Member News

You’ve got a list of emails… but when’s the last time you actually used it?

Your past clients, enquiries, and subscribers are warm leads, people who already know your brand.

Yet for most businesses, that list just collects dust while competitors show up in inboxes weekly, building trust and making sales.

Every week you don’t send an email is a missed opportunity.

We had to pleasure of attending FWD: London this month, Mailchimp’s biggest conference, and one thing’s clear: email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to grow your business without spending a penny on ads.

We create email campaigns that:

– Build relationships and drive repeat sales

– Speak to the right people at the right time (segmented and personalised)

– Look slick and on-brand

– Include welcome and sales sequences that run while you sleep

– Actually get opened (and clicked)

Ready to stop ghosting your audience and start seeing results?

Get in touch for a free chat.

We’re excited to share that YALM has been nominated for Best Food Hall in the UK 2025 at the British Street Food Awards and voting is now open.

This nomination is more than a recognition of food, it’s about celebrating culture, connection, and a sense of place. Each vote is a show of support for Norwich’s thriving indie food scene.

How to support:

Cast your vote here

Profit & Delight Studio has completed a presentation project that epitomises the unique opportunities Norfolk offers for contemporary developments based on its 1000-year heritage.  

Principal Arthur Meek led the process to help The Community of Our Lady of Walsingham reshape their approach to a major international fundraising campaign to establish a presence in the heart of Little Walsingham, and expand their nearby spiritual retreat and formation center in Dereham. 

Little Walsingham has been “England’s Nazareth” – its premier pilgrimage destination – for over 1000 years. Renowned across Europe, it attracted royalty and commoners alike until its suppression during the Reformation. Today it remains a significant destination for pilgrimage and tourism, drawing 350,000 visitors annually to Norfolk.

The Community of Our Lady of Walsingham, established in 2004, transforms thousands of lives each year through an authentic spiritual accompaniment practice, rooted in tradition, that includes group and hermitage retreats. Demand has grown along with its reputation. The Mission Hub development and Formation House expansion will boost retreat attendance from 132 to 500-1,000 young people annually, and double its capacity for hermitage retreatants to 150+. 

The dual-site expansion helps strengthen Walsingham’s position as England’s premier spiritual center. The campaign has already attracted more than 440 donors who have contributed over £540,000. Members of COWL head to the US in the coming weeks with materials developed by Norwich-based Profit & Delight Studio.

Arthur Meek of Profit & Delight Studio notes: “Norfolk’s wind creates opportunities for energy infrastructure developments, and our thousand-year spiritual heritage creates unique development opportunities that are recognised by different kinds of investors!”

If you’re developing places and spaces that make Norfolk an even better place to live – get in touch with Arthur at Profit & Delight Studio. He’ll help you get to the heart of your story, in your voice for the stakeholders that matter to you. 

Should I Be a Sole Trader or Limited Company?

If you’re self-employed (or thinking of starting), one of the key questions is: should I stay as a sole trader or incorporate as a limited company? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some common signs that it might be time to consider making the switch.

Below are the pros and cons of each, and the key factors to watch out for.

What’s the difference?

• As a sole trader, you and your business are legally the same. You report your profits on your personal Self Assessment tax return, pay income tax and National Insurance, and you take full responsibility (and risk) for any debts or liabilities the business runs. 

• A limited company (Ltd) is a separate legal entity. The company itself owns its assets, enters into contracts, and takes on liabilities. As a director/shareholder, you can pay yourself via salary and/or dividends, and your personal liability is limited in most circumstances.

When might switching make sense?

Here are some of the main factors to consider when deciding whether to remain a sole trader or move to a limited company structure:

1. Tax efficiency

• Limited companies pay Corporation Tax on their profits, which is often lower than higher-rate income tax. 

• As a director/shareholder, you can take a small salary (within your personal allowance) and then take additional income via dividends, which can be taxed more efficiently. 

• But, this tax advantage tends to materialise once profits rise to a certain level; for smaller businesses, the extra admin costs might outweigh the savings. 

2. Liability protection

• As a sole trader, you are personally liable for all business debts. That means personal assets (like your home, savings) could be at risk if things go wrong. 

• Incorporating gives you limited liability, meaning your personal exposure is typically only up to the amount invested in the company (or the unpaid portion of share capital), although directors still have duties and potential personal risk in certain situations (e.g. wrongful trading).

3. Growth, investment & credibility

• If you’re planning to grow, bring on investors or partners, or sell/share ownership of the business, a limited company structure tends to be more suitable: you can issue shares, accept investment more easily, and transfer ownership more cleanly.

• Some clients or suppliers may view a limited company as more ‘professional’ or credible.

• Also, a limited company can continue even if the ownership changes (e.g. you sell it or step away), whereas a sole trader business is more tied to the individual.

4. Administrative burden & costs

• Operating as a limited company comes with more compliance: registering at Companies House, filing annual accounts, filing a confirmation statement, a company tax return, maintaining more detailed records, and possibly needing a business bank account and more formal bookkeeping.

• There’s also potential cost in accountancy fees, filing costs, and perhaps formation fees (though forming a company in the UK is relatively inexpensive).

• If your income is modest or your expenses minimal, the administrative overhead may not be worth it.

5. Cashflow & profits retention flexibility

• A limited company allows you to leave profits in the business as retained earnings. You don’t have to draw them out immediately, which can help with reinvestment or smoother cash flow.

• Dividends do not incur National Insurance contributions, which can make taking income more tax-efficient.

• On the flip side, extracting money from a limited company in a tax-efficient way requires planning (salary vs dividend vs retained earnings) and sometimes more careful bookkeeping and advice.

When might now be the right time to switch?

Here are a few practical signs that suggest incorporation may be worth considering:

1. Your trading profit is consistently high (for example, above £35–40K, and rising). Once you cross a certain profit threshold, the tax savings from corporation tax & dividends can outweigh the extra cost and admin.

2. You want to reinvest profits back into the business rather than draw them all out.

3. You’re hiring employees or subcontractors, or starting to take on more risk or contracts with liabilities, limited liability provides extra protection.

4. You’re planning to grow, bring in partners/investors, or you might want to sell the business down the line.

5. Your clients or suppliers expect or prefer dealing with a limited company (for credibility, contracts, or procurement reasons).

6. You’re becoming more comfortable with bookkeeping / administrative work (or are willing to pay for bookkeeping/accounting support).

What to watch out for

• Incorporating too early can actually reduce your net income if administrative costs and accounting fees eat into the tax benefit.

• Directors must take care to follow their legal obligations e.g. filing deadlines with Companies House, maintaining proper records, and ensuring timely Corporation Tax registrations and payments.

• If you’re not drawing a lot of profit, or if your business is very simple (low cost, one-person, low risk), staying as a sole trader may remain the most hassle-free and cost-effective route.

• There can also be additional scrutiny (for example, on dividends or salary splits), so you’ll want to ensure your accounting is clean and above board.

If you’re just starting out, or your profits are modest and stable, the simplicity of being a sole trader can be very appealing: minimal paperwork, low cost, and full control.

But as your business grows, takes on risk, hires people, or you want more tax efficiency and flexibility, switching to a limited company is definitely worth considering. The decision really comes down to a trade-off between additional admin cost vs potential tax and liability benefits.

Jennison Accounting can help you model the numbers for your particular business. We can run a side-by-side comparison of your current sole trader profit, projected growth, and estimated tax/admin costs to see when the break-even point is.

What has happened?

In July 2025,  IEMA became ISEP (The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals).

What is ISEP?

ISEP is the global membership body that sets the standard in sustainability knowledge, skills and practice.

Whether sustainability is at the heart of what you do, an essential element or you just want to support change, ISEP training provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a positive impact on business, society and the environment – backed by globally recognised standards, resources and professional networks.

Jarrold Training is proud and excited to be part of this new chapter as we partner with ISEP in equipping sustainability and environmental professionals for the present…and the future.

Why is ISEP important?

Climate change and environmental breakdown are the biggest risks facing business and society. There is urgent need to upskill the global workforce to deliver practical and achievable solutions to the unfolding environmental crisis.

How will the change from IEMA to ISEP affect learners?

The names of ISEP training courses will be slightly different to reflect the new brand, however the content, syllabus and learning outcomes will not change:

IEMA Foundation Certificate in Environmental Management (AIEMA) becomes: ISEP Foundation Certificate in Sustainability & Environmental Management (AISEP)

IEMA Certificate in Environmental Management (PIEMA) becomes: ISEP Certificate in Sustainability & Environmental Management (PISEP)

The other main change will be the switch to the new post-nominals/suffix for learners that qualify for membership.

The new ISEP suffixes will undergo a simple transition from IEMA to ISEP, with some variations.

• AISEP – Associate
• PISEP – Practitioner
• MISEP – Full

 Next course dates

ISEP Foundation Certificate in Sustainability & Environmental Management (AISEP) Starts 17 September 2025

NEW COURSE OFFERING!

ISEP Certificate in Sustainability & Environmental Management (PISEP)Starts 3 November 2025

Jarrold Training are excited to announce a brand new course offering:

The ISEP Certificate in Sustainability & Environmental Management (PISEP) – scheduled for November 2025!

ISEP (The Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals) – formerly known as IEMA – is the global membership and training body which sets the benchmark for sustainability and environmental professionals – transforming the world today for a sustainable future.

No matter what sector you work in, this course will equip you with the required detailed knowledge of environmental / sustainability principles, management tools and skills to effectively implement positive change.

As the only ISEP centre in Norfolk to deliver the course in the classroom, we are delighted to have achieved this course accreditation during such a pivotal time, as ISEP empowers their members to become global innovators and leaders.

Our first cohort begins on 3rd November, and places are already filling for this vital qualification, which is delivered over a three week period.

If you wish to book on or require any further information please visit our website: https://www.jarroldtraining.co.uk/course/isep-certificate-in-sustainability-environmental-management-pisep/
call: 01603 677107 or email: [email protected]

We look forward to welcoming you on your journey to becoming an Environmental and Sustainability changemaker

This course is also eligible for ELCAS funding.

Hey everyone, I have recently joined the Norfolk Chamber and wanted to briefly introduce myself. 

I am Zivile, trading as CMZ-HR Independent HR Consultant and Training Provider based in Thetford, Norfolk. 

I offer HR consultancy services as well as training/coaching for SMEs and private clients. 

Please check my website for upcoming training courses near you (e.g. Sexual Harassment Prevention Training) or book your free initial consultation to discuss how I could support you and/or your business.

The Baton of Hope, the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative, is set to arrive in Norwich on Wednesday 17th September, as part of its nationwide tour raising awareness and inspiring action around suicide prevention.In the lead-up to this landmark event, on  World Suicide Prevention Day (Wednesday 10th September),  Baton of Hope Norwich is calling on local businesses and organisations of all sizes to show their support by signing the Baton of Hope UK Workplace Pledge – a vital step in making suicide prevention a priority in every workplace.With over 700,000 lives lost to suicide globally each year and more than 6,000 in the UK, the need for bold, proactive action has never been more urgent. In the UK alone, poor mental health accounts for over 17 million lost working days annually, costing employers approximately £56 billion.In Norfolk alone there are over 90 deaths to suicide each year, each one impacting around 165 individuals, that’s over 15,000 people – families, friends, workplaces and local communities that will be grieving each loss.The Workplace Pledge encourages organisations to:

• Eradicate stigma around mental health in the workplace
• Raise awareness of suicide and prevention measures
• Promote open dialogue and support among staff
• Make suicide prevention a key workplace priority

“We’re calling on businesses of all sizes to stand with us and take the pledge—because the conversation around suicide and mental health can’t wait,” said Anna McNeil,  Project Lead for Baton of Hope Norwich. “This is YOUR chance to make real change: to break the stigma, to listen with compassion, and to build workplaces where people feel safe, seen, and supported.   By committing to this pledge, organisations are investing in a healthier, more inclusive culture—one that values mental wellbeing, reduces absenteeism, and builds stronger, more compassionate teams.”Take the Pledge TodayLocal employers can register their interest and join the movement at:

? https://batonofhopeuk.org/workplace-pledge/register-interest-workplace-pledgeAny local businesses who would like to find out more are invited to email [email protected] for an invite to the Closing Ceremony event taking place in the evening of the 17th SeptemberLet’s stand together, make mental health a workplace priority, and help save lives.

We’re honoured to be named finalists in the Professional Business category at The Small Business Awards.

The voting period is live now until 1 October, and your support could help us go all the way.

Vote here https://thesmallbusinessawards.co.uk/nationalvoting/

Despite the fact that around 10% of the workforce are affected by domestic abuse and the significant cost that it has on businesses, it is not something that is often considered a “workplace issue.”

Very few businesses will have specific policies or procedures around domestic abuse and it’s probably fair to say that knowledge around domestic abuse is also patchy, particularly when it comes to spotting the signs or providing effective support for colleagues.  

Leeway’s goal is to change this, supporting businesses to understand the impact that domestic abuse is having on their organisation, as well as equipping them with the knowledge and tools to support colleagues.

A key part of this is understanding what domestic abuse is and how this may be identifiable in a workplace context.

For instance, you may have noticed that an employee has suddenly started to frequently turn up to work late having previously been reliable and punctual, or maybe they start to take sick leave on a regular basis.

The instinctive first reaction might be anger or frustration, but it is important to fully understand their situation and tackle any conversations in a sensitive way.

Domestic abuse isn’t an issue that people can simply leave at home. They can’t switch it off and not worry about it again until 5pm.

As many as 75% of people are actually targeted at work, reiterating the fact that it is not a solely “home” issue that can be ignored whilst working.

Despite this, people experiencing domestic abuse are more likely to be disciplined or even lose their jobs as a result of higher levels of absence from work, poor time keeping or reduced productivity.

Not only will this have an adverse impact on someone experiencing domestic abuse, but it will also have a financial impact on your business too through recruitment costs and lost output.

Understanding domestic abuse and the impacts it has on those that experience it can go a long way to supporting colleagues affected by it, as well as reducing the costs to your business.

It may be that you make adjustments to someone’s working arrangements, providing them with greater flexibility to attend appointments or to access specialist support.

Employers have a duty of care and are responsible for the physical and emotional health and safety of employees, which should include domestic abuse.

A Bill has been put forward to introduce paid domestic abuse leave in the UK, following the lead of countries like Canada, New Zealand and Ireland.

This is landmark step forward for victims and businesses, providing a legal framework outlining businesses’ obligation to support employees experiencing domestic abuse.

Get Ahead of The Curve

With a Bill supporting paid domestic abuse leave going through parliament, it is clear that businesses have an increasingly important role to play in tackling domestic abuse – and Leeway can help you get ahead of the curve!

We provide Domestic Abuse Awareness Training which aims to equip businesses and organisations with the knowledge and ability to spot the signs of domestic abuse, whilst also being able to signpost employees or clients to access support. 

This provides a great platform for your business to understand domestic abuse, the impacts that it is having on your organisation, and the role that you can play in tackling it.

We also provide bespoke sessions specifically tailored to meet the needs of your business, as well as support around updating or drafting policies around domestic abuse.

Not only does this help you to meet your duty of care to your employees, but it will also help to provide a seamless transition if new legislation around paid domestic abuse leave is introduced.

To find out more about how Leeway can support your business, email [email protected] or visit our website www.leewaysupport.org/training.

We are also running a free Domestic Abuse Training taster session exclusively for Norfolk Chambers of Commerce members! For more information about this or to book your place click here. 

If your website isn’t showing up on Google, it’s not because what you do isn’t valuable. It’s because search engines can’t quite see you yet. That’s where SEO comes in. With the right approach, you can show up where your customers are already looking, so the right people find you at the right time.

Local social enterprise, Rippleacts CIC have launched ‘Neurodiversity at Work’ training, designed to help businesses and nonprofits create more inclusive and supportive working environments for neurodivergent employees.

Supported by funding from the UEA Enterprise Fund, the training has been co-created with and is delivered by people with lived experience of neurodiverse conditions. This has been done to ensure that the content accurately reflects authentic voices, real needs and offers practical solutions.

Founded by Verena Niyadurupola in 2022, Rippleacts supports people who are long term unemployed back into work through coaching, projects that help the local community and peer mentoring.

“We recognised that many of the barriers people were facing weren’t about ability, but about a lack of inclusive support in workplaces,” said founder Verena Niyadurupola. “By working directly with neurodiverse people to co-create this training, we’re giving employers the tools they need to build environments where everyone can thrive.”

The training was officially launched at Norwich City Community Sports Foundation’s staff conference last week and is now available to book online. 

Believing that inclusive employment benefits everyone, Rippleacts is offering a discounted rate for nonprofits and a flat rate for all businesses. As a social enterprise, all of their profits are reinvested back into their services which means that when you pay a fee for training, you know it is going towards supporting people back into work.

If you want to learn more about how you can support your neurodivergent colleagues whilst making a positive impact, book your training here