Member News

Age UK Norwich has been awarded a £3,000 grant from The Clan Trust to support its emergency hardship fund – providing urgent, life-saving support for older people facing financial crisis in the city. From emergency food vouchers to help with heating costs, this funding will allow Age UK Norwich to step in quickly when people over 50 need it most.

This funding will enable Age UK Norwich to continue providing urgent support such as food vouchers, help with energy bills, and essential household items to older people facing acute financial hardship. The grant follows the success of previous Clan Trust support in 2023 and recognises the charity’s proven ability to deliver life-changing interventions for vulnerable individuals.

With rising costs and ongoing delays in statutory support, many older people in Norwich – particularly those in Reducing Inequalities Target Areas (RITA) – are struggling with poverty, isolation, and the challenges of declining health. The Client Support Fund bridges the gap, ensuring that no older person is left waiting weeks for the help they desperately need.

“Time and time again, we see how same-day, tailored support can prevent a crisis from becoming a catastrophe,” said Jamie Price, Head of Service Delivery at Age UK Norwich. “This generous grant from The Clan Trust means we can step in quickly to help older people with the essentials – food, warmth, safety – and support them in rebuilding their confidence and independence.”

The fund’s value is best illustrated through the words of a recent client, who wrote:

“Thank you for your incredible support during what has been the lowest point in my life. I’ve been dealing with memory loss, physical health issues, and mental health struggles, all while grieving the recent loss of both my parents. As if that wasn’t enough, I also suffered a stroke. It’s been overwhelming – but your help made a real difference when I needed it most.”

This client, now recovering from a stroke and living alone, was supported through the hardship fund at a critical time. He has since received assistance applying for Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit and is now being helped to access a discretionary housing payment to avoid further hardship. Without fast, compassionate intervention, he might have fallen through the cracks.

Age UK Norwich’s accredited advisers deliver holistic support in partnership with local health services, outreach teams, and statutory agencies. Monitoring data shows:

• 100% of clients report knowing where to access help after receiving support
• 90% feel better equipped to manage their situation
• 80% report improved financial confidence

Crucially, every penny of this £3,000 Clan Trust grant will be used for direct client support.

While this funding will make a significant difference to the independent charity, demand continues to grow. Age UK Norwich is actively seeking additional support from charitable trusts, the local community, and public sector partners to sustain and expand the Client Support Fund.

A innovative service by Age UK Norwich has helped hundreds of older people access the financial support they’re entitled to, identifying more than £2 million in unclaimed benefits.

Launched in 2024, the two-year service is designed to tackle the widespread issue of older people missing out on financial help, especially Pension Credit, by offering dedicated support to identify and secure these vital entitlements.

Since its launch, the project has:

• Supported 376 older people
• Identified 282 as eligible for additional benefits
• Unlocked £2,027,478.20 in total benefits
• Achieved an average of £5,743.56 per person, per year

Delivered by Age UK Norwich’s experienced advice team, Entitled To More combines traditional benefits advice with innovative outreach strategies. A key element of the service includes developing and testing a “benefits heat map” to target households most at risk of missing out on Pension Credit. Using this data-driven approach alongside trusted local relationships, the team is identifying those most in need, and often the most overlooked.

“Too many older people are going without simply because they don’t know help is there” said Rio Topley, Advice Specialist of Age UK Norwich. “This is about fairness. Everyone deserves to live with dignity in later life, and that means accessing the financial support they’re entitled to. ‘Entitled To More’ is helping us close that gap and make a real difference.”

With the cost of living still high and older people among the hardest hit, this support comes at a crucial time. Norwich is in the bottom 20% nationally for health inequalities, and Age UK Norwich’s outreach work, particularly in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, is making essential connections.

One local resident shared their story “I had no idea I could claim anything – I was just getting by. The support from Age UK Norwich has been a lifeline. I now feel more secure and less anxious about the future.”

The service is part of a wider mission to ensure no older person in Norwich is left behind. From sheltered housing visits to Cuppa Care outreach and advice hubs in community centres, the charity is reaching people wherever they are. Many of those helped are referred by trusted partners, including Norfolk County Council, NHS services, and housing support teams.

Alongside benefits advice, Age UK Norwich also offers emergency assistance through its client hardship fund, providing essentials like food, heating, or white goods to bridge the gap while longer-term support is put in place.

We’ve now entered the second year of the Entitled To More service, and our commitment remains as strong as ever. We will continue to reach those in need, uncover hidden entitlements, and change lives across Norwich. As the service grows, so too does our determination to make sure every older person gets the financial support they deserve.

“Being new to the world of Entitled to More service, it’s been great to see the team’s focus, care, and commitment to supporting those most at risk. Their impact is clear, and I’m looking forward to working alongside them as we build on that progress.” – Charlotte Govier, Age UK Norwich Service Delivery Lead.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a free benefits check, don’t delay:

• Call Age UK Norwich on 01603 496333
• Email [email protected]
• Visit www.ageuknorwich.org.uk

At Warren, it’s great to be part of projects that contribute meaningfully to the communities around us. We are delighted to have played a key role in the creation of Thetford’s striking new train-themed planter – an installation that celebrates 200 years of railway heritage.

Commissioned by Thetford Town Council, the train planter is a centrepiece of the town’s entry into Anglia in Bloom 2025. Located outside Thetford’s Carnegie building and complementing the newly created Boudicca Pocket Park, this imaginative installation has been designed to brighten the town centre and provide a lasting feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The concept originated with Thetford Town Council, who envisioned a standout tribute to the region’s railway history as part of this year’s Anglia in Bloom campaign. The Council approached Warren to transform this idea into reality – and we were delighted to help.

Working from designs developed in partnership with talented students from Thetford Academy’s Gardening Club and refined by local designer David Bradley using detailed CAD drawings, our team fabricated and manufactured the planter here at Warren.

Once fabrication was complete, local volunteer El’s Painting & Decorating joined forces with Town Council members to hand-paint the planter. The project came full circle when the students from the Gardening Club returned to work alongside the Town Team to plant a colourful display, supported by flowers purchased through the Thetford in Bloom fund.

Councillor Leuan Evans, Chair of Thetford Town Council’s Community and Environmental Services Committee, captured the spirit of the project perfectly:

“By partnering with local manufacturers, school children, and volunteers from the community, we have created something that not only brightens our town but also reflects the pride we share in our community. As part of our entry for Anglia in Bloom 2025, this project showcases our collective commitment to supporting the town, highlighting local talent, and highlighting the civic pride that exists within the Town. We are aiming for nothing less than gold at this year’s awards. Everyone involved in the project has worked hard together to make this happen, and the result is a testament to this.”

We look forward to seeing the train planter become a much-loved fixture in Thetford for many years to come.

In a city renowned for its community spirit, resilience, and innovation, Age UK Norwich is inviting residents to both look back and step forward with “80 Years in the Making”. A landmark exhibition and events programme celebrating eight decades of supporting older people in Norwich. 

At a time when the UK is grappling with urgent challenges around social care, loneliness, and the cost-of-living crisis, Norwich offers something rare: a thriving local model that truly works. Hosted in central Norwich, the exhibition shines a spotlight on the people, services, and stories that have quietly shaped one of the UK’s most age-friendly communities, and how that enduring legacy continues to evolve today. 

A Community Journey with Purpose 

This exhibition is not just a nostalgic glance at the past. It is a powerful call to action. 

From archive photos and wartime news clippings to cutting-edge mobility technology and digital safety workshops, 80 Years in the Making captures both the rich history and the promising future of ageing in Norwich. 

Visitors can immerse themselves in the Befriending Corner, where real stories of connection and companionship are shared. They can leave their names on the interactive Family Tree, helping to build a living record of the city’s network of support. Visitors are also encouraged to reflect on what it truly means to live in an age-friendly city. 

The exhibition features a timeline of transformation shaped by volunteers, community leaders, carers, and neighbours who have all contributed to Norwich’s pioneering approach. Practical talks are on offer throughout the programme, covering essential topics such as care planning, online fraud protection, walking and mobility, and legal advice for later life. 

Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK, will headline the Monday speaker series with a compelling session entitled “How to Change How We Age.” Other notable speakers include former Norwich Lord Mayor Brenda Horner, representatives from Konectbus discussing transport access, and Dr. Diana Hodgins MBE of GaitSmart, who will explore the latest advances in mobility technology and ageing. 

Legacy Built by Local People 

The programme highlights Age UK Norwich’s unique model of ageing well, deeply rooted in grassroots services such as lunch clubs, health coaching, and long-established befriending schemes. From Age UK Norwich’s post-war beginnings to today’s digital frontiers, the exhibition captures the evolving face of ageing across generations. 

Artistic Director Callan Durrant of Reflex Theatre brings excerpts of Call Me John to life, a moving intergenerational story about legacy, memory, and the profound importance of being heard. 

Take Part, Get Involved, Make a Difference 

Whether you’re an older resident, a family member, a professional, or simply a member of the Norwich community, 80 Years in the Making is an open invitation to reflect, connect, and take action. 

Find out more about the exhibition

Get the date in your diary to attend this free event, bringing generations together across the city.

Find out more Book onto one of our talks

Completely free for over 50s and £3 to everyone else, these talks have something for everyone! From transport and health to insightful national CEOs and theatre! Book your place to avoid disappointment

Book now Donate today

Help us continue our 80 years of support and heritage by donating today, there are lots of ways you can support us, from direct donations, to monthly support and legacy gifting!

Donate today

New Member Spotlight: Meet Budease!

Hi everyone! I’m Charles, founder of Budease, and I’m excited to join the Norfolk Chambers community!

Budease exists to help small businesses simplify what’s slowing them down, build what’s missing, and scale what’s working. I work directly with founders and business owners to take the pressure off day-to-day operations, get clear on growth strategy and put better systems in place so you can run a business that’s actually built to grow.

Whether it’s clarifying your offer, streamlining how things run behind the scenes, or finally sorting that CRM that’s been on your to-do list for months, I roll up my sleeves and get stuck in. No fluff. No jargon. Just practical, business-first support designed to get results.

I’ve recently moved to Norwich and joined the Chambers to connect with like-minded businesses, support others where I can and build something meaningful locally. If you’re ever feeling stuck in the weeds of your business or want a fresh perspective on how to grow, I’d love to chat, even just over a coffee.

You can learn more at budease.co.uk or drop me a message directly on 07795184328. Always happy to hear from fellow members.

Looking forward to meeting many of you soon!

The team from Gascoynes were delighted to be able to volunteer for Wymondham in Bloom.  Unfortunately the weather didn’t go in our favour, nevertheless we were able to help with cleaning the bins and with the litter picking.  It’s a privilege to be able to give something back to the community and we’d like to thank Kim and her team for making us so welcome.  We hope our small contribution helps the town to achieve an award in 2025!

Norwich Samaritans, the official organisers of the Baton of Hope Tour’s Norwich leg, are proud to announce a unique sponsorship opportunity to take a leading role in the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative. The organisation is currently seeking a Closing Ceremony Sponsor to join forces in delivering a powerful message of hope, awareness, and change.On 17 September 2025, the Baton of Hope arrives in Norwich as part of its national tour — a landmark initiative born from personal tragedy and driven by the shared mission to prevent suicide and support those affected by it. As the Baton travels across the UK, it unites communities to raise awareness, inspire conversation, and ignite action.The Norwich event culminates in a high-profile Closing Ceremony, held in partnership with Norwich City Football Club (NCFC). Organisers are offering a premium sponsorship package for one organisation to stand at the forefront of this critical cause alongside NCFC.Benefits for the Closing Ceremony Sponsor include:

• Co-branding with Norwich City Football Club as headline sponsor of the Closing Ceremony
• Tailored in-house suicide prevention workshop for your team
• Prominent logo placement on website, official merchandise, and event materials
• Extensive social media promotion, including 5+ shoutouts and a dedicated feature/interview
• Inclusion in press releases and potential media coverage
• 5-minute speaking opportunity at the ceremony
• 4 complimentary tickets to the Closing Ceremony
• Digital sponsor badge for your company’s website
• Opportunity to include promotional items in Baton Bearer and Volunteer goodie bags (100+)

“This isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a statement,” said Anna McNeil, Baton of Hope Norwich Project Lead from Norwich Samaritans. “By aligning with the Baton of Hope, your organisation has the opportunity to demonstrate true leadership in mental health advocacy and help us save lives.”Get InvolvedTo express your interest in becoming the Closing Ceremony Sponsor, contact [email protected] There are also additional sponsorship packages available — Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Community tiers. For full details, visit:

? www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk/sponsorship or donate at https://gofund.me/42d87575

Support Hope. Raise Voices. Save Lives.#PASSITON

Any queries please call Anna McNeil at [email protected] or call 01603 558 298

Further details visit the Baton of Hope Norwich website https://www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk/ & follow Baton of Hope Norwich on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events taking place on the day

Monday 21st August 2025: Norwich-based Cyber Security Consultancy, CyberScale, has launched its Executive Cyber Coaching service to help strengthen business leaders knowledge, capabilities and decision making for individuals who may have a limited or rudimentary understanding of cyber risk and security principles but are increasingly expected to make decisions and demonstrate leadership on cyber issues.

As cyber threats continue to rise in frequency and sophistication, the pressure on business leaders to make informed security decisions has never been greater. Yet many executives — from CEOs and managing directors to CFOs and HR leaders — feel unprepared or overwhelmed by technical jargon and vendor complexity.

According to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, many businesses rely on external cyber security consultants, IT consultants or cyber security providers for information and guidance on matters relating to cyber security. This was most common in small (37%) and medium (43%) organisations which reflects the need for cyber security expertise but without the internal experts to provide the guidance.

Cyberscale’s Executive Cybersecurity Coaching provides a bespoke, one-on-one program that translates complex cybersecurity concepts into clear, business-focused insights. Delivered through weekly coaching sessions, the programme covers key areas such as cyber risk, cloud security, regulatory obligations (including GDPR and NIS2), working with IT providers, and building a security-conscious culture. It also addresses the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the threat landscape — a concern now facing many UK organisations.

Darren Chapman, Founder and Chairman at CyberScale said:

It’s become increasingly apparent to us that the ultimate business responsibility for cyber risk is often assigned to business leaders with little knowledge or background in this important subject.

Leaders need just enough knowledge to be able to understand how attacks might threaten their business, where to look for help and to be able to prioritise investment optimally. They also need to understand the threats, as well as the opportunities of new technologies and take advantage of these whilst managing risk.

This unique programme aims to provide that assurance that responsible business leaders need.

If you would like to learn more about Executive Cyber Coaching, you can do so here: https://www.cyberscale.co.uk/executive-coaching/

It isn’t widely known, but a big part of the Government funding for apprenticeships must be allocated to soft skills training to develop a more productive and resilient workforce. This is because Government and employers alike are realising just how much of an effect poor soft skills are having on workplace productivity and employee wellbeing.

There’s no shame in needing to learn more soft skills, yet society has almost made it so.  This means that people shy away from soft skills training, almost seeing it as an insult, that they don’t need it, or that they will lose face if they admit to needing to learn more.  It is particularly difficult if in leadership or management to accept soft skills training offered to you.  However, it’s the sign of a mature and emotionally intelligent leader who sets that example and visibly embraces their own personal learning alongside their team.

Looking at what is currently happening in our workplaces and society… mental health challenges have increased, resilience has dropped and understanding of relationship building is at an all time low.  Soft skills learning is at the core.  Training on them isn’t just an ideal, there is no question that people, particularly young people, but all people, including ourselves, need that ongoing holistic support and we are pleased that it is a big part of the Government agenda.  Without it, more people will struggle to get into work, stay in work, or build meaningful and functioning relationships whilst they are there and workplace productivity and employee wellbeing will continue to fall.  Without exception, we can all get better at soft skills!

We were very interested to see the announcement on the 17^th July that the voting age in the UK is going to be lowered to 16.  There will certainly be a mixed reception to this up and down the country but, is it about age, or is it about being well informed, well-rounded and community minded which all of us can be if we proactively keep learning. We know that our soft skills training, along with that of all Government funded training providers, is contributing to shaping team spirited, empathetic working individuals with a holistic care for society.  Yes, we really do go that far with our soft skills training!

Soft skills learning at Swarm Training covers:

–       – Safeguarding for individuals and looking out for each other
– Presentation skills
– Study skills and taking responsibility and accountability for our own personal development
– British values of democracy, rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance
– Communication skills and relationship building
– Workplace professionalism
– Online safety and being vigilant to research what is actually true
– Conflict and resilience management
– Interview skills and personal branding
– Healthy lifestyles
– Time management

Soft skills are often undervalued in comparison to the hard skills of role specific needs.  In leadership and management, of course, soft skills are very definitely a role specific need!  But at all levels, without them, you risk a significant negative impact on workplace harmony and productivity.

What specifically do they achieve…

1. Improved Communication
– reduces misunderstandings, rework, and delays. Teams with strong communication skills collaborate more effectively, speeding up decision-making and delivery.

2. Better Teamwork and Collaboration
– employees who work well with others can share responsibilities and support one another, leading to faster and higher-quality outcomes. It fosters a positive team culture, boosts morale, retention and avoids destructive siloes. The soft skills of leaders is crucial in driving this!

3. Higher Adaptability and Problem-Solving
– employees with adaptability and problem-solving skills can adjust quickly to change which is a natural part of any business environment, keeping productivity high even under pressure.

4. Stronger Leadership and Initiative
– managers with emotional intelligence and leadership skills motivate teams more effectively making sure that everyone belongs and has a part to play in the team.  This in turn nurtures strong and stable relationships and culture.  Not only that but when people feel part of the team, employees with soft skills take initiative knowing the part they play, reducing the need for micromanagement. A team leader also then prevents burnout by recognising stress in team members and redistributing workload early

5. Better Customer and Client Relationships
– employees with empathy, listening skills, and professionalism build trust with customers—leading to smoother interactions and repeat business

6. Reduced Conflict and Disruption
– soft skills help prevent and manage conflict, maintaining workflow harmony and focus. Fewer interpersonal issues means less time spent on resolution and more time on value-adding work.

The Bottom Line for a Business

Soft skills learning enhances productivity!  It retains staff and in turn reduces costs.  They make teams more cohesive, efficient, and resilient so that everyone works smarter, enjoys developing the business together, meaning it will be way more successful.

At Swarm Training, we offer this training as a standard part of all our apprenticeship courses but actually, we also offer it standalone for workplace teams and individuals.  If you would like to know more, just drop us a line:  [email protected]

E G Grounds Care Ltd is pleased to announce our appointment by Dencora and SJK Properties Ltd as the commercial grounds maintenance provider at Broadland Business Park in Norwich.

This appointment builds on a long-standing relationship — Matthew and our team has worked closely with the directors of Dencora and SJK Properties Ltd for over 17 years. We are proud to continue supporting them in delivering high-quality landscaping and grounds maintenance services that reflect the professionalism and appeal of their sites.

Broadland Business Park is one of Norwich’s premier business locations, offering a superb environment for occupiers and visitors with its beautifully landscaped grounds, scenic lake, walking and cycle routes. It hosts the Waterside Café, and a mix of prominent businesses who all benefit from the beautiful landscaped setting.

We look forward to continuing our work in ensuring the park remains a safe, attractive, and welcoming space for everyone who visits.

? Find out more about our commercial grounds maintenance services at www.eg-groundscare.co.uk

The Maids Head Hotel is incredibly proud to earn the prestigious ECOsmart Silver award. This accreditation is from Greengage.  Greengage are widely recognised as the UK’s leading sustainability certification for hotels and venues.

Read the more here

GoGoSafari has officially burst into life across Norwich and Norfolk with the installation of 51 magnificent animal sculptures – including rhinos, lions, giraffes, gorillas, and elephants, thanks to a team of volunteers, Longwater Construction and Rush Removals, over the weekend.

For ten weeks, the new trail will be inviting families, residents, and visitors alike to enjoy a fun safari adventure across the city and county.

The sculptures, designed by professional and amateur artists and sponsored by local businesses, will be located around the city centre, transforming everyday public spaces – including Millennium Plain, Norwich Cathedral, Tombland, London Street to name a few – into a vibrant, wild safari gallery in the heart of the city. Plus, the five ‘County 5’ sculptures invite people to explore the beauty of dot North Norfolk locations like Holkham Hall and Hunstanton.

And trotting alongside are over 60 smaller giraffes called “Mini Gs” created by schools and community groups hidden inside venues across the city.

For those who want to explore the trail, there’s Safari HQ in The Forum. Open daily from 10am–4pm, it’s the perfect starting point for every trailgoer, offering trail maps alongside a fantastic range of exclusive GoGoSafari merchandise, including activity books, pin badges, tote bags and water bottles. Visitors can also enjoy pop-up events and family activities, making it a one-stop shop for all the GoGoSafari fun.

“We’re so excited to be delivering another GoGo trail to Norwich and Norfolk, and to be bringing this wonderful herd of animals with us,” comments Senior Partnership and Project Manager Peter Marron. “The trail really wouldn’t be possible without the big hearts of the local business community, and together we’ve been able to create something that will give people something new to discover! We hope that by delivering a fun, family day out across the city that the trail will be enjoyed by explorers of all ages; while at the same time raising much-needed funds for Break.”