Member News

To mark White Ribbon Day on 25^th November, Leeway has launched a campaign to raise awareness of domestic abuse and is encouraging businesses and organisations to get involved!

The Pass The Ribbon campaign aims to get people to use their online platforms to spread awareness of the White Ribbon movement and what it stands for, normalising conversations around domestic abuse.

Leeway has produced an asset pack with resources such as social media header graphics, template social media posts, email signatures, and posters for people to display to show their support to the campaign.

By displaying these, you are helping us to challenge the attitudes and behaviours that allow violence against women and girls to become normalised, as well as raising awareness of domestic abuse.

It’s simple to get involved, simply visit our asset pack, download the graphic you wish to share and display it on your social media platforms for the 16-days of action.

You can also download and print our posters, which can be displayed in workplaces or in your local community.

Whilst the campaign lasts for 16 days, domestic abuse is a year-round issue, and there are many ways you can continue to support us throughout the year!

What is White Ribbon Day?

White Ribbon Day, or the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, is a worldwide day raising awareness of all forms of violence against women.

On the 25^th November and the 16-day action period that follows, organisations around the world host events and campaigns to raise awareness of issues such as domestic abuse and encourage supporters to pledge their commitment to tackling violence against women.

It specifically calls for men and boys to speak out about the issue of violence against women and girls, taking the pledge to do their bit to challenge the behaviours and attitudes that allow violence against women to become normalised.

The international theme of this year’s campaign is “We Speak Up”, which specifically calls on men and boys to speak out and challenge sexism.

Leeway’s campaign echoes the themes of the international campaign, calling on individuals, organisations and businesses locally to do their bit to raise awareness of domestic abuse and pass on the important messages that the white ribbon stands for.

How to Support Leeway?

There are many ways to support our Pass The Ribbon campaign, whether you wish to personally support or if your business or organisation wishes to get involved.

Social media is a fantastic way of connecting communities and spreading important messages to a wide audience, which is why we’ve created assets such as profile pictures, cover photos, and template social media posts.

You can display these on your own profile to show your support or share posts to any community groups that you are part of.

We have also included email signatures and posters that can be displayed by businesses and organisations.

Lots of emails are sent by businesses on a daily basis, so what better way to spread awareness and start conversations around the White Ribbon and domestic abuse.

Why not display one of our posters in your workplace or in your local community too? That information could be the catalyst that helps someone to get the support that they need.

You can also help us to Pass the Ribbon by sharing our social media posts, helping our important messages to reach even more people! 

 Freebridge Community Housing is proud to announce the completion of its new affordable housing development in the heart of Brancaster Staithe.

The development, comprising of 12 homes, has been built on the former site of Freebridge properties that were damaged beyond repair during a major fire in July 2022, caused by electrical storm arcing onto nearby trees during extreme heat.

The development was made possible thanks to funding from Freebridge and Homes England’s Affordable Homes Programme, and was delivered in partnership with Robson Construction Ltd, who worked closely with Freebridge to realise the vision of The Design Partnership’s plans which ensure the homes reflect the character and charm of the local area and includes seven three-bedroom houses, four two-bedroom houses, and one two-bedroom flat.

All properties are designated as affordable housing, helping to address the shortage of suitable homes for local families.

Among those celebrating the unveiling was Marlene Keeling, a former resident of one of the original homes, who returned to cut the ribbon on her brand-new house.

Marlene was joined by her family members, Freebridge CEO, Anita Jones, and North-West Norfolk MP, James Wild, as well as Brancaster Staithe Parish Council and representatives involved in the design and construction.

Mr Wild commented: “The design of these new homes shows a great respect for the village’s character with their quintessentially Norfolk flint work and red brick detailing to their modern touches from solar panels to EV charging.

“Having supported this project from its beginning after the original houses were damaged in the 2022 heatwave, it’s great to see these homes ready for local families to move into”.

This development represents a significant step forward for Brancaster Staithe, a village where the rise in second home ownership has made it increasingly difficult for local people to find affordable places to live.

With many properties in the area used as second homes, holiday homes or short-term lets, the availability of permanent housing for year-round residents has been limited.

By delivering homes that are both affordable and environmentally conscious, Freebridge is helping to rebalance the local housing market ensuring that those with strong ties to the community can continue to live, work, and thrive in the community.

Anita Jones, CEO of Freebridge Community Housing, said: “We’re proud to mark the completion of these new homes in Brancaster Staithe, an important milestone in our commitment to supporting sustainable communities across West and North Norfolk.

“This development goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about enabling local people to remain rooted in the places they call home, despite growing pressures from second home ownership and rising housing costs.

“By investing in high-quality, energy-efficient homes, we’re helping to secure the future of coastal villages like Brancaster Staithe, ensuring they remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for generations to come”.

Watsons Letting Agents rebrands ahead of 2026

If you’re out and about this autumn, keep an eye out for our brand new Watsons Lettings T-Boards. From November, these new signs will start appearing outside properties across Norfolk and beyond.

We’ve refreshed our To Let, Let By, and Let & Managed By boards with a cleaner, bolder design that reflects the strength and professionalism of our lettings service. The new boards are part of a wider refresh across the department, which includes improved landlord communications, updated email designs, and a renewed focus on clear, consistent service for both landlords and tenants. 

We’re so excited to share everything we’ve been working on behind the scenes with you. Managing property portfolios in some of the most iconic East Anglian areas, from the highly sought after NR1, NR2, and NR3 postcodes to prestigious North Norfolk coastal homes, there’s many places our boards will be spotted across the region. 

This news represents more than just a new look for Wastons Lettings – it’s about showing the progress we’ve made in modernising how we present and deliver our lettings services across Norwich and Norfolk.

From digital marketing campaigns and sharing the latest compliance updates to launching our fully integrated Management+ model, we’re continuously integrating the latest ideas and technology to make it easier for our clients to let, manage, and maintain their properties with confidence.

“These new boards are more than just a fresh design. They represent the energy, pride and professionalism of our lettings team, and the continued investment we’re making to improve the service we provide.”

Says Emily Ransome-Farmer MTPI AssocRICS, Head of Property Management 

As a full-suite property specialist, our services as a Letting Agent in Norwich & Norfolk span from tenant introduction services to fully managed packages. We work with landlords, developers, resident management companies, and occupiers, delivering tailored solutions with a personal touch and professionalism that are designed to protect investments and contribute to thriving communities. 

Working with leading local contractors and offering direct access to our wider Watsons team, including Chartered Surveyors and Estate Agents, we’re proud to provide the expertise needed to support anyone on their property journey, whether they’re renting their first flat in Norwich or expanding their East Anglian portfolio.

This year, we unified our Residential Lettings and Block & Estate Management teams to create a streamlined Property Management division, enabling the launch of Management+, our all-in-one service for leaseholders. Management+ brings lettings, maintenance, and financial management together, giving clients confidence that every aspect of their property is expertly overseen. The service also offers features like Rent and Legal Guarantee, helping protect investments and providing added peace of mind for those looking to do more with their portfolio.

Our talented lettings team are continuously working to ensure the process is simpler, faster, and better connected for our clients, whether that’s handling enquiries, preparing properties for market, or keeping landlords informed at every step. The new boards are a visible reminder of that commitment and we can’t wait to share this with you all.

So next time you’re passing a Watsons To Let property in Norwich or Norfolk, keep an eye out for our updated boards – a small but striking sign of how we’re evolving, one property at a time.

Contact Our Team

Our property management specialists are here to enhance and protect your property investments. Get in touch today to discover more about our award-winning services. 

Lettings Team
18 Meridian Way, Meridian Business Park, Norwich, NR7 0TA 

📞Phone: 01603 751555

✉️Email: [email protected]

Watsons acquires Westley & Huff, strengthening our position as RICS Chartered Surveyors & Registered Valuers

As a leading full-suite property specialist, offering valuation, survey, lettings and property management services across the nation, we are excited to announce the acquisition of Westley & Huff, a well-respected brand known for top valuation and survey expertise based in Cambridge.

This strategic acquisition allows us to build upon our position in the Cambridgeshire residential and commercial property market and strengthens our offerings to a broad client and customer base across the nation.

Ray Smith, FRICS – Chief Executive Officer at Watsons Property Group Ltd commented:

“The acquisition of Westley & Huff marks a pivotal step in Watsons’ strategic growth. Their presence as well-known Chartered Surveyors within a property hotspot, and their deep understanding of their local markets will be invaluable as we accelerate our expansion across the UK. It’s a win-win for both Watsons and Westley & Huff, and most importantly, for the customers we serve.”

Westley & Huff is renowned for reliable property valuations and expert witness services, alongside building surveys and consultancy in East Anglia. We’re confident this acquisition will be seamless for both our customers and Westley & Huff, merging the strengths of two accredited, and award‑winning RICS‑registered valuer practices with Watsons, established in 1890, and Westley & Huff, established in 1952.

Paul Muscutt BSc (Est. Man) MRICS – Chief Executive Officer at Westley & Huff added:

“We are delighted to join forces with Watsons and value the warm welcome. Our shared commitment to quality and customer satisfaction aligned perfectly. We look forward to contributing to the Watsons Group and to a long and successful alliance that enhances the histories of both companies”Any questions?

Together, Watsons and Westley & Huff will continue to deliver trusted, independent valuation and surveying services backed by decades of combined expertise. By uniting our knowledge, talent and regional insight, we remain committed to providing clarity and confidence for homeowners, investors, and property professionals nationwide.

If you have any questions about this acquisition or would like to discuss how our enhanced services can support your property needs, please get in touch. We’re here to help.

Email: [email protected]

Call: 0333 220 1234

Watsons Awarded Chartered Surveyor of the Year 2025

We are proud to announce that Watsons has been awarded the respected title of Chartered Surveyor of the Year 2025 at the National LIS Awards in London. Being honored with this national award recognises our ongoing commitment to delivering tailored advice, technical expertise, and reports to the highest of standards to landlords, investors, and homeowners across the nation. 

Celebrating excellence in Valuation & Survey

The National LIS Awards is organised by the founders of The National Landlord Investment Show, which is aimed at giving landlords and investors the education and information needed to start, grow, and retain property portfolios in an ever-changing market. The National LIS Awards have been created to celebrate the leaders and top talent of property services and the private rented sector. To be acknowledged at this level is an incredibly proud moment for Watsons, reflecting the dedication and expertise offered by our Chartered Surveyors.  

At Watsons, our Survey & Valuation team collaborate closely with our Property Managers to ensure local landlords, investors, and homeowners can expect the best service possible.  

What sets Watsons apart as national Chartered Surveyors includes:  

Trusted for over a century: Founded in 1890, Watsons has a longstanding reputation for delivering reliable and accurate property services. Our heritage reflects sustained commitment to professional integrity, exceptional standards, and the delivery of tailored advice to our clients.

In-depth local knowledge: Our surveyors bring valuable first-hand knowledge of the communities in which they serve, with many having lived locally for decades. This regional insight allows us to conduct precise property inspections, with the valuable context of market awareness and region-specific trends. 

Thorough and clear reporting: Our comprehensive reports are written in plain English, highlighting essential findings and enabling you to make informed decisions quickly and confidently. We also provide photographic evidence within our RICS Level 3 Homebuyer Survey and Bespoke Surveys, with additional Camera Pole and Drone imagery available. 

Swift turnaround times: We recognise the importance of timely reporting within property transactions. Our processes are designed to ensure surveys and valuations are completed and returned promptly while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy. 

National reach, local insight: With surveyors based across the UK, we combine national coverage with on-the-ground local expertise to deliver accurate, context-aware inspections to landlords, investors, homeowners, and more.

Winning Chartered Surveyor of the Year 2025 is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team. This fantastic achievement reflects our commitment to professional standards as a full-suite property specialist and providing exceptional service to our clients, always striving for excellence in every aspect of what we do.  

A commitment to our clients  

Receiving this award reinforces our mission to remain a trusted partner for landlords, investors, developers, and beyond. Our survey and valuation expertise helps landlords and investors identify risks early, maintain compliance and safeguard the performance of their property portfolios. Landlords can also rely on Watsons to manage their properties with the highest levels of efficiency and care, while tenants receive a professional and responsive service that meets their needs, by collaborating with our Property Management team.  

Conclusion

We are grateful to the National LIS Awards (The National Landlord Investment Show) for this incredible honour, to our team for their outstanding commitment, and to our clients for their continued confidence in the service we provide.  

Together, we look forward to another successful year of delivering outstanding property services across the nation in 2026.   

Contact Our Team

Our property specialists are here to support you through the property buying and selling journey, whilst enhancing and protecting your property investments.  

Get in touch today to discover more about our award-winning property services.  

Customer Service Team
18 Meridian Way, Meridian Business Park, Norwich, NR7 0TA 

📞 Phone: 0333 220 1234  

✉️ Email: [email protected] 

If you’re trying to improve your marketing to drive enquiries, bookings and sales, it can be tempting to jump straight into activity like tweaking layouts, adding new services, publishing posts or filming videos. But if you’re not clear on who you want to attract and where they are, the work becomes guesswork.

Why This Matters

Clear customer focus helps local customers recognise themselves in your content. It also makes better use of your time and budget and should drive better results for your business.

What to Know About Your Customers

• Who they are: the type of customer and the service they need
• Where they are: your town, nearby villages and service areas
• What they need from you: questions they ask and problems you solve
• How they search: words and phrases they would type into Google and other search engines
• What might hold them back: price, proof, process or trust

How to Put This into Practice

• Key pages so they state who you help and where you work
• Use clear headings that match what people search for
• Add proof with reviews and simple case examples
• Make next steps obvious with call, email or booking options

Results You Can Expect

• More enquiries from people in your area
• Fewer off-target requests
• Clearer pages that help customers choose you

Need a Hand?

If you’d like help defining your customers and turning that into practical website updates and marketing, find out more here or contact us to see how we can help.

At Blue Heron Training, we believe great workplaces start with great people. That’s why we’re excited to host an upcoming HR Forum featuring Pippa Byrne, HR Director at Yapily, who will be sharing insights from her remarkable 30-year career dedicated to leading and supporting people.

Pippa has worked with teams across some of the world’s most recognisable brands, including The Body Shop and Hugo Boss as well as supporting organisations through her own HR consultancy.

Today, she shapes the people and culture strategy at Yapily, helping a fast-paced fintech scale with heart, clarity, and purpose.

True to her people-first approach, Pippa’s compassion extends beyond the workplace. She is also the proud and loving owner of 37 rescue dogs, including three she brought home from Northern Cyprus. 

What You’ll Gain from This Session

This webinar will be an honest, practical, and engaging conversation about what it really takes to build a people-focused organisation. You’ll come away with:

Real career reflections from Pippa’s 30 years in HR

Straightforward strategies for putting people first in your own business

Practical ideas for creating cultures where growth, engagement, and innovation thrive

Opportunities to connect with other HR professionals through interactive breakout sessions.

This session is perfect for HR professionals looking to be inspired, gain practical insights, and learn from real-world experience.

Join Us

This event is free to attend and open to Norfolk Chambers members and the wider HR community.

Secure your spot and join the conversation. We’d love to see you there. Book here.

National Grid will shortly begin a series of drone flights along the proposed Norwich to Tilbury route to help improve understanding of the landscape and environmental conditions along the corridor, using advanced technology that reduces the need for on-the-ground surveys.

The drone surveys, carried out by Stirling X, a Norwich-based company with fully certified pilots under enhanced permissions from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will record video footage of the route from heights of around 100 metres (approximately 330 feet). The footage will give project teams a clear, up-to-date view of the landscape and environmental features along the corridor, helping to identify opportunities to reduce impacts on people, wildlife and habitats.

The drones will capture only footage directly relevant to the route and surrounding landscape. They are not equipped or intended to record any personal or property-specific information, and no identifiable individuals will appear in the video. This ensures the survey remains entirely focused on environmental and engineering data needed to inform the project’s planning and design.

Because of the permissions granted by the CAA, the drones can cover long distances while maintaining high safety standards and minimal disturbance. Flights will take place in sections of around 5–10 kilometres, with each drone passing over an area just once. The drones will not fly directly over residential properties and will generally operate at a height that makes them barely noticeable from the ground.

Each flight will be managed by a qualified pilot, with trained observers stationed at intervals along the route to monitor the drone’s progress. Operators will work primarily from public rights of way and other accessible areas for take-off and landing, minimising any impact on local communities and landowners.

The surveys are being coordinated with local airfields, including Wattisham, to ensure safe operations. The drones produce only a low level of noise, comparable to an electric lawnmower during take-off and landing and will be quieter once at operational height.

The video surveys will be begin in Norwich and work southwards, taking several days to complete the first phase. The footage will be used by National Grid’s environmental and engineering teams to support planning and design work for the Norwich to Tilbury project, part of The Great Grid Upgrade. 

Holly wreaths are a classic symbol of Remembrance and Welcome,

Holly Wreaths carry a timeless beauty that makes them meaningful in two very different, yet equally heartfelt settings. Honoring a loved one’s grave to adorning the front door during the festive season. 

Eight Norfolk businesses have received support from the latest round of the Jarrold Growth Fund, this year in partnership with Norfolk County Council. From hand-forged metalwork to artisan kombucha and innovative tech platforms, this year’s recipients showcase the diversity, talent and entrepreneurial spirit that make Norfolk’s business community so special.

The Jarrold Group launched its Growth Fund in February 2024 as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to Norwich and Norfolk and the business community. This year’s partnership with Norfolk County Council brings together shared values of innovation, sustainability and community, with £100,000 of combined support available through a mix of funding, mentoring and practical help.

More than 70 start-ups and established businesses applied to the scheme in March 2025 with eight successfully securing funding, investment or support.

The following businesses received a blend of financial and practical support from Jarrold Group and Norfolk County Council:

Urban Interiors was the first business to receive funding, allowing the founder to embark on training and benefit from professional support to elevate her local profile.
L V Bespoke are specialists in creating bespoke metalwork and point-of-sale displays for the horticultural and lifestyle sectors, blending craftsmanship, creativity, and functionality. The Growth Fund will enable LV to scale up their operations and develop the business in a structured, sustainable way.
Oichi Kombucha, run by three sisters in rural Norfolk, is dedicated to creating authentic artisan kombucha infusions, made with seasonal, fresh and foraged ingredients. Jarrold Growth Fund support will enable Oichi to develop new flavours and expand into vending machine distribution. Oichi will also receive support from Jarrolds’ marketing agency, Yawn, and its logistics resources.
Due Trade creates online ordering platforms for the B2B sector, enabling businesses to increase trade orders and save time on inbound enquiries. The Growth Fund will allow Due Trade to invest in a business developer to support its customers and support the company’s next phase of growth.
One of a Kind Club is a well-loved jewellery brand, already available throughout the UK. The Growth Fund will enable the business to launch a new sustainable range and develop a better understanding of high-street trends, visual merchandising, marketing expertise and customer preferences to inform future product development and retail strategy.
Norfolk County Council also provided funding to the following organisations:

Zoological Society of East Anglia was awarded funding to revamp its outside seating area at Banham Zoo, enhancing the attraction’s food and beverage offering.
Stepping Stones is a charity based in Norwich where adults with learning disabilities receive the education, training and support they require to fulfil their potential. Funding from the Growth Fund will enable Stepping Stones to further develop its range of student-made products, such as stationery, calendars, t-shirts and bags. This includes attending its first trade show in London to showcase products to a national B2B audience.
Dragonfly Flooring is an independent business in south Norfolk which received funding to help develop its marketing strategy, including an investment in impactful vehicle graphics to ensure it stands out.

Caroline Ellis is group business development manager at the Jarrold Group. “This year’s Growth Fund has shown once again how much innovation and heart there is across Norfolk,” Caroline explains. “We wanted to support businesses that combine creativity with a clear sense of purpose and growth in mind and our chosen applicants have that in abundance.

“At the Jarrold Group, we don’t just offer funding, we share our expertise in training, marketing, logistics, facilities management and retail to help these businesses grow in a way that’s sustainable and true to their vision. All the businesses we have selected as beneficiaries of the Jarrold Growth Fund will receive a relevant package of practical support to enable their sustainable growth and progression.”

Hannah Springham, co-founder of Farmyard Frozen, explains why receiving Jarrold Growth Fund investment in 2024 was a game-changer for her business.

“Jarrold’s investment in Farmyard could not have come at a better time for us,” Hannah explains. “It has helped us pivot into selling our Norfolk-made products to international first and business class airlines, which has been a real game changer for our business. The help, support and faith that the Jarrold team have provided has been incredible: we feel very fortunate and are really enjoying engaging with them and leaning into their experience and advice as we grow.”

“My advice for recipients is to be relentless. Never give up, there is always a way to make it happen,” adds Hannah.

Cllr Fabian Eagle, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Norfolk County Council said: “These innovative businesses will receive the support they need, both financial and practical, to grow in a way that is sustainable. You only have to read the comments from some of these ventures about the impact it will have to see its real value, and I’m delighted that Norfolk County Council has been able to collaborate with Jarrold to provide this support.”

Stepping into self-employment is exciting, but it’s also a bit of a whirlwind. When Tim Voller launched Voller Surveying Services Ltd, he was ready to throw himself into the surveying work he loves. The only hurdle was that the financial side of running a limited company felt like a completely different language.

Tim admits it himself: “I had no experience of being self-employed as a limited company. The complexities around self-assessment, taxation, dividends, invoicing, GDPR, and just generally running the financial side were a huge challenge.”

And Tim isn’t alone. Many new business owners quickly discover that doing the work is the easy part; it’s everything behind the scenes that becomes the headache. Tim wanted to spend his time surveying, quoting, and supporting clients – not juggling admin, deadlines, and tax terms.

Finding the Right Support

That all began to change when he found Jennison Accounting.

“Claire and her team handle all the accounting side of my business,” Tim explains. “Claire, Ruth and Danny are always friendly, professional, and offer helpful advice or remind me when I need to do something!”

From managing his accounts to offering ongoing guidance, the team took the pressure off. Their proactive support has meant Tim can stay organised without constantly worrying whether something important has slipped through the cracks.

A Team That Truly Cares

For Tim, one thing stood out more than anything else: the personal touch.

“They’re always approachable. They take the time to reply to all my many questions and respond promptly in a way that makes sense. I feel they genuinely care about my business and its success.”

That genuine care and clear communication have given Tim the reassurance that his finances are in safe hands.

Seeing the Impact

Two years on, Tim can see the results every single day in his business:

• More confidence in his finances

• More time to focus on surveying and looking after his clients

• Better clarity around cash flow and time management

• Less stress, more headspace

Pay It Forward

Tim first came to Jennison Accounting because a friend recommended them, and now he’s more than happy to pass that recommendation on.

“I would highly recommend working with Jennison Accounting. They’ve been so valuable in helping my business over the last two years. I have confidence in their ability, which allows me to focus on the areas where I’m skilled to do so.”

The Larking Gowen Norwich Half Marathon takes place this weekend, set to welcome up to 3,000 runners supported by hundreds of volunteers for one of the region’s biggest annual sporting events. Organised by Good Running Events, this year’s half marathon features an improved route for 2025, offering participants a refreshed and scenic experience.

A key enhancement to this year’s route sees runners taking on 13.1 miles around Easton, Colton, Barnham Broom and Marlingford, before entering the grounds of Easton College. This new section provides wider paths, and a smoother transition back into the Norfolk Showground, where thousands of spectators are expected to gather.

The event continues to draw runners from across the UK, with a significant portion travelling from outside of Norfolk, bringing a welcome boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses across the weekend, as well as a host of local charities.

Participants will once again be raising funds for a variety of good causes, with this year’s charity partners including Keeping Abreast, East Anglian Children’s Hospices, The Benjamin Foundation and the Big C, among many others being supported through the runners efforts and causes close to their hearts.

The event would not be possible without the tireless support of its volunteer team. From helping to deliver a safe course, to assisting runners at water stations and celebrating them across the finish line, volunteers remain at the heart of the event. Organisers are also grateful to title sponsor Larking Gowen, who continue their steadfast support of the event as headline sponsors.

Race Director, Aaron Murrell said: “We absolutely cannot wait to see thousands of runners lining up on the start line on Sunday morning. The atmosphere at the Larking Gowen Norwich Half Marathon is always incredible, and with our newly improved 2025 route — including the fantastic section through Easton College — we’re excited to offer participants a brilliant race day experience.”

Spectators are encouraged to visit the Norfolk Showground to cheer on runners and help contribute to the positive atmosphere – with the 2025 Larking Gowen Norwich Half Marathon promising to be a memorable celebration of running, community spirit and determination, as thousands come together for one of Norfolk’s most anticipated annual events.