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Due to a cancelation space is now available on this Emergency First Aid at Work RFQ Level 3 course. 

Norwich Research Park has officially welcomed one of the world’s leading independent seed technology businesses, Germains Seed Technology, to their brand new state-of-the-art laboratory.

The bespoke facility at Centrum, Norwich Research Park’s research, innovation and business hub, accommodates senior members of Germains’ Research and Development team with a strategic focus on the science of seed priming and crop development.

Dr Sally Ann Forsyth, chief executive officer at Norwich Research Park, welcomed Germains to the £11.5m Centrum building saying: “We are delighted Germains Seed Technology has chosen Norwich Research Park as a location to further research seed priming and crop development. This reinforces our global position in creating a unique cluster of business and research organisations with world-leading science credentials.”

“Norwich Research Park provides first-class science facilities and our laboratories at Centrum best-place Germains to carry out their research and development in a supportive agri-tech environment,” said Dr Forsyth.

Germains was acquired by FTSE 100 company Associated British Foods in 1990. In addition to existing Research and Development facilities in the UK, Netherlands and the US, the opening of their latest laboratory and research office further strengthens Germains’ existing links with scientific and business partners at Norwich Research Park.

Senior scientist, Dr Hamad Siddiqui, said: “With our new laboratory at Centrum, Germains benefits from the expertise and technical infrastructure at Norwich Research Park. We already collaborate with the John Innes Centre and we are looking to build new collaborations with other institutions, too.”

Dr. Gerard Mulqueen, European business director at Germains Seed Technology, which operates globally with sites across two continents, said: “This fundamental research facility at Norwich Research Park’s Centrum laboratories is a further enhancement to our product development programme, enabling Germains to continue meeting the future needs of our customers and the industry as a whole.”

Germains joins more than 40 other businesses based at Norwich Research Park including four world-renowned research institutes, the University of East Anglia and the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital. More than 12,000 people work at the site including 3,000 researchers and clinicians. The offices and laboratories at Centrum are well-suited to growing and established science-based companies looking to enjoy the benefits of being located alongside innovative businesses and cutting-edge research institutes at the Park.

Providing industry-leading innovative seed technology, Germains provides value added solutions to maximise the natural potential of seed in the field. As one of the world’s largest independent seed technology providers with a heritage of nearly 150 years, Germains operate globally with sites across two continents. Demonstrating commitment to science and development, work has now started in the new laboratory.

Age UK Norwich celebrates its 10th anniversary of Still on the Ball, its much-loved football reminiscence group that has been bringing friendship, laughter and connection to people living with dementia since 2015.

Why does absence from work matter?

Most employees will need to take sick leave at some point in
their working lives. Both physical and mental health problems can count as
sickness. Employers must treat mental and physical health as equally important.

Unplanned absence can be unavoidable but gives you no
control over work priorities or any time to arrange cover. It can include
things such as time off for dependants, but sickness absence is the most common
type of unplanned absence that you will need to deal with when managing people.

Effectively addressing sickness absence in organisations
can:

• Reduce
  absence levels
• Improve
  employee morale and wellbeing
• Boost
  productivity
• Save
  money

Measuring absence

Sickness absence is defined by Acas as any period of time
when an employee is unable to work due to illness, injury, or other medical
reasons. Accurate measurement and monitoring, identifying trends, and exploring
the underlying causes are key to effective absence management.

Do I need an absence policy?

Having clear absence policies can help manage absence in
organisations. Policies make it clear what is expected of the employer and
their employees if they need time off work. Employers must inform employees of
terms and conditions relating to sickness or injury, including sick pay.

Absence policies should cover how planned absence is dealt
with:

• Holiday
• Maternity,
  paternity, adoption, or parental leave
• Time
  off for medical or hospital appointments

But also, absences that can’t be planned in advance:

• Sickness
• Time
  off for dependants
• Time
  off for bereavement
• When
  there’s extreme weather or travel disruption

For some areas of absence, there will be a requirement to
follow legislation:

• Statutory
  sick pay (SSP)
• Fit
  notes and proof of sickness
• Time
  off for dependants

How do I manage short-term absence?

Return-to-work interviews can help early identification of
short-term absence. They also enable managers to start a dialogue about any
underlying issues causing the absence. Promoting a positive attendance culture,
while emphasising that genuine sickness absence will be supported, can help to
ensure non-genuine absence is not tolerated.

Data protection

Organisations should consider data protection rules and
confidentiality if they’re recording medical information about employees. For
example, if you’re recording the reasons for employees’ sickness absence.

• Be
  able to give a reason for keeping this information
• Make
  sure you only share it with relevant people

At Lovewell Blake, we can draft your absence policies and
support you with any absence issues that arise, so you can make sure they are
legally compliant, and your company isn’t exposed to unnecessary risks, as you
grow your workforce.

New 90 minute services between Norwich and London and the expectation of new trains delivered early on are central to the next rail franchise announced by Government in a big boost for the passengers and businesses supporting the Great Eastern Rail Campaign.

Taskforce co-chairs Mark Pendlington and Chloe Smith MP today responded to the publication of the invitation to tender (ITT) for the Greater Anglia rail franchise:

“Today’s publication is the expected next step in our rail campaign. Thousands of passengers and businesses have got behind our campaign across three counties to get faster, more reliable rail services between Norwich and London.

“We have secured agreement at every level to new trains and track upgrades, which together will allow for “Norwich in 90”, “Ipswich in 60” and benefits along the line. Most of all, passengers need a more reliable service. The day-to-day and economic benefits of what we have won will be immense for our region and completed in ten years.

“The ITT is where service and rolling stock are specified. We welcome today’s publication because it clearly responds to passenger need. As promised, it lays out the expectation of new trains, together with how this will be achieved commercially. In short, the winner of this contest will provide state of the art trains to East Anglia within the next few years.

“In the short term, we also welcome the provision of additional fast services from Norwich and Ipswich to London.

“In the long term, our work continues to make sure the necessary track improvements take place over the next ten years, as planned.”

The three shortlisted bidders will now put forward their proposals and the successful bidder will be announced in summer next year, with the new franchise set to start from October 2016.

The full invitation to tender is available on the Department for Transport website here.

On Tuesday 15th September, 25 leaders of business, education and economic development from across Suffolk and Norfolk attended a business dinner at Aviva’s Marble Hall in Norwich, in honour of a visit from His Excellency The High Commissioner for South Africa, Mr Obed Mlaba.

The dinner, was the finale in one day programme co-ordinated by New Anglia LEP, in partnership with Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils, designed to help forge stronger connections and expand business and educational opportunities between the Eastern Region and South Africa.

Lindsey Rix, Chief Operating Officer of the UK & Ireland General Insurance business, Aviva and Board Member of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, who hosted the business dinner said:

“South Africa is the most developed economy in the continent and there is a very strong appetite for trade, investment and engagement with businesses.

“There is a great deal we have in common. This includes a strong commitment to education, the importance of renewable and offshore energy and developing the green economy. So, His Excellency’s visit was a really exciting opportunity to develop even stronger links to expand our educational, trade and investment potential and cultural opportunities.”

His Excellency said:

“We were delighted to visit the Eastern Region and create fruitful linkages in the areas of education, renewable energy and the ocean economy. South Africa is looking for partners through trade and investment opportunities between South Africa and East Anglia and has created strong connections.”

Suffolk

In the morning, Stuart Bannerman, Director of UCS International at University Campus Suffolk hosted an event for the High Commissioner, which was organised by Suffolk County Council.

This included presentations on Suffolk and Norfolk’s green economy and renewable energy, presented by Johnathan Reynolds of Nautilus Associates and a member of New Anglia’s Green Economy Board.

His Excellency also met with Tim Hunt, Managing Director of the UK University Consortium for Africa and businesses keen to do business in South Africa including Jason Hawkins-Row, CEO of Aponic, which creates vertical plant growing systems, a pioneering fibre optic cable provider and a telecoms planning solutions company.

Norfolk

On his visit to Norfolk, which was organised by Norfolk County Council, His Excellency visited the University of East Anglia’s (UEA) new Enterprise Centre and met with Richard Harvey, Academic Director of Admissions and Internationalisation. The High Commissioner learnt about the work of the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change, Ocean Biochemistry and opportunities for forging links between Universities in South Africa and the UEA.

Meetings were arranged with seven local companies keen to expand their trade links with South Africa or start doing business in the country. This included businesses operating in the areas of environment, food, engineering and publishing.

The High Commissioner, who has a keen interest in sport, also visited Norwich City Community Sports Foundation and met David McNally, Chief Executive of Norwich City Football Club.

BBA Digital Media had the great pleasure to work alongside East Anglia’s largest house scene event #HOUSE. The intention was to help increase ticket sales and create brand awareness leading up to the event, which took place at Mercy Nightclub on the August Bank Holiday. The advert was displayed in front of our captive audiences at two different locations: one being at Carrefour Health & Fitness, located at Longwater and the other screen located at 24/7 Fitness at the Riverside complex totalling an audience of 10,000+ people. The advert was of static content advertising details of the events line-up and ticket purchasing information, which was displayed on our eye-catching digital screens in one of our twelve advertising slots for a duration of 10 seconds every 2 minutes.

As a proud member of the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, enjoy an exclusive discount of up to £200 on a range of premium travel services when you book by 1st March 2025 (T&C apply). Whether you’re planning a dream getaway, a guided tour, or a special event, I’m here to make it stress-free and unforgettable.

From flights and accommodation to cruises, attraction tickets, and tailor-made holidays, every detail is covered with the personal touch you deserve. As an ABTA Bonded & ATOL Protected travel specialist, your peace of mind is my top priority. Book now and take advantage of easy payment options like Direct Debit.

Contact:

Phone: 01760 357004

Mobile/WhatsApp: 07599 954810

Email: [email protected]

Website: yana.explorertravelholidays.co.uk

Social: Yana at Explorer Travel Holidays on Facebook | Boryana Fishlock on LinkedIn

Bigfork won the contract to design and build the new website for the Interreg France Channel England programme. The aim of this new programme is to fund high quality cooperation projects with organisations in the Channel border region. The brief was to design a branded website that promoted the programme to potential partners and allowed members to log and keep up to date with the progamme’s progress.

The new Interreg FCE website includes:

• bilingual (French/English) functionality
• a Project and Programme search area
• a members log in area
• an interactive map
• a SilverStripe content management system

You can see further details at Interreg FCE

Bigfork – we make websites stand outwww.bigfork.co.uk t:01603 513080

This summer has been a season of progress, partnership, and purpose for the Age Friendly Norwich team, who have been working tirelessly to make Norwich a great place to grow older. From transport accessibility to age-friendly workplaces and community events, the team has been leading initiatives that ensure older residents can thrive across every aspect of city life.

Age Friendly Norwich is part of the UK Network of Age Friendly Communities, supported by the Centre for Ageing Better and working in partnership with Norwich City Council, Age UK Norwich, and a range of local organisations and volunteers.

Together, they are building an inclusive city where everyone can age with confidence, connection, and purpose.

Read on to see what the team have been doing this summer to make Norwich an even more age-friendly city.

Improving Travel Connections

The Age Friendly Travel Connections project has brought together major transport partners, including Norfolk County Council, local bus and train operators, taxi and community transport services, and active travel providers. Their shared goal is to make getting around Norwich easier and more inclusive.

One major success is the permanent introduction of the mobility bus service from County Hall car park to Carrow Road for all Norwich City Football Club home games, an excellent example of partnership working to improve accessibility for all.

Shaping Norwich Together

The Age Friendly team has played an active role in several Norwich City Council consultations, ensuring that older voices are represented in major city developments. These include the Hay Hill review, Castle Gardens redevelopment, City Hall accessibility improvements, Norwich Market enhancements, and the Sloughbottom Park development, where the team sits on the steering group.

“Your city, your voice – and we’re here to represent the needs of our ageing population,” said the Age Friendly Norwich team.

Challenging Ageism and Promoting Inclusion

The first Wise Up to Ageism (WU2A) training workshop took place on 24th July at Dragon Hall, attracting delegates from across East Anglia in sectors such as care, education, business, and transport. The event encouraged participants to reflect on and challenge ageist attitudes, with overwhelmingly positive feedback. More sessions are being planned for later this year.

Community Connections and Events

The team has been busy strengthening community links throughout the summer and autumn:

• Norwich Airport Accessibility Forum (10th September): A collaborative session to improve accessibility and inclusion at the airport.
• International Day for Older People (1st October): Hosted by Aviva at Marble Hall, this event promoted health and wellbeing with free blood pressure checks, gait analysis, and activities that challenge ageing stereotypes.
• Care for Carers Information Event (10th October): At The Forum, the team joined local organisations to connect carers an charities with vital support services.

New Initiatives on the Horizon

Exciting projects are taking shape across the city:

• Mall Walking: In partnership with Castle Quarter Shopping Centre, this free and sociable walking programme will launch soon, offering a safe, warm and welcoming way to stay active indoors.
• Community Street & Access Audits: Working with Norwich City Council and local groups like Living Streets, the team is co-designing a practical format to assess accessibility and inform city action.
• State of Housing in Norwich – Snapshot Report: Building on the 2024 State of Ageing in Norwich report, this new research focuses on housing needs and challenges for older people.

Championing Age Friendly Employers

The Age Friendly Employers Network continues to grow, welcoming organisations including the National Centre for Writing, Konnect Bus, St Martins Housing, Norwich Airport, Norwich Door to Door, Home Instead, Norfolk and Suffolk Care Support, and Hear for Norfolk.

Age UK Norwich also represented the city at the Age Friendly Employer Pledge Connections event in London, joining national discussions on the future of work and ageing.

The Age Friendly Employer Pledge is free and open to all UK employers committed to supporting workers aged 50+.

Celebrating a Busy Summer

From consultations to community events, the Age Friendly Norwich team has demonstrated how collaboration and creativity can make a lasting difference.

Denise Troughton, from the Age Friendly Norwich team, said “It’s been a fantastic summer of partnership and progress. We’re proud to work alongside so many local organisations to make Norwich a city where people of all ages can live, work and age well.”

We’ve launched a new website! And we’re pretty excited about
it.

It was definitely time for a refresh; we’ve only updated our
website once since we founded in 2012! A lot has changed in the recruitment
industry over the years, and so have we!

A lot of thought (and hard work!) has gone into this
website, so we’d love you to have a little look. You can meet the new team,
learn about our different departments, and find out how we can help with your
recruitment needs.

Visit our new site here.

Need some help with hiring for your business?

Call our
office on 01603 733144 for Engineering or Manufacturing Roles, or 01603 369950
for Hospitality roles.

Alternatively, fill out the contact form on our new shiny
website and we will get back to you! 

This week (21st September to 25th September) is National Work Life Week, which aims to highlight the benefits of a work-life balance to ensure employees remain engaged, motivated and productive at work.

Now in its sixth year, National Work Life Week was started by the charity Working Families with the aim of shining a light on the importance of balancing work and home for everyone. A poor work-life balance can lead to stressed employees, causing high absence levels and low productivity, which has significant impact on a businesses’ bottom line.

But employers who help employees to balance their work and home life are rewarded by increased loyalty, employee engagement and commitment. It is also a key factor in both attracting and retaining the best talent within an organisation.

Achieving a healthy work-life balance requires effort on both sides, so we’ve compiled the following tips for both employers and employees.

Three top tips for employers

1. Presence doesn’t equate to contribution

Employers should take the time to review their culture and check that there isn’t any misheld perception amongst employees that working extra hours will help to demonstrate how committed and valuable they are. The focus should be on the contribution employees make while they are present, not how long they are present.

2. Practice what you preach

Employers often unknowingly set expectations through their own behaviour. If they work late, or over the weekends, there may be an unspoken assumption amongst the team that they should do the same. Clear expectations need to be set, with clarity around working hours, and what is considered reasonable additional hours when needed.

3. Consider flexible working requests

This Work Life Week falls a year on from the extension of the right to request flexible working for all. While employers still have the right to say no to requests, make sure you don’t dismiss them without consideration. A CIPD report found that 72% of employers surveyed believed that implementing flexible working practices had a positive impact on staff engagement and 73% felt that it had a positive impact on employee motivation.

Three top tips for employees

1. Cut back your hours gradually

A recent poll of SME employees by AXA PPP healthcare found that almost half (46%) regularly worked four or more hours of overtime a week, while 29% put in seven or more. If you regularly put in extra hours and are not sure how to step back, try cutting down gradually and work towards a sensible pattern over a period of weeks or months. And remember, Wednesday 23rd September is National Go Home on Time Day!

2. Employ time management techniques

Sometimes the stress and panic which causes people to work extra hours can be helped by better time management skills. The secret of managing time effectively is understanding what’s important and what can wait. Start each day with two or three priority tasks and plan to work on them during your ‘peak performance time’ – for some this might be first thing in the morning, others may work better and concentrate more in the afternoon.

3. Ask for help

However, if your workload is totally unmanageable however much you plan your time, then ask for help. Trying to carry on under such pressure is not healthy, especially over long periods of time, and it won’t help to enhance your career or help the organisation in the long run. Be realistic, there comes a point where you can’t do everything. Understand your limits and ask for help if your workload goes beyond them.

For more information go to www.prs.uk.com or contact Clare Fuller, Marketing Manager at Pure Resourcing Solutions on 01223 209882 or[email protected].