We talk about the decline of faceto-face conversation, especially among younger generations. “Conversation is natural. It’s just questions, answers, curiosity,” he says. “But it needs

WHAT IS INSIDE TRACK?

In an age of curated success and quiet comparison, Inside Track is about flipping the script. These conversations focus on honesty over hype, and people who turn setbacks into stepping stones. The aim is simple – to source inspiration, not envy.

To find out more about Russ’s work and how you can join the conversation, visit director-on-demand.co.uk

practice. And that’s what we give them.”

Towards the end of our chat, I ask everyone the same thing: If you could create one rule for everyone to follow, what would it be?

Mark doesn’t hesitate. “Kindfulness. I heard it from a Buddhist master at an event recently – it’s a mix of kindness and mindfulness. The idea that we act with compassion and awareness, with purpose. It stuck with me.”

It fits. Not just the word, but the principle. You can trace it through every stage of Mark Storey’s story – from a 13-year-old fundraiser to a hypnotist bringing joy to crowds, to a CEO quietly but resolutely reshaping a vital charity from the inside out.

It’s clear he’s not in it for the spotlight. But in telling his story, one thing becomes obvious – Mark Storey is exactly the kind of leader who reminds you what leadership should look like: values-driven, people-first, and proudly unglamorous.

“I don’t need the limelight,” he says. “But if I can help build something that lasts, that matters – that’s enough.”

Scccc.co.uk

COVER: PENNINE 5

HIGH FIVE

Once home to a banking giant, Pennine Five has been reimagined as a people-first innovation campus at the heart of the Sheffield Innovation Spine. unLTD paid a visit to find out how ambitious businesses, shared space and a growing social scene are helping shape the city’s next chapter.

WORDS: JOSEPH FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY: MARC BARKER

On the fringes of central Sheffield, just off Tenter Street, sits a sprawling campus that tells you something about where the city is heading. Pennine Five – or P5, as it is often referred to – is not a shiny new development built from scratch, nor a parachuted-in tech hub. Instead, it is a reimagining of what Sheffield already had, and a confident statement about the sort of place it wants to become.

Bought by RBH Properties Group in 2019, the five-block complex dates back to 1971, originally built as HSBC’s regional headquarters and once home to more than 2,000 staff. Rather than demolish and rebuild, RBH made the decision to renew and reinvent the site. It was a bold move, and one that paid off, with Pennine Five winning Sustainable Development of the Year in 2023 . Today, the complex comprises five large office blocks, 47 floors in total, wrapped around a central plaza soon to host everything from communal wellbeing sessions to al fresco seating for a new café/bar. Nearby pubs have even been drawn into the story – with The Three Tuns jokingly designated ‘Block 6’, a nod to its potential as a post-work hotspot. But this is more than a lighthearted rebrand. Pennine Five is fast establishing itself as a key innovation

IT’S ABOUT HOW YOU INNOVATE AROUND COMMUNITIES, AROUND CULTURE, AROUND THE ENVIRONMENT"

hub within the Sheffield Innovation Spine, and a place where businesses, researchers, students and the wider public are encouraged not just to work, but to connect.

SO, WHAT IS THE SHEFFIELD INNOVATION SPINE?

The Sheffield Innovation Spine is an ambitious, city-shaping project designed to link together the city centre’s innovation infrastructure and create the conditions for knowledge-led businesses to start, scale and stay in Sheffield. Pennine Five sits squarely within that vision.

Charlotte Thompson, appointed Project Director for the Spine, in October 2024, says it places an emphasis on “delivering the spaces and place for our innovative businesses”, particularly in sectors where Sheffield and South Yorkshire have genuine competitive strength – deep tech and physical science, health and wellbeing, digital, creative industries and clean energy.

A core principle is density. By clustering businesses, researchers and institutions together, the aim is to increase connectivity, collaboration and what Charlotte calls ‘bumpability’ – the chance encounters that happen when people share spaces, cafés and routes through the city. “The aim is to create these hot spots within the city centre that are hyper-local,” she adds. “But they also sit within wider neighbourhoods that make a great place to live, work and play.”

Pennine Five represents one of those spaces, referred to as 'innovation hubs', and that is already reflected in its fast-growing tenant mix, with several University of Sheffield spin-outs choosing to locate on the campus. “We’re already seeing that traction,” notes Charlotte, adding that the wider ambition is to encourage businesses, researchers and public organisations to form collaborative clusters that benefit both the campus and the city around it.

Importantly, the Spine prioritises refurbishment and retrofit over demolition, for sustainability reasons and for flexibility. Pennine Five is a textbook example of that approach – an existing asset reworked to meet modern needs, rather than replaced.

A GROWING COMMUNITY

For much of the last decade, Pennine Five’s buildings sat largely empty. Today, they are steadily

filling up. Flexible workspace provider Spaces, operated by IWG, is based in Block 2 and is now around 75 percent occupied. Other tenants are spread across Blocks 3, 4 and 5, with Block 1 set to become the flagship building once funding is secured.

Among the businesses already on site is FourJaw Manufacturing, which has established its headquarters at Pennine Five, placing itself at the heart of Sheffield’s growing tech ecosystem with an office overlooking the central plaza.

Phlux Technology, another tenant and a University of Sheffield spin-out, specialises in advanced infrared sensor technology, while Exciting Instruments is developing a single-molecule detection platform that simplifies complex biological research for drug discovery and diagnostics. The company recently secured major funding and opened new labs for its affordable, highthroughput technology, adding further weight to Pennine Five’s life sciences and deep-tech credentials.

The campus is also home to Venture Community, The Sheffield College and training provider First Intuition, reinforcing the idea that this is not a single-sector site, but a mixed ecosystem where education, enterprise and support services sit side by side.

For Christina Staniforth, Campus and Business Development Manager at P5, the next phase is about momentum. “My role at Pennine 5 is to look after existing tenants as well as attract new ones,” she tells unLTD. “This year is hugely exciting for us, as we are focussing on activating the campus with a variety of events, attracting the right mix of tenants and opening up our flagship Block 1. We have already had interest from overseas – and are looking for the funding and investment to complete the vision.”

If the Innovation Spine is about more than buildings, it’s important to understand that community does not form by accident. As Charlotte points out, you “cannot rely on building fabric alone”. Programming, events

FOR SHARING FOOD, DRINKS AND IDEAS

One of the most tangible signs of Pennine Five’s evolution is Discovery, the new café-bar opening on the campus in early March. More than just a place to grab a coffee, Discovery is designed as a social anchor for the site – somewhere ideas can be tested, conversations started and communities mixed.

Discovery is being created by Dave King, owner of The Scrannery café brand and managing director of global IT consultancy Differentis, which is also based at Pennine Five. That dual perspective gives King a unique view of the campus’s potential.

“We said it needs to be more than just a café-bar,” he explains. “Because of the Innovation Spine and being part of the Pennine Five campus, how do we bring some of this stuff together?” The name Discovery is deliberate. “If you go through that innovation process, it all starts with that discovery moment.”

The space itself is flexible and carefully thought through. There is a main floor that can be segmented for events of up to 50 people, quieter snug rooms suitable for meetings or podcasting and a studio space that can be reconfigured for everything from board meetings and private dining to yoga or tai-chi. Local artist Jo Peel’s work features on the walls, grounding the space firmly in the local creative scene. Food and drink follow a similar philosophy – quality, social value and no unnecessary fuss. Discovery will continue The Scrannery’s partnership with Redemption Roasters, which works with young offenders to retrain and support them back into employment. The kitchen focuses on baking, roasting and smoking, with menus designed to feel generous and unfussy rather than trend-led. “This is Sheffield,” Dave laughs. “Sheffield doesn’t really do fads; it just focuses on quality produce and doing a job well.”

Open to the public as well as campus tenants, Discovery looks out over the plaza from Block 4, visually and symbolically opening Pennine Five up to the wider city. Evening openings from Wednesday to Friday will add life beyond the working day, while remaining deliberately calm and considered.

For Dave, innovation is not just about technology. “It’s about how you innovate around communities, around culture, around the environment,” he says. “That’s what gets me interested about what Sheffield is doing, which I don’t think I’ve seen in many other places.”

LOOKING AHEAD

It’s important to note that Pennine Five is still a work in progress. Block 1 is yet to open, and parts of the campus remain underoccupied. But that sense of potential is part of its appeal. “If you went back 12 or 18 months, you could see the potential,” Dave reflects. “Now we’re here, you can feel it. You can feel the buzz.”

In five years’ time, he believes Pennine Five could be a flagship campus not just for Sheffield, but as a model for other cities. “There’s enough space here to test out any idea possible,” he says. “Why not use this as a blueprint for how you bring businesses, people and communities together in one place?”

For more information, visit penninefive.com.

FANCY A TOUR OF P5? Contact Christina Staniforth on 07837569776

What began as a niche weekend experiment has become a cornerstone of South Yorkshire’s creative and outdoor economy. As ShAFF marks its 20th anniversary, the Sheffield Adventure Film Festival offers a timely moment to reflect on how a grassroots idea has grown into a nationally recognised cultural asset – and what that means for the city.

In 2006, a small founding team took over two screens at the Showroom Cinema with a clear ambition: to connect the thriving outdoor community with world-class adventure filmmaking. The result was the first ShAFF. Two decades on, the festival attracts filmmakers, athletes, brands and audiences from across the UK and beyond.

Running from 20–22 March 2026, this anniversary edition brings together screenings, talks, walks, workshops and exhibitions, all rooted in Sheffield’s identity as The Outdoor City. With more than a

hundred films and a growing network of partners, ShAFF has evolved into a platform not just for storytelling, but for collaboration – linking creative industries, outdoor businesses, venues and community organisations.

The festival’s growth mirrors wider changes in Sheffield itself, from the rise of outdoor and adventure-led enterprise to an increasing focus on cultural tourism and experience-led events. For local businesses and organisations, ShAFF has become both a showcase and a connector, helping to attract visitors, talent and investment into the city.

To mark the milestone, we spoke to ShAFF founder Matt Heason about how the festival has changed over 20 years – and how it continues to play a role in Sheffield’s cultural and business landscape.

What did ShAFF 2006 look like? Did you think you’d be going stronger than ever 20 years on?

The first years were bittersweet. The films were great, people loved them and the venue was brilliant. But audiences were small, and it felt like I was bashing my head against the wall. Thankfully we received some grants from National Lottery and Screen Yorkshire, and we have been supported by a small but extremely enthusiastic community, without which I'm not sure the festival would've survived.

We started out renting films from already-established festivals, and it took us several years to build a reputation where filmmakers began to submit films to us. I have a record of every single film, going back to year one. And I can remember most of them.

How has the adventure scene, if we can call it that, changed in Sheffield since 2006?

That's an interesting question. Sheffield has always been the climbing Mecca in the UK because of our proximity to the Peak District. I guess what I’ve seen is more of an uptake in road cycling, mountain biking, bike packing and, since covid, wild swimming. On the other hand, we’ve lost the ski village which produced Team GB athletes. There’s definitely an adventure filmmaking community in the city, and

I’d say it’s still focused mainly towards climbing. But I expect over the next 5 to 10 years we’ll see more filmmakers specialising in the other sports locally. Meanwhile, the council picked up on the fact that Sheffield is unusual and rebranded us ‘The Outdoor City’. They discovered that people in Sheffield were spending three times as much money on outdoor kit than the rest of the country. So they’ve taken more of an interest in recent years, and they now invest in events like ShAFF which has been very welcome.

What about the changes in adventure filmmaking?

Things have changed enormously. Film equipment has become cheaper and cheaper, to the point that shots that you’d previously need a helicopter for can now be captured by one person and a relatively Inexpensive drone. We've had films submitted which were filmed and edited entirely with an iPhone. But it’s not just film making that changed, but film viewing. Pessimists assumed that people would simply stay at home and watch films on their phones. But we’ve always said that going to the cinema, and film festivals in particular, is also about community. Where would you rather watch someone ski down a mountain at sunset – on a huge screen with others, or on a cracked screen in your toilet.

Other than the films, what stands out in your ShAFF memories over the last 20 years?

About ten years ago, the Sheffield Half Marathon made it to international news because they’d forgotten to provide any water for the runners. Nobody realised until 5,000 people were on the start line. The organisers decided to cancel the event, but the runners at the front began running and the rest just followed! The course happened to go right past the Showroom, so we had a team of volunteers and visitors outside on the street giving water out. It was a great example of the community rallying around each other.

What’s next for ShAFF?

I'd really like to see it cement itself as a destination weekend for anybody who gives a monkey about partaking in a sustainable adventure community. But hopefully that doesn’t take two decades!

Check out this year’s programme at shaff.co.uk @sheffieldadventure

THE OUTDOOR CITY AT

A GLANCE

£93 million

– annual household spend on outdoor activities in Sheffield – the highest in the UK, over 3x the national average

66% of residents take part in outdoor sports

61% of Sheffield is greenspace; a third of the city lies within the Peak District

10,000+

climbers live in Sheffield –the UK’s unofficial climbing capital

Home to 200+

outdoor equipment businesses

Sheffield is still the only UK city with a city-centre mountain biking facility, at Parkwood Springs

ESTABLISHED AND ICONIC BRANDS

Rab – Started in Sheffield in 1981 by climber Rab Carrington, originally making specialist sleeping bags by hand. Now a globally respected technical mountain brand.

Planet X – One of the UK’s largest direct-toconsumer cycling brands, headquartered in Sheffield and assembling bikes for customers worldwide.

Buffalo Systems – the Sheffield-based technical outerwear brand, was taken over in 2024 by adventurer and broadcaster Ben Fogle.

YOU CAN’T TAX A BUSINESS THAT ISN’T THERE

ANYMORE.”

Rob Hattersley does not sound like a man looking for sympathy. The managing director of Longbow Venues, the hospitality group behind five destination pubs and hotels across the Peak District, sounds tired, frustrated and, above all, fed up with being told that his industry is being “supported”.

“In quarter four of 2025, four venues were closing a day,” Rob reflects. “That’s the reality.”

For Rob, hospitality’s problems are not the result of one bad decision or one difficult year. They are structural, cumulative and, in his view, politically convenient. Ultimately, he believes the tax system is fundamentally misaligned with how the sector actually works.

“Tax should be on profitability,” he argues. “At the minute, we’re hit with tax throughout the whole business. VAT is the big one. We lose 20 percent of sales straight away.”

Unlike business-to-business sectors, hospitality cannot simply add VAT on top. “We’re a luxury commodity. That VAT just disappears,” Rob explains. “And we pay the highest VAT as a percentage of sales across the whole of Europe. Generally, hospitality VAT elsewhere is about half of what it is in the UK.”

That, however, is only part of the picture. Changes to National Insurance have landed particularly hard, largely because hospitality employs so many young people. “My business alone went to £250,000 in National Insurance in a year, across five sites. What’s the incentive now to employ young people?”

Hospitality, by its nature, has long been a doorway industry – a place where people start on the first rung and climb. “It’s where people cut their teeth. It gives them life experience, social skills, everything,” he adds. “We’re taking that away.”

Margins, never generous, are being squeezed from every direction. Energy costs have surged – “There’s been a 230 percent increase in the hospitality energy price index in the last two years!” – and alcohol duty rises annually. A recycling levy now applies to glass and plastic. Wages, too, have risen sharply.

“We don’t have an issue with paying a decent wage,” he stresses. “But there’s been a 43 percent increase in the national living wage in the last five years. Our prices haven’t gone up 43 percent.”

The point at which frustration turns into disbelief is business rates. At The George, one of Longbow’s Peak District venues, the rateable value has jumped from £49,000 to £205,000.

“The chancellor stood at the despatch box and said, ‘We are supporting hospitality. But behind the scenes, rateable values went up astronomically. They’ve skyrocketed people’s bills, then offered a 15 per cent discount and expected applause.”

Even that limited relief only applies to pubs. Venues with accommodation, like the majority of Longbow’s, are classed as hotels and receive nothing. “Same with restaurants, same with cafes,” he points out. “A lot of businesses are now going to struggle because they simply can’t afford this.”

If the current trajectory continues, Rob fears a hollowed-out sector. “It’s going to be heartbreaking. People’s jobs, people’s livelihoods. You don’t do this for the money.”

Many operators have put everything on the line. “People live above their pubs with their families. They’re going to lose their life savings and they won’t recover it,” he adds. “And you lose the pillar of the community. The pub is where people celebrate, commiserate, come together.”

Those that survive will not look the same. “The ones that are left will be astronomically expensive, because that’s the only way they’ll survive.”

For Longbow, the impact is as much psychological as financial. “I don’t even want to think about growth at the moment,” Rob admits. “What’s the point? There’s no incentive to work 80 hours a week, to live on less than minimum wage as a business owner.”

The irony, he argues, is that all of this runs counter to the government’s stated ambition of economic growth. “You can’t take tax on a business that isn’t there anymore. When businesses close, employees go onto Universal Credit. They’re not contributing to the economy.”

Like many operators, Longbow is cutting back where it can, but the consequences ripple outwards. “We’re reducing marketing spend. That means less work for other local businesses. Everyone suffers. It’s a vicious circle.”

There is also a call to action for consumers, tempered with realism. “It’s a use-it-or-lose-it situation,” he says, before acknowledging that customers are under pressure too. “People don’t have the disposable income they used to – we understand that. But support your local if you want it to remain.”

That might mean changing habits. “Use the midweek offers. Go out on a Wednesday instead of a Saturday. You’ll get better value and you’ll be more appreciated.”

Success, now, looks very different to how it did a couple of years ago. “A stable business. Being able to invest in the team. A stress-free working environment. I’ve never wanted to make the big bucks. I just wanted to do something brilliant for the area.”

He is unapologetic about the need for blunt honesty. “There’s no point dressing this up,” he says. “If we’re not open and vocal about how bad this is, nothing will change.”

longbowvenues.com

Peak District

Venue hire

Longbow Venues offers three stunning locations for your next corporate away day, The Maynard in Grindleford, The George in Hathersage and The Peacock at Rowsley, with rooms suited for up to 130 seated guests. All are within easy reach of Sheffield, Manchester, Derby and Nottingham, with The Maynard and The George accessible via the Hope Valley train line.

Day delegate packages start from £38 per person and 24-hour options from £235, with buffet menus and refreshments included.

Step away from the boardroom and reset your team in the Peak District, with countryside walks from the doorstep, creating an engaging and rewarding team building experience.

Stay the night with bedrooms across all our venues and turn your event into a memorable retreat. Get in touch

THE MAYNARD Grindleford, S32 2HE events@the-maynard.com | 01433 424110

THE GEORGE Hathersage, S32 1BB enjoymore@thegeorgehathersage.com | 01433 650436

THE PEACOCK AT ROWSLEY Rowsley, DE4 2EB enjoymore@thepeacockatrowsley | 01629 733518

ROTHERHAM

Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) are gaining ground as business owners look for alternatives to trade sales, private equity and walk-away exits. For regions like South Yorkshire, they offer something more: a way to keep firms independent, people invested and wealth local.

Rotherham Council has become the first local authority in the country to actively promote and support employee ownership, backing EOTs as a practical succession route for the right businesses. The aim is simple – protect local jobs, strengthen long-term resilience and stop successful companies being sold out of the region.

To see how the model works on the ground, unLTD visited Sheffmed, a Rotherham-based medical supplies business that recently transitioned into employee ownership.

Words: Joseph Food Photos: @marcabarkerphotography

When Sheffmed director Sonia Hobson and her business partner Alan began thinking seriously about succession, they knew what they did not want. After nearly 30 years running the Sheffield-based medical supplies firm, a straight trade sale felt like the wrong outcome.

“It’s been happening a lot in our industry,” Sonia tells unLTD over coffee at their offices in Centurion Business Park. “Bigger companies come in, swallow you up, and you can’t guarantee staff are going to be looked after.”

Buying her partner out was also off the table. “I didn’t want that level of debt.

Not a chance.” Instead, they began exploring employee ownership, a route that would allow Alan to step back, while keeping the business independent and

rewarding the people who had helped build it .

For them, the fit felt natural. Many of the firm’s staff have been there for a decade or more. “Some of them are 10, 15 years in. It might sound a bit twee, but we are like a family. We always said that if we ever did sell, the employees should get something from it too.”

The Employee Ownership Trust model offered what Hobson describes as a “win-win”. The founders are paid a fair value for the company, while ownership is transferred to a trust for the benefit of all employees. Crucially, it also allows founders to stay involved.

“I’ve got no intention of stepping back completely. I love coming to work.”

Despite perceptions that EOTs are complex, the process was relatively swift. After serious discussions began in November, the transition was completed in around eight to ten weeks. “Our solicitors and accountants were brilliant and proactive. If your accounts are in good order and you’re not trying to overvalue the business, HMRC are actually pretty straightforward.”

That decision not to push the valuation was deliberate.

“We didn’t want to leave the company in a difficult position. We’re funding it through company profits

WE ALWAYS SAID THAT IF WE EVER DID SELL, THE EMPLOYEES SHOULD GET SOMETHING FROM IT.

over about seven years, rather than loading the business with debt.”

For staff, the change has been more evolutionary than dramatic. “The team were excellent anyway, which is the whole point of doing it. They already turn up, graft and care about the business.” The main immediate benefit has been practical rather than cultural, with EOT-linked bonuses offering tangible rewards. “That first £3,600 being tax-free definitely got noticed.”

Hobson’s advice to other business owners is simple: communicate early and honestly. “Engage with your employees. We did a big meeting, a proper presentation, got croissants in. As soon as you can, let them know what’s happening.”

As for success under the new model, growth remains central. Sheffmed supplies single-use ENT instruments, with earwax removal products currently at its core, serving the NHS and a growing number of private clinics. Export is firmly on the horizon. “We’re future-proofing the business, growing sales, adding products, and training the people who will eventually take over from us.”

Employee ownership, Hobson believes, gives them the structure and the time to do exactly that.

ROTHERHAM COUNCIL: EOTS

Why Rotherham Council is backing employee ownership

IZZY ANDREWES, EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP HUB MANAGER AT ROTHERHAM COUNCIL

As Employee Ownership Hub Manager within Rotherham Council’s business support team, Izzy is helping to position the borough as the first council in England to actively promote employee ownership as a succession option.

“It’s a really exciting job,” she says. “You have to be creative and innovative, because it’s still quite niche. At the moment, we’ve got eight employee-owned businesses in Rotherham, and it’s about raising awareness and starting conversations.”

The council’s interest in EOTs is rooted in its community wealth building strategy. “When business owners sell, they can easily sell out of the region, to private equity or overseas firms. We want jobs to stay local and wealth to be spread more evenly.”

Andrewes is clear that the council’s role is not to push businesses down a single path. Instead, it aims to remove barriers to information. The flagship offer is a fully funded feasibility service, giving owners access to independent financial advice on employee ownership alongside other exit options.

“The point isn’t to funnel people into EOTs. It’s just to

IF YOU’RE CURIOUS, YOU’VE GOT NOTHING TO LOSE.”

make sure the option is on the table. If you’re curious, you’ve got nothing to lose. There’s no obligation, and you’re not paying for that first advice.”

Support does not stop at the transaction itself.

The council has also begun offering ‘EO mindset’ training, helping employees understand what ownership really means. “People don’t instantly think like owners just because the structure changes. That shift can take time and support.”

One of the most persistent misconceptions Andrewes encounters is around control. “People think it means giving away their baby. Actually, it can give you more control over your legacy. You’re part of

how the business moves on without you.”

Others confuse EOTs with co-operatives. “They’re very different. These are still profit-focused, wellrun businesses. In fact, employee-owned firms are often more productive because people are genuinely bought in.”

Interest is growing, despite recent changes to capital gains tax relief. “We’ve got businesses waiting to start feasibility studies, and nationally the number of employee-owned companies keeps rising year on year. This isn’t a trend limited to one sector either. We’ve seen manufacturers, construction firms, care providers – it really can work for anyone.”

EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP: THE TIMELINE

• 2014 – Employee Ownership Trusts introduced by the UK government

• 2015–2019 – Steady uptake as awareness grows among SMEs

• 2020 – EOTs gain attention during Covid as employee-owned firms prove more resilient

• 2023 – UK passes 1,700 employee-owned businesses

• 2024 – Numbers exceed 1,800, employing over 330,000 people

• Source: Employee Ownership Association; Department for Business and Trade

The Launchpad Pop-Up Store brought fresh energy to Sheffield’s high street, offering a valuable platform for makers to trade, connect and grow during the busy festive season.

In the run-up to Christmas 2025, a once-vacant city centre unit was transformed into a vibrant retail destination that put local creative talent firmly in the spotlight.

The idea began with an email from Natasha Farrell, founder of creative jewellery and accessories brand Amani Kush, and Business Sheffield quickly brought it to life in a short space of time. Located in the former Monki store on Pinstone Street, the Launchpad Pop-Up Store offered a unique opportunity for early-stage makers and craft businesses to showcase their work, test new ideas and connect with shoppers during one of the busiest trading periods of the year. The project was funded by the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund under the Launchpad Programme, with support from Sheffield BID.

For four weeks – from 27 November to 20 December – the store welcomed over 10,000 visitors and hosted 31 local traders, each bringing their own flair to the curated space. The shop opened every Thursday to Saturday, maintaining a consistent and professional presence that encouraged footfall and created buzz across the city centre.

“It was a rare opportunity to trade in a prime city centre location with 100% of profits retained,” said one participant. “It was the best pop-up

experience I’ve had in Sheffield.”

The benefits extended far beyond the tills. For many of the businesses involved, this was their first experience selling in a physical retail setting. The pop-up gave them an invaluable chance to trial store layouts, understand customer behaviour, refine pricing and gain confidence in their products.

The traders represented a diverse mix of backgrounds and disciplines, with more than half of the businesses championing or representing diversity in some way. From textiles and jewellery to sustainable home décor and visual art, the store reflected the creative richness and entrepreneurial energy that continues to grow across Sheffield.

Every aspect of the pop-up was delivered by local partners, keeping investment within the city. Wall artwork, signage, shop fittings and on-site operational support were all sourced from Sheffield-based suppliers – reinforcing the project’s commitment to community-led growth and inclusive development.

A key element of the initiative was the practical support offered by Business Sheffield, the council’s dedicated business growth team. Traders received direct guidance on topics such as store presentation, merchandising, pricing and customer engagement, as well as support in planning their next steps

IT WAS A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO TRADE IN A PRIME CITY CENTRE LOCATION WITH 100% OF PROFITS RETAINED. IT WAS THE BEST POP-UP EXPERIENCE I’VE HAD IN SHEFFIELD.”

beyond the pop-up.

“The Business Sheffield team were supportive and approachable throughout,” said one trader. “Their guidance helped me refine my presentation, connect with customers and gain insights for future showcases.”

Commercial outcomes were equally encouraging. Participating businesses reported average sales of £1,500 over the four-week period, while 82% rated their overall experience as “excellent”.

Beyond the economic benefits, the project also helped strengthen civic and commercial ties. Visitors to the shop included Cllr Mahroof Mohamed, members of the Sheffield Diverse Enterprise Board, and representatives from Sheffield Chamber of Commerce – all showing their support for the city’s grassroots business community.

The success of the Launchpad Pop-Up Store is a clear example of the impact that targeted support, accessible space and strong local partnerships can have on earlystage businesses. It brought life back to a key retail unit, encouraged festive footfall, and gave dozens of entrepreneurs a stepping stone towards sustainable growth.

Keep an eye out for announcements of its return in the not-too-distant future!

About

Business Sheffield

Business Sheffield provides tailored advice and support for businesses across the city – from pre-starts and micro-enterprises to tech startups and high street retailers. Their team includes specialists in growth, retail and hospitality, and digital innovation, offering one-to-one guidance on everything from planning and marketing to funding and scale-up.

Whether you're exploring your first idea or ready to take your next big step, Business Sheffield can connect you with the right advisor to help move your business forward.

Email: businesssheffield@sheffield.gov.uk

Tel: 0114 224 5000

Web: welcometosheffield.co.uk/business

IN THE FRAME

For over 30 years, Sheffield-based double glazing company Global Windows has been at the forefront of the industry in our region. But rather than just tell you about the quality of their workmanship, we’ve asked Managing Director Liam Hulme to talk us through a recent project in Wharncliffe Side –alongside some great before-andafter shots…

We recently completed this single-storey Edwardian-style extension for the Durdey family, featuring a double-hipped roof finished in black slate tiles. It was important to us that the new space felt in keeping with the character of the property, so we added brick pillars on either side to give it a more traditional look and feel. Inside, we installed a log burner with a flue running through the roof and opened up the internal doors to create a spacious, open-plan layout. Across the front, we fitted bifold doors to create a seamless connection between the home and garden, completely transforming how the space can be used.

What really made this stand out was our all-in-one approach. We handled everything from start to finish – the structure, plastering, electrics and all the building regulations – so the customer had complete peace of mind. Having just one point of contact made the whole process smooth and stress-free, and that’s something we pride ourselves on delivering.

People often know us for our windows, doors and conservatories, but we also design and build orangeries and full extensions like this. For us, it’s all about creating living spaces that genuinely work for the way people live today, and this was a great example of how we can bring everything together under one roof.

If you live in South Yorkshire, Global Windows in Sheffield is your trusted installer of windows, doors and conservatories. We’re an award-winning company, recognised for the quality of our installations and customer care. With a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee and an excellent rating from 98% of customers, you can enjoy complete peace of mind. Visit our indoor showroom to explore our quality products and experience our outstanding service firsthand. Contact us today for your home improvement needs!

Global House Orgreave Drive, Handsworth

Sheffield, S13 9NR

Tel: 0114 288 95 95

sales@global-windows.co.uk

www.global-windows.co.uk

BUILDING STRONGER DIGITAL FOUNDATIONS FOR SOUTH YORKSHIRE BUSINESSES

Technology continues to shape how organisations operate, compete and communicate, meaning businesses across South Yorkshire are looking for IT partners who offer stability today and preparation for the challenges of tomorrow. For Simoda, this has become a core part of our mission.

BY MARK FIRTH, IT SUPPORT TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT AT SIMODA LIMITED

We deliver a wide range of managed IT services designed to simplify, modernise and accelerate the way local businesses use technology. Our aim is to provide dependable, forwardthinking partnerships that strengthen digital foundations.

For many SMEs, internal IT capacity is stretched, and technology environments are increasingly complex. Our managed services are built to relieve that burden – resolving issues quickly, keeping systems optimised and offering strategic guidance. Our technical capability spans managed IT support, cloud and infrastructure design, connectivity, cybersecurity, Microsoft 365 optimisation and communications. With this breadth, organisations have one trusted partner supporting every layer of their digital environment.

As we grow, our focus on South Yorkshire remains at the heart of everything we do. Strengthening the customer experience means investing in people – and one of the most impactful recent additions to our team is Mark Firth, who joined four months ago and is helping to elevate our managed services offer.

“Since joining Simoda, my focus has been on improving IT support for our managed customers across Sheffield and the wider South Yorkshire

region,” says Mark. “I’ve been working closely with local SMEs to enhance daytoday support through our Helpdesk – ensuring faster response times, proactive maintenance and clear guidance on emerging technologies.

“With our high customer satisfaction and strong contract retention, my role is about deepening relationships, reviewing Microsoft 365 security postures and helping businesses get ahead of

risks before they become problems.

“Our goal is to be a local, approachable IT partner that organisations can rely on –not just to fix things, but to help them plan for the future. By acting as an advisory contact, strengthening our proactive support model and showing the value of managed services, we want to help South Yorkshire businesses become more resilient, secure and digitally confident.”

Simoda’s continued growth – including being named Best Technology Business and Business of the Year at the 2025 unLTD Business Awards – reflects our focus on delivering real outcomes for the organisations we support.

Rooted in South Yorkshire, our ambition remains to help build a stronger, more digitally confident local economy.

To book a call with Technical Consultant Mark Firth, visit www.simoda.co.uk.

LUMIOX

The Peak District clinic helping professionals recharge, refocus and recover

Tucked just outside Bakewell, Lumiox is a light-filled wellness clinic bringing science-led, recoveryfocused treatments to the edge of the Peak District. And while the setting is peaceful, the thinking behind it is sharp: helping people regain energy, manage stress and restore performance in both body and mind.

Founded by Holly Johnson, Lumiox is the product of personal necessity and professional reinvention. After years battling debilitating pain and exhaustion, Holly reached a crisis point. “I ended up bedridden. I couldn’t function or work. I got to the point where I couldn’t even do my job,” she tells unLTD.

Her eventual diagnoses –lupus and fibromyalgia – gave her the answers she needed, but not the solutions. “I discovered hyperbaric oxygen and started with that. Then I bought an infrared sauna bag… and a little red-light lamp. My symptoms began to ease a bit.”

Crucially, her approach was always grounded in science. “I’m not a woo-woo person – everything I bought was science-backed and professional grade.” What she couldn’t find, however, was a space that brought these therapies together in a private, supportive environment. So she created one. “I quit my job, sold my house and thought: you only live once. I decided to make the space myself.”

Lumiox opened in January 2026 and has already begun to attract a growing client base – not just from the surrounding area, but from across South Yorkshire. “Every single person who’s been has booked back in,” Holly says. “We’ve had plenty of visitors from Sheffield, Barnsley, Mansfield and further afield.”

The location is part of the appeal. A short drive from Sheffield, the journey itself acts as a transition – a chance to step away from the dayto-day demands of work.

“The drive out here seems to chill people out before they’ve even walked in – it’s the perfect backdrop for what we’re trying to achieve.”

explains. “That’s the beauty of it – there’s always someone there if you want support, but you’re never obliged to have us hovering. The experience flows at each person’s pace: quiet recovery for some, a guided ritual for others.”

It’s a model that’s proving popular with a wide range of clients, from elite athletes to people recovering from illness – and increasingly, busy professionals. “I’ve had people recovering from serious illness, top athletes from both Sheffield football clubs, ages ranging from 21 to 84… the mix shows that it really does appeal to everyone.”

EVERYTHING HERE IS BECAUSE I’VE STRUGGLED WITH ENERGY AND PAIN ISSUES MYSELF.”

Inside, the experience is deliberately calm and uncluttered. Each guest receives a Lumiox welcome bag – slippers, an eye mask and electrolytes – before settling into a private hour of infrared heat, red-light therapy and a commercial-grade ice bath. “You get the whole room to yourself. We’re all trained in contrast therapy, so we can guide you through it, or leave you completely alone if that’s what you need,” Holly

For anyone dealing with the effects of stress, long hours or chronic low energy, the benefits of recoveryled therapy are becoming harder to ignore. Infrared saunas, for example, offer the benefits of deep heat without the intensity of traditional models. “I don’t cope well with Finnish saunas,” says Holly, “so I chose infrared – still powerful, but a gentler heat that goes deep and helps with pain and recovery.” Red and near-infrared light therapy support cellular repair and boost energy levels – key for those juggling high-pressure workloads.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, meanwhile, is one of Lumiox’s most in-demand services. The chamber delivers oxygen at a higher concentration and pressure, allowing the body to absorb significantly more. “You’re having five times the concentration you’d normally breathe,” Holly explains. “The NHS use it – they don’t openly

offer it because it isn’t a cure, but it helps with recovery for so many things. People get energy back, they think clearer, the inflammation eases.”

Another popular treatment is Better Pelvi, a pelvic floor strengthening therapy that delivers 12,000 muscle contractions in under 30 minutes. It’s a non-invasive option for an issue often silently endured. “The only other real option for repairing the pelvic floor is surgery. This works the upper and lower layers, and the feedback has been incredible.” And it’s not just for women. “Some men always think it’s only for women – I had to tell my brother the other day!”

Complementing Lumiox’s core offering is a small team of experienced practitioners. There’s Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy with Samantha, an accomplished cosmetic nurse; health and wellness coaching with Catherine, who supports women navigating

midlife and menopause; and tailored treatments with Laura, who offers sports massage, acupuncture and lymphatic drainage.

For South Yorkshire’s business community – where burnout, decision fatigue and long commutes are all too familiar – Lumiox offers a new way of working smarter: by pausing.

“Burnout is real – and it’s more common than people like to admit,” Holly says. “But we don’t need to accept it as normal.”

Whether clients book online, call ahead or just pop in to ask questions, the invitation is open. “Come and see us, or give us a call. Every single member of staff has a story –that’s why we do what we do.”

LUMIOX

12b Deepdale Business Park, Bakewell DE45 1GT lumiox.co.uk @lumioxuk

Exploring the ideas reshaping society for the better – and meeting the South Yorkshire innovators leading the charge.

Recently shortlisted for a 2026 Ashden Award, Riverlution MD Geoffrey Guy reflects on the power of people-led environmental action, reconnecting Sheffield with its rivers and building long-term climate resilience through skills, stewardship and partnership.

First of all, congratulations on being shortlisted for the award. What does this recognition mean to you and the team?

Thank you. Being shortlisted for an Ashden Award for a second time is a great endorsement of the idea that practical, locally rooted work can sit alongside national and global climate ambitions. For the team, many of whom came into this work through volunteering, apprenticeships or career changes, it’s recognition that what they’re doing day-to-day on rivers, riparian green spaces and sites across South and East Yorkshire and further afield genuinely matters. Personally, it’s reassuring to see that an approach built on partnership, skills and long-term stewardship is being recognised alongside more headline-grabbing interventions.

Nature-based climate solutions is a broad field. How does Riverlution’s approach stand out within this space?

Our starting point is always people and place. We work at catchment scale, but we deliver at a very human scale, to individuals who access the training funded by our stewardship partnerships, in communities, and with local partners who will still be there long after a project ends. What sets us apart is that we combine physical environmental improvements with skills development, training and employment pathways. We’re not

just restoring rivers or managing habitats; we’re nurturing good feeling towards those green and blue spaces and building local capacity to care for them. That means our work continues to deliver benefits long after the initial intervention, which is essential when you’re talking about climate resilience rather than short-term fixes.

Sheffield has a long history of industrialisation. How important is it to reconnect the city and its communities with their natural waterways?

It’s absolutely central. Sheffield’s rivers powered its industrial growth, and this is the same of many waterways around the country, industrial power, transport infrastructure and recreational resource and for a long time that’s where the value was seen in waterways but they are more than that. Reconnecting people with their waterways helps shift that mindset. When communities see rivers as assets, places for wildlife, wellbeing and learning, they’re more likely to protect them. That reconnection also brings a sense of shared ownership, which is vital in a city where the impacts of flooding, pollution and climate change are felt very unevenly.

Your work blends environmental restoration with education and community involvement. Why is that mix so vital to your mission?

Because environmental challenges aren’t just technical problems, they’re social ones too. You can deliver the best-designed restoration project in the world, but if local people don’t understand it, value it or have a stake in it, its impact will be limited. Education and community involvement turn projects into learning opportunities, build confidence and create pathways into green careers. For us, success isn’t just measured in metres of river restored or tonnes of invasive species removed, but in people gaining skills, qualifications and a stronger connection to their environment.

Riverlution also works with corporate partners. What role do businesses have to play in tackling environmental challenges locally? Businesses as essential in our model, many businesses own or lease land on river banks and are affected by flooding and have some responsibility to care for their property on the river banks and linking that care to Riverlutions wider partnership aims means we are providing a valuable service to businesses even before you start to consider the added value of our stewardship skills schemes, volunteering programmes and

the work across catchments not just on a tiny site specific scale. Many want to contribute positively but don’t always know how to do so in a way that’s meaningful rather than symbolic. We help bridge that gap by offering opportunities that deliver real environmental outcomes while also supporting staff engagement, skills development and social value goals, this involvement from businesses not only helps meet the needs of those businesses but gives us a more resilient funding model than many environmental organisation which may rely more heavily on grant funding.

What have been some of the biggest challenges – or successes

– you’ve encountered in delivering community-led environmental projects in South Yorkshire?

One of the biggest challenges is managing expectations, both around how quickly change can happen and what’s realistically achievable with limited funding. Environmental restoration is longterm work, and community trust takes time to build. That said, some of our greatest successes have come from exactly that patience. Seeing volunteers progress into paid roles, apprentices complete qualifications or communities take pride in THEIR river banks has been incredibly rewarding. Those moments show that community-led approaches don’t just work in the short term they prompt long term commitment to the environment and continue to deliver value over many years.

YOU CAN DELIVER THE BEST-DESIGNED RESTORATION PROJECT IN THE WORLD, BUT IF LOCAL PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND IT, VALUE IT OR HAVE A STAKE IN IT, ITS IMPACT WILL BE LIMITED

How do you see Riverlution’s work evolving in the next five years, particularly with growing awareness around climate resilience?

I see our role increasingly focused on integration, bringing together climate adaptation, biodiversity, skills and social outcomes rather than treating them as separate agendas. This is

why our partnerships have been so noteworthy they bring these separate issues together and we want to the be part of that shift towards a holistic approach to climate resilience as well as to grow our partnerships not only regionally but nationally. There is motivation, particularly among the younger generation preparing to enter the workforce, to tackle these issues and we’d like to see our partnerships, with all their facets, flood resilience, biodiversity improvements, training and social value, operating on more rivers all across the country.

Finally, how can local individuals or organisations get involved or support your work?

Individuals can volunteer, join our training programmes or simply spend time learning about and caring for their local waterways. Organisations can partner with us, support training pathways, or contribute resources and expertise. The key thing is that involvement doesn’t have to be grand or complex: small, consistent contributions are often what make the biggest difference.

riverlution.co.uk

Andrew Lofthouse on Tackling Loneliness

You might recognise Andrew Lofthouse from the world of wine – but he’s also helping people connect in a very different way. At the beginning of this year, he became the Corporate Relationships Manager for B:Friend, a charity whose mission is to end the loneliness experienced by older people. And while the setting may have changed, the goal remains the same: bringing people together.

Known across South Yorkshire as The Northern Wine Guy, Andrew has spent years building connections over a shared love of wine – whether at tastings, team-building events or private parties. But in January, he took on an additional role: Corporate Relationships Manager at B:Friend, a charity combatting loneliness and social isolation among older people across South Yorkshire, North Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

“As soon as I started learning more about B:Friend, I realised just how important it is,” he tells unLTD. “Visibility is one of the biggest reasons I’m here –letting people know we’re here and the important work we do.”

Founded in Doncaster in 2017, B:Friend has been operating for nine years and is set to mark its 10th anniversary in 2027. Its mission is simple but powerful – to reduce loneliness in later life through two key avenues: one-

to-one befriending and weekly social clubs.

“We’ve got nearly 800 active volunteers at the moment, and we’ve had thousands over the years,” Andrew explains. “They visit older neighbours who may not see anyone all week –people who are housebound, isolated or simply without social contact.”

The demand for that support is rising rapidly. “We’ve got an ageing population, people who can’t get out anymore because of cost of living or health issues. There are millions of GP appointments every year from over-65s who just want a chat. They don’t necessarily need medical help – they’re just lonely. That puts pressure on the NHS, and it’s something we can help solve.”

Alongside befriending, the charity runs 17 weekly social clubs across the region – a number set to rise to 20 in the coming months. Far from traditional day centres, these are vibrant, energetic sessions led by staff and volunteers, often featuring unusual activities.

“We do axe throwing, indoor curling – we had a Winter Olympics theme recently,” says Andrew. “I suppose it’s exactly the kind of thing you’d do on a corporate night out. We’ve even done martial arts and boxing!”

Their offer brings a range of tangible benefits, many of which run deeper than you might think. “People might say that ending loneliness is hard to measure or quantify – and you can understand that point. But if you reduced loneliness, you’d definitely reduce the onset of dementia and alzheimers. You’d see a

WE ALL HAD A TASTE OF ISOLATION DURING THE LOCKDOWN, AND IT HIT OLDER PEOPLE THE HARDEST... WE'VE GOT A GENERATION OF PEOPLE WHO'VE QUIETLY BECOME INVISIBLE IN SOCIETY."

drop in suicide rates. The knock-on effect on health and wellbeing is massive.”

And it’s not just the older neighbours who benefit. A recent survey of B:Friend’s volunteers – aged 18 to 80 – revealed that 70 per cent signed up because they felt a bit lonely themselves. “It’s a two-way street. We’re solving loneliness on a much broader scale than people realise.”

A key part of Andrew's role is focused on building long-term, meaningful connections with local businesses. “Visibility is number one, but it’s also about sustainability – creating a three-, five- and ten-year plan. I’m not trying to blow it up overnight. We’re a charity – it has to be consistent, and it has to last.”

However, that doesn’t just mean asking businesses for donations. “It’s not all about funding – though obviously we won’t say no to that,” he laughs. “It’s about integrating. Come to a social club, use your volunteer day, give us your time or expertise. If you’re an IT firm and want to look at our website, that’s a gift in kind. We had a business visit one of our clubs and do a talk, and the questions they got from the community completely challenged how they thought about their work.”

He’s also helping the charity think creatively about public engagement. One initiative in development is the creation of “chatty benches” in new housing estates – brightly coloured benches featuring QR codes and B:Friend branding, designed to encourage neighbours to sit, talk and connect.

“It builds community from day one,” he explains. “And again, it’s about visibility. If someone sees that bench and asks, ‘what’s that about?’ – we’ve started a conversation.”

At its core, Andrew believes the charity taps into something both deeply human and urgently needed – particularly post-Covid, in an era of remote services and shrinking social contact.

“We all had a taste of isolation during lockdown, and it hit older people the hardest – especially those not tech-savvy enough to FaceTime or Zoom. We’ve got a generation of people who’ve quietly become invisible in society.”

South Yorkshire, he says, is uniquely well placed to respond. “This region is amazing at looking after its own. We support each other, we point people in the right direction, and we care. B:Friend is just a bit of the puzzle that you could say has been slightly missed – until now.”

letsbfriend.org.uk

CHARITY ELVIS IS BACK IN THE BUILDING

Sheffield’s very own ‘King’ made a triumphant return as Nonnas on Ecclesall Road raised £2,896.12 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity at a sold-out Elvis tribute night – livestreamed for the first time.

Restaurant owner Maurizio Mori donned his iconic Elvis costume once again after a three-year break, performing to a packed crowd in one of Nonnas’ most popular annual charity events.

This year’s show saw tickets snapped up in advance, with extra supporters tuning in via Facebook Live to join the fun virtually.

Maurizio was joined on stage by a talented group

of local musicians, including Lewis Nitikman as musical director, Shaun Perry on bass, Danny Maddox on guitar and Darren Ford on drums.

Maurizio Mori said of the event: “I only do my Elvis show on very special occasions, and supporting Sheffield Children’s Hospital is one that means a great

deal to us.

“Once again the night sold out, which is incredibly humbling, and this year we also live-streamed the performance so even more people could take part. I’d like to thank every customer who came along or tuned in, the musicians who gave their time, and our staff who worked incredibly hard to make the evening such a success.”

The event has become a much-loved fixture in the restaurant’s calendar, raising thousands over the years for local good causes.

Nonnas is located at 535–541 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield. Bookings: 0114 268 6166 or visit www. nonnas.co.uk.

SHEFFIELD FILM TACKLES ADDICTION STIGMA

A powerful new short film based in Sheffield is partnering with national recovery charity The Forward Trust as it heads into production this spring.

Hooked, written and directed by Rotherham-based Jade Strain, is inspired by the true story of Caleb Hancock, a young Sheffield resident who died in supported living accommodation in December 2024 following a long-term addiction to prescription painkillers.

“From the beginning, Hooked has been about telling Caleb’s story honestly and without sensationalism,” said Strain.

“When Caleb died it didn’t even make local news. It’s become so normalised to pass away in housing meant for recovery.”

The film has received full backing from Caleb’s family. It has already been shortlisted by the BFI and will star Macaulay Cooper (Emmerdale), with a crew whose credits include House of the Dragon and The Bay.

The partnership with The Forward Trust – whose patron is HRH The Princess of Wales – will help amplify the film’s message around addiction, stigma and systemic failures in recovery services.

Mike Trace, CEO of The Forward Trust, said:

“We hope that this powerful film of Caleb’s story will

help to change the perception and understanding around addiction, and serious action is taken to reduce the level of avoidable deaths.”

Filming begins next month, with rehearsals underway. The project has received £500 from The Cutlers’ Charitable Trust, and a Crowdfunder has launched to raise the remaining £6,500 needed. The finished film will be shared publicly to drive awareness and change.

hookedtheshortfilm.co.uk

HELPING HANDS FOR ROTHERHAM YOUTH

A Rotherham charity supporting young people into education and employment has received a major funding boost through the Moving On Up Fund.

Clifton Learning Partnership has been awarded £15,000 over three years to help break down barriers facing children, young people and families in the Eastwood area.

The funding, delivered by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF) and backed by rural broadband provider Quickline, is supporting tailored work to raise aspirations and improve employability for those aged 30 and under.

The project focuses on practical help – from CV writing and exam preparation to working directly with young people in Pupil Referral Units – with the aim of improving confidence and longterm prospects.

Helen Littlewood from Clifton Learning Partnership said:

“The Moving On Up funding has enabled us to develop and deliver work that we’ve long known needed addressing. Having three years of funding means we can really learn what works, build on it and embed the support for the long term.”

The charity tackles a wide range of issues in the community, including vulnerability, poverty, inequality and unemployment, working with schools, Family Hubs and Early Help services to reach those most in need.

Quickline, which is helping fund the initiative as part of its wider social value commitments, praised the charity’s deep-rooted work in Rotherham.

Elisabeth Kamaris, Social Values Executive at Quickline, said:

“Clifton Learning Partnership does incredible work supporting the local community, families, asylum seekers and refugees. We’re proud to work alongside SYCF to support this three-year project, which focuses on raising aspirations for young people through partnerships with local schools, Family Hubs and Early Help services.”

South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation, now marking its 40th anniversary, has distributed more than £40 million to grassroots causes since its launch.

Jess O’Neill, grants and partnerships manager at SYCF, added:

“We’re delighted to support this project through the Moving On Up Fund in partnership with Quickline, helping to ensure young people in the Eastwood area of Rotherham have the opportunities they deserve.”

sycf.org.uk

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

February – the month of love! So, how are you celebrating with your volunteers, beneficiaries and staff? Are you showing them the love? Putting on an event?

Launching a fundraiser?

However you mark 14 February, make sure you take time to share the love and show gratitude to those who’ve contributed to your organisation over the past year.

Here are a few simple ideas:

• Send a handwritten thank-you note to your donors

• Create a care package for your volunteers or staff

• Gift a small token to your project participants

• Call your trustees, directors or funders to check in and say thanks

• This is also a great time to reflect on how you can inject more care and creativity into your day-to-day environment.

• Could you:

• Refresh your décor or give your space a mini makeover?

• Do an early spring clean to brighten things up?

• Update your uniforms or branded clothing?

We’re edging into spring – the afternoons aren’t quite as dark, and for once, Christmas feels far away! Maybe you’re already looking ahead to summer projects or events. Why not use this time to gather fresh ideas?

Ask your team, volunteers and participants what they’d like to see. A collaborative, participant-led approach not only builds stronger relationships – it’s also something funders love to see in your planning.

If you’d like support with bid writing, business planning or funding strategy, get in touch: Wendy Ward, Let’s Save Consultancy Services 0772 948

RAISING THE WOOF

Roaring to life in Summer 2026, Pride of Yorkshire is the latest sculpture trail from Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, and will see 300 life-sized lion, lioness and cub sculptures hitting the streets of Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham and Doncaster.

Sheffield artist Liah Edwardes runs dog life drawing classes at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, so when she was asked to design a pair of sculptures for Pride of Yorkshire, she knew exactly where her design was headed.

What happens at a dog life drawing class at Sheffield Children’s?

I run workshops for children at the Becton Centre, a mental health service at Sheffield Children’s. The sessions give children a chance to switch off; they get comfort and calm from stroking and spending time with the dogs, and they also get space to relax and draw. It’s a win-win. The brilliant thing about dogs is that they don’t ask questions, and they definitely don’t judge. They’re amazing.

For children who are in hospital for long stretches of time, the dogs can be a nice reminder of home too.

What do you love about the sessions?

They say never work with children and animals, but children’s drawings are just the best! They’re so free. They don’t worry about doing it right and are happy to just be weird with it.

In one class, I told the kids to draw a long snout for a greyhound and one of the children drew it right across the page and back again… it was perfect! That’s the best bit, when they don’t overthink it.

Tell us about your Pride of Yorkshire design

My design uses bold, block colours and features the faces of 10 therapy dogs I’ve worked with. It was important to me that anyone walking by the sculptures understands what they’re seeing, and I can’t wait to see lots of families walking past and shouting: “Look! Dogs!!”

For more information about Pride of Yorkshire, visit prideofyorkshire. org and follow them on socials at Pride of Yorkshire.

I’ve been sketching the therapy dogs for a couple of years now through my classes and have really grown to love them. They’re incredibly calm, really well trained and great with people. Choosing a favourite is difficult, but Nellie comes close, and she’s made it onto the lions. She’s an Old English Sheepdog and was the first therapy dog I ever drew. We were in this tiny room, and she just climbed up and posed on the table for me.

And it’s the Pride of Yorkshire. What makes you proud to be from here?

I grew up in Walkley, and when I’m not drawing, I’m usually out in the Peaks. You get a bit smug when you meet your friends in different cities and you know you’re only ten minutes from beautiful green space. So I’m definitely proud of that. It’s funny, all the friends who leave Sheffield come crawling back eventually!

You can see more of Liah’s work at @liah. edwardes

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HEADING OFF THE EATEN TRACK

JÖRO's well-deserved Michelin star is a win for South Yorkshire – and a reminder that the best dining experiences aren't just found in town centres.

You might say it’s been a long time coming – but last month, JÖRO finally brought home a Michelin star for Sheffield. The city’s first in over a decade.

Frankly, I wasn’t the least bit surprised. I still remember my first visit back in early 2017, not long after they opened on the ground floor of the Krynkl building. I left completely floored by the range and depth of flavours, most of which came from seasonal, locally sourced veg (a single carrot on one dish somehow had me questioning everything I thought I knew about food). Even then, it felt like a matter of when, not if, that star would arrive.

And while there probably aren’t many – if any –Michelin-starred restaurants that began life in a stack of containers, JÖRO’s growth has always felt nailed on. So when the team moved

to the beautifully restored Oughtibridge Mill in 2023 –around 6 miles north of the city centre – it seemed to make perfect sense for the restaurant’s evolution.

Still, not everyone saw it that way. I heard the usual grumbles from some friends – “too far”, “wrong side of the city”, “risky move”. As a proud north Sheffielder, I was particularly keen to rally against that idea – but more than that, I think it missed the bigger picture.

Because if the past

few years have shown us anything, it’s that people are more than willing to travel for something special. We’ve seen a quiet but clear shift: for many modern diners – and indeed, most people seeking out leisure in general – the focus is on unique experiences. They want to slow down, make a night of it and potentially discover somewhere new in the process.

And in Sheffield, that can often mean heading into the suburbs. Some of the best food in the city is now being served in neighbourhoods you might once have overlooked for date night. Think Orange Bird in Hillsborough, right at the forefront of the area’s culinary regeneration. Bench in leafy Nether Edge, with its ever-changing small plates and laid-back atmosphere. North Town, well worth the trip up Abbeydale Road

for the best pasta in the city (my humble opinion). Or the brilliant No Name tucked away on Crookes High Street. These places aren’t just holding their own – they’re top of the list. This is probably more a reminder to myself than anyone else – we’re just as guilty as anyone of focusing too much on the city centre in articles. And fair enough, really. It’s packed with brilliant independents and only getting better. But for Sheffield to really flourish, we need strong, standout destinations across a range of postcodes – not just in town. Different parts of the city each bring something different to the table, giving locals and tourists alike a reason to explore and dig a little deeper.

So next time you’re planning a meal to remember, don’t just look to the centre – look outwards.

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