Member News

Your employer brand is speaking to candidates – whether you’re managing it or not. In East Anglia’s tight-knit tech community, word travels fast about which companies are great to work for and which ones to avoid.

A positive reputation can bring talent to your door before you even advertise roles. Candidates hear about opportunities through their networks, approach you directly, and come to interviews already excited about the possibility of joining your team. A negative reputation can close doors before you even know they existed – talented people simply won’t apply.

So what builds a strong employer brand in our region? Authenticity is crucial. Candidates can spot generic corporate messaging from a mile away. They want to hear real stories from real employees about what it’s actually like to work at your company. This means being honest about both the opportunities and the challenges.

Transparency around career development is another key factor. The best candidates want to understand how they can grow with your company, what learning opportunities exist, and how success is recognised and rewarded. Companies that can articulate clear progression paths and back them up with examples have a significant advantage.

Flexibility and work-life balance have become increasingly important, especially post-pandemic. This doesn’t necessarily mean remote work for everyone – it means understanding what flexibility looks like for your team and communicating it clearly. Some companies offer compressed working weeks, others provide excellent parental leave, and others excel at supporting professional development through conference attendance or training budgets.

The candidate experience during recruitment also feeds directly into your employer brand. How quickly do you respond to applications? Do you provide feedback after interviews? Are your interview processes respectful of candidates’ time? Every interaction shapes how people perceive your company, and candidates talk to each other about their experiences.

Social proof plays a big role too. Employee testimonials, team photos that show genuine enjoyment, and stories about company achievements all contribute to how you’re perceived. LinkedIn posts from your team members about projects they’re excited about or recognition they’ve received can be more powerful than any corporate marketing.

We help businesses understand how they’re perceived in the market, and what changes will make them more attractive to top candidates. It’s about culture, leadership, and how you treat people – both employees and candidates.

If you’re struggling to attract the right talent, it might be time to work on your reputation. We can help you do it.

01603 542300
synergy-rec.com

As the temperature drops and the mornings get darker, workplaces across the UK face new safety challenges. Icy paths, wet floors, and reduced daylight can all increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, some of the most common causes of workplace accidents.

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your team safe through the colder months. 

Here are some practical steps every employer should take this winter.

1. Plan Ahead for Icy Conditions

Don’t wait for the first frost to start thinking about grit!

• Identify key areas such as entrances, car parks, and walkways that need regular gritting.

• Assign responsibility – make sure it’s clear who checks weather forecasts and who applies grit when needed.

• Keep supplies stocked, including grit, shovels, and high-visibility signs for when surfaces are being treated.

2. Keep Floors Dry and Clean

Winter weather often means wet shoes and dripping coats, which can quickly make indoor floors slippery.

• Use absorbent mats at all entry points.

• Encourage staff to wipe footwear and hang wet clothing in designated areas – Although remember to not store damp or wet clothing on or near to heaters directly, fires could occur

• Make sure cleaning teams are aware of the increased risk and mop up spills or puddles promptly.
  

3. Light the Way

Reduced daylight can make hazards harder to spot.

• Check that outdoor lighting is bright enough and working properly, especially in car parks and around entrances – Think about the type of work and lighting levels needed to suitably illuminate the space

• Consider motion-sensor lights to save energy while keeping areas illuminated.

• Inside, ensure corridors and stairwells are well-lit and any broken bulbs are replaced quickly.

4. Encourage Sensible Footwear

Footwear might not seem like a safety priority, but it can make all the difference.

• Remind staff to wear non-slip, waterproof shoes or boots with good tread. Now is also a good time to check with your PPE suppliers that your standard-issue items are up to scratch.

• Provide guidance or financial support where safety footwear is required.

• For office environments, consider keeping spare shoe covers or mats for visitors.

5. Review and Refresh Your Risk Assessments

Winter conditions can change your workplace risks.

• risk assessments to reflect the hazards and control measures required by the changing seasons.

• Conduct safety walk-arounds before and after extreme weather to ensure your workplace is prepared and to identify any new hazards.

• Ensure staff are aware of reporting procedures for near misses and unsafe conditions, and remind them that they are empowered to sort a hazard when they see it if it is safe to do so and they are able.

6. Communicate Regularly

Safety awareness is highest when it’s kept front of mind.

• Share seasonal reminders via email, posters, or team briefings.

• Highlight the importance of reporting hazards early.

• Lead by example – management should model safe behaviour at all times.
  

By taking a proactive approach to winter safety, you can prevent accidents and keep your workplace running smoothly, whatever the weather brings.

City College Norwich has affirmed its commitment to those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.

The college joins a nationwide group of employers who promise to ensure that past and present members of the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly and with respect in the communities they live and work in.

An Armed Forces Staff Network has been launched at the college to help develop practical and meaningful actions in support of the covenant. This staff-led group is open to all staff who have connections to the Armed Forces. 

The network provides opportunities to connect socially, while drawing on the rich experience, insights, and links within the group to contribute positively to the college community. 

Future plans for the network include hosting an event for employers who have signed, or are thinking about signing, the Covenant; inviting charities to give talks; offering support to those leaving the service and their families with training or employment opportunities; and offering mentoring to someone who is currently unemployed or struggling having left the services.

The group are keen to also ensure a strong focus on meeting the needs and ambitions of the college’s students – whether they are young people with family members in the Armed Forces or students who are considering a career in the forces.  

Jen Eves, Chief Operating Officer, City College Norwich, comments: 

“Our college community of around 10,000 students and over 1,000 staff, across City College Norwich, Easton College, and Paston College, has numerous connections to the Armed Forces.

“The Armed Forces Covenant is an opportunity for us to recognise and support these students and staff, and to harness the wealth of experience and skills that this group of staff bring to our college community.

“It is also about reaching out to ex-forces people who we know can make a huge contribution in Further Education, in both teaching and support roles.”

We are delighted to announce that Jarrolds has once again been named Best Independent Department Store at the Drapers Awards 2025.

The judges commended Jarrolds for its continued commitment to innovation and excellence, describing the store as “a gem of the town with its dynamic and experience-led destination that blends heritage with forward-thinking retail.”

The Drapers Independents Awards celebrate outstanding independent fashion retailers across the UK and Ireland who excel in areas such as sustainability, creativity, and exceptional customer experience.

Tim Shattock, Trading Managing Director of Jarrolds, said:

“This recognition underlines how our vision for modern, experience-led retail continues to resonate. We’ve worked hard to blend innovation with the warmth and individuality that define Jarrolds, ensuring we remain a true destination for our customers and community. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and even more excited about what’s to come as we continue to evolve our offer and invest in new experiences.”

Building on a legacy of independent retail in the heart of Norwich, Jarrolds continues to champion local craftsmanship, distinctive fashion and lifestyle collections, and exceptional service. The store’s ongoing developments, from enhancing its in-store hospitality experiences to expanding digital engagement with their new loyalty app, reflect its commitment to staying at the forefront of modern retail while staying true to its roots.

The Drapers Independents Awards showcase independent fashion retailers that are redefining the retail landscape by being more responsible, sustainable, and digitally innovative. In the Best Independent Department Store category, judges look for a compelling fashion edit and buying strategy suited to the store’s customers, exceptional service standards, an inspiring in-store environment that complements the brands on offer, and strong financial performance supported by a forward-looking business plan that demonstrates leadership in the sector.

Drapers has been the leading authority on fashion retail in the UK and Ireland since 1887.  With an industry leading magazine and online resources, it provides news, analysis, commentary and data and is known as the most trusted, independent, influential voice in fashion retailing.

If you’re part of a charity or VCSE (Voluntary, Community & Social Enterprise) organisation and wondering how to make sense of Net Zero, you’re definitely not alone.

Join us on Thursday 4th December at 11am for a Sustainability Shorts webinar, especially tailored for the charity sector.

We’ll explore:
🌍 What ‘Net Zero’ actually means
📉 The key emission categories that matter for you
🎯 How to set realistic targets and begin cutting carbon
💸 Investment & funding routes to support your journey

Register now and get your organisation moving in the right direction 👉 https://groundworksbs.org.uk/net-zero-for-vcses-webinar/

Our Founder, Simon Wingfield, has recently been made a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute (CMgr FCMI).

CMI:

‘Congratulations on your upgrade!

I’m delighted to confirm your upgrade to the Chartered Fellow membership of the CMI. You are now able to use the letters CMgr FCMI after your name. This provides recognition of your status as a professional manager, demonstrating your commitment to continuing professional development (CPD) and to CMI’s Code of Professional Conduct. In return, we’re committed to ensuring that we provide you with a compelling range of services and benefits to help you now and throughout your entire management career’.

https://www.managers.org.uk/membership/chartered-manager/

A pioneering collaboration between the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA), the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and local authorities will make it possible for families across East Anglia to experience the joy of wildlife for just £7 per person.

The Universal Credit Reduced Price Ticket Scheme, launching on 3 November 2025 and running until 5 April 2026, will open the gates of Banham Zoo and Africa Alive Reserve to families receiving Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Working Tax Credit, or Disability Living Allowance.

Collaboration with Purpose

At the heart of this project lies a shared belief: that every family should have the chance to experience the power of nature.

The scheme brings together an extensive network of partners, including Jobcentres, local councils, food banks, schools and community organisations, to ensure information about the discounted tickets reaches all those who will benefit most.

From other Zoo’s leading the pathway 13 months ago with an initiative to make Zoo’s in the UK accessible to everyone no matter the financial background, our universal credit scheme follows ZSL, Dudley Zoo, Marwell Zoo and Edinburgh Zoo in sharing wildlife with all the community. Leading the way to inspire the next generation of young conservationists.

A Government Partnership Supporting Local Lives

Created in partnership with the DWP and local councils, the scheme reflects a shared commitment to improving family wellbeing, showing what is possible when public organisations and charities come together with a common purpose.

Julia Nix, District Manager for Norfolk and Suffolk DWP, said:  “I am delighted to be working with the Zoological Society of East Anglia (ZSEA) and local organisations on this exciting initiative. We’re proud to support a scheme that not only promotes wellbeing and inclusion but also inspires the next generation to connect with nature and conservation.”

Through this partnership, ZSEA, DWP and its allies are not only helping families enjoy a day out, but they are also strengthening community wellbeing, encouraging environmental awareness and supporting local economies by increasing off-peak visitation to regional attractions.

Education, Conservation and Connection

Visitors taking part in the scheme will gain more than just entry to the zoo. Both Banham Zoo and Africa Alive Reserve are leading conservation and education centres, offering immersive opportunities to learn about wildlife, sustainability and global biodiversity.

Families will be encouraged to engage with animal talks, feeding sessions, and conservation activities, helping children understand how small everyday choices can make a difference to the planet.

Ian Bartlett, CEO of ZSEA commented, “At ZSEA, our mission is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the wonder of wildlife, learn about the natural world, and be inspired to care for it. Access to nature should never be out of reach, regardless of personal circumstances.

This scheme is about removing barriers, opening our gates wider and ensuring that every child and family has the chance to enjoy a day out among wildlife.

 A huge thank you to Julia Nix and the Department for Work and Pensions for supporting the roll-out through Job Centres, work coaches and digital communications via the benefit journals; to Claire Mackintosh for leading outreach to community groups and foodbanks to ensure families who need this most hear about it; and to Patrick Peal for his invaluable support in strengthening ZSEA’s community connections across the region.”   Extending the Reach through Community Networks

The partnership’s strength lies in its reach across Norfolk and Suffolk. Working through a trusted network of Jobcentres, family hubs, housing associations, and charitable organisations, ensuring that no one is left unaware of the opportunity.

Claire Mackintosh MBE, Chief Executive Norfolk Community Foundation said, “This is a wonderful opportunity that offers families who are struggling, a great day together, connecting with wildlife and conservation in the heart of Norfolk.”   The Offer in Detail Zoo Ticket Type RRP Discount Price Saving Banham Zoo Adult £25 £7 72% Banham Zoo Child £19 £7 63% Africa Alive Reserve Adult £16 £7 56% Africa Alive Reserve Child £12.50 £7 44%   Eligible families can book directly via the ZSEA website, where a dedicated landing page provides full details, FAQs and links to partner resources: Universal Credit Tickets | Banham Zoo, zsea.org/reserve/universal-credit-tickets. 

The Universal Credit Reduced Price Ticket Scheme is not an isolated campaign, but a reflection of a wider commitment to community-led conservation and inclusive access to nature.

Through this initiative, ZSEA, DWP and local authorities are setting the future for how cross-sector collaboration can create real-world value, enriching lives, supporting wellbeing and building stronger, more connected communities.

Department for Work and Pensions – GOV.UK

Zoological Society Of East Anglia | Preserving Wild Futures

Since its inception in 2022 the Larking-Gowen Autumn Farming Conference has become a must-attend event for farmers, growers, landowners and the agricultural/rural business sector by delivering practical information and advice which delegates can apply to their own situation.

The 2025 Autumn Farming Conference will move away from the previous single-venue, all-day format in favour of a series of four morning events. Two will be in Norfolk, at Fakenham and Norwich, and two in Suffolk, at Diss and Ipswich, all starting at 0800 and finishing at 1200.

·         Tuesday 2 December 2025 at Hintlesham Hall, Ipswich, IP8 3NS.

·         Thursday, 4 December 2025 at Fakenham Racecourse, Fakenham, NR21 7NY

·         Monday, 8 December 2025 at Best Western Brome Grange, A140, Eye, IP23 8AP

·         Tuesday, 9 December 2025 at Larking Gowen, Rouen Road, Norwich, NR1 1RE.

Focussing on the financial and environmental sustainability of the agricultural industry the Autumn Farming Conference is organised by Larking Gowen, a major independent partnership of Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors. One of the UK’s top 50 accountancy firms, the firm has six offices across East Anglia. Its Farms and Rural Business division, which includes one of the largest teams of agricultural specialists in East Anglia and beyond, is a trusted partner and advisor to farmers, landowners and business owners who are responsible for managing more than 400,000 acres.

Outlining the changes for 2025 Bruce Masson, the Larking-Gowen Partner who initiated the event, says: “After the government announced that the 2025 Autumn Budget would be on Wednesday, 26 November, we decided to postpone this year’s Autumn Farming Conference until December to provide delegates with the most up-to-date insights for their farms or rural businesses. In response to suggestions made last year we also decided to change the format to a series of morning-only events, which will make it easier to access expert insight in their local area and reduce time away from their businesses.

“The agricultural sector is entering a time of major change and political decisions made this year will shape the industry for years to come, with wide-reaching social and economic implication. The Autumn Farming Conference will help delegates to navigate this evolving landscape, with insights into the latest political developments from leading industry experts, IHT mitigation strategies and the changes to pensions legislation which will come into force during 2027. Other topics covered will include SFI updates, Environmental Land Management Schemes and topics arising from the November Budget. The team will also cover any implications post Budget and there will be a panel discussion, providing opportunities to ask questions in an open, friendly environment.”

Bruce Masson will be joined by colleagues from Larking Gowen, including Ashley Smith, Head of the firm’s Farms and Rural Business Team, together with Laurie Hill, another of its Partners. The event is supported by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA), the membership organisation for land, property and businesses in England and Wales.

Headline Sponsor for the 2025 Autumn Farming Conference is Virgin Money, whose experience in the industry goes back generations, not just through Virgin Money, but its heritage Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank Brands. The two events in Norfolk will be supported by Ashtons Legal LLP and Alan Boswell Group, with Ashtons Legal LLP and Beckett Financial Services attending those in Suffolk. Larking Gowen’s chosen charity partner YANA (You Are Not Alone), which provides mental health support for the farming/rural community, will receive any profit from the event.

Further details of the 2025 Autumn Farming Conference are available at www.larking-gowen.co.uk/AFC and tickets, costing £16.96, can be booked on-line. Full details of the speakers will be confirmed shortly.

Issued: 11 November 2025

Press Contact:   Kerry-Anne Rookyard, Head of Marketing and Comms

T: 01473 833411   

E: [email protected]            

About Larking Gowen

Larking Gowen is a major regional independent partnership and one of the UK’s top 50 accountancy firms. Founded in 1888, today Larking Gowen has a team of over 350 people across six offices throughout East Anglia. The firm has experience and expert knowledge across a wide range of sectors including agriculture, medical, charities, education, legal, construction and tourism, as well as specialist teams in corporate finance, personal and corporate tax, VAT, business strategy and support and business recovery.

“Larking Gowen” is the trading name of Larking Gowen LLP, which is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales (LLP number OC419486). Where we use the word partner it refers to a member of Larking Gowen LLP. Registered to carry on audit work in the UK, regulated for a range of investment business activities and licensed to carry out the reserved legal activity of non-contentious probate in England and Wales by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

For more information on Larking Gowen:  www.larking-gowen.co.uk 

Talking about money with children doesn’t have to be awkward. In fact, the earlier they learn, the more confident they’ll feel later in life. From pocket money to saving for something special, those small everyday chats help shape big financial habits for the future.

At Planit Financial, we believe financial confidence starts early, and it starts with conversation. Here are a few simple ways to make talking about money part of everyday life:

1. Start Simple

Use real-life examples like paying for shopping, comparing prices, or saving up for a treat. These moments show how money works in the real world. It’s not about lessons or lectures, it’s about curiosity and conversation.

2. Make It Relatable

If your child’s got their eye on the latest toy or gadget, talk about how long it would take to save up for it. You could even match what they save to help keep them motivated. It turns saving into something exciting rather than a chore.

3. Involve Them in Family Decisions

Next time you’re planning a day out, show them how you’ve budgeted for it, including travel, food, fun, and all. It’s a simple way to teach them about planning, value, and making choices that fit within limits.

4. Talk About Mistakes Too

We’ve all made money mistakes, and that’s okay! Sharing your own stories, maybe about overspending or saving too late, helps children see that money management is something everyone learns over time.

5. Make Saving Fun

Turn saving into a game. Use jars, apps, or colourful charts so they can see their progress. Celebrate milestones, whether it’s £5 or £50,  and show them that small steps add up to big achievements.

6. Keep Money Talk Positive

The words we use around money really matter. Try saying spending plan instead of budget, it sounds more flexible and less restrictive. Money isn’t something to fear; it’s a tool. The goal is to learn how to use it wisely and confidently.

Building Confident Financial Futures

Talking about money isn’t just about pounds and pence; it’s about confidence, choices, and values.

At Planit Financial, we believe every child deserves the chance to grow up feeling financially confident. That’s why we’re proud to fund free financial education workshops in Norfolk schools, delivered by The Money Charity.

Know a school that could benefit? Nominate them today; it’s simple, powerful, and completely free for the school.

Our Founder, Simon Wingfield, has become accredited (as a Fellow FIoL) for mentoring at The Institute of Leadership.

The Institute of Leadership:

‘This credential is issued to Fellows of The Institute of Leadership who have successfully completed the MyMentoring learning pathway as part of The Institute’s MyMentoring programme. It includes the following components of leadership, as defined by The Institute of Leadership: Mentoring, Coaching, and Building Trust. Learning is validated through a series of online scorecards.’

https://leadership.global/choose-your-grade/fellowship-fiol/

Norfolk is full of ambitious businesses doing amazing work. But when it comes to video, many teams tell me the same thing: it’s hard to know where to start, who to trust, and what “good” looks like for their budget and goals.

I’ve put together a straightforward page on my website that makes selection simpler. It covers what’s possible, typical approaches and timelines, pricing ranges, and the kind of outcomes you can expect. No fluff—just clear guidance, recent examples, and an easy way to get a quote that fits.

Whether you need a short social piece, a product explainer, or a case study film, the aim is the same: help you make a confident decision, quickly, and get work that does your business justice.

Find out more on my Video Production Norwich page.

Being found online is only half the battle. The real challenge for most Norfolk businesses is turning that visibility into enquiries, sales, and bookings.

That’s where SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and CRO (Conversion Rate Optimisation) come together.

At ATK Digital Marketing, we help businesses across Norwich and Norfolk strengthen their online presence and improve how effectively their websites convert visitors into customers.

Here’s how:

• SEO makes sure the right people find your business through online search.
• CRO helps more of those visitors take action once they arrive on your site.

We start by understanding your goals and your audience, then build a strategy that connects the two. The result? Better visibility, stronger engagement, and more conversions.

Based in Norwich, we work with small and medium-sized businesses across Norfolk, offering practical, tailored SEO and CRO services designed around your objectives and budget.

Ready to grow your business online?

If you’d like to get more leads, sales and bookings from your website, find out more here, or contact us to see how we can help.