unLTD. Connecting business across Sheffield City Region #80

STRONG BONDS, BIG IMPACT

BIDBI AND LOCAL BUSINESSES TEAM UP WITH THE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL CHARITY

IN THE RUNNING SHORTLISTS REVEALED FOR THE UNLTD BUSINESS AWARDS! THE HUMAN TOUCH WHY AI CAN’T REPLACE AUTHENTICITY IN RECRUITMENT

STEAK WINE

HAPPy DRINKS!

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 ––

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Please note our Happy Drinks and Happy Tapas Offers are not available during December

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Fibre Optic

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Contents

ON THE COVER...

28: HELPING HANDS

In this month’s cover feature, unLTD speaks with The Children’s Hospital Charity’s Caitlin Hallatt and BIDBI’s Dan Laver about TCHC's innovative partnerships and the diverse ways local businesses contribute – extending beyond donations to create mutually beneficial relationships making a difference.

9: A MIXED BUDGET

There was business rates relief for high streets in the Autumn Budget but challenges for SMEs facing higher employment costs. Sheffield Chamber CEO Louisa HarrisonWalker gives her take on the announcement.

26: LIGHTBULB MOMENT

Managing Director Chris Annets tells us how Optimise Cyber Solutions was founded on the idea that effective cybersecurity goes beyond tech and should be woven into a workplace’s culture.

36: THE HUMAN TOUCH

Pete Shillito of Shillito Executive Search and Adept Group explains why he believes personal relationships – not AI tools – are still very much at the heart of successful recruitment.

42: SEALING THE SALE

David Neale of Business Selling

Experts shares practical steps for business owners preparing for a sale – from ensuring your company can run without you to securing a true valuation, here’s how to make the big deal go down without a hitch.

Welcome to the November issue of unLTD –bringing you another month of local business news, opinion and analysis!

It’s busy times here at HQ as we gear up for our awards ceremony celebrating South Yorkshire’s standout SMEs. It’s hard to believe a full year has passed since our inaugural event at Peddler Warehouse, but here we are again! After reviewing hundreds of applications, the judges have finalised the shortlists, and we’re pulling out all the stops to make this year’s celebration just as memorable as the last. Turn the page to see who made the final cut.

On a personal note, I’ve had the chance to get out of the office for some enjoyable chats over the past couple of weeks. For this month’s cover article (p.28), I grabbed a coffee with Dan Laver of BIDBI and Caitlin Hallatt of The Children’s Hospital Charity to hear about how TCHC has been collaborating with businesses across the region to continue improving patient and family experiences at the hospital. A bit earlier in the month, I nipped out to Magna Business Park speak with Adept Group director – and fellow Blade – Pete Shillito, who shared his views on why AI will never better genuine human interaction in people-facing industries (p.36).

There’s plenty of news to dive into, including the big announcement that a bidder has been identified to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport – a move that can only have positive repercussions for the local economy. We’ve also got reaction from the Autumn Budget, some key appointments on the South Yorkshire business scene and advice on everything from selling your business to keeping it sustainable.

Let’s leave it at that for now – we’ll be back in December with all the winners from our awards and a bumper issue to sign off 2024! Joseph Food, editor

EDITORIAL

EDITOR

Joe Food

Joe@unltdbusiness.com

ONLINE EDITOR

Ash Birch

Ash@unltdbusiness.com

COLUMN EDITOR

Holly Dibden holly@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

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.

SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED!

The finalists in our second annual awards ceremony celebrating the best of South Yorkshire’s SMEs have been chosen…

We have unveiled the finalists in the 2024 unLTD Business Awards – ahead of the big ceremony on December 5th, held at Peddler Warehouse. We had over 130 business enter this year but only a select few could make the shortlist; that said, we would also like to thank and congratulate everyone who entered. Judging was extremely difficult this year, with the standard of entries incredibly high across the board.

Our headline sponsor Millgate will also be choosing an overall winner on the night, so look out for lots of surprises. Tickets for the event, hosted by Markus Birdman, are on sale at awards. unltdbusiness.com, priced at £85+VAT.

See you there!

Scan the QR code and get your tickets

THAT SHORTLIST IN FULL!

BEST NIGHTLIFE OR HOSPITALITY

BUSINESS

Game Show All-Stars

Silversmiths

The Great Escape Game

True North Brew Co

BEST INDEPENDENT RETAILER SPONSORED BY BIDBI

Cawa Group

Flinn and Steel

Jessica Flinn Fine

Jewellery

Moss Valley Fine Meats

BEST BUSINESS SUPPORT OR CONSULTANCY

Bhayani HR and Employment Law

Brook Consult.

Herd Consulting Plan Grow Do

CREATIVE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Chapter II

Evoluted

Hydra Creative

Open House Pictures

MANUFACTURING COMPANY OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY BROOK CONSULTING

Hutchinsons PVC

Solutions

SurfacePrep UK

The Yorkshire Candle Company

BEST RECRUITMENT OR HR BUSINESS

Adept Resourcing

Bhayani HR and Employment Law

Glu Recruit

Unique School Solutions

BEST TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS SPONSORED BY SHEFFIELD TECHNOLOGY PARKS

Consortium Drilling Millgate Connect Reset Compliance Systems Stream7

FINANCE AND ACCOUNTANCY COMPANY OF THE YEAR

Gravitate Accounting

Kingswood Chartered Accountants

BEST NOT FOR PROFIT, CHARITY OR SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Rotherham Hospice Roundabout

South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation

The Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity

BEST COMPANY CULTURE SPONSORED BY TRAVELMASTER

Evoluted Gravitate Accounting Kitlocker.com

Simoda

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY STEEL CITY MARKETING BIDBI

Consortium Drilling Ltd

Moss Valley Fine Meats

Rock & Star

SEE IT BE IT AWARD FOR INSPIRING THE FUTURE WORKFORCE

Reach Up Youth Riverlution

Studio Self-Made Visualised It

ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY ANDY HANSELMAN CONSULTING

James Biggin, Steel City Marketing

Jessica Flinn-Allen, Jessica Flinn Fine Jewellery Luke Hutchinson, Hutchinsons PVC Solutions

Brendan McMenamin, LABS Building Services

BEST BUSINESS START UP SPONSORED BY Business Sheffield Game Show All-Stars Herd Consulting RankSuite Wilkin Design

BEST MICRO BUSINESS (LESS THAN 10 EMPLOYEES AND UNDER £2 MILLION) SPONSORED BY SEVENHILLS CREATIVE

ACW Medical Services

Let's Verbalise

Children's Therapy Stream7

We Do Workwear

BEST SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORED BY CHAPTER II (LESS THAN 50 EMPLOYEES AND AN ANNUAL TURNOVER UNDER £10 MILLION)

Consortium Drilling Jessica Flinn Fine Jewellery MEPS International Wayv. Talk and Broadband for Business

BEST MEDIUMSIZED BUSINESS SPONSORED BY SIMODA (LESS THAN 250 EMPLOYEES AND AN ANNUAL TURNOVER UNDER £50 MILLION).

Heb Group Kitlocker.com

SurfacePrep UK

True North Brew Co

AUTUMN BUDGET: RELIEF FOR HIGH STREETS, BUT CONCERNS FOR SMES

Sheffield Chamber has welcomed the Chancellor’s move to lower business rates for under-pressure high street retail, hospitality and leisure businesses but voiced concern about the impact on small businesses generally.

Louisa Harrison-Walker, Sheffield Chamber of Commerce’s Chief Executive, told unLTD that while last month’s Budget offers hope for certain industries, increases in Employers’ National Insurance Contributions will heap additional strain on the region’s businesses, particularly SMEs.

“Small businesses power the UK economy, drive innovation, create jobs, foster local communities, contribute significantly to economic resilience and growth across the nation, but particularly in Sheffield, where 98% of businesses are SMEs.

“If they struggle to operate, and grow, our local investment falters, our local economy stagnates, and our innovation at a regional level slows down.”

Whilst an increase to employer’s NIC will be a challenge, as well as the 6.7% increase in the National Living Wage, the increase in Employment Allowance thresholds from £5K to £10K meaning that smaller businesses are supported with employment costs, is welcomed.

Investment was a key driver in this Autumn Budget, with plans to raise infrastructure spending, sector-specific business rates relief and with the annual

investment allowance and R&D being retained, the Chancellor aimed to take the bite out of significant cost burdens for business.

Louisa added: “It is hoped that, while many firms find it more challenging to invest and recruit in the short-term, the Chancellor’s longerterm framework will provide stability for the economy sooner rather than later.

“Ultimately, much now rests on the Government’s next steps to build business confidence. We need action rather than words. As such, time will tell how this budget truly affects the business community.”

Sheffield Chamber noted investment in

IF THEY STRUGGLE TO OPERATE, AND GROW, OUR LOCAL INVESTMENT FALTERS, OUR LOCAL ECONOMY STAGNATES, AND OUR INNOVATION AT A REGIONAL LEVEL SLOWS DOWN

regional and Northern Transport.

The pledge to increase local transport funding, included a cash injection into Supertram.

“Whilst the Northern rail scheme currently doesn’t include Sheffield, its assistance in connecting the north is a much-needed start, but we mustn’t be overlooked, solid transport infrastructure is a vital part of a thriving economy.

“If you want to grow business, support skills development and positively impact wellbeing in South Yorkshire, improving our regional, national, and international connectivity is essential.”

TIME FOR TAKE OFF?

Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones has announced that a bidder to reopen and run the city’s airport has been identified with the aim of having passenger flights taking off from Spring 2026.

Details of the bidder will remain confidential until further into the process as commercial negotiations are ongoing. Legal and contract confirmation stages are now underway and are expected to be completed before Christmas this year.

Getting the airport reopened and ready for business also requires financial support, so this month City of Doncaster Council will ask South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority for the immediate release of a £3m financial package to continue commercial negotiations and help prepare timely activity on site.

The Business Case will be heard at South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority next week (November 12), providing an endorsement of a referral to the Government’s Subsidy Advice Unit providing details of the

proposed package of public support. This request for support is part of Doncaster’s £138m gainshare from the SYMCA allocation. This funding is subject to the Subsidy Advice Unit with a decision expected in early January 2025.

Mayor Ros Jones said: “Reopening our airport is my number one priority and I am delighted to announce that we have reached the major milestone of identifying the bidder to help us reopen our beloved airport. This current step in the reopening process is certainly great news.

“I appreciate that people will want to know who the successful bidder is but at this time we must continue to have discussions with them on a strictly confidential basis. I will of course share who has been appointed when I can. I know our residents and businesses are keen for the airport to reopen and would want that to

happen yesterday but please rest assured we are working as hard as possible to get the airport reopened with the aim of being operational by Spring 2026.

“Our proposition is not just an airport but will be a hub for sustainable aviation related industry. South Yorkshire Airport City – the programme to reopen the airport –has incredible potential, to bring jobs and prosperity to Doncaster and the wider South Yorkshire region.”

News is also awaited on the reinstatement of airspace which is currently under consideration by the Civil Aviation Authority.

The business case highlights the significant opportunity around the reestablishment of aviation within the region including creating over 5,000 direct jobs and 6,500 indirect jobs and could boost the economy by £6.6bn when fully operational.

GRANTING CREATIVITY FOR BARNSLEY’S YOUTH

Barnsley Civic, a creative and passionate National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) supported using public funding by Arts Council England, is thrilled to announce the receipt of four grants totalling more than £30,000 to further its mission as a creative and contemporary arts centre.

These grants will allow Barnsley Civic to expand its work, particularly with young people, while continuing to offer vital creative programmes for diverse groups across Barnsley.

The grants will support a range of initiatives, from developing young writers and performers to providing a safe and inclusive space for community groups

Grants include the Better Barnsley Bond, which will fund the Barnsley Young Writers programme in partnership with Hive South Yorkshire, and the Hays Travel Foundation, which will support in-school creative writing workshops for young people.

Barnsley Civic also received support from Creative Minds to continue running Civic Pride Singers, an inclusive choir that provides a safe space for LGBTQIA+ adults to connect and express themselves through music.

The focus on young people across these grants reinforces Barnsley Civic’s commitment to encouraging creativity among future generations. Through creative writing workshops, theatre projects, and active participation in decision-making, Barnsley Civic is building a platform for young voices to be heard and supported.

Jason White, Creative Engagement Manager at Barnsley Civic, commented:

“These grants are a fantastic opportunity for us to continue and expand our commitment to community engagement, especially for young people.

“Whether it’s through writing, performance, or having a say in what happens here at Barnsley Civic, we’re passionate about giving young people a platform to express themselves creatively.

Barnsley Civic remains dedicated to ensuring that its programmes reach a broad and diverse audience, creating opportunities for creativity, personal growth, and meaningful community engagement.

barnsleycivic.co.uk

NIBS

DRUMMOND STREET DEMOLITION BEGINS

Work has started on the demolition of the former Drummond Street shops at the Rotherham Markets site. Once cleared, the site will become the location for the new modern, central library, which will tie into the vibrant refurbishment of the indoor and outdoor-covered markets. This key milestone marks the first visual change at the historic site, showcasing tangible progress in the creation of a more inviting, inclusive and accessible area of the town centre.

DONCASTER’S PLEDGE TO HELP THE HOMELESS

City of Doncaster Council has announced that it’s making a significant investment to try and tackle rough sleeping across the city. The investment will see the delivery of several services including street outreach and supported accommodation, alongside a focus on delivering a range opportunities to keep people off the street long-term, including pre-employment training and help to secure tenancies.

LOCAL BREWERY BECOMES EMPLOYEE OWNED

Abbeydale Brewery Ltd has announced it has become an Employee Ownership Trust, strengthening its commitment to its team, safeguarding its long-standing values and securing the legacy of the business. This change of ownership covers the whole business, both the brewery and pub are now 100% employee owned, with a company name chosen by the new employee owners of Sheffield Beerworks EOT Ltd.

ST LUKES CHARITY DEPARTMENT STORE NOW OPEN

A long queue of enthusiastic shoppers greeted the launch of the new St Luke’s department store at Sheffield’s Kilner Way Retail Park in Wadsley Bridge last month. The store was officially opened by St Luke’s supporter and ambassador Michael King, whose wife Michelle was a St Luke’s patient. The new department store is an 8,500 sq ft space offering a wide variety of pre-loved goods for the cost-conscious sustainable shopper.

SALVATION FOR THE CITADEL Agenda

It’s a building which has stood in Sheffield city centre for well over a century and now the former Salvation Army Citadel has been acquired by Sheffield City Council.

The iconic building, on Cross Burgess Street, opened in 1894 and was used by the Salvation Army for more than a century as their main church venue, before the charity moved out in 1999. Since then, the building, which includes a Grade II listed, red-bricked castle-style frontage, has remained empty.

The Citadel is surrounded by developments that have already transformed the city centre including the Heart of the City project. The award-winning Cambridge Street Collective food hall, Leah’s Yard and several new shops, cafes and leisure venues including Pounds Park, which have all proven to be excellent additions to Sheffield’s city centre.

The building stands next to the brand-new Radisson Blu Hotel a 4-star hotel which boasts 154 rooms and rooftop bar and restaurant including an outdoor terrace overlooking the Peace Gardens.

Across the road is the former Cole Brothers department store, where award-winning regeneration company Urban Splash are currently putting plans together for the future of that iconic building. Work is also nearing completion on Fargate to transform that into a new public realm area.

In a joint statement following the conclusion of the deal, Cllr Ben Miskell, chair of the Transport, Regeneration and Climate Policy Committee at Sheffield City Council and Mr Robert Hill said:

“Sheffield City Council will now be progressing plans to see this important heritage building improved and both parties look forward to proposals being progressed to see the building brought back into use.”

Sheffield City Council has already started the process of assessing the building and determining what the future usage of it could be with a further announcement expected in the coming months.

With Jill White of Andy Hanselman Consulting

Diverse, Dynamic and Dedicated

This month’s column has a new '3D' and it’s one that has been influenced thanks to a meeting with Ruth McDonald and Esther Morris from Business Sheffield. We all got on so well, we almost got thrown out of Waterstones – but that’s another story!

The two of them champion diverse businesses across the city – Esther in particular food businesses but Ruth across all sectors. Ruth created the fabulous Sheffield Hidden Figures exhibition that ran for a week in the Winter Gardens. It truly was inspirational. It was an absolute pleasure to meet so many wonderful people and organisations. Ursula Myrie from Adira wowed me, an update from Samson Opaleye on his Applatch business inspired me and music from Saxophonist Paul Smith lifted me.

Linking with Off the Shelf Festival I was able to hear from Stella Kisob from Stella’s Kitchen, and I’ll certainly be hot footing to her restaurant in Eyam to sample her Caribbean food and I her cookery classes will be on my Christmas list.

Sadly, I couldn’t make the Johnny Nelson session but, on my recommendation, Andy had a wonderful evening. Kudos to all involved in Off the Shelf Festival, it’s such a wonderful showcase for Sheffield.

Kenwood Hotel’s 100th Birthday Celebration Dinner and the creative opening of the Radisson Hotel – coupled with wine tasting with the team at Balliante – made it a truly memorable month.

And if the launch of next year’s Lunar Chinese New Year Festival was anything to go by, we have lots to look forward to. Superbly hosted by Kelvin Quick at his China Red restaurant, it was uplifting to hear from Cultural Inclusive founder, Jerry Cheung, who shared his pride and passion about the 2025 Festival.

I, for one, can’t wait.

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

MAKE UK AND BHAYANI LAW JOINING FORCES

Make UK, one of the UK’s leading providers of employment law and HR services has announced the acquisition of Bhayani Law, a specialist law and HR consultancy based in Sheffield.

As part of its portfolio of high-quality business services, Make UK already provides advice to thousands of businesses across the UK, from FTSE 100 companies and hallmark British brands through to innovative startups.

This acquisition forms part of an ongoing strategy to strengthen and grow Make UK’s employment law & HR service regionally throughout the UK and to increase its customer base by acquiring one of the

most exciting and dynamic specialist firms in the UK. Furthermore, it also gives Bhayani Law access to a wide range of support and resources available from Make UK to grow its HR and employment

law business to support even more effectively the business community in the South Yorkshire region.

Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK said: “We are delighted to have acquired such a fast-growing,

dynamic and successful business in Bhayani Law. Our employment law service is already best in class and is a critical part of our offering to manufacturers and other businesses of all sizes. This will help us broaden our reach and appeal.”

Jay Bhayani added: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved in the ten years since the set-up of Bhayani Law. To become part of Make UK is a heartwarming endorsement of our success. The collaboration will bring together our mutual strengths, allow more opportunities for my team, greater resources for our clients and enable us to achieve our growth ambitions.”

ROTHERHAM GARAGE FIRST TO OFFER ELECTRIC VEHICLE REPAIRS

A Rotherham-based garage is charging up its future growth and expansion plans by offering additional support to electric car owners.

Treeton Auto Services has become one of the first independently owned garages in Yorkshire to provide specialist maintenance and repair services for electric vehicles, a move which has been made possible through a six-figure investment in the business. The investment, which has been self-funded by the business, has seen Treeton Auto Services relocate to new, larger premises which will double the size of its workshop space. The expansion will see the creation of two dedicated electric vehicle repair bays, eight ramps and next month the business is planning to open a new MOT testing facility.

One of the challenges facing garages working on electric vehicles is the need for additional physical space required to

work on the vehicles safely. Due to the high voltages involved, additional safety precautions are required, especially when diagnosing and repairing faulty batteries, which means repair bays for electric vehicles are much larger than those used to maintain their petrol and diesel counterparts.

The move will create four new jobs in the business, and the independently owned garage has also secured help from the skills bank. Delivered by SYMCA, the match-funded grant has been used to train the company’s workforce of experienced mechanics and vehicle technicians to develop their knowledge and expertise, particularly in relation to the charging and drivetrain systems – key components in powering electric vehicles.

Dave Geldard, founder, Treeton Auto Services, said: “Expanding to larger premises is a major milestone, one that will result in new jobs being created. We have recognised that vehicles on Britain’s roads are changing, and our business needs to respond. Taking this step now will help us to futureproof the business. I predict that demand for electric vehicle repairs and maintenance is likely to be an area that will see significant growth in years to come.”

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SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT FOR SMES 2024: REFLECTIONS AND KEY LEARNING POINTS

On 22 October 2024, the online Sustainability Summit gathered experts and SMEs to address misconceptions about sustainability and explore its practical implications for small and mediumsized businesses. With speakers from academia and industry, the event delivered actionable insights to help SMEs integrate sustainable practices more effectively.

Here are six key takeaways provided by Dr Veronica Broomes, founder of the Sustainability Support Service…

1. Understanding what sustainability means and why it matters to SMEs can be useful in identifying what actions a business is taking already, but just had not considered to be

relevant to sustainability.

2. Sustainability is much more than reducing carbon emissions which should also not be confined to ‘planting trees’ for carbon offsetting. Instead, actions can be taken in what is purchased by the business and choices made on travel and managing electrical and electronic waste.

3. HR professionals play an important role in adjusting workplace policies that consider changing climate and what it can mean for safety at work and better mental health of staff. Also, important to consider induction programmes to enable new employees understand what , upskilling and how taking action on integrating sustainability in SMEs, including enterprises in

the supply chain of larger organisations.

4. Reviewing sustainability in your business can deliver not only a customised plan of action for enterprises but can bring to your attention, actions taken already by the business, but not recognised as evidence that can be used in pitch documents or tenders. A sustainability audit can be done remotely with minimal disruption to day-to-day activities and without the need for the lengthy and costly process required secure an accreditation mark.

5. Integrating initiatives on sustainability not only boost competitiveness but can serve as a catalyst in creating innovative solutions and processes that unlock new revenue streams for businesses

and introduce cost saving efficiencies to deliver solutions with greater value for money.

6. The governance aspect of ‘ESG’ as part of sustainability is relevant for two main reasons. Not only is the risk of ‘stranded assets’ especially relevant to companies that own energy inefficient buildings that may be linked with pensions for directors and/ or employees, but also vital for businesses that seek financing during the startup or scale-up phases.

Summit recordings will be available for purchase in mid-November 2024. Planning is already underway for the 2025 Sustainability Summit, with more resources for SMEs. To stay informed, follow Sustainability Support Service on LinkedIn.

1

THINGS

YOU SPECIALISE IN REC2REC

ONE SIZE DOESN’T FIT ALL

Success in Rec2Rec isn’t just about experience or skills on paper; it’s about finding the right cultural fit. Each recruitment agency has its own unique vibe, and a recruiter thriving in one setting might struggle in another. Whether it’s an informal, energetic environment or a corporate, polished one, understanding both the candidate’s personality and the workplace culture is key. Just because someone’s worked in recruitment doesn’t mean they’ll fit in everywhere

FORGET THE JOB BOARDS

2

The best candidates often aren’t on job boards or actively seeking new roles. They’re established, thriving and not in the market for a change – until someone they trust reaches out. I spend my days networking with these individuals, building relationships and understanding their motivations. When a fitting role arises, they’re more likely to consider it because of our ongoing connection, which job boards simply don’t facilitate.

WE’RE SELECTIVE

3

Not every recruiter with a CV on hand is one we’ll represent. If a candidate’s work history is erratic or they lack commitment, it’s a red flag. We have high standards because we’re putting our reputation on the line with each recommendation. The recruiters I work with expect quality, and I aim to represent only those who bring consistency, reliability and the right level of professionalism to the role.

IT TAKES TIME

Placing candidates in Rec2Rec roles isn’t about instant connections. It requires patience and persistence to build trust and keep in touch with top talent. Candidates may not be ready to move for months, even years, but a consistent presence ensures I’m their first point of contact when they are. There’s no magic wand; success comes from nurturing these relationships over time.

WE DON’T JUST PLACE PEOPLE WITH RECRUITMENT EXPERIENCE

Many clients are increasingly open to hiring people without direct recruitment experience. Life skills from people-facing fields like customer service or sales bring fresh energy and valuable perspectives to recruitment roles. Clients trust me to find people who can communicate effectively, adapt quickly and engage with clients – skills that aren’t always learned in recruitment but can make a world of difference in the right role.

4 5 Director of Anna Maher Recruitment, Anna has 30 years of experience in the recruitment industry and specialises in personalised Rec2Rec solutions. Find out more at www.amrl.co.uk.

FluidOne

BY STEVE BROWN, MD, FLUIDONE BUSINESS IT - SHEFFIELD

UNDERSTANDING BACKUP AND DISASTER RECOVERY FOR MODERN BUSINESSES

Data is now processed unfathomably fast, providing companies the information necessary to succeed – meaning that data protection failure can be costly. This blog examines backup and Disaster Recovery (DR) being utilised by businesses to safeguard against threats to their data.

What is backup?

A backup is a copy of computer data stored elsewhere. If data is deleted, corrupted, or inaccessible, backups allow for recovery. There is:

• Physical Backup: storing data on devices e.g. USB flash drives.

• Server Backup: data uploaded on to onpremises or cloud-based servers.

There are pros and cons to both server backups:

• On-premises Backup: Data controlled by the organisation and not reliant on an internet connection but has up-front costs and requires space and personnel.

• Cloud Backup:

Accessibility due to low investment needed and flexibility via scalability, customisation, and location freedom, but requires trust in another organisation, an internet connection, and continuous subscription costs.

Service providers exist for both. At FluidOne, our Managed Backup Services can handle everything from cloud-backups to safeguarding on-premises servers.

What is DR?

Backup is a part of DR – a process that focuses on IT infrastructure maintenance and reestablishment postdisaster. A DR plan requires these steps:

1. Risk assessment

2. Choosing recovery objectives

3. Actions

At FluidOne, our Managed IT Services team can develop your plans and provide solutions:

• Backup

• Moving to the Cloud

• Hosted Solutions

• Intelligent Monitoring

• High Availability DR

• High Bandwidth Connectivity

• Mobile Device Management Software

• Enterprise-Grade Data Encryption

• Private networking technologies

Importance of DR Natural and man-made

disasters can befall businesses, from floods to hacking. Here are three reasons why a DR plan is needed for when such events occur:

Data loss protection

Sales statistics, employee information, financial data – both a company’s current operations and their future strategy development can be harmed by lost data.

Compliance

Most jurisdictions regulate data protection and DR planning – e.g. GDPR in the EU. Failure to comply with regulations could result in punishment, such as fines.

Financial implications

DR planning costs can be

very expensive, but the cost of a disaster could be limitless, through both the expenditures to deal with the issue and lost revenue.

Conclusion

Protecting data is a matter of corporate survival, which strategies like backup and DR can help to ensure. With so much at stake it can be prudent to seek advice. At FluidOne, we are happy to discuss your concerns.

You can reach us online at info.fluidone.com/book-ameeting-business-it, call us at 0114 292 3800 or email sheffieldenquiries@ fluidone.com.

4. Testing and review

Helping

Providing

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Recruitment

BECCA MORRIS - MANAGING DIRECTOR AT BENCHMARK RECRUIT

EMBRACING CHANGE - WHY AUTUMN IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GROW YOUR TEAM

As the weather starts to cool down, recruitment tends to heat up – and right now might just be the best time for you to hire.

Who else joins me in loving this time of year? As I write, there is a tree outside my house that glows a brilliant red. It’s beautiful. This tree fully embraces change and does its thing each year no matter what. From losing its leaves, to growing them again, from bud, to green leaves, to red – much to my delight. This tree has made me think about change and the cycle so many of us face when it comes to our careers. Autumn can be a reflective time of year where many people consider changing their roles, or even career path.

Change is a funny thing. It can be good, we can be fearful of it, and sometimes we don’t choose it. We seem to be living in a time where there is constant change, and we’ve had to become more resilient to it. I support clients and candidates on embracing whatever changes they are facing, especially within their careers and businesses – I’ve become an advocate for change and I am more trusting of it than I used to be.

We are in the last quarter of the year, facing forwards and planning for the year ahead which makes autumn a particularly busy time. Businesses are no doubt wanting to ensure annual targets are achieved, but also that the right team is

in place for the year ahead making it the perfect time to recruit.

Here are five reasons why autumn is a great time to make positive changes and grow your team.

• You'll have the right team in place to deliver next year’s strategy. Consider the time that will be taken to source, interview and appoint candidates, as well as any notice period your chosen candidate will need to serve.

• You can onboard new employees before the end of the year. For many, the end of the year can be a little quieter

meaning more time to thoroughly train, this will result in your candidate hitting the ground running come January.

• Candidate’s heads may be more turn-able right now. Typically we set our goals at the beginning of the year and review them during the last quarter – if these haven’t been achieved, candidates are more likely to consider starting a new role and you’ll be tapping into a stronger talent pool of motivated individuals.

• There might be less competition from other businesses. Some companies choose to slow down their hiring

in Q4 which can work to your advantage. You’re positively positioning yourself to sweep up the best talent on the market.

• There are team Inclusivity opportunities. Including your new hire in any end of year meetings, planning sessions and even your Christmas party will get them really bought in and give them the best first impression!

For further information on how I can support you with embracing change within your business including recruitment and retention please get in touch, www. benchmarkrecruit.co.uk or 07714 771 600.

Russell Thompson: Perspectives

BY RUSSELL THOMPSON, DIRECTOR ON DEMAND

IT’S YOUR FUTUREBUT BY DESIGN…

With business registrations continuing to climb, the need to stand out in an ever more competitive marketplace is becoming more important than ever. Definitions of growth have always been subjective, and against a back drop of increased competition and challenging trading conditions, the need to understand what growth means to you and adopting a strategy to meet what you are trying to achieve will take on even more significance in the day-to-day operations of many businesses.

I recently found myself with the opportunity to spend time in the company of four talented business owners who have the same philosophy towards their businesses as I do. It was during a roundtable talk for The unLTD podcast last month, which focused on why bigger isn’t the only way to be better in business.

Having a small businessand keeping it small - seems a little counterintuitive to the well-publicised, guruled theories about what growth actually means. I get concerned at times about the power these so-called “influencers” wield.

I’ve seen many a business owner - both startup and established - become consumed by definitions of growth that promote all the upsides of massive, rapid growth, without due consideration for the downside that can occur when that utopian view doesn’t quite land in the way it was expected.

So, conversations about growth can become a little bit divisive, if not viewed in the right context - but they don’t have to be. For me, this starts with getting crystal clear on what you want to achieve - not wading waist deep into whatever secret sauce this month’s influencer of choice is peddling.

For me, the key to this is design.

Our futures aren’t predefined, and neither are definitions of growth or success. To me, they are profoundly personal - specific to me and what I want to achieve from both my personal and professional lives.

That means they deserve the investment of time, which is exactly what I did when I recently relaunched my business using my own 3D Business Blueprint process. It gave me the framework to build a business that was true to

my values and principles - and focus solely on the things I want to achieve for myself and my clients.

Using my own process was by my design

Defining views of success and growth are by my design

These principles became my red lines, my checks and balances. If there were things in the design of my business that fell outside of those red lines, they were out - because they didn’t align with what I want to achieve.

Given how I started this article, you could be forgiven for thinking that I’m against rapid growth, I’m not - in fact, far from it. What I am against is blindly following a growth strategy that doesn’t align with what you really want to achieve.

So, my message is? Design your own future,. You’ll be so grateful you did. russ.thompson@directoron-demand.co.uk and www.director-on-demand. co.uk

Lightbulb Moment CHRIS ANNETS MANAGING DIRECTOR AT OPTIMISE CYBER SOLUTIONS

Hi Chris. Can you start by telling us about the ‘lightbulb moment’ that led to the founding of the business?

The ‘lightbulb moment’ for Optimise Cyber Solutions came when our founder recognised that most businesses needed more than just technical safeguards – they needed cybersecurity woven into their organisational culture. His experience at the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) showed him that cyber threats could only be mitigated effectively when employees were well-trained, alert and confident. With that insight, Optimise Cyber Solutions was born to help businesses empower their employees with targeted cybersecurity awareness training, enabling them to spot and respond to risks in real time and creating a more resilient, security-aware workforce.

How did your founder’s background and previous career influence the shape of the business?

Our founder’s background as the UK’s lead Cyber Incident Coordinator at the NCSC has been instrumental in shaping Optimise Cyber Solutions. Having managed some of the UK’s most complex cyber incidents, he developed a keen understanding of how essential real-world preparedness is in cybersecurity. This experience drove him to design the UK’s most effective cybersecurity awareness programmes, based on advanced memory-retention methods. Our bespoke Cyber Incident Management Exercising and Awareness Training deliver high retention and compliance standards, making clients confident that they’re not just meeting regulations but are prepared to respond to realworld threats effectively.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced while building and growing your business, and how have you overcome them?

Changing perceptions of cybersecurity from a technical issue to a fundamental part of organisational culture has been challenging. To address this, Optimise created training that’s not only memorable but also rooted in each client’s specific risks, showing how every employee plays a role in the company’s security posture. Through strategic partnerships, such as with SYMCA Skills Bank, we’ve also made our training accessible to companies of all sizes, offering tools that support compliance and instil cyber confidence in teams across various industries. We continually adapt our approach to ensure clients see the true value of a proactive, people-centred cybersecurity culture.

Can you describe your typical client and how they benefit most from your services?

Our clients range from ambitious start-ups to large, established enterprises, each looking to protect their assets and meet cybersecurity requirements. Typically, they’re businesses needing support to cultivate a security-aware culture and meet industry standards. Our services are especially valuable because we customise every training programme around an organisation’s top risks, equipping employees with relevant, practical skills they can apply daily. From detailed cybersecurity audits to tailored training sessions, our clients gain actionable insights, achieve high retention, and build confidence to manage real cyber threats and compliance obligations seamlessly.

How do you feel you differ from other similar businesses?

Optimise Cyber Solutions leads the field in cybersecurity awareness by combining practical experience with custom training tailored to each organisation’s needs. Unlike other companies that may rely on standardised training, we base our programmes on the founder’s experience in high-risk cyber incidents and apply methods proven to achieve up to 90% user memory retention. Our training programmes also support certifications like ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials and other regulatory compliance standards, giving clients confidence that their security meets both industry and regulatory expectations. The upcoming Cyber Academy will further enhance this foundation, providing continuous learning and keeping clients compliant and secure. This, alongside our flexible approach in working with companies of all sizes, makes us a distinctive partner for cybersecurity awareness and compliance.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for the future?

Our future plans focus on expanding our Cyber Academy—a resource for continuous, interactive skill-building that supports organisations of all sizes in staying vigilant and compliant. This Academy will provide tailored resources and compliance training, supporting clients in building and maintaining resilient cybersecurity practices. We’ll continue to grow our partnerships, such as with SYMCA Skills Bank, to make high-quality cybersecurity awareness training affordable and accessible to more organisations, ensuring that businesses are not only compliant but confident in their cyber resilience. By staying adaptive to new threats and compliance standards, Optimise Cyber Solutions strives to keep our clients safeguarded today, tomorrow and beyond.

www.cybersecurityaware.net

STRONGER TOGETHER

THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL CHARITY (TCHC) HAS BEEN A LONGSTANDING PILLAR OF SUPPORT FOR SHEFFIELD CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL, PLAYING A VITAL ROLE IN IMPROVING THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING OF YOUNG PATIENTS ACROSS THE REGION. BEHIND THE SCENES, TCHC COLLABORATES EXTENSIVELY WITH SOUTH YORKSHIRE’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY, FORGING CONNECTIONS AND PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE MUCH MORE THAN TRANSACTIONAL – AS UNLTD DISCOVERED LAST MONTH IN CONVERSATION WITH TCHC’S PHILANTHROPY MANAGER, CAITLIN HALLATT, AND BIDBI’S PARTNER RELATIONS MANAGER, DAN LAVER.

In a café just a few hundred yards from Sheffield Children’s Hospital – now more prominent than ever with its recently opened £6m helipad – Caitlin explains to unLTD how partnerships with local businesses provide invaluable support to the charity, extending well beyond cash donations. “We want to make sure that businesses know how much we value the time they give us; we're so grateful and lucky that so many are willing to offer their time, expertise and input into the work we do to support Sheffield Children's.” From dedicating hours to decorating and displaying snowflakes across the region to providing feedback and materials for campaigns, these relationships are instrumental in keeping the charity’s work visible and innovative.

Among these valued partners is BIDBI (Bag It Don’t Bin It), a Sheffield-based eco-friendly tote bag and apparel company that has become one of the charity’s closest collaborators.

“When I started two years ago, one of my goals was to form close relationships with Sheffield charities,” explains Dan. “Working with the Children’s Hospital Charity just felt natural. As well as having my own personal connection, as so many parents do, both organisations care about both community impact and sustainable practices. Working with them, what really impressed me was how open and receptive the team at the charity have been to our ideas.”

Dan describes how BIDBI’s involvement with TCHC has evolved over time, from simply supporting events to contributing products and expertise for charity initiatives. Initially, the company supplied their trademark eco-friendly bags, but as the relationship grew, BIDBI began producing branded merchandise such as t-shirts for runners supporting the charity and even golf towels for their annual Celebrity Golf Day. “I didn’t even know what a golf towel was at first!” he laughs. “But we worked together to source,

design and print something that was both functional and on-brand for the charity’s event. It’s a really collaborative relationship; we’re able to offer short notice runs and contribute our expertise in production to help support their goals. It not only benefits the charity in terms of sustainability and cost, but enables BIDBI to explore new product lines, making the partnership mutually beneficial too!”

“I think what we’ve tried to do more of is bring a lot of the stuff we used to outsource back to Sheffield,” Caitlin adds. “We’re really conscious of being more sustainable and proactively supporting local businesses. We’ve got an amazing platform to shout about the incredible work our partners are doing in the community.”

Beyond BIDBI, TCHC has engaged with a diverse range of businesses, each bringing unique contributions to the charity’s initiatives. Recent collaborations with Sheffield independent Bullion Chocolate and artist Pete McKee have produced limited-edition chocolate snowflakes available to buy. Birdhouse Tea, another local favourite, has partnered with the charity to offer bespoke blends and host events, while Cambridge Street Collective has provided space and facilities for charityled family cooking classes and nutritional workshops

WHAT REALLY IMPRESSED ME WAS HOW OPEN AND RECEPTIVE THE TEAM AT THE CHARITY HAVE BEEN TO OUR IDEAS.”

With Christmas approaching, the charity is entering its busiest season, highlighted by one of its most popular initiatives – the annual snowflake scheme – which exemplifies how the charity collaborates with partners to inspire region-wide engagement. Each year, festive snowflakes illuminate the hospital, local businesses and public spaces across Sheffield and South Yorkshire, turning the long-running campaign into a seasonal tradition for many residents and businesses alike.

“The snowflake campaign has become something people look forward to every year,” Caitlin shares. “It’s really part of Sheffield’s Christmas now.” This event not only raises important funds but strengthens community

bonds, with businesses sponsoring snowflakes and volunteering to install them throughout the city.

Another upcoming festive event that unites the community is Glow in the Park, which brings together families, businesses and volunteers for an evening fun run beginning in Endcliffe Park. On 10 December, runners will don brightly coloured attire and head out on the 5km course, creating a vivid display of solidarity for the hospital. “Glow in the Park is probably my favourite event,” Caitlin shares. “Everyone’s so happy, the kids raise so much money and it’s become a big part of the community’s Christmas traditions. It’s about raising funds but also about bringing people together for a shared purpose.”

Looking forward, TCHC plans to continue expanding its community initiatives and partnerships. Upcoming projects include the launch of the National Centre for Child Health Technology, a groundbreaking facility focused on advancing paediatric health through technology. Scheduled to open at Sheffield’s Olympic Legacy Park, the centre will develop treatments for some of the biggest health modern-day health challenges including

WE’RE REALLY CONSCIOUS OF BEING MORE SUSTAINABLE AND PROACTIVELY SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES. WE’VE GOT AN AMAZING PLATFORM TO SHOUT ABOUT THE INCREDIBLE WORK OUR PARTNERS ARE DOING IN THE COMMUNITY.”

obesity, mental health, health inequalities, disabilities and cancer. “The charity has committed to raising £2 million towards this initiative. The NCCHT is set to be a global first, and it speaks to our commitment to continually find ways to serve the community and improve children’s health,” Caitlin explains.

For local businesses considering involvement with the charity, Caitlin and the team are eager to welcome new ideas. “We would absolutely love to speak to anyone who wants to get involved; we want to work with as many people and organisations as possible who want to help Sheffield Children's. Everyone who supports us is part of our team, and we will always make it our mission to show them that they’re making a real difference to our hospital and beyond.”

“Supporting The Children’s Hospital Charity is close to my heart, both as a business director and a parent. This remarkable charity has touched my family directly, just as it has to almost every family in the city. As a parent to three children, I’m only too familiar with what a great asset the Children’s Hospital is.

Both the Herd of Sheffield and the Bears of Sheffield sculpture trails captivated my children and showed what a force the team there are, even beyond the walls of the hospital itself. The campaigns were filled with great touches that reached out to the people of Sheffield, involving schools, community groups and letting families be a part of the whole experience. My family loved hunting for the bears, which were brilliantly designed by some of our favourite artists and designers. As a business, we want to be able to support the causes that are close to our heart and we work with some amazing charities. All their needs are different and there are lots of ways that we can support, but it’s always exciting to be invited to help them create something new or make something a little bit more special. The reach that TCHC have across our region and the enthusiasm of families to be a part of the experiences they create is incredibly important, and they have given us an opportunity to grow as a business too, which means a lot.

I’m very grateful for the effort that the team at TCHC have made to get to know us not just as supporters but as a business. If we can help them save a little bit more or make things a little bit easier, we can make an even greater impact together.

Marc

Larsen BIDBI Director

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT PETE SHILLITO FOUND HIS PASSION IN RECRUITING FOR THE MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING INDUSTRIES. A PROUD SHEFFIELDER WITH ROOTS IN THE INDUSTRIAL SECTOR, HIS LINEAGE INCLUDES FAMILY WHO WORKED AT SHEFFIELD FORGEMASTERS AND A FATHER WHO WAS A PIPE-FITTER/WELDER. NOW AT THE HELM OF ADEPT GROUP – A SOUTH YORKSHIRE-BASED RECRUITMENT COMPANY COMPRISING SHILLITO EXECUTIVE SEARCH AND ADEPT RESOURCING – PETE SAT DOWN WITH UNLTD TO DISCUSS THE EVER-CHANGING INDUSTRY AND WHY AN OVERRELIANCE ON AI AND AUTOMATION ISN’T THE SILVER BULLET MANY ASSUME. IT IS.

Successful recruitment comes down to building relationships, and that’s how I’ve always seen it,” he says. With nearly two decades in the industry, Pete has placed candidates and worked with clients who return to him repeatedly. “The people I work with now are those I’ve known for years. I know what they like, and they know I’m not going to waste their time or mislead them.”

Pete’s approach to recruitment is grounded in the value of relationships: meaningful long-term connections are key to placing candidates effectively. “The people who are successful in recruitment are the ones who ring people, meet people and forge relationships,” he explains. His work often involves re-engaging with people he’s known for over a decade, whether placing them in jobs or helping them recruit.

The team at Adept Group, which Pete co-owns with his business partner Alex Baker, embraces a similar

relationship-driven approach. Each recruiter focuses on specific roles, from shop floor CNC positions to high-level commercial and managerial roles. This structure allows team members to become well-known experts in their niches, fostering trust among both clients and candidates.

With nearly 20 years in recruitment, Pete has witnessed a dramatic transformation in how people engage with the industry. “When I started, recruitment was all about building those long-term connections,” he says. “That’s still the core of good recruitment, but Covid and technology have changed how many people operate – and not always for the better.”

The best recruiters, he believes, still follow practices that have worked for decades. “Everyone who’s successful in recruitment does it the same way – by building relationships,” he explains. But he has notice a growing reluctance to embrace personal interactions, a trend he attributes to cultural shifts and pandemic-driven habits. “Covid has made it trickier because people

don’t want to speak on the phone or meet face-to-face. But if you’re just sending emails or LinkedIn messages, you’re only scratching the surface.”

His approach involves deeper engagement – taking the time to meet clients in person, which he finds essential to understanding their needs and finding the best talent match. “AI can’t read someone’s expression, can’t hear the pitch of their voice. It can’t build rapport,” he points out. “That’s why I think AI will never fully take over recruitment – it can’t replicate those nuanced human connections.”

As AI tools become increasingly prevalent not only in recruitment but across almost all sectors, Pete recognises their potential for certain tasks but remains cautious about overreliance on technology. “You can streamline some parts of the recruitment process with AI, like initial sifting or automated messages, but it also has limitations,” he says. An example might be larger businesses using website chatbots for the first round of candidate screening, but he feels

AI CAN’T READ SOMEONE’S EXPRESSION, CAN’T HEAR THE PITCH OF THEIR VOICE. IT CAN’T BUILD RAPPORT.

this approach can only go so far. “A chatbot can ask a candidate a set of questions, but it can’t assess culture fit or make a candidate feel genuinely valued.”

He’s also noticed the impact of AI on platforms like LinkedIn, where AI-generated content has become more common, leading to a lack of originality and authenticity. “I can spot an AI-generated LinkedIn post from a mile off – the language just doesn’t match the person I know. If I post something, I want it to reflect me, not sound like an algorithm.”

Another major shift observed in recruitment is how candidates are found. “It used to be that we’d post a job advert and get hundreds of responses,” he recalls. “Now,

advertising is more expensive, and people don’t respond to job ads like they used to.” This shift has prompted a more dynamic approach, reaching out directly to potential candidates rather than waiting for applications.

Finding the right fit now often involves tapping into networks and approaching professionals, even if they might not be actively seeking new roles. “I might have known someone for a decade, and I’ll reach out to them if a role feels right for them,” he explains. “Sometimes the best candidates are the ones who aren’t looking.” This proactive search strategy, he believes, is essential to stay competitive in an industry that has shifted away from traditional job posting.

The tightening UK job market has also had its say, adding new pressures to the recruitment industry. “We’ve come out of a period where there was a record number of jobs in the country, but now job numbers have dipped month on month,” Pete explains.

"You have to do more to get the same output. If you’re not ready to put in the work – meet people, follow up and actively network –recruitment can be a tough career.”

In this landscape, his advice is that adaptability is critical. The focus on building relationships that can withstand fluctuations in the market has proven successful for Adept Group. “When a client chooses us over other agencies, it’s always rewarding,” he says. “It’s a signal that our approach to building relationships and really understanding the client’s needs is paying off.”

Looking ahead, Pete anticipates that AI and other technologies will continue to impact recruitment and indeed most working cultures and practices, but he remains convinced that personal relationships will keep his and other people-facing industries grounded. “I don’t think anyone’s going to say, ‘What a brilliant algorithm that got me this job!”

His parting advice to aspiring recruiters reflects this view. “If you can build good relationships, it's a rewarding field. Focusing on people more than process, AI or targets will result in effective recruitment – no matter how technology advances.”

www.shillitoexec.com // www.adeptres.co.uk

IF I POST SOMETHING, I WANT IT TO REFLECT ME, NOT SOUND LIKE AN ALGORITHM

WITH DAVID NEALE FROM BUSINESS SELLING EXPERTS

It’s been almost two years in business for David Neale’s latest enterprise, Business Selling Experts, but he’s had a hand in running businesses for much longer than that. After years building a variety of different enterprises, he came to realise that the part he most enjoyed was selling them. The traditional brokerage market has its challenges, but David’s experience means he can create a more ethical and effective way to buy and sell businesses, with a focus on proper valuations and real buyer engagement.

If you’re at the helm of a business and are starting to consider an exit plan and don’t know where to start, we’ve created a quick guide with David on the key elements to consider when selling a business, how to make your businesses sellable and how BSE could be the right choice for you.

No buyer wants to buy a job

If you’re a director and you’re wearing every hat, managing HR, payroll, admin, taking calls – then the business isn’t ready for sale. Effectively, buyers aren’t interested in buying the hardest job in the business. David emphasises how the business must be able to run without you. BSE offer specialist advice and can help owners get to a place where their business runs without them, often recommending the outsourcing of some tasks to lighten the director’s role.

You must have effective processes in place

“It’s a buyer’s market out there, there are more businesses than buyers,” David explains. It’s important to be attractive to buyers; if there are other businesses like yours for sale and all their ducks are in a row, that business will be more desirable. It’s imperative to have all your processes in place; marketing, sales, recruitment, growth, and strategy, so that the buyer can see the businesses functionality.

Get a true valuation of your business

If you are a director looking to sell your business in preparation for retirement or reinvestment, it’s likely you’ll have a price you want. David explains: “The seller has a figure in mind, and the [traditional] broker just lists it at that price, without properly evaluating its worth.” With BSE’s ethical selling procedure, David’s financial team offer free evaluations, to show to sellers the strengths and weaknesses of their business. If the business isn’t where the seller wants it to be, David’s team have easy to follow plans to help sellers get to the valuation they desire.

Finding the right buyer

Ideally the right buyer is someone with expertise and passion in your sector. Sellers don’t just want to sell to anyone, and buyers don’t want to buy something they have no experience in. Over time, David has built up an extensive network of buyers and acquisition specialists, enabling BSE to match entrepreneurs with the right opportunities, facilitating seamless and smooth transactions. “It’s something at BSE we pride ourselves on doing exceptionally well,” David says.

Money back guarantee

Often with traditional brokers, businesses would be listed online and stay stagnant waiting for someone to bite. Sometimes these listings are active for years, with the broker happily getting paid a listing fee with minimal intent to sell. Business Selling Expert’s practical approach means they don’t list on websites, they guide and support clients through the process with communication at every step of the way.

If Business Selling Experts don’t sell your business within 12 months, they offer a Money Back Guarantee. (See T’s & C’s).

If you’re looking for a personal and ethical approach or want expert advice on selling your business, or are interested in exploring buying opportunities, contact David and his team at info@businesssellingexperts. com.

Six key elements to consider when selling your business: Valuation: Determine the worth of your business through a professional valuation or by assessing assets, earnings, and market conditions.

• Preparation: Organise your financial records, legal documents, and operational information to make the business attractive to buyers.

• Marketing: Create a marketing plan to attract potential buyers. This can include listing your business on online marketplaces, engaging a business broker, or leveraging your network.

• Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate terms, including price, payment structure, and transition support.

• Due diligence: Expect buyers to conduct thorough due diligence. Be transparent and ready to provide necessary information.

• Closing the sale: Work with legal and financial advisors to finalise the sale, ensuring all paperwork is properly completed. 1 2 3 4 5

OPTIMISING ONLINE: THE KEY TO SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS

Looking ahead to 2025, digital marketing will once again be crucial for small businesses aiming to thrive, so we asked Mark Skinner, founder of local digital marketing experts Logica, to talk us through the importance of optimising your strategy for the upcoming year and how they can lend their expertise...

With nearly all consumers (98%) relying on the internet to locate local businesses, it’s never been more important for Sheffield’s small businesses to adapt their strategies to remain visible and competitive. The growing dependence on digital channels, particularly local search, offers an excellent opportunity for small enterprises to connect with customers, boost visibility and increase footfall through strategic online efforts.

The digital journey of consumers often begins with online search, and our data shows that local businesses must be discoverable to stay competitive. When 76% of people who conduct a local search on their mobile devices visit a business within a day, the stakes are clear.

Beyond mobile, 46% of all searches are specifically looking for local businesses, and 60% of users contact these businesses directly from search results. This data emphasises the importance of an optimised digital presence, especially through search engine optimisation (SEO), social media engagement, and responsive design.

Through a recent project with a local hair and beauty salon, we illustrated how small businesses could benefit from professional digital marketing expertise. Our team helped the salon improve its website to rank for over 250 relevant search terms, driving a 141%

increase in traffic from Google alone. By using targeted SEO practices, the salon’s website now attracts more local searches and translates them into real-world appointments, proving that optimised digital visibility can make a tangible difference in growth.

The key to Logica’s success lies in our local knowledge and customer-centred approach. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all model, we design tailored solutions for each business, considering specific needs, audiences, and goals. With services like Google My Business optimisation and localised content strategies, Logica ensures that businesses not only show up

in searches but also stand out.

This approach positions businesses on Google’s Map Pack, which attracts 42% of local searchers and increases clicks for locationbased queries. Additionally, navigation and map appsnow driving between 30-40% of local business discovery – make local SEO an even greater necessity.

For Sheffield’s small business owners, digital marketing offers a level playing field, especially against larger competitors. Cost-effective strategies such as focusing on local SEO, maintaining active social media profiles, and gathering positive customer reviews can significantly enhance brand

visibility. In fact, around 97% of consumers read online reviews before deciding to engage with a local business, making reputation management a critical component of digital success.

In 2025, small businesses in Sheffield have the chance to leverage digital marketing not only to survive but to thrive. Localised marketing, optimised digital presence, and a customer-centric approach are no longer optional – they’re essential for sustainable growth and a robust customer base.

To find out how Logica could help your business revolutionise their digital marketing strategies, head to their: sheffield. yoursmallbusiness.digital/

Around 97% of consumers read online reviews when browsing for local businesses

76% of people who conduct local searches on a mobile device visit a physical place within 24 hours

98% of consumers used the internet to find information about local businesses in 2022

60% contact businesses directly from local search results

Sector: Pharmaceutical / Health

Contract:

Sector: Catering

Full Mechanical Design & Build Full

Contract: Install new cold room

T:

E:

Retail • Manufacturing Facilities

Hospitals • Pharmaceutical

Hotels • Student Accommodation Schools & Universities

MAKING SPACE FOR PAINTING PRIZE EXHIBITION

Contemporary British Painting Prize will be hosted at Yorkshire Artspace’s new Persistence Works gallery in the city centre.

Sheffield’s Yorkshire Artspace will soon host an exhibition of paintings by artists from across the UK. The 17 featured artists have been shortlisted for the Contemporary British Painting Prize, beating off competition from over 1200 hopeful applicants.

The exhibition has already toured venues in Cardiff and London before finishing in Sheffield, where the winners of the Judith Tucker Memorial Prize will be revealed.

Turner Prize-winning artist Lubaina Himid will make the announcement at a special launch event on Saturday 30 November, where two lucky painters will be awarded prizes of £3,000 and £1,500.

Judith Tucker (19602023) was a British artist who taught Fine Art at the University of Leeds. She demonstrated a lifelong commitment to painting and was Chair of Contemporary British Painting at the time of her death in November last year.

Georgina Kettlewell, Director of Yorkshire Artspace, is passionate about contemporary painting. She worked for several years at Dulwich Picture Gallery in London and is married to contemporary painter Jack Kettlewell. She said: “We’re delighted to be working with the brilliant team from Huddersfield Art Gallery to host this exhibition in Sheffield.

“Like Contemporary British Painting, we have an enduring interest in contemporary work being made in studios today. If you love painting or are just plain curious, this is a great

opportunity to see work from a diverse mix of painters and to experience, side-by-side, the many possibilities of painting.

“I hope this is the first of many more collaborations that delight painting fans and create new ones in a city famed for its artists and creatives.”

Joanna Whittle is a celebrated Sheffield painter, who won this prize back in 2019. Now, she is the Vice

Chair of Contemporary British Painting and has been instrumental in bringing the prize to Sheffield. Joanna said: “I am very excited that Yorkshire Artspace will be hosting the final leg of this year’s prize exhibition at Persistence Works.

“I have been living and working in Sheffield for eight years now and it is such a creative and supportive community. The city also represents a creative hub

in the north and it is great that the exhibition will be so accessible to these communities and the wider public. It’s very exciting for me as a painter, that the medium of paint will be celebrated in a contemporary space in the heart of our creative city. “

The exhibition is being held in collaboration with Huddersfield Art Gallery, which is currently closed while a new home in Huddersfield town centre is being built. The development in a former library will house the art gallery alongside two floors of museum exhibitions, plus a shop and cafe with outdoor terrace.

Everyone is welcome at the launch event on Saturday 30 November, 2-5pm at Persistence Works Gallery, 21 Brown Street, S1 2BS, with free drinks. The event is supported by The Pearl at Park Hill and architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios.

Andrew Bruce

MANAGING DIRECTOR OF MTEC DIGITAL

What distinguishes MTEC’s approach from other digital marketing firms?

We focus on the transactions that matter most to our customers. For some, that may mean sales for ecommerce stores; for others, it might involve driving footfall into their shop or restaurant, getting potential customers to call, or encouraging online enquiries.

Once we know what’s important, we work back from that end point to the first interaction. We put ourselves in our customers’ shoes so we can design a marketing strategy that places their customer front and centre. We use our unique tracking system, which goes far beyond what’s available in Google Analytics. We track what’s important – if it’s phone calls, for example, we show exactly how many calls they’ve received, not just in total, but also whether that call came from a Google Ad, a Google organic listing, Bing, a social media ad, a social media post, or even a magazine advert. Tracking like this allows us to focus marketing efforts on the best-performing areas to maximise ROI.

We don’t just track calls but also form enquiries, ecommerce sales, and even footfall – tracking how many people have walked into a shop after clicking on or seeing one of our digital ads. This approach ensures you get the best bang for your buck, so to speak.

How can smaller businesses with limited budgets compete effectively in paid media?

One advantage of PPC is that you can’t simply buy the

top spot for a keyword. Each search triggers an auction that uses various parameters to determine which ads appear in each position. The top spot will only ever cost 1p more than the bid for the ad below, so it all comes down to the competitiveness of the keywords rather than someone buying the top spot outright.

Yes, a limited budget can be challenging since some keywords are very expensive for first-page or top-spot bidding. However, that’s where an experienced agency can make a difference. We look at strategies to optimise campaigns within your budget, from using long-tail keywords with lower costs to implementing highperforming Performance Max campaigns that make budgets stretch further.

We’re always open to discussing average costs for your industry, and we’re honest – if we don’t think a budget will yield returns, we’ll say so and suggest

alternative marketing strategies to help you attract more clients.

What’s a common challenge businesses face with PPC campaigns, and how does MTEC address it?

The biggest challenge is the constant changes in technology and the competitive landscape. While platforms like Google, Bing, and Meta (Facebook) make it easy to set up accounts and campaigns, they often spend your budget quickly without delivering results.

We live and breathe PPC, staying up-to-date on the latest changes. When relevant, we can offer clients access to beta programs not yet available to the general public, giving them an edge. We also use a variety of tools, including powerful AI, to identify potential waste in campaigns and spot trends faster. However, we don’t rely solely on AI – we apply human intelligence to ensure the best outcomes for our clients.

What are some current trends in digital marketing that businesses should pay attention to?

• Video marketing: This is increasingly valuable, and knowing how to optimise it so it reaches the right audience is essential.

• Personalisation in marketing: Creating ads that speak directly to the customer is critical.

• Conversational chatbots: Using AI for meaningful customer interactions on your website can reduce staffing costs and free up your team for high-value interactions.

We’re always happy to discuss these trends and help you integrate them into your marketing strategy.

What challenges do you think digital marketers will face in the next five years?

• The rise of AI: AI can be highly beneficial, but marketers can’t rely on it entirely. Our role now involves combining firstparty data (data owned by businesses) with third-party data (like Google’s insights) to build effective audience segments. This is set to become an increasingly complex task.

• Online reputation management: Customers appreciate reading genuine reviews, but vocal dissatisfied customers or fake reviews can distort a brand’s reputation. It’s crucial to gather positive reviews proactively and handle negative reviews strategically. We help clients generate valuable reviews both digitally and in their physical locations.

TOMMY SIDDALL

We speak to the health and fitness coach using science-backed methods to prevent and reverse the impact of type 2 diabetes.

Tell us a bit about your business – what sets you apart?

I help prediabetics and individuals recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes reverse their diagnosis or put it into remission, respectively. I work with my clients to improve their lifestyle – including their habits, diet, and physical activity – with the goal of fostering lasting change. This ensures they can sustain their health long after our sessions, which take place over a fourmonth period.

I also incorporate genetic testing to gather biological data on each client’s genetic predispositions concerning blood sugar management. This information allows me to create personalised strategies for effective weight loss and body composition improvement. I hold a degree in Medical Biochemistry from a top100 global university and a top-15 UK institution, which strengthens my approach to health and wellness.

What motivates you to work in your industry?

My long-term motivation is to tackle the UK’s obesity epidemic, especially by addressing related complications such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease, starting with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. I find immense fulfilment in seeing my clients experience significant improvements in their lives – from boosted self-esteem and confidence to greater ease in enjoying activities with their loved ones. Helping people achieve these changes and

empowering them to make informed health choices motivates me daily.

What are the biggest challenges you face, and how do you overcome them?

Client adherence can be a challenge. I understand how difficult it is for clients to break from familiar routines, whether it involves dietary changes, nutrition or sleep hygiene. To support them, I offer a flexible approach

that integrates smoothly into their existing lifestyle, with changes that are small and manageable. Each week, I sit down with clients to plan for the week ahead, including a specific wellbeing check-in, as mental health can significantly impact their ability to take positive actions. By addressing the root causes rather than just symptoms, we can create lasting change.

Who is your target market?

My target market is men and women over 45 who are either prediabetic or recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

How can people get in touch with you?

Interested individuals can contact me in several ways: Email: tommy@ tommysiddall.co.uk

Instagram: @tommy.siddall

Facebook: ‘Tommy Siddall’

www.tommysiddall.co.uk

BANNER JONES LEGAL

UNDERSTANDING LEASEHOLD ENFRANCHISEMENT

In this article, Tim Barley, Corporate and Commercial Property Executive at Banner Jones, explores the l topic of leasehold enfranchisement, highlighting its importance for both landlords and leaseholders in terms of protecting investments, boosting property values and strengthening landlord-tenant relations.

Recent public concern and legislation means that residential leasehold enfranchisement has emerged as a crucial topic for both landlords and leaseholders. As a conveyancer specialising in this field, I’ve witnessed firsthand how strategic enfranchisement can significantly protect and enhance property values. Here I’ll delve into the various aspects of my work and illustrates how both parties can benefit.

First of all: what is Leasehold Enfranchisement?

Leasehold enfranchisement refers to the legal process by which leaseholders of homes with long leases can purchase the freehold of their property or extend their existing lease. This process is pivotal for homeowners looking to secure their investment and for landlords aiming to capitalise on the value of their property portfolio.

Leasehold enfranchisement is a significant issue in Sheffield, where the proportion of leasehold homes and flats is estimated to be as high as 40%. As the number of leasehold properties continues to be significant in Sheffield, raising awareness and providing support for leaseholders seeking enfranchisement is an essential part of our service

The Role of a Conveyancer

As a conveyancer specialising in leasehold enfranchisement, my role encompasses several key responsibilities:

1. Advising on eligibility

Not all leaseholders can enfranchise. I assess the specific circumstances of each client, determining whether they meet the criteria under the Leasehold Reform Act 1967 or the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993. Factors can include evaluating the length of the lease, the number of qualifying tenants and the type of property involved.

2. Valuation Services

Accurate valuation is essential. I work closely with experienced chartered surveyors to determine the market value of the freehold interest and the appropriate premium for lease extensions. This ensures that clients are not overpaying and helps landlords understand the true value of their assets.

3. Negotiation

A significant aspect of my role is negotiating terms between leaseholders and landlords. This includes the purchase price for the freehold, terms of the lease extension and any other relevant conditions. My expertise ensures that negotiations are handled professionally, aiming for outcomes that benefit

both parties.

4. Legal Documentation

Drafting and reviewing legal documents is a core part of the enfranchisement process. I prepare the necessary notices, applications, and contracts, ensuring compliance with legal standards and safeguarding my clients’ interests.

5. Dispute Resolution

Disagreements can arise during the enfranchisement process, whether regarding valuation, terms or eligibility. I provide guidance on resolving disputes amicably, often facilitating discussions that lead to satisfactory outcomes for both landlords and leaseholders.

Benefits for Leaseholders

For leaseholders, enfranchisement is often about more than just ownership; it’s about securing a long-term investment. A leasehold property with a shorter remaining term can lose value, as potential buyers may be deterred by the prospect of high costs for lease extensions. By enfranchising, leaseholders gain:

• Increased Property Value

Owning the freehold or extending the lease can lead to a significant increase in property value.

• Greater Control Leaseholders gain

more control over their living environment, as freeholders have fewer restrictions compared to leaseholders

• Reduced Costs

Avoiding escalating ground rents and service charges often associated with leasehold properties can lead to substantial savings.

• Benefits for Landlords Landlords also stand to gain from enfranchisement. A wellmanaged enfranchisement process can:

• Realise Property Value

Disposing of freehold interests in properties with longer leases can release trapped equity and allow for other strategic investments to be made.

• Positive Tenant Relations Engaging constructively with leaseholders during the enfranchisement process can foster goodwill and long-term relationships, which are always beneficial for landlords.

To sum it up…

In an increasingly complex property market, understanding leasehold enfranchisement is essential for both landlords and leaseholders. By working with a specialised conveyancer, both parties can navigate this intricate process effectively, ensuring their interests are protected while enhancing the value of their investments. Whether you are a leaseholder considering enfranchisement or a landlord looking to manage your property portfolio strategically, professional guidance is invaluable in making informed decisions that safeguard and enhance property values.

As the landscape of property ownership continues to evolve, being proactive and informed is key to reaping the benefits of leasehold enfranchisement.

www.bannerjones.co.uk

BANNER JONES

WORK CHRISTMAS PARTIES AND THE LAW

Work Christmas parties are a staple on the corporate calendar, but it is always important to remember that even though it is a Christmas party, it is also a work event.

As an employer, you have a responsibility to your workers and a duty to ensure the rules are followed. Not only will this protect your workers from damaging their own reputation, but it can save you the misfortune of having your business’ reputation damaged, or having to discipline a member of staff once everyone returns to work. Here, Sara Patel, Employment Law specialist at Banner Jones Solicitors, explains what employers need to do to make the party go without a hitch.

ENSURING THE EVENT IS SUCCESSFUL

Keeping the party on the right track from the beginning is always the best option, and it means when the night comes around, you too get a chance to enjoy the festivities. From the outset, you and your staff need to be aware that the party is considered to be an extension of the workplace and therefore still considered ‘work’ in the eyes of the law, even if it is being held away from the usual work premises.

For you as an employer, this means you are still liable for the behaviour and conduct of your workers at the party, and you will need to handle any complaints or issues that arise from events at the party in line with company procedures.

HOSTING IN THE OFFICE

If you decide to host the party within the office, you remain liable for the behaviour and conduct of your workers. Below are some things you may want to consider before

you host the event at your business premises:

• Have you carried out a risk assessment for the event? This could offer your business protection against a negligence claim. In addition, given the new legal duty for employers to “take reasonable steps” to protect their workforce from sexual harassment, it is important sexual harassment is specifically dealt with in any risk assessment, as failure to do so could mean you are unlikely to meet your new preventative duties.

• Is your insurance up to date for both the building and your workers? Parties can result in damage to property or personal injury cases, which an employer can be liable for. Damage to property can also result in an extra maintenance bill.

• If you are providing alcohol, particularly a free bar, have you put measures in place to prevent it from being abused, such as drink tokens or professional bartenders who can

help to monitor worker’s consumption? Are there non-alcoholic drinks being provided as an alternative to ensure that everyone is catered for?

KEY POINTS TO ADDRESS

Being prepared and ensuring there are measures in place to protect the business and your staff is crucial. Steps you can take include the following:

• Be inclusive. There is a possibility that not all of your staff celebrate Christmas. Usually, the event is more of a general celebration that just happens at the same time of year, and even though it is highly unlikely a Christmas party would lead to an employment discrimination case, it is an important point to consider whether there is any discriminatory impact, particularly when mandating attendance.

• If you want to provide alcohol, have a plan in place for food and non-alcoholic drinks to tackle some of the unwanted side effects of

drinking.

• Have a plan for after the party. Are there safe options for workers to get home? An easy way to tackle this is to end the event before public transport closes for the night or to encourage members of staff to carpool or lift share.

• Ensure all workers are aware of the company’s policy on expected behaviours and conduct at work events. This can be a quick email which makes sure everyone is aware that company policies are applicable offsite too.

• Employers should ensure there is a specific sexual harassment policy in writing which clearly communicates the business’ zero-tolerance stance on harassment of any form, but particularly sexual harassment given the recent changes and the preventative duty now in place on employers. Alongside this, managers should also be given adequate training about potential risks and what ‘reasonable steps’ could be taken to prevent sexual harassment occurring.

• Ensure your drugs and alcohol policy is up to date and in place, as this will set out the business’ rules and expectations as well as the disciplinary process if these rules are breached.

If you need some expert guidance or training on Employment Law or HR issues, please contact Sara directly at SaraPatel@ bannerjones.co.uk or take a look at how we can help in more detail.

CHARITY

COMBATTING FOOD POVERTY AT THE HEART OF SHEFFIELD FOOD HALL

The team behind Sheffield’s newest food hall, Cambridge St Collective has committed to supporting Sheffield Children’s Hospital through a new partnership with The Children’s Hospital Charity.

The new food hall offers a variety of vendors from across the world, featuring kitchens from Greece, Palestine, Nepal and more, but what you might not see from the outset is the facility featured right in the heart of it all, the Blend Culinary Foundation.

Bringing together the community, food and local causes, the Blend Culinary Foundation has committed to providing one million meals for the local population who need them to try and combat food poverty in the local area.

As part of their mission, the team has partnered with The Children’s Hospital Charity to support patients and families at Sheffield Children’s through as many avenues as possible.

Numerous departments at Sheffield Children’s have already benefitted from using Blend Culinary Foundations’ cooking facility at Cambridge St Collective. Helping to run sessions for families and patients to teach about different ways to cook depending on their dietary needs and treatment plans, Blend Culinary Foundation is making a huge impact on the patient experience.

Alongside this, every month the team has delivered pizzas to the

cancer and leukaemia ward at Sheffield Children’s, gifting pizzas to patients and families during the most difficult of times.

but after visiting the hospital last month, we were blown away by the amazing facilities and staff teams.”

EVERY MONTH THE TEAM HAS DELIVERED PIZZAS TO THE CANCER AND LEUKAEMIA WARD AT SHEFFIELD CHILDREN’S, GIFTING PIZZAS TO PATIENTS AND FAMILIES DURING THE MOST DIFFICULT OF TIMES.

The cooking facility at Cambridge St Collective also hosted as a pledge day for ambassadors of The Children’s Hospital Charity. Ambassadors came together to make meals for parents staying at Sheffield Children’s to be frozen and put into freezers around the hospital.

After a recent visit to see the facilities at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, CEOs of Blend Family, Matt and Nina Bigland, said: “We have always known about the work that Sheffield Children’s Hospital does,

As part of the foundation’s commitment to providing meals and helping to aid food poverty, they are also supporting the local S6 food bank and offering businesses team away days to cook together and make meals for the food bank, to be frozen and given to those who need it.

To find out more about the Blend Culinary Foundation and support the work they are doing please visit cambridgestreetcollective. com/blend-culinaryfoundation-booking.

HENRY BOOT DEVELOP SPACE FOR WELLBEING

Sheffield’s leading construction firm, Henry Boot Construction, has teamed up with several of its supply chain partners to deliver a pro bono office fit-out for local wellbeing charity, Golddigger Trust.

Golddigger Trust has supported thousands of young people over the years, building positive wellbeing and empowering individuals to make affirmative, informed choices for themselves.

In an age of increasing mental health challenges for young people, the demand for and importance of their services continues to grow.

The Sheffield-based charity recently relocated their office from Psalter Lane to The Refinery at 197 Ecclesall Road. The move has seen them inherit an impressive kitchen and restaurant space downstairs. The team has transformed this space into a Wellbeing Café, which will offer a range of engaging wellbeing activities for the heart, body, mind and soul.

The Wellbeing Café for young people launched in September and has welcomed over 100 people in that time. Its opening times are 3 to 6pm, Monday to Thursday.

Golddigger Trust’s new office space is located on the floor above, and Henry Boot Construction has project managed the creation of a modern, comfortable and collaborative new workspace.

As well as the office space, Henry Boot also co-ordinated the fit-out of Golddigger Trust’s new training and session spaces, including the creation of The Refine Studio, a dedicated space where young people can explore positive physical activities to support their wellbeing – such as yoga and pilates.

Henry Boot chose to support the project to create significant social value for Sheffield’s young people and to invest in the legacy of the Heart of the City project completed in 2023.

Beth Stout, Chief Executive at Golddigger Trust, said: “When we set out to open The Refinery, I remember saying that we could only do it by doing it together - that it would take Sheffield stepping up to show our city’s young people that their wellbeing matters to us, and we have been overwhelmed by how Henry Boot and partners have stepped up to make this dream a reality.

TIME TO REVIEW...

Only two months left of 2024 – what have you delivered this year? How many people have you helped? What type of people have you helped and where have you taken them from and to? It is always interesting to see how you have changed the lives of people, with the resources you have, the funding you have been awarded and the funds you have raised or been sponsored with.

Monitoring your outcomes, outputs and the value which you have provided to your community is very important to have a handle on, why else are you doing what you do?

Knowing the difference that you, your trustees, volunteers

and staff make is the driving force of your organisation, whether you are a Limited by Guarantee organisation, CIC or fully registered charity/CIO – you need to do good.

When was the last time you reviewed your Vision, Mission and Aims? Get these done with everyone’s input and ensure that they are documented on your website. This way funders, sponsors and volunteers can align with what you are attempting to achieve and join forces with you to make it happen. Refresh and review all your policies and procedures whilst your are at it during the final months of the year, so that everything is fresh for 2025.

For more ideas relating to funding and financial strategy for your organisation contact - Wendy Ward, Let’s Save Consultancy Services, 0772 9481010. wendy@letssave.biz

Expert Recruitment Solutions

FESTIVE STAR APPEAL

CRUCIAL FOR THOSE IN NEED

Weston Park Cancer Charity’s Christmas Star appeal is back for 2024, and this year they’re shining a light on the vital services provided to young cancer patients and their families.

Those who donate to the Christmas Star Appeal can create a digital star, which they can decorate with a message of love, thanks, or remembrance. Supporters will also be sent a beautifully crafted wooden star for their Christmas tree.

Alex, who has recently been given the all-clear after going through treatment for thyroid cancer, is supporting this year’s Christmas Star appeal. During his treatment, Alex accessed several of Weston Park Cancer Charity’s complementary therapies, including reflexology and mindfulness sessions. He has also found an invaluable community by joining a coffee group.

Alex said: “During my treatment, one of my doctors suggested that I should reach out to Weston Park Cancer Charity. I was sceptical as to whether a charity could help me, but I was amazed by the staff at Weston Park.”

“Everyone has been incredible. Nikki helped me to apply for benefits, Vicky always gave me a huge hug when I visited the charity hub, Dawn relieved my pain with reflexology, and Sally Ann managed to calm my brain and my body.”

Helen Trower, who works as a research nurse at Weston Park’s Cancer Clinical Trials Centre knows just how crucial

I WAS SCEPTICAL AS TO WHETHER A CHARITY COULD HELP ME, BUT I WAS AMAZED BY THE STAFF AT WESTON PARK.

charity donations are to the hospital.

Speaking about the Christmas Star appeal, Helen said: “Thank you for considering Weston Park Cancer Charity this Christmas. We need your help to fund vital research that leads to life-saving trials. With your support, we can give more families the chance to celebrate many Christmases together in the future.”

Alongside the Christmas Star Appeal, there are a whole host of festive activities and fundraisers on offer for Weston Park Cancer Charity supporters – including the annual Sing Under the Stars event, hosting a Christmas PJ Day or simply purchasing some charity Christmas cards from them.

Your support this Christmas will help to fund groundbreaking research at the Cancer Clinical Trials Centre. It will enable the charity to provide emotional support for people facing a cancer diagnosis. And it will fund hardship grants for patients who are struggling financially. Cancer changes everything, but this Christmas so can you.

Join the Christmas Star Appeal today: westonpark. org.uk/christmas

WHYY? CHANGE HOSTS

“INSPIRING” OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE MEETUP

On October 15th, 2024, Whyy? Change, Rotherham’s highest-rated independent training provider, hosted its second Operational Excellence (OpEx) Meetup, a pivotal event for manufacturing and engineering companies in South Yorkshire. Sponsored by the British Manufacturing Consortium and Whyy? Unboxd, the event brought industry leaders together to share knowledge on Operational Excellence.

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Phil Rodrigo, Master Cutler of Hallamshire, opened the event with insights from the Labour Party’s Industrial Strategy Report. He emphasised the importance of operational excellence, drawing from Outokumpu’s 35-year journey in sustainable stainless-steel production.

Sam Littlewood, Lead Process Engineer at Castings Technology, presented on the transformative impact of Lean & Six Sigma. His implementation of 6S across various departments led to a 45% reduction in machining times and cost savings of £55,260. Sam credited his Lean & Six Sigma Green Belt training from Whyy? Change for these achievements.

Lynda Holbrey, Head of Quality HSE at Whyy? Change, discussed the future of ISO standards, focusing on sustainability and the London Declaration’s climate action implications.

Adam Davies, Head of Continuous Improvement at Sheffield Forgemasters, showcased a case study on the company’s operational

enhancements, projecting savings of £2.6 million. He highlighted the widespread adoption of Lean & Six Sigma training within the organisation.

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS AND FUTURE COLLABORATION

The event fostered new partnerships and collaboration opportunities. An engaging icebreaker session and an expert Q&A panel, hosted by Adam Bradley, Director of Corrosion Resistant Materials, facilitated

networking and knowledge sharing.

Ray Byrne, CEO of Whyy? Change, reflected on the event’s success:

“Our goal was to place Whyy? at the centre of the conversation on business excellence in South Yorkshire.

With the quality of speakers and attendees, we’ve achieved that. Now, the real work of supporting business transformation begins. Ray added: Sustained change requires sharing ideas and networking. Events like OPEX24 stimulate innovation and competitive spirit, drawing together innovators and profit makers.”

Attendee, Joe Hall, Operations Manager at Glu Recruit, shared:

“By attending Operational Excellence meet-up I have gained a deeper understanding of Lean & Six Sigma and how they contribute to operational excellence. I also had limited knowledge of ISO standards, but now I see how they foster a more efficient operating environment.”

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE MEETUP 2025

Following the success of the 2024 meetup, Whyy? Change announced the next OpEx Meetup for March 25th, 2025. Save the date, scan the QR to book your place.

SYFC NEW CEO TO LEAD GREATER CHANGE

Martin Singer has been appointed as the new chief executive of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF). He will take up the role in Spring 2025 on the retirement of SYCF’s current CEO, Ruth Willis.

Martin joins from South Yorkshire Charity Mentors (SYCM) where he holds the position of CEO. He is also an independent consultant for the voluntary sector and small businesses, and formerly a Commercial Director in the private sector.

Chris Booth-Mayblin, chair of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation, said: “Martin is a hugely experienced leader with a strong background in building successful teams, creating strategies and leading

change, innovation and transformation.

“He has a proven track record of delivering results through collaborative working, combined with outstanding skills in delivering strategic solutions to challenging business wide issues and a deep purpose and passion for the not-for-profit sector.

Martin Singer said: “I am honoured to have been appointed as CEO of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation and looking forward to leading the team as we enter an exciting new era.

“I look forward to working with the fantastic team of SYCF staff, volunteers, trustees, partners and donors as we strive to act as a catalyst for even bigger and greater change in South Yorkshire.”

APPOINTMENT HAT-TRICK FOR BELMAYNE

Dronfield-based independent financial planners, Belmayne, are welcoming their third recruit in as many months.

Experienced financial planner, Nick Pike, is joining the growing firm to expand and strengthen the team offering advice and guidance to local residents. Nick has worked in the financial planning sector since 1999 and has spent the last nine years with a global investment company.

At Belmayne, Nick will be reuniting with managing partner, Martin Birch, with whom he has worked previously. Nick said: “I was looking to improve my work life balance and when Martin suggested I join him, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to become part of an independent, owner-managed business, where I can have more flexibility and autonomy. The partners have big ambitions and believe I can make a genuine impact on the firm’s future success and the lives of our clients.”

For more information about the career opportunities available or Belmayne’s wide range of financial planning services, telephone (01246) 298181, visit www.belmayne-ifa.com.

New project director innovation the backbone of city's economic growth

The partners behind the Sheffield Innovation Spine are delighted to announce the appointment of Charlotte Thompson as Project Director.

This is a crucial role in driving the delivery of a project that has huge potential for long term impact on Sheffield’s economy, the development of the city centre and all those living and working in it.

In leading the delivery of the Innovation Spine, Charlotte is responsible for building a tangible strategy that creates and links innovation infrastructure in the city centre, to attract, accommodate and grow knowledge-led businesses.

Charlotte specialises in bringing innovation to the market and building specialist innovation clusters. In her previous role at Arup, a sustainable development consultancy, she specialised in product innovation, partnerships and ecosystems and brings extensive experience in working with and for start-ups, accelerators, incubators, networks, funders and corporates.

She commented: “I am thrilled to join the Sheffield Innovation Spine and contribute to such

a pivotal project. This initiative has the potential to significantly impact the local economy and innovation landscape and complement and collaborate with existing innovation clusters in the North of England.

“A strong and well-connected Innovation Spine in Sheffield will develop a deeper innovation ecosystem with Leeds and Manchester. By bringing together our strengths we can create a compelling case for investment and retain talent in the region and in the North, collectively driving economic growth and innovation.” For more information and to get involved contact the team at Sheffield Innovation Spine: participate@ sheffieldinnovationspine.co.uk

Experienced dealmaker recruited at BRM

Leading Sheffield and Chesterfield law firm BRM is delighted to announce the appointment of Rory Conwill as Corporate Director.

Rory joins BRM with over 12 years of corporate legal experience, with his most recent role being as a Partner at Lupton Fawcett. His CV also boasts senior roles at Keebles and Knights.

A well-known dealmaker within South Yorkshire, Rory brings expertise in advising on various matters, including acquisitions and disposals, reorganisations, secured lending, share schemes and equity investments.

Rory has experience of working with clients across a variety of sectors, with a particular focus on manufacturing, healthcare and property development businesses.

In his new role, Rory will be a valuable addition to the existing team as they continue to develop BRM’s corporate offering across Sheffield and the wider region.

Rory joins BRM after a series of senior appointments and promotions at the firm, with Claire Mayfield-Tulip having been appointed as Real Estate Director in September.

On his new appointment, Rory said: “I am delighted to be joining the corporate team at BRM. The department has a strong reputation across the region and a large portfolio of longstanding clients.

“The move to BRM has come at a good time for me as I take the next step in my career. BRM have experienced a period of growth and success over the past year, and it is clear they are a forward-thinking and modern firm who approach their work in an innovative way to meet their clients’ needs. I am keen to contribute to BRM’s increasing presence and success in the market moving forward.”

Visit BRM’s website for more information about their legal services: brmlaw.co.uk

STEVE KNOWLES PEER2PEER GLOBAL

A YEAR WITH PEER2PEER

This month, I’m excited to start showcasing some of the inspiring members of our Peer2Peer community. You can dress up a coaching session with as many words as you like, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating. And here’s a little flavour of one of our members who’s been on the Peer2Peer board for over a year.

Helen is co-owner of The Yorkshire Bridge Inn, a beloved country pub recently nominated for four 2025 Peak District, Derbyshire & Derby Tourism Awards. Here’s what she has to say:

“I’ve found it really beneficial to dedicate time each month focusing on long-term plans and opportunities to grow – not just for the business, but for myself, too. Sitting alongside a supportive group of owners who openly share their insights and experiences has been invaluable.”

It’s no surprise that Helen and her team have achieved so much; her commitment to growing her business with integrity shines through in every meeting. For the Peer2Peer community, the heart of each session is the people around the table, each bringing their unique challenges, insights and support.

Our next Peer2Peer is on 12th December, delving into the science of scaling up a business.

Looking ahead to 2025, I’m especially pleased to announce our new ‘Surge’ meetings, opening the format up specifically for smaller businesses. Over the next couple of months, I’ll be assembling a group to attend these new meetings, beginning in January 2025.

These “sister” sessions will focus on those often-overlooked businesses with fewer than three people – who face challenges just as significant as larger firms but rarely get the same support.

If this feels like you, consider this an open invite. All our events offer a complementary taster session, and you’re welcome to see what Peer2Peer is all about.

Interested? To attend a meeting or explore membership, email me at steve.knowles@ peer2peer.global

INNOVATE TO ELEVATE

Last month, Charlotte Thompson was appointed Project Director of the Sheffield Innovation Spine. Over the next two years, Charlotte will be focused on bringing the Sheffield Innovation Spine to life. We caught up with her to find out what this means and why every person and business based in Sheffield city centre will feel the impact of this important development.

The focus of your role is to deliver “a tangible strategy” for the Sheffield Innovation Spine. Can you share some detail on what this will involve?

The Sheffield Innovation Spine aims to increase capacity in the city centre for knowledge-led businesses, particularly in deep-tech and life sciences, to grow. The partners in this project have identified a core route between the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University campuses where buildings and spaces could be developed and linked to create an “innovation cluster.”

My role is to determine exactly how this can be delivered. I’m looking at things such as the types of buildings we need and how we can build a community around them to create the right conditions for economic growth. This strategy needs to complement the increased amount of housing in the city centre, the needs of businesses that already operate along the route, and how the public can engage with and move through the area.

I’ll be having many conversations with a range of people to create a plan that is collaboratively designed and widely informed.

Why is “clustering” so important to a city?

There are so many reasons! We’ve seen in other UK cities, such as Cambridge and Manchester, that clustering interconnected businesses, universities, research institutions, and related organisations delivers economic and social benefits. Knowledge spillover is one of the main advantages of

clustered environments, where ideas and innovations spread rapidly through formal and informal networks, accelerating innovation, collaboration and productivity.

Clusters are also great for attracting and retaining talent in cities – skilled people working in high-value jobs who will contribute to our economy. For start-ups and scale-ups, being part of a clustered ecosystem means greater access to crucial resources, such as networks, mentoring, and funding. This boosts growth and business success.

By bringing together startups, established companies, and researchers in fields like deep-tech and life sciences, Sheffield can become a specialist in these fields, attracting companies from across the UK and the world to set up here.

How will the Sheffield Innovation Spine deliver a broad impact to the city?

By setting up a robust clustered ecosystem, we will attract innovative companies to Sheffield. This boosts our economy through business rates and job creation, and it increases the number of people living and spending time in the city centre, injecting money into local companies.

With any place-based initiative, the impact will be felt by many people beyond the direct stakeholders. For example, as the Sheffield Innovation Spine weaves through the city centre, everyone will pass through it at some point. So how do we make that a pleasant experience? How do we ensure that members of the public feel involved and interested, as opposed to seeing sleek, shiny buildings that seem closed off? We don’t know the answers yet, but these are important factors that will inform the strategy.

The city centre is already undergoing a lot of change.

What is so significant about the Sheffield Innovation Spine?

The Innovation Spine is one exciting element within the wider regeneration of Sheffield City Centre. Significantly, the Innovation Spine has the commitment and backing of five key partners: Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Technology Parks, the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority. The cross-organisational support behind this project shows the far-reaching impact it could have. Their commitment demonstrates the urgency of creating a clustered environment to meet the demand for collaborative spaces, labs, and testing facilities.

The rate of change among the city’s innovators is exciting, and the Innovation Spine is fundamental to realising this potential.

Do you have a message for Sheffield’s business community?

The first stage of the team’s work is mapping demand from businesses to ensure the Innovation Spine truly meets the needs of our innovators. And I want to stress that “innovation” should be able to come from anywhere, including existing businesses and organisations – it isn’t just about start-ups. I want to collaborate with you to bring this vision to life and shape a future where innovation can flourish in Sheffield.

For more information, contact Charlotte and the team at participate@ sheffieldinnovationspine. co.uk.

OVERCOMING NETWORK CHALLENGES: HOW SIMODA’S EXPERTISE ENSURES SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY AND SECURITY

It’s no secret that businesses of all sizes face numerous challenges in maintaining reliable and secure network infrastructure. From managing structured cabling projects to ensuring seamless connectivity and security, the demands on IT departments are everincreasing. At Simoda, we understand these challenges and are committed to providing comprehensive solutions that address the unique needs of our clients.

One of the primary challenges businesses face, is the installation and upgrading of structured cabling systems. Whether it’s a new building or an existing infrastructure, ensuring that the network cabling is reliable and secure is crucial. Our team of CNCI/ ECS certified engineers specialises in the installation and upgrading of Cat6/6A and fibre cabling, delivering bespoke internal and external structured cabling systems that meet the specific requirements of our clients.

Security is another significant concern for businesses, and our comprehensive CCTV services are designed to enhance the security of your premises. As accredited HIK installers and Verkada partners, we offer design, installation, maintenance, and repair of CCTV systems, including intruder CCTV, CCTV monitoring, intercoms, thermal imaging, and perimeter detection. Our tailored solutions

ensure optimal security for both commercial and public properties. Simoda also provide Door Access solutions to our client base, ensuring that your work areas are secure.

In addition to structured cabling and security, businesses also need effective audio-visual solutions to create engaging and efficient environments. Our expertise in audio visual installations includes design and installation services for a variety of settings, from interactive teaching boards in classrooms to video conferencing solutions and digital signage. Our team can help you create audio visual experiences that enhance communication and collaboration.

Connectivity is the backbone of any business, and our on-premises infrastructure projects and connectivity solutions are designed to keep your

business connected and running smoothly. We offer a range of services, including wireless network design and installation. As accredited partners of HPE Aruba and Cisco Meraki, we ensure seamless connectivity and robust wireless solutions tailored to your needs.

What sets Simoda apart from other IT partners and resellers is our “Technology first” approach. We focus on identifying the right technology for your business rather than prioritising sales commissions. This enables us to have proper businessfocused conversations and deliver solutions that truly meet your needs.

Our services are divided into three main elements:

• Pro services: Our professional services include design, architecture, optimisation, installation, and deployment. With extensive experience, we

ensure that our clients receive top-notch service and support throughout their projects.

• Network services: Our network services team provides reliable and secure network solutions, including the installation and upgrading of Cat6/6A and fibre cabling, door access control, CCTV, wireless survey and install, audio visual, and video conferencing.

• Managed services: We offer comprehensive IT support, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations while we handle their technology needs. Our strategic vision drives the continuous improvement of our managed services, ensuring exceptional value for our clients.

At Simoda, our aim is to never say no. If we cannot do something internally, we have a vast network of trusted external partners who will always find a way to meet your needs.

For more information on how Simoda can help with your network services and infrastructure projects, please contact Christian Colton, our new Head of Services. Christian brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision that will drive the continuous improvement of our services, ensuring that we deliver exceptional value to our clients.

www.simoda.co.uk

WRITTEN BY KATE HILL & CHRISTIAN COLTON, HEAD OF SERVICES AT SIMODA

GEARING UP FOR CHANGE

With cycling becoming an increasingly popular means of transport, Sheffield is enhancing infrastructure yet remains without a cycle hire scheme. UnLTD’s Zain Durrani explores the city’s past attempts and asks if it’s time to bring bike rentals back.

Across the UK, cycling appears to be on the rise. Thanks in part to Covid, statistics now show a marginal increase in the number of cyclists on the road every year, with 2020 figures showing that 47% of people in England aged 5 and over have access to a bike. Sheffield has been working hard to promote this with multiple council plans such as Connecting Sheffield: City Centre and the Sheffield Transport Strategy (2019 - 2035) paving the way for improved cycling infrastructure across the city.

Emerging from these new plans is Sheffield’s first ‘Dutch’-style roundabout. Planned to open in midNovember, the new roundabout in the city’s West Bar creates an accessible route for all road users from cars to bikes.

As of 2022, Sheffield’s population has reached 566,242, making it the fifth-biggest city in the UK. It is also the only city in the top ten without a cycle hire scheme. With Sheffield’s big push for new cycle infrastructure, it may be time to ask – should Sheffield reintroduce a rental bike scheme?

A BRIEF HISTORY

Introducing one now would actually mark the third time Sheffield has attempted a rental bike scheme. The first was in 2015 with the University of Sheffield’s

‘ByCycles’. Inspired by the Boris (now Santander) bikes in London, the scheme was ‘the first of its kind’ in Yorkshire and was funded partly by the council and partly by the University via income generated from car parks.

The scheme saw five docking stations across the campus with 30 bikes in total and was targeted mainly at students and staff, helping them get between lectures and meetings much quicker than usual.

However, this scheme lasted only three years, ending in 2018 to make way for Ofo. Originally a Chinese brand, Ofo began distributing their dockless bikes across the US and UK from 2016 to 2018.

The fleet of 1,000 rentable bikes was dotted across the city and met with great enthusiasm. Ofo’s Operations Manager Adam Rose said in an interview with The Guardian that “it took all of London a year to hit the rider figures we got by our third week.” Sheffield City Council called the entire project a success, but just six months after they were introduced, the bikes began to leave.

The main reason: increased theft and vandalism. The bikes were found abandoned across the city, left in hedges and some were even set on fire. The company always expected some vandalism, but Sheffield had the highest rate of any city they operated in.

So, the company pulled out, leaving Sheffield bikeless once again.

WHERE WE ARE NOW

Sheffield has plenty of cycling infrastructure but it’s rarely used. Perhaps it’s the high cost of a road bike – or an even higher one for an E-Bike, which in Sheffield you really need. Or maybe it’s the lack of storage space with 20% of the city’s population living in flats, which aren’t always designed to accommodate bikes.

Dexter Johnstone, Chair of Cycle Sheffield, believes that a bike hire system could help get more people cycling: “It would expand that audience for cycling beyond those who do it already. You might be walking along and need to go somewhere in the city centre, and you’d think, ‘Oh, I’ll just hop on one of these bikes and zip there.’ It’d be quicker and easier than walking or taking the bus.”

Cycle Sheffield – one of the biggest campaigning groups for a ‘cycle-friendly Sheffield’ – has been advocating for better accessibility for cyclists in the city. They often feature on council agendas and hold frequent meetings with local decision-makers to support their cause.

The group has seen these bike schemes come and go and learnt what mistakes need to be addressed to protect a potential new generation of bikes. “Having them docked would help,”

Dexter said. “Being able to leave them anywhere made them more susceptible to theft or vandalism. If they were in docked locations it could be easier to manage.”

He added, “I don’t think the police were very proactive in dealing with that at the time. Perhaps they’ve improved on cycling and transport issues so maybe they’d be better at that now.”

Dexter believes that future bike hire schemes in Sheffield might need to feature E-Bikes to help casual cyclists tackle the city’s hills. Although this might raise costs, he feels Sheffield needs it because if the city is serious about sustainable transport, it needs to integrate a cycle hire scheme.

“Other major cities in the UK and around the world have bike hire schemes and Sheffield, if it aspires to high cycling levels, needs one too.”

LOOKING AHEAD

Leeds introduced its allelectric bike rental system in 2022 and already has 1,200 unique riders, showing there’s a large market for such schemes. The same can be said for London, Birmingham and Manchester where rental schemes have boosted cycling.

On October 17, 2024, £21 million was approved by Mayor Oliver Coppard for the Connecting Sheffield: City Centre project. This should

mean better cycle routes, quicker construction and improved locations – but only time will tell.

For a hilly city like Sheffield, E-Bikes could be ideal for encouraging people to cycle. And while there’s not yet an official bike hire system, residents do have access to a pseudo-rental scheme: CycleBoost.

Developed in 2010 by ‘A Different Gear’ on behalf of Sheffield City Council, CycleBoost offers residents the chance to rent an E-Bike for £75 a month (including maintenance costs), helping meet demand for a rental scheme. The company also provides free cycling lessons for adults to ensure everyone rides safely.

Despite CycleBoost’s positive outlook, £75 may be a big commitment for many, particularly casual cyclists who may prefer quick and inexpensive rides.

Cycle Sheffield also promotes cycling through its annual Big Ride, a familyfriendly event that highlights the need for safer cycling provisions in the city.

Sheffield’s urban landscape, wide streets and cycling infrastructure, coupled with a community open to biking, make it puzzling that it has been without a rental scheme for seven years.

Surely, it’s only a matter of time.

Vehicle Leasing

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Accident Management

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Daily Rental

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