Wathall’s donation supports local families
Family-owned funeral directors, Wathall’s, have donated five computers to Derby’s specialist child exploitation charity Safe and Sound which will be passed onto local families in need.
The computers have been wiped clean of content and will be protected with high privacy settings before being given to young people who at present do not have access to computers to support their education.
Safe and Sound also took the opportunity to present Wathall’s with a trophy and specially designed poster to celebrate their nomination as Supporter of the Year which was decided by young people involved with the charity.
Helen Wathall MBE is the fifth generation of her family to run Wathall’s – Derby’s longest established independent funeral directors.
She said: “We were proud to be one of the companies who supported Safe and Sound during this, their 20th anniversary year. Therefore, when we replaced some of the office computers – we contacted Safe and Sound to see if they could be put to good use.
“I hope that they will be useful to young people who are still facing a challenging time to catch up with their education which was so badly disrupted during the pandemic and will take the pressure off families who are struggling with the cost of living at this expensive time of year.”
Tracy Harrison, CEO of Safe and Sound, added: “Wathall’s have been an amazing support to our charity for many years and we are delighted to be able to pass on these computers to families who really need them.
“In these challenging times, donations such as this show what can be achieved to improve people’s lives by businesses recycling unwanted equipment to charities so that they can be given to those who need them.”
Safe and Sound also have an ongoing recycling programme for unwanted mobile phones and tablets which are recycled and a proportion of the profits donated back to the charity.
Sluggish growth predicted for East Midlands economy as UK emerges from recession in mid-2023
Cities in the East Midlands will see their economies return to growth in the second half of 2023 but at a slower rate than Birmingham and cities in the South East, according to a new study by law firm Irwin Mitchell.
The Irwin Mitchell City Tracker has been produced by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and examines 50 locations across the UK, forecasting future growth in terms of GVA and employment.
The report, which estimates that the UK entered into a recession in the second half of 2022, expects economic growth to resume in the second half of 2023.
According to the research, Nottingham and Leicester’s economies are predicted to be 0.6% larger in Q4 2023 than they were in the final quarter of 2022. Derby is expected to be further behind at 0.5%.
Derby however leads the way among East Midlands cities in terms of job creation with a 0.9% year-on-year increase expected in the final three months of 2023. This is set to take total headcount to 135,300.
Leicester is predicted to see job growth of 0.7%, whilst Nottingham’s rate of growth in this area is predicted to be 0.5%.
Charlotte Rees-John, partner and head of Irwin Mitchell’s consumer sector, said: “Last year presented numerous challenges and the downward pressure on spending activity, which continues to be concentrated in the consumer sector, looks set to continue throughout the first half of 2023.
“The consumer sector has however been one of the most resilient, agile and innovative sectors in recent times and those businesses that succeed during 2023 will be in a very strong position to take advantage of a more stable economic environment in 2024.
“Considering longer-term aspirations, such as the transition to carbon net zero, is something all businesses, irrespective of the sector they are in and the pressures that they are facing, need to do. ESG is fast becoming a priority for the majority, particularly at a time when there is huge pressure and scrutiny from consumers and investors who are increasingly making their decisions based on ethical as well as financial factors.”
Josie Dent, managing economist at Cebr, said: ”2023 will be a difficult year for consumers and businesses across the Midlands, with the cost-of-living crisis expected to lead to falling economic activity. However, Cebr forecasts that economic growth will resume in the second half of 2023, with most cities expected to see an annual expansion in GVA by Q4 2023.”
M&E firm solidifies Nottingham presence
Sustainability and M&E firm CPW has solidified its presence in Nottingham with its recent relocation to a new city centre office space.
Having been located on Stoney Street within the Lace Market area of Nottingham since 2008, the move to a 3,500 sq ft space in the Imperial Buildings on Victoria Street marks a new chapter for the firm, aligning with the firm’s consistent growth and success in Nottingham and the surrounding areas since joining the region’s business community in 2003.
Rising staff levels, flexible ways of working and the resurgence of client facing activity were key drivers in the decision to relocate CPW’s Nottingham team.
Carl Humpage, director and Nottingham office lead at CPW, said: “We wanted to create a space that enables us to produce the best possible work for our clients, while also achieving a flexible office setting for our 26 staff with all the modern facilities and intricacies needed for growth in the sector.
“Larger screens for building information modelling (BIM) capability, a boardroom with the ability to cater for larger meetings, a virtual reality room to bring our projects to life and the sustainability of air source heat pumps are just a few of the ways the new space is optimal for our line of work.”
Craig Waldron, director at CPW, added: “The new office has provided us with an opportunity to re-invest. It’s an exciting and creative workspace that our colleagues are already loving. It’s brilliant how the new environment has reinvigorated the team and really enhanced the energy, drive and passion for what we do.
“The location also provides us with easier access to the city centre and all its amenities, with a close tram stop improving connectivity for commuters and promoting more sustainable transport options.”
The fully refurbished office includes facilities to promote staff capacity and wellbeing, including larger spaces for social evenings, breakout spaces for varied meeting environments and a pool table for friendly competition.
The firm’s new fit-for-purpose space provides the opportunity for CPW’s already strong presence in the region to grow further. Carl Hubbard, director and Nottingham office co-lead at CPW, said: “Our work in the East Midlands is something we are really proud of and the mission to deliver low or zero carbon design solutions is never ending. Projects with the University of Nottingham and our involvement in The Island Quarter scheme are examples of the significant work we are involved in with local stakeholders.
“Looking ahead to our 20th year in Nottingham, we are excited to build further on our current client base and our new office plays a vital role in our position as a leading business in the regional construction community.”
CPW is an international M&E consultancy with more than 250 staff based across 12 offices.
Over 5,000 items donated as part of 200 Degrees’ Swap Shop initiative
More than 5,000 new, unused and unopened hygiene items were donated, as part of 200 Degrees Coffee’s annual Swap Shop initiative, in exchange for a free cup of coffee.
The event, which took place on Tuesday 6 December across all 18 coffee shops, saw customers and local businesses donate deodorant, shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes, toilet roll, nappies and baby products, washing powder, makeup, perfume, sanitary products and everyday household cleaning products.
The 200 Degrees team delivered a total of 20 coffee sacks, which were filled with a variety of products and donated to its charity partner Switch Up, to help those who need it most.
To provide much-needed funding, the coffee roasters recently announced its commitment to Switch Up in a three-year partnership, which included creating a special roast of coffee and coffee pods. £1 in every kilo sold will go directly to the charity, supported with a minimum donation of £10,000 a year.
Commercial director Will Kenney said: “Many people in the UK are unable to access basic hygiene products, and everyday essential items, and these donations will make a huge significance to helping vulnerable families across Nottingham this Christmas.
“We are thrilled and overwhelmed by all the donations that were made at the event and we’d like to say thank you to our customers for their kindness and generosity.”
Marcellus Baz, founder and CEO of Switch Up, said: “My team is absolutely determined to support vulnerable young people and their families through the bleak and dark time this country is currently experiencing. The cost-of-living crisis is crippling people across the UK, especially those from the lower socially economic groups that Switch Up supports.
“People are telling us that food and energy are priorities over toiletries and Christmas gifts this year. This collaboration has been essential in ensuring that vulnerable people and families across Nottinghamshire don’t need to make this heart-breaking choice.
“200 Degrees has ethics and values that align with those of Switch Up and this makes for a very strong partnership. Thank you to their team and everyone that has donated items, allowing us to continue helping those most in need.”
In addition to its work with 200 Degrees, Switch Up will continue its Community Appeal until 31 January. The team will be collecting financial contributions to create its own food parcels for distribution across the city and Mansfield, as well as accepting physical donations of food, toiletries, books, new toys and gifts. Items can be dropped off at Switch Up on Woodborough Road, Nottingham or at its Mansfield hub. Monetary donations can also be made via its donation page.
Founded in 2013, Switch Up has continued to support over 800 young people at any one time from its boxing gym in St Ann’s, Nottingham, and earlier this year, from a second location in Mansfield. The charity has further plans for expansion, to reach and support more young people and their families.
Enrok Construction appoints new project manager
Enrok Construction has appointed a new project manager to lead activity on its latest scheme in the West Midlands.
Mantas Tobulevicius, who has worked in the construction industry for over 12 years, will add his considerable experience to the Enrok team, particularly on the company’s new Wellington Road scheme. This new project, with leading social housing provider Citizen, will see the creation of 19 new build affordable homes in Handsworth, Birmingham.
Prior to joining Enrok, Mantas has worked for some of the UK’s leading housebuilders including Taylor Wimpey, Persimmon, Countryside and Wates Group. As project manager at Enrok, he will have full responsibility for the successful delivery of the Wellington Road project, from pre-construction through to completion, along with all health and safety, quality assurance and ensuring the scheme is delivered on time and on budget.
Commenting on his appointment, Mantas Tobulevicius said: “It is an exciting time to be joining Enrok and I am looking forward to delivering affordable homes in the West Midlands, and other future projects once this is completed. Enrok’s directors are developing a very experienced and talented senior team which I am proud to be a part of.”
Simon Bennett MCIOB, operations director at Enrok, adds: “Mantas’ appointment was partly about getting the right person for the right project, but also about the future of the business and succession planning. Once the Wellington Road homes are completed, we hope that Mantas will play an integral part on other projects and in the future growth of Enrok.
“I have previously worked with Mantas when we were both at Wates Group and he has a reputation as a conscientious, capable, and driven manager. I have no doubt that his leadership of Enrok’s latest residential project will result in a fantastic scheme that will be delivered on time and on budget, whilst providing the client and occupiers the high quality of home that Enrok is known for.”
Enrok Construction is a privately owned construction company, operating across the UK from its headquarters in Derbyshire and a newly opened office in the West Midlands.
Nottingham councillors agree £29m of saving proposals, with 110 jobs cut
Nottingham residents are being invited to have their say on savings proposals agreed by councillors as the City Council sets its budget for 2023/24.
At an Executive Board meeting, councillors endorsed £29m of savings proposals, over £10m of which require public consultation.
Like all councils, businesses and households, the City Council’s finances have been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis created by soaring inflation, fuel and energy costs. A challenging employment market, increased demand for services and post-pandemic issues also add to financial pressures.
Proposals agreed by the Executive Board include raising Council Tax by the full 4.99% permitted under Government proposals – made up of 2.99% Council Tax and a further 2% precept specifically towards Adult Social Care costs. Eighty percent of Nottingham’s homes are in the two lowest Council Tax bands – almost twice the national average – meaning this increase would equate to between £1.25 and £1.46 more per week for the vast majority of city residents.
Other proposals, involving a workforce reduction of 110 full-time equivalent posts, include:
- Changes to adult social care, including more independent living support instead of residential or nursing care
- Reviewing fees and charges for parking, cremation and burials, leisure centres and cafes
- Reviewing grants to community groups, community centres and cultural organisations
- Withdrawing the Shopmobility service at the Victoria Centre
- Stopping collection of household bins put out on the wrong day
- Short-term mothballing of two floors of Loxley House pending the review of options for the council’s offices and depots
- Increasing tariffs for EnviroEnergy customers.
Aggregate Industries appointed to £1.3bn national roads delivery framework
Leicestershire-based Aggregate Industries has won a place on a billion pound national contract to maintain surfaces on the country’s motorways and A roads.
National Highways, the Government company which maintains and operates England’s strategic road network, announced its selected suppliers for the £1.3 billion Pavement Delivery Framework (PDF), with Aggregate Industries one of the 12 successful companies.
Aggregate Industries won a place to deliver the contract, which covers the supply of materials, plant and labour to carry out National Highways’ road surfacing (“pavement”) and construction works for National Highways’ Operations Division, in both the North and South “super” regions for the next five years.
The new agreements, which run from April 2023 to March 2028, promote the use of low-carbon materials. As part of this focus, National Highways has designated warm mix asphalt (WMA) as the contract’s default material of choice.
Aggregate Industries made the switch to WMA as standard earlier this year. Mixing at temperatures 20°- 40°C lower than hot mix asphalt (HMA) it allows for a significant reduction in CO2 emissions by using less fossil fuels and resources during the manufacturing process. It is also more durable and quicker to lay, meaning roads can be reopened to traffic faster.
Thomas Edgcumbe, Managing Director for Aggregate Industries’ Surfacing Solutions, welcomed the news. He said: “We’re extremely proud to successfully secure a place on this vital framework serving the south and north of the country.
“We have the knowledge, experience and expertise of working on big strategic infrastructure projects and look forward to delivering on this over the next five years.
“It is also really important that we will be able to continue our long standing partnership with National Highways focusing on carbon reduction, social value and efficiency.
“Sustainability is a central pillar of our own business strategy and we have been leading the way on innovating and bringing new low-carbon asphalt products to market. We use warm mix asphalt as standard and have introduced products including SuperLow Carbon and Foamix® this year.”
Duncan Smith, executive director of Operations at National Highways, said: “We are very happy to have secured these new agreements. Engaging an increased range of organisations from across the industry is a hugely positive step for us, allowing us to expand our supply chain and improve our resilience.
“We’re also happy to be working with some organisations that we haven’t worked with previously, and we look forward to building these new relationships. These contracts will also support our Net Zero Carbon Plan, which underpins all of our work now and in future years.”
Wearable system allowing engineers to ‘see’ with their hands trialled for aerospace industry use in Nottingham
A unique system that allows engineers to use their hands as their eyes when working in confined environments is being trialled for use within the aerospace industry and other sectors.
The wearable system, EyeGlove, has been developed by researchers based in the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre (UTC) in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology at the University of Nottingham. It contains a vision glove and a wearable display unit, including three tiny cameras, which gives the user’s hands the ability to ‘see’ inside cramped environments when conducting inspection and measurement tasks.
The inspection function uses one or two of the cameras to investigate restricted areas, while the measurement function utilises all three cameras and an artificial marker to assess object dimensions. The results are then presented on a wearable display for easy observation.
“Due to the incredibly restricted, and sometimes unsighted, environments we’re working in – for example, gas turbine engines – inspection and measurement tasks can’t be achieved using conventional rigid tools,” said Professor Dragos Axinte, director at the Rolls-Royce UTC in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology.
Professor Axinte continued: “In some cases, borescope and endoscope cameras, or even robots, can be utilised to accomplish these tasks – but none of these are as flexible and dexterous as human hands. That’s why we’ve developed this novel wearable system, which allows the operator to undertake inspection and measurement tasks by using their hands as manipulators. In addition, each prototype of EyeGlove system is low-cost and affordable, costing less than £150, with further development, it has the potential to be a real gamechanger in the future.”
The research team led by Prof. Axinte and Dr. Xin Dong have created three different prototypes; two containing a disjointed camera configuration that offers high flexibility, and a third miniaturised version that configures all the cameras in one finger.
Preliminary testing was undertaken by six people, five of whom were beginners to the system and were given three opportunities to practice before measurements were taken. The results found that the average relative measurement error of five artificial targets was just 1.89%, with them giving the hardware a rating of 4.6 out of five.
“It was great to see how quickly participants adapted to using the EyeGlove system and to have received such positive feedback to this bespoke technology. Now we’ve successfully established the concept, our next step is to liaise with suppliers about the customisation, optimisation and, eventually, commercialisation of the EyeGlove system,” said Erhui Sun, research associate at the Rolls-Royce UTC in Manufacturing and On-Wing Technology, who developed the system.
EyeGlove has been funded through REINSTATE, a £21 million Aerospace Technology Institute funded project aimed at developing a portfolio of sensing, inspection and repair techniques for use within on-wing installed engines in the aerospace industry, as well as a variety of neighbouring sectors.
Andy Norton, REINSTATE programme manager and Rolls-Royce technology specialist, said: “The University of Nottingham continues to develop and demonstrate cutting-edge techniques that support our aerospace aftermarket business. EyeGlove is a fantastic example of how the REINSTATE team are working creatively and collaboratively to develop inspection methods for use across the product’s lifecycle to increase engine uptime, decrease cost and customer disruption, and improve through-life sustainability.
“While further maturation of the EyeGlove prototype is required, the team have achieved an important milestone through demonstration of key functionalities and its applicability within the aerospace sector.” 2023 Business Predictions: Tracy Harrison, CEO, Safe and Sound
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 Tracy Harrison, CEO of Derbyshire’s specialist child exploitation charity Safe and Sound.
With budgets continuing to be squeezed but businesses still keen to fulfil their CSR objectives, Tracy encourages companies to think outside the box when it comes to charity and community support in 2023.
Like all charities and community organisations, we learnt some pretty tough lessons during the pandemic on how we could best work with businesses and individuals when the opportunities for fundraising were not possible.
We discovered that businesses of all shapes and sizes totally embraced the opportunity to form collaborations and partnerships rather than simply be asked for money.
I will be forever thankful just how many came through for us at a time when demand for our services soared due to the increased time that young people were spending on social media and gaming platforms – increasing their vulnerability to online grooming.
We all continue to face tough decisions due to the economic climate and many businesses will not be able to donate money or fundraise this coming way so my plea is to think differently about CSR in 2023.
Firstly choose a charity that fits and enhances the company’s brand and values longer term. Think local as this makes a greater impact to social mobility in the community where employees and probably customers live. Research what pro bono support you can offer and could your employees volunteer their time to the charity?
So before slashing charity and community budgets, consider how your company can create a legacy that will make a difference to people’s lives and enhance your brand for many years to come.
Making promotional videos on a phone costs A LOT more than you think
Filming promotional videos on a phone is one of the fastest ways for your business to lose credibility. It’s easy to see why companies adopt this approach, because it seems at face value like it will save a lot of money to film on a phone, rather than paying to hire a video production company.
However, filming on a phone – with no knowledge of videography – inevitably leads to the creation of low quality videos, which in turn associates your brand with low quality. You will ultimately pay more in the long-run, when you lose out to competitors who have invested in high quality video marketing.
There is a direct correlation between how good your advertising videos are, in terms of production standards, and how the viewer therefore feels about the professionalism of your business and quality of your product. Consequently, making your own videos on a phone will actually result in far fewer sales, as viewers will instead consider your competitor to be a better and more trustworthy choice, based on the quality of their professional promo videos.
86% of marketing professionals reported that they use video as a marketing tool – 78% of which considered videos to be responsible for a direct increase in sales.[1] These marketers are the ones who hired a specialist video production company, rather than those who tried to cut corners and ‘do it on the cheap’ by filming on a phone.
Hiring a production company isn’t as expensive as you might think. You could get a mini-series of videos for YouTube, a complete explainer video for your website, or a high-impact social media advert, all made to exceptional standards, for around £1000 or even less – depending which production company you choose. Glowfrog offer the best rates across the Midlands for premium grade business videos and they specialise in corporate style video production. Make high quality video marketing your priority for 2023 and enquire with Glowfrog for a free consultation at www.glowfrogvideo.com.
Sources: 1. TheSocialShepherd.com
