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Introducing the new Break look!

For over 50 years, Break has been rethinking what meaningful support for young people growing up in care looks like and as we continue to evolve, we’re excited to launch a bold refresh of our organisational values, a new tagline, and an enhanced brand identity that better reflects the expertise and care that consistently drives us forward. 

The change has come after nearly a year of listening, learning and co-creating with contributions from across the organisation and working with Creativity Unbound – a Norwich-based creative marketing agency specialising in charities. From a workshop representing all corners of Break, to trustees, care-experienced young people, and staff feedback forums, this has been an inclusive and thoughtful process, and our thanks go to everyone who’s helped shape our new look!  

Our new branding, which includes a more modern font, a lively colour palette, and a contemporary feel, maintains the existing Break logo while introducing a new, refreshing look. The new tagline, “Caring Differently,” shows how Break stands apart in its approach to care, support, ambition and opportunities for our young people.  

We know that change happens through connection, trust, and consistency. That’s why our new values focus on exactly that: building meaningful relationships, showing up with compassion, staying curious and open-minded, and challenging systems that don’t serve young people as they should. 

Our new values are:  

We are all about relationships: Our relationships are our biggest strength and source of inspiration. We connect with our young people, and we connect others to them. We are the community we build around us. 

We are here when it matters most: We are a reliable source of compassion, stability and security for the young people we walk alongside. 

We are curious about the world around us: We are curious about new ways of thinking, working and doing. Ideas can come from anywhere, so we listen, really listen, to what’s being said. Then, we do what’s needed. 

We challenge to encourage change: We advocate for our young people and campaign alongside them. Even though we are working within an unequal system, it doesn’t mean we can’t influence it for the better. When things are wrong, we try our best to make them right. 

“This has been a year of reflection, collaboration, and learning,” explains Chief Executive Rachel Cowdry. “Our refreshed branding is much more than a new look. We wanted to look at how we can communicate who we are and what we believe in more clearly, and the new branding not only captures who we are at our core, but also where we’re going. Break has always been about showing up, consistently and compassionately, for young people when it matters most – and our new tagline ‘Caring Differently’, perfectly highlights not just what we do, but how we do it, in a way that’s real, uplifting, and grounded in genuine care.”

Over the coming months, we’ll be updating everything with the new branding, and we’re excited to share this new chapter with you. It’s not just about a new logo or tagline – it’s about putting our values front and centre and continuing to build a future where every young person feels supported, seen, and valued.  

We can’t wait for you to see how this new identity comes to life!  as the

audioXi Launches in Norwich: Helping Local Brands Speak Directly to Customers

Bauer Media’s audioXi arrives in Norwich, giving East Anglian businesses new ways to advertise with precision. With the region’s mix of agriculture, tourism, and growing tech sectors, audioXi’s data-driven approach allows advertisers to target commuters, shoppers, and leisure travellers alike.

With over 14.5 million monthly listeners, local brands can connect with audiences across smart speakers, mobiles, and in-car audio, making campaigns highly relevant and measurable.

“audioXi is about putting local advertisers in control, with targeting that reflects real behaviours in Norwich and Norfolk,” says Nathalie Marshall Account Manager at Bauer Media. “audioXi provides local brands with the power to connect with customers whether they’re on their commute, at home, or listening via smart speaker.”

audioXi also offers advanced measurement and retargeting, ensuring advertisers see real ROI. Local marketers can now access dynamic creative, interactive formats, and contextually relevant audio campaigns, all supported by Bauer’s trusted environment.

Businesses in Norwich & Norfolk can find out more and get started at https://hitsradioadvertising.co.uk/audioxi/

Alan Boswell Group wins Insurance Broker of the Year award at British Insurance Awards 2025

Alan Boswell Group has been named Insurance Broker of the Year at the prestigious British Insurance Awards 2025, held on the 9th of July at the Royal Albert Hall. 

The award recognises outstanding customer service, client retention, and excellence across the UK insurance industry. Alan Boswell Group stood out against the other finalists for its customer-first approach, continued investment in its people and communities, and commitment to providing friendly, expert advice.  

Speaking about the award, Alan Boswell, Executive Chairman, said, We’re proud to be recognised as Insurance Broker of the Year. This award is a testament to the hard work and professionalism of everyone across our Group and reflects our continued commitment to putting clients at the centre of everything we do.” 

Founded over 40 years ago, Alan Boswell Group is one of the UK’s largest independent insurance brokers, offering expert advice and tailored insurance, risk management, and financial solutions to individuals and businesses. The award follows the Group’s continued growth and success, with the recent acquisition of three brokers further bolstering their presence across East Anglia. 

Alan Boswell Group have built their success on consistency, expertise, and sustainable growth. Founded over 40 years ago, Alan Boswell Group is one of the UK’s largest independent insurance brokers, offering expert advice and tailored insurance, risk management, and financial solutions to individuals and businesses. 

Highlights from the past year include: 

  • Growth in team size and their apprenticeship scheme continues to nurture new talent into the industry. 

  • An increase in their Feefo customer service score from 4.8 to 4.9. 

  • Sector-specific awards success, including a Which? Best Buy. 

  • Improving client journeys through digital solutions, while prioritising human-first interaction. 

  • Recognition for industry expertise, with research featured by major outlets including the BBC and The Times. 

  • Strategic acquisitions of Priory Insurance, The Insurance Centre, and AT&A Insurance Brokers. 

  • Ongoing investment in the wider community, through sponsorship of local sports teams and donations via The Alan Boswell Group Charitable Trust, which reached a milestone £3m in donations since 2019. 

The first 2025 MRS Advanced Certificate has just completed!

14 of our students went through to the final exams and assessment period.  They worked very hard as they revised and prepared their written reports.  It is always stressful for them during these closing stages but we’re so proud of how they pulled all the stops out to do their best and to complete on time.

We have a bit of a wait now as the Market Research Society (MRS) arranges the marking and grading of their papers and project reports. With so many people up and down the country doing this prestigious certificate, it takes around 2 months to complete this phase and get results back to them so they should hear in September.

The MRS Advanced Certificate is completed by Marketing professionals and Market Research professionals alike.  Data is one of the most sought after commodities in the world now as it is so powerful in understanding what to do to progress your organisation, project and campaign success.  It’s what sets the pros aside.

Research and data is a game changer but if you’re not sure how you’re most likely being left behind. Please do get in touch for an informal chat to get a feel for the most up to date data driven business landscape.  Whether it’s for your business success as an owner, your department progression as a manager, or for your personal career success as an individual looking for work or looking for promotion, the MRS Advanced Certificate changes things!

Our latest learners have a fantastic career lined up ahead of them.  Their employers have really encouraged them to work at this and achieve so they can progress to the higher ranks of the business.  That’s how employers view it.

The next course starts next week.  If you’re in Marketing or Market Research, we highly recommend it, even just to consider it and have a conversation with us as to what’s involved.  There is still time to find out and to enrol if you would like to.

For more information, call Sally Harris on 07434 947944, or email on [email protected]

MRS Advanced Certificate — Swarm Bluewater

This week at Shield Health & Safety ?

It’s been another fast-paced and rewarding week – here’s what we’ve been up to:

? We were delighted to welcome Katie Norwood from the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce to our Norwich office – great to connect and share what Shield is all about. Thanks for visiting, Katie!

? Craig has been out on-site with customers delivering IOSH Managing Safely training, as well as offering tailored health & safety consultancy and advice.

? A big shoutout to our newest team member, Kian, who has just completed his first full week delivering novice forklift training – off to a flying start!

? Our instructors have been delivering training across East Anglia – from forklifts to first aid and everything in between. Did you spot a Shield Health & Safety van on the road this week?

? We’ve welcomed 2 new customers, had plenty of bookings, and we’ve just launched new IOSH Open Course dates, along with Open Emergency First Aid at Work sessions – ideal for individuals or smaller teams.

Lots happening – and we’re loving every minute of it!

‘Ripple effects in bloom: local social enterprise, Rippleacts creates community garden for St Augustines Church in Norwich’

A once-plain patch of grass at St Augustine’s Church in Norwich has been transformed into a vibrant community garden, thanks to the efforts of local social enterprise Rippleacts and its dedicated participants.


Over the past eight weeks, the participants have worked alongside their project leader, Paula Coombe, to transform and renew the plain patch of grass into a vibrant and inspiring space. 


The project, which has been called ‘the highlight of the summer’ by St Augustine’s Church, has created a vibrant and beautiful space for the whole community to enjoy.


The garden now includes a variety of flowers, including those kindly donated by Notcutts Garden Centre in Norwich, and wildlife friendly features such as bee boxes and a ‘dead hedge’ to provide nesting and foraging space for birds. In addition, the team has also added a herb and vegetable garden and a new contemplative meditation space, called the ‘Circle of Inspiration’ for everyone in the local area to enjoy. 


Judy from St Augustine’s Church said ‘The Rippleacts volunteers have done an amazing transformation of our bedraggled church garden. They were lovely people & we thoroughly enjoyed having them there. What they have done will be enjoyed by church members & the local community, particularly as they don’t have gardens of their own.’


Founded in 2022 by Dr Verena Niyadurupola, Rippleacts supports those who are long term unemployed through a combination of cognitive behavioural coaching and projects which benefit the local community. The projects, which are practical in nature, create a ‘ripple effect’, inspiring positive change, resilience and confidence in the participants whilst also creating a positive impact to the local community. One of the participants who took part in the project said: “We share this space with them and it is lovely to feel a sense of ownership of this project, after completing it.” 


The completion of the project comes at the same time that Rippleacts celebrates the publication of its first ever impact report. Thanks to its unique and holistic approach, the social enterprise has helped 74% of its participants back into volunteering, education or employment, and helped 93% of their participants make a positive change in their own lives. 


Rippleacts’ innovative coaching programme is also available to local businesses and nonprofits, offering a tailored approach to upskilling and team development or to support their own service users.

For more information on Rippleacts and for their latest impact report, go to their website.

Proeon Move into to New Premises

Proeon Systems, a leading systems integrator provider within the global energy sector, are proud to announce that as a result of our growing operations and expansion, we are relocating to a new, larger premises within the Norwich area.  This strategic move underscores the company’s sustained growth and commitment to better serving its clients and employees.

Our new premises, are located at:

35A Barnard Road, Bowthorpe, Norwich, Norfolk, NR5 9JB

This provides us with an expanded space and state-of-the-art facilities, doubling the footprint of our current operating base.  Providing us with larger manufacturing / engineering  / office space and improved infrastructure to support the company’s increasing workforce and business operations, the building is situated 3 miles to the East of Norwich City Centre, providing easy access to the A47 and the A11, as well as local infrastructure and services.

 

Proeon has experienced unparalleled growth in recent years, solidifying its position as a key player in the Control and Automations systems sector.  As a result of winning several multi-million-pound projects with clients across Europe in renewable energy, in particular the offshore wind sector and experiencing a strong market demand for its services providing bespoke control solutions for highly regulated and demanding applications across the globe, including oil & gas, nuclear, utility/national infrastructure and defence, this has led to our need to secure a larger purpose-built facility. 

The relocation reflects Proeon’s dedication to innovation, excellence, efficiency, and a dynamic work environment for its people, Proeon’s Managing Director – Richard Miller commented:  “In response to our rapid growth and increasing client demand, moving to a larger facility was a natural next step.  This transition marks an exciting milestone in our journey and positions us for further expansion and success.” 

Our new headquarters provides us with enhanced resources to support the company’s mission and long-term vision.  The company is excited about this new chapter and looks forward to welcoming employees, partners and clients to the new location. 

Succession Planning: Not Just for Big Companies

Why Succession Planning Matters Now

Many business owners delay succession planning because it feels too early or too complex. But waiting until you must make a decision can limit your options and increase the risk of disruption.

·        A well-thought-out succession strategy can help you:

·        Maintain continuity in case of unexpected events

·        Prepare internal successors or new leadership

·        Increase your business’s value in a future sale

·        Reduce tax liabilities through proper planning

·        Exit on your own terms financially and emotionally

What Should Be in Your Succession Toolkit?

Succession planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your goals, it could involve:

·        Handing the business to a family member or long-time employee

·        Selling to a third party or via a management buyout

·        Phasing into semi-retirement with trusted leadership in place

·        Closing the business and extracting value efficiently

For business owners looking to close a solvent company, one powerful option is a Members’ Voluntary Liquidation (MVL).

What Is an MVL – and When Is It Useful?

A Members’ Voluntary Liquidation is a formal process used to close a solvent company and distribute its assets to shareholders in a tax-efficient way.

It’s especially useful if:

·        You’re retiring and no longer need the company

·        You’re selling the business assets and winding up the limited company

·        You have significant retained profits you want to extract efficiently

An MVL isn’t just for big companies with big exits – it can be a smart, cost-effective strategy for everyday business owners who’ve built up value over time.

Looking Ahead

If you’d like a confidential conversation about your next steps, we’re here to help!

 

You can contact our friendly and experienced team on 01603 552028 or email us at [email protected].

Lucas & Wyllys Highly Commended for Business Growth at National Awards

We are thrilled to announce that Lucas & Wyllys was Highly Commended for Business Growth at the Modern Law Private Client Awards 2025!

This national recognition is a testament to the incredible year we have had as a team. From a significant 30.36% increase in private client fees to the expansion of our department and the addition of a new legal service – Court of Protection work – we have grown in every sense of the word.

Over the last 12 months, our Private Client team has:

  • Welcomed a trainee solicitor to help grow and shape the future of the department

  • Promoted a valued team member from assistant to paralegal, recognising their hard work and progression

  • Achieved an impressive 811 client reviews with an average rating of 4.81/5.

  • Continued to invest in innovation, from our client app and digital onboarding to online will and LPA services

  • Supported the community with regular legal clinics and partnerships with local organisations

Being Highly Commended for Business Growth reflects the passion, dedication, and forward-thinking mindset of our team. It is also a powerful reminder that our client-focused approach and investment in people and technology are driving real results.

We were delighted to be represented at the ceremony by Charlotte and Millicent, who attended the awards evening on behalf of the team. Their presence marked not only the achievements of our department, but also the energy and professionalism that define our future. It was a wonderful evening celebrating innovation and excellence in private client law, and we’re incredibly proud to be among such outstanding firms.

A huge thank you to our clients for your continued trust and positive feedback – we would not be here without you.

Here’s to another year of growth and excellence!

Let’s Talk Later Life: Unmissable Talks Covering Health, Community and More

Age UK Norwich is proud to announce a rich and varied programme of live, in-person talks as part of its 80th birthday exhibition, 80 Years in the Making, taking place at The Forum, Norwich, from 4 to 7 August 2025. 

 
Spanning three days, the talks bring together leading voices in Later Life, health, wellbeing, finance, community development, technology and the arts. Designed to inform, inspire and empower, these sessions offer practical advice, scientific insight, and personal stories of later life in the 21st century. 

Event organiser, Megan Durrant of Age UK Norwich said: Later life is as diverse as any other stage of life, these talks reflect just how much there is to learn, share and celebrate. We want people to feel informed, empowered and included.” 

Subjects range from digital inclusion and personal safety, to innovations in mobility and care, to legal planning and theatre. Attendees will hear from experts including the CEO of Age UK Paul Farmer, Dr Diana Hodgins MBE of GaitSmart, researchers, theatre companies, financial professionals, and former community leaders, offering an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with those shaping the experience of ageing in the UK today. 

Talks are priced at £3 per person with anyone over 50 being able to attend for free, marking a commitment to accessibility.  

Places are limited. Book now to avoid disappointment. All talks take place in person at The Forum Norwich:  

Monday 4 August 2025 

Age UK Norwich from 1990 – 2005  
Brenda Horner (Former CEO, Age UK Norwich) 
1:00 – 1:30pm 
Book now 

How to Change How we Age  
Paul Farmer (CEO, Age UK) 
1:45 – 2:30pm 
Book now 

The Science Behind Walking 
Dr Diana Hodgins MBE (GaitSmart) 
2:45 – 3:30pm 
Book now 

Age Without Limits and the Role of Age-friendly Communities 
Pippa Mannerings (Centre for Ageing Better) 
3:45 – 4:30pm 
Book now 

Tuesday 5 August 2025 

Care Conversations 
Home Instead Norwich 
10:00 – 10:40am 
Book now 

A Story of Community: The Residents of the Dragon Hall Block 
Richard Matthew (Dragon Hall Society) 
11:00 – 11:40am 
Book now 

Keeping Safe Online and Tackling Digital Exclusion – Free for all!  
James Chung (Barclays Digital Eagles) 
1:00 – 1:40pm 
Book now 

Wills, Trusts and Probate – Q+A 
Hatch Brenner 
3:00 – 3:40pm 
Book now 

Wednesday 6 August 2025 

We’ll be right back after these messages 
John Gordon-Saker (History of Advertising Trust) 
10:00 – 10:40am 
Book now 

How Walking Improves Our Health and Mobility 
Dr Diana Hodgins MBE (GaitSmart) 
1:00 – 1:40pm 
Book now 

Exerts From Call me John 
Reflex Theatre 
2:00 – 3:00pm 
Book now 

Keeping Safe Online and Tackling Digital Exclusion – Free for all!  
James Chung (Barclays Digital Eagles) 
3:00 – 3:40pm 
Book now 

Alan Boswell Group Charitable Trust reaches £3 million in donations since 2019

The Alan Boswell Group Charitable Trust (ABGCT) is proud to announce the achievement of a major milestone: over £3 million donated to charitable causes since its inception in 2019. 

Alan Boswell Group has always looked to support as many good causes as possible. For over 30 years they had maintained a ‘Charity of the Year’ before setting up the Trust in 2019, with the aim of distributing a percentage of company profits to local charitable causes. 

The Trust supports causes in the communities in which the company operates across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, and Lincolnshire. Over the past six years, it has supported more than 450 charities and community organisations, funding projects that support the arts, community sports and leisure, nature conservation, health and medical care, animal welfare, and vulnerable communities. 

Employees are encouraged to actively participate in the charitable initiatives. Staff members can recommend charities that would benefit from funding, organise individual fundraising events that are match-funded, and get involved directly by becoming part of the Trust committee. 

“Reaching £3 million in donations is a testament to the generosity of our people and the strength of our partnerships with local charities,” said Alan Boswell, Executive Chairman of Alan Boswell Group.It’s important to invest in our communities, and we’re pleased that the Trust has been able to make a positive impact.” 

“We’re forever grateful for the support of the Alan Boswell Group Charitable Trust.” said a representative from Mind Over Cancer. “As a small charity trying to fill a much-needed area of support, we rely heavily on the support of organisations like Alan Boswell Group.”