Admin and More, the Kettering business which offers tailored support via virtual PA services, is set to launch a programme that has the power to transform thousands of lives and change the landscape and culture of the UK workplace.The company, set-up and run by Elizabeth Wright is aiming to raise £200,000 to create a more inclusive workforce by providing meaningful work placements for all individuals with disabilities.The programme, called EmpowerAbility, will include: six weeks of office-based work experience, essential skills development, 12 months of ongoing tailored support and mentoring, and an employment scheme with inclusive employers.It will initially be run as a pilot project from Admin and More’s new Kettering HQ and if this is successful, Elizabeth plans to expand across the country by collaborating with more businesses and opening more offices.By creating this movement, Elizabeth and her new Diversity and Operations Manager, Samantha Roberts, aim to help 156 disabled people get and stay in employment in the first year.With a funding goal of £200,000, Admin & More can ensure it can provide the essential support needed to create inclusive work opportunities and environments, with the funding covering essential expenses such as training, resources and support services.Elizabeth said: “This is not just a project. This is an opportunity to dismantle barriers, challenge conventions and champion inclusivity. This is building a future where individuals with disabilities not only find employment opportunities but thrive in them. This is all about making people realise that they DO COUNT and WE DO CARE.”Samantha, who was diagnosed with ADHD aged 42 and has now made it her mission to make a difference to others, added: “EmpowerAbility will be a Disability Work Placement Project which aims to give every disabled individual a fighting chance in the professional world. “The rather unsettling truth is that too many people with disabilities, whether physical or hidden, are not in employment. Indeed, many companies choose to remain non-inclusive, often side-lining those with disabilities instead of recognising their worth – often out of fear of the unknown or of simply getting things wrong.”According to gov.uk, from July to September 2022, the disability employment rate fell whilst the non-disabled employment rate rose, meanwhile a November 2023 report by the TUC highlighted a shocking “pay gap.”Elizabeth added: “The mission is simple, but far from easy. Create a more inclusive workforce by providing meaningful work placements for all individuals with disabilities. This isn’t just about ensuring they have jobs; it’s about ensuring they have careers where they can flourish, and grow, making significant contributions to our country’s growth and prosperity.”
Council confirms Victoria Centre Market closure
Nottingham City Council has met with traders at the Victoria Centre Market to update them on the current situation after announcing last year that it intended to exit the lease it currently holds on the market due to increasing costs and subsidies required to operate it into the future.
Negotiations with asset managers Global Mutual, on behalf of the owners of the Victoria Shopping Centre, and traders have been both complex and protracted, given the need for all sides to put forward their views.
At the meeting, it was confirmed:
- Stallholders will be able to continue trading until summer 2024 when the market will close down
- No new traders will now be taken on
- Further conversations about next steps will be given to traders early in the New Year, including compensation payments where appropriate
- Negotiations will continue with Global Mutual about terminating the lease agreement
Businesses back action at M1’s Junction 28 to unlock the region’s economic potential
Businesses based around Junction 28 of the M1 are joining calls for government investment to address the now famous queues the junction faces every day. A report released by Midlands Connect highlights the real benefits of upgrading the junction.
Speaking to Midlands Connect, local firms outlined the junction is costing them business, damaging the environment, putting employees at risk, and even holding back local economic growth.
One of the firms reliant on the junction is Alliance Healthcare Ltd, who operate nationally from their Derbyshire distribution centre, delivering healthcare supplies to over 17,000 pharmacies, hospitals, doctors and health centres, across the country.
They have warned that without improvements to the junction, delivery of these vital healthcare supplies could be put at risk, saying: “The daily issues we encounter with Junction 28, being two minutes away, introduces challenges that could potentially affect the delivery of these medical products.”
A Transport Manager at XPO, reiterated the strategic importance of the junction for the region: “The junction is in a great strategic location. However, it suffers from the excessive amount of traffic and congestion. If we can address these issues, we will be able to secure economic development for the wider region.”
Another firm outlined that they felt the junction could be throttling the area from reaching its potential as a thriving hub of business and employment, saying: “To grow the local economy, it’s key that we have the infrastructure to reinvigorate this area, and get some more businesses in.”
Not only do firms believe the current junction arrangements are holding back the local economy, but also that they are creating dangerous road conditions and unnecessary pollution levels for local people.
One local business representative said: “The stationary traffic caused by the junction is nothing short of an environmental disaster for local people. We have looked at all sorts of interventions we could undertake to improve air quality, however we need the government’s support.”
Another local business warned of an “alarming rise” in serious incidents, saying: “We must acknowledge the alarming rise in serious incidents and address the flaw immediately to allow opportunities for a safer route, not just for business but for those living in nearby communities.”
Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect, commenting on the release of the report said: “We have listened to the concerns of local businesses and stakeholders, and there is a unanimous call for action to address the challenges which are posed at this junction.
“Investing in this critical infrastructure is not just about improving traffic flow; it is about unlocking the economic potential of the entire region, reducing pollution and keeping road users safe.”
Mark Fletcher, MP for Bolsover, said: “I’d like to thank Midlands Connect for putting this report together. It’s incredibly important for us to engage with key stakeholders like XPO Logistics, Alliance Healthcare, and the Co-op, to help build our case for upgrading the junction.
“The evidence is clear. Whether that’s from residents in South Normanton and Pinxton, the County Council, or local businesses, Junction 28 in its current capacity is not fit for purpose. We have made great progress on our plans for Junction 28, but we now need the Government’s support to get it over the line.”
Councillor Renwick, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Environment at Derbyshire County Council, said: “This is a key junction on the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire border, providing access to the M1 and linking with arterial routes to Derby, Mansfield, Ashfield and surrounding areas for freight and commuters alike.
“Business growth and economic development in this area are being hindered by this bottleneck junction which desperately needs levelling up to receive the kind of investment we see down south.
“This must happen if we are to advance and keep this part of the East Midlands moving, and I wholeheartedly support the proposal for government funding to avoid the risk of worsening congestion and delays in the years to come.”
Administrators appointed to plant-based meat and cheese manufacturer
James Clark and Howard Smith from Interpath Advisory have been appointed joint administrators to VBites Foods Limited.
Founded in 1993, VBites is a manufacturer and wholesaler of plant-based meat and cheese. The company operates from two manufacturing sites in Peterlee, County Durham, and Corby, Northamptonshire.
The company had recently seen increased pressure on cashflow due to the impact of rising raw material costs and energy prices, as well as a softening of consumer demand for alternative protein products in the wake of the cost-of-living crisis.
The directors sought to explore their options, including making attempts to secure additional funding. Unfortunately, however, a funding agreement was unable to be reached, leaving the directors with no option but to seek the appointment of administrators.
The joint administrators will continue to trade the site in Peterlee while they seek a buyer for the business and its assets. Consequently, 29 members of staff based at the Peterlee site have been retained by the joint administrators to assist them with trading.
The joint administrators have also retained 25 employees at the site in Corby to assist with the fulfilment of outstanding orders. However, 24 employees across the business have been made redundant.
James Clark, joint administrator and Managing Director at Interpath Advisory, said: “VBites is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of vegan food products but unfortunately, and in common with many other companies across the food manufacturing sector, had seen trading impacted by rising commodity and energy prices.
“Our immediate priority is to provide support and assistance to those employees impacted by redundancy, as well as seeking a buyer for the business and its assets. We would encourage any interested parties to make contact with us at the earliest opportunity.”
Glimmers of recovery for East Midlands economy, but steep challenges remain for 2024
A sharp drop in the quantity of debts owed by firms in liquidation in the East Midlands, as well as a decrease in the number of local companies with overdue invoices on their books, is a welcome cashflow boost for the local economy as businesses head into 2024.
According to the Midlands branch of R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body, levels of debts owed by businesses in liquidation in the region fell by 28.17% in November compared to October, while the number of local companies with invoices overdue for payment has continued to fall since May of this year. The latest monthly statistic for businesses with late invoices remains high, however, at 23,229.
R3 Midlands’ figures, which are based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, also highlight a mixed picture for start-ups in the region. While the number of new businesses fell by 4.43% in November compared to the previous month, the latest figure of 2,419 is 8.23% higher than 12 months previously in November 2022.
R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome, a partner at the Midlands office of law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper, said: “East Midlands businesses have been battling economic issues for three-and-a-half years now, and corporate insolvency numbers have been rising as more and more directors run out of options.
“It is encouraging to see some improvements in cashflow conditions, as well as evidence of entrepreneurial appetite, but as we head into 2024, inflation remains high and core prices continue to rise.
“It’s impossible to predict whether the current Christmas trading period will be a badly-needed boost for local firms or the final blow. It’s critical, therefore, that directors are alert to any signs of financial distress and act on them promptly.
“There is a significant amount which can be done to rescue and support East Midlands businesses, beyond traditional insolvency solutions, if help is taken early enough.”
HR & Employment business welcomes experienced associate employment solicitor
A HR & Employment company has continued its growth by adding an experienced solicitor to its ranks.
Derby-based Precept has welcomed Alex MacAskill as an associate employment solicitor. She joins the four-strong legal team at the Mansfield Road based business.
Alex, who has previously worked for Smith Partnership, says that she is looking forward to a new challenge with Precept.
“I like the fact that Precept pride themselves on ‘doing law differently’,” she said. “Their advice is straight to the point, and they simplify even the most complex of situations.
“I have known and admired (director and co-owner) Rob Tice for several years, and I am looking forward to being given the opportunity to work directly with corporate clients, and to the fresh challenge that joining Precept brings.”
Director and co-owner Rob Tice said: “We have gone through a huge period of growth over the last 12 months at Precept and we are delighted to welcome Alex to the team; we are now one of the largest HR & Employment Law team in the East Midlands.
“She offers a wealth of experience and fits our ‘fresh and accessible’ approach perfectly; to do things differently with a no-nonsense attitude, and to continue to build meaningful relationships with clients and our community.”
Barron McCann supports YMCA, Padley Centre and Belper Care Home this Christmas
Barron McCann has chosen three local organisations as recipients of its Christmas appeal for 2023.
The tech company – along with HR & Employment Law firm Precept, which is part of the Barron McCann group – is supporting the YMCA Derbyshire, Padley Centre and Belper Christmas Shoebox Appeal.
Employees at Barron McCann, which provides IT services to customers throughout the United Kingdom and Europe and has its headquarters in Derby, are collecting items to donate to the charities, which will be distributed before December 25.
For Lisa Billyeald – Project Planning Manager at Barron McCann – it will be her third year supporting the Belper Christmas Shoebox Appeal that was set up by her friend Sally Taylor, and daughter Erin, five years ago.
Lisa, from Belper, said: “Sally and Erin, who was eight-years-old at the time, decided that they wanted to try and make sure that all the people in care homes in and around Belper had gifts to open on Christmas day.
“They set up a Facebook group asking for donations and reached out to care homes to get names of residents and their likes and dislikes.
“This is the third year that I’ve been involved, and the demand gets bigger each year. We now deliver shoeboxes to a dozen care homes in Belper as well as to elderly people living alone; those who don’t get out much and those people who don’t have many visitors.
“My job, as well as collecting the donations from Barron McCann and Precept, is to organise people to make the shoeboxes, get them dropped off to me once they’re filled, and to then deliver them.”
The boxes contain presents like chocolate, jigsaws, toiletries, scarves, and gloves. Each one is carefully packed to cater for the individual and their requirements.
Sally says that the project has been a labour of love.
“Erin has always been kind-hearted and the Shoebox Appeal is her way of giving back,” said Sally, who works as a receptionist at the Riversdale Surgery in Belper.
“We searched for groups locally who we could create a shoebox for when we first had the idea but couldn’t fine one suitable – so that’s why we created our own.
“That first year, we had 230 boxes that were delivered to elderly people in the area and the demand has grown over the years.
“It’s been difficult this year, as money is tight for everyone, so that’s why we’re especially grateful to Barron McCann for their support.”
Chesterfield welcomes new business support programmes
A range of new business support programmes that aim to provide advice and funding for both established and start-up businesses has been launched in Chesterfield.
Chesterfield Borough Council and East Midlands Chamber launched the support projects at an event at Chesterfield Football Club’s SMH Group Stadium on Thursday 7 December.
The Chesterfield Accelerator initiative, which will be run by East Midlands Chamber but funded by Chesterfield Borough Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), includes a dedicated local business advisor, access to a range of courses and workshops on a variety of topics which are free for local businesses to attend.
Chesterfield Borough Council has also launched a new business grant scheme funded through the UKSPF. The grants are open to any business based in Chesterfield and can be used to support initiatives designed to help the business grow.
Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and cabinet member for economic growth, said: “We are an ambitious borough with our sights firmly set on growing the local economy to create new jobs and improve the quality of life for our residents.
“We recognise the importance of working closely with local businesses to deliver growth. Our business support packages aim to help businesses in any sector and of any size to realise their potential. From providing tailored business advice to business grants and hosting workshops, there is a wide range of support available.
“I encourage any business owner in Chesterfield to look closely at the support we can provide and to get in touch with us as soon as possible to access these business support programmes.”
The Chesterfield Accelerator is one of 16 Accelerator programmes being run by the Chamber across the East Midlands. The programme includes access to a dedicated business advisor who can provide advice on a wide range of issues relevant to businesses.
It also includes access to training workshops designed to support development in areas like digital skills; a subsidy for a 12-week executive leadership programme; support to apply for grant funding; networking sessions; vouchers for specialist consultancy programmes; and energy saving audits.
Diane Beresford, Deputy Chief Executive of East Midlands Chamber, said: “It was standing room only at today’s launch event, such is the interest of local businesses in the new Chesterfield Accelerator project, decarbonisation grants and the business grants on offer from the Council.
“The Chamber and Council have a great track record of partnering on such initiatives, including on the Chesterfield Digital High Street Project which brought much-needed footfall to the town’s high street businesses. We’re now looking forward to reaching a much wider range of sectors to give businesses the skills and resources they need to build in the most robust way for the future.”
As well as the Chesterfield Accelerator, businesses in Chesterfield can access the new grant scheme that could provide 80% of the cost of investments designed to help a business grow or expand. This could include the cost of new equipment – for instance a local café could apply for new machinery that would help expand their menu. These grants are only available for a limited time, and businesses are advised to apply as soon as possible.
Green business grants are also available to help businesses to reduce their carbon footprint.
Nottingham angel investment platform closes over £290k double funding round for female-founded businesses
Obu, the angel investment platform, has announced the closure of the first two female-founded businesses to raise funds on its platform.
After launching earlier this summer, Obu has successfully facilitated the fundraising for Moody Month, a femtech women’s wellness app, and ProperPlan, a personalised project planning app that harnesses the power of AI.
The funding round closed at over £290K of combined pre-seed investment for both tech start-ups; with £105K and £193K respectively for MoodyMonth and Proper Plan, the latter impressively closed a total of £300k within three weeks.
Following the announcement, Obu’s CEO and co-founder Sarah King said: “To support not one but two incredible female founders on their fundraising journey is a great privilege. It’s so rewarding to see these truly disruptive businesses secure investment from angels.
“The closing of these rounds and knowing it’ll support the next stage of growth for these businesses demonstrates the genuine ability of angel investors to shape the types of problems that get solved in the world – proving that more diverse angels really does mean more diverse innovation.”
Obu connects eligible female-founded businesses with angel investors, both women, and allies, who believe their capital, wisdom, and network can create a more equal, progressive, and innovative start-up ecosystem. Obu champions purpose-led start-ups that share their mission of using business as a force for good.
Laura Phillips, founder and CEO of ProperPlan, said: “Obu inspired my own investment journey from the very beginning. It’s true that you can’t be what you can’t see. Obu is setting out to create a more equal and diverse world – not only for the entrepreneurs who get funded but for the angels who fund us.”
Amy Thomson, co-founder and CEO Moody Month, said: “We chose to raise exclusively with Obu because we believe in the work they do, and the mission they’re on. Getting behind their mission brought a whole new dimension to Moody’s raise, enabling us to empower women not just through our tech, but through the choices we make for how we grow our business.”
2024 Business Predictions: Nikki Wills, co-director of Wills Consultants
It’s that time of year, when Business Link Magazine invites the region’s business leaders to offer up their predictions for the year ahead.
It has become something of a tradition, given that we’ve been doing this now for over 30 years.
Here we speak to Nikki Wills, co-director of Wills Consultants.
Without a doubt the biggest trends for recruitment in 2024 are going to be – Artificial Intelligence (AI), hybrid working and DEI.
AI is already embedded in the recruitment industry and next year will be about understanding its limitations. While AI automation is streamlining recruitment processes across the world, it cannot replace an experienced consultant’s soft skills such as negotiation, relationship building, and emotional intelligence. We are already spotting AI produced CVs so recruiters and HR functions will need to read between the lines as this advanced technology outpaces legislation. Embracing this technology will no doubt offer you reward, but it is still not a replacement for the human touch.
Hybrid working will see a scaling back as employers seek to build and enhance their workplace culture. It will still be sought after, however, with a focus on employee health and wellbeing, work futurists see the lone worker missing out on the employee experience. This becomes extremely import when recruiting and offering the most attractive packages.
We are now able to source from a global talent pool and employers are being held to very high standards. Offers of flexible hours and bonuses are not going to be the only attractions candidates are looking for. Your DEI policies and strategies will be scrutinised so get them in order and continue to deliver on any promises you make. The social economic climate has seen cause for retirees to return to work. Part time roles will be sought after as businesses capitalise in the benefits that a multigenerational workforce can bring.
