Pictured: Rob Bush, General Manager of the East of England Energy Group Photo credit: East of England Energy Group / CHPV

Pictured: Sophie Skipp, joining the East of England Energy Group as Head of Energy Skills in December 2022 Photo credit: Sophie Skipp

“Providing a single, unified voice to drive forward the East of England” – EEEGR announce strategic appointments ahead of “promising” 2023

East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) announces strategic appointments of people & skills expert Sophie Skipp and business relationship professional Karim Massaad. A new era is on the horizon for the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR). Following the success of Wind Week 2022 East of England, EEEGR announce the strategic appointments of Karim Massaad as Business Relationship Manager and Sophie Skipp as Head of Energy Skills. Sophie, who joins the organisation from the University Technical College Norfolk (UTCN), will be vital in uniting the skills agenda in the East of England to ensure industry is speaking in a common language around energy skills. With the Offshore Wind Industry Council predicting the need for nearly 100,000 jobs nationally by 2030, the eastern region will deliver a significant portion of anticipated offshore wind farms. Sophie’s transition from UTCN to EEEGR will be a seamless one, using her pre-existing network to link industry and education in a much more streamlined way. Ahead of her official appointment as Head of Energy Skills in December, Sophie Skipp said: “I’m thrilled to be joining the team at EEEGR to champion not only their important Skills for Energy programme but support our members in addressing the skills gap as we hurtle towards net zero.” “I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and connecting with our members to understand their priorities when it comes to skills, alongside increasing EEEGR’s impact on students and reaching more educators,” she concluded. Karim Massaad, who has extensive experience in project management and business development, is already making waves as the organisation’s Business Relationship Manager: “Since joining EEEGR in October, I have been fortunate to connect with so many of our members and learn about the great things they are doing, whether it’s the important wellbeing services offered by members like KW Life Solutions or the innovative solutions being offered by companies such as PPI Quality & Engineering.” “I joined the company just in time for Wind Week 2022 East of England, which was a fantastic introduction to the lively, vibrant energy community we have here in the East of England. I look forward to attending future events the coming months such as our End of Year Awards and Gala Dinner, House of Commons Reception and SNS 2023 and connecting with even more of our members.” The organisation’s role in the East of England’s energy sector has never been more relevant or more important, says General Manager Rob Bush: “Our members are the most important and exciting part of what we do here at EEEGR; they’re our reason for existing. With the appointments of Sophie and Karim, this will bolster the impact we have on our region’s skills agenda, the benefits to the supply chain in our region, as well as providing a single voice to drive forward the East of England at Westminster and beyond.” “I have recently made the move from Operations Manager to General Manager and our hope going forwards is that we will offer our members a level of consistency. We have plans to undertake a Member Survey in 2023 allowing our members the opportunity to have their voice heard and for us to understand how we can best support them going forward,” he finished. As 2023 rapidly approaches, EEEGR’s Customer and Stakeholder Manifesto will be refreshed to reflect the progress made over 2021 and 2022 and what’s to come in 2023. First released in 2021, the manifesto outlines EEEGR’s road map for 2021, 2022, and 2023. EEEGR are also taking their events to the next level, working with Norwich company Huxley to deliver future events including SNS 2023. The partnership has already seen great success in the form of Wind Week 2022 East of England, with promising prospects for 2023’s suite of events. – ends – About EEEGR The East of England Energy Group is an industry specific membership organisation representing over 200 organisations ranging from energy producers and developers through to supply chain companies. EEEGR is a key voice for the sector, putting the East of England and its expertise on the radar of major international players and influential politicians at regional and national levels. EEEGR has close links with education and training institutions through its Skills for Energy programme. A programme created to ensure that there is an ongoing pipeline of talented individuals for the current and future wellbeing of the energy industry.

Looking for quality, made to measure domestic blinds, that will look great for years to come?

Now is the time to talk to us at Norwich Sunblinds!

Have a look around our webite for ideas for Roller Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Pleated Blinds, or Venetian Blinds, and when you’re ready to make an appointment, give the office a call on 01603 334 085, quote “web342” or book online here.

Andrew Bassett opens his second shop in Northern Ireland.

Andrew Bassett, who has been successfully operating his practice from a shop on 103 Cregagh Road, Belfast since 2017, has opened a second walk-in tax and accountancy shop in Lisburn.

“Having been a franchisee for almost three years, I can see how the different aspects of the TaxAssist model work and can see how having a visible shop front definitely helps my practice grow,” said Andrew.

“The franchise territory I operate in gives me considerable scope for expansion and the convenience of the shops, combined with the power of the TaxAssist brand and marketing budget, means my practice really stands out from the crowd.

“I’m always amazed that there are only two TaxAssist Accountants in Northern Ireland, (fellow franchisee Ian Aiken operates from Ballymena in County Antrim) as I’m constantly busy. I believe the province could support another half a dozen franchisees.

“I’d certainly encourage any accountants in Northern Ireland who are keen to start their own TaxAssist Accountants practice to contact me for a chat as I’d be happy to share the benefits of my experience.”

Andrew’s shop joins an established network of 228 TaxAssist Accountants UK shops.

If you are interested in finding out more about joining TaxAssist Accountants, regular Discovery Days are held at the Support Centre in Norwich, where you meet with the Directors of the franchise and find out more about the technical and business development support on offer. Call 0800 0188297 to find out more.  

It may be perks such as private medical insurance, gym membership, activities such as yoga classes or massage sessions, all of which are commendable but are you starting from a good place?

For any wellbeing strategy to be successful, staff need to feel comfortable with what is being offered and that comes from being in a supportive, open and honest environment.

1. Organise regular one to one sessions between managers and staff to encourage discussion about the impact of workloads, targets and deadlines which are often the root cause of workplace stress. If staff are feeling anxious or worried, they are less likely to engage in wellbeing activities.
2. Have regular staff forums to find out what staff would like to see in place. Encouraging everyone to be part of the process promotes feelings of inclusivity and being part of a team.
3. Create Wellbeing Champions to keep the conversations going.
4. Create an online anonymous survey, ask what people would like to see or to comment on wellbeing activities already in place.
5. Provide training for Mental Health First Aiders to be a port of call for anyone struggling with mental health issues. This is particularly important following the pandemic where many suffered with their mental health and which is still having an impact on their working lives.
6. Many businesses now have a hybrid model where there is a mixture of staff working from home and in the office. It is important to think of activities that include everyone, for example, something they can take part in online so it doesn’t matter if you are taking part from your screen at home or in the office. It’s important no-one feels excluded.
7. Don’t forget social interactions are just as important as work. Arrange social events, competitions and challenges to improve morale and team building. It shows downtime is part of the culture and wellbeing ethos.

Why is wellbeing at work so important?

The days of a good job being defined by a decent salary alone are long gone, people want to know what else can an employer offer, and wellbeing is an important factor.

Get it right and you will reap financial benefits with staff retention, better engagement which reflects in great customer service and a motivated staff force.

This is a great place to start, build on top of that other activities everyone wants to take part in, and you have the beginnings of a great health and wellbeing programme.

Images provided by hands on at work, pixabay

Age UK
Norwich is celebrating the resounding success of its Over 50s Night, held on
Wednesday 14th August, which sold out well in advance and kept the dance floor
buzzing from start to finish. Guests enjoyed a vibrant mix of music, laughter,
and community spirit, proving once again that great nights out aren’t just for
the young – they’re for the young-at-heart.

The
atmosphere was electric, with fantastic vibes carrying through the entire
evening. Attendees mingled, danced, and connected in a welcoming, inclusive
environment. Many guests commented that it was “the best night out they’ve
had in years,” and staff were thrilled to see the event bring so much joy.

A special
shout-out goes to DJ Lee, whose brilliant music choices kept the dance floor
full and the energy high all night. From classic floor-fillers to singalong
favourites, the soundtrack was the heartbeat of the event and a huge part of
its success.

One attendee
said: “I’ve only recently found out about Age UK Norwich events. Very impressed
about the range of activities and thoroughly enjoyed the disco at Mr Postles”

Another Attendee
added: “It’s the first time I’ve gone out and not felt lonely”

Social
isolation is a real challenge for many older people in Norwich, with loneliness
affecting physical and mental wellbeing. Events like the Over 50s Night provide
a vital opportunity for people to come together, make new connections, and feel
part of an active, supportive community. By creating spaces where everyone
feels welcome, Age UK Norwich is helping to tackle isolation one dance,
conversation, and shared laugh at a time.

The night
also saw a heartwarming return for Mark and Toni, who first met at the Over 50s
Night in 2024. The couple came back to celebrate on the eve of their wedding,
telling organisers that the event had changed their lives. “We couldn’t
think of a better place to spend the night before our big day,” they said.
“This is where it all began for us.”

The Over
50s Night continues to be one of Age UK Norwich’s most popular social events,
offering a safe, fun, and friendly way for people to enjoy live music, meet new
friends, and feel part of a thriving community.

We
Hear You – and We Want to Do More!
We’ve listened, and we know you want more organised nights like these. Events
like this need support to keep them going – and we’d love to make it happen
again. Do you know a business, organisation, or individual who could sponsor
the next Over 50s Night? If so, get in touch at [email protected]
and help us keep the music playing and the dance floor full.

Commercial property firm Arnolds Keys has sealed a multi-million pound retail property deal for a Beccles-based private property development and investment company – the second multi-million pound deal it has negotiated on behalf of the client in a matter of months.

The Suffolk-based firm secured the purchase of the Haverhill Retail Park on behalf of Barsham Securities Ltd.  The newly-developed 2.4 acre retail park was brought to the market in October by London based firm JonesLangLaSalle.  The Park comprises 27,167 sq ft of retail space and is fully let to Home Bargains, Pets at Home and Pure Gym.

The deal comes just months after Arnolds Keys negotiated two other deals for Barsham Securities Ltd, including the off market purchase of an office investment on the Norwich Business Park.

“This is a well let modern scheme to a mixture of financially strong national operators in a prominent position in a strong market town,” said Mark Mayhew, Associate at Arnolds Keys.  “With all of the units let on long leases, it represented a good investment opportunity and we are pleased to have secured the purchase on behalf of Barsham Securities, against significant competition.”

Stuart Holmes, director at Barsham Securities, added, “We are delighted to have secured this high-profile, new retail property for our investment portfolio.  The strong tenants, being the only retail park in Haverhill and situated in a prosperous and growing Suffolk town, made this is an investment opportunity we wanted to secure, and in line with our investment and portfolio strategy.  We are very grateful to Mark and his team at Arnolds Keys for all their hard work in helping us secure the scheme.”

Barsham Securities were represented by Sally Challinor of Ashtons Legal.  Following the purchase of the Haverhill Retail Park, the Asset Management department at Arnolds Keys has been retained by Barsham Securities to manage the retail park on their behalf.

Bring along your lovely mum for an extra special Mother’s Day Lunch at The Norfolk Mead on Sunday 22 March. All mums will receive a box of chocolate brownies to enjoy.

  Curried Parsnip & Apple Soup, Crispy Shallots, Red Lentils, Yoghurt. Smoked Salmon, Wild Garlic Pesto, Potato Salad, Crispy Capers, Caviar, Fennel, Dill Oil. Prawn & Crayfish Stack, Tomato, Cucumber, Avocado Yoghurt, Baby Gem, Marie Rose. Pork Belly, Mustard Spätzle, Roasted Onion Puree, Apple, Kale, Cider Jus, Pork Puff. Wild Mushroom Risotto, Smoked Cheddar, Crispy Quails Egg, Balsamic Onions, Rocket. Confit Duck & Prune Pressing, Bacon Mayonnaise, Pickled Vegetables, Dukkha Crumb, Gherkins. **** Roast Rump of Beef, Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding, Gravy. Roast quarter Norfolk Chicken, Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Apricot & Pine Nut Stuffing, Gravy. Roast Leg of Lamb, Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Rosemary & Onion Stuffing, Gravy. Sea bass Fillet, Hasselback New Potatoes, Braised Baby Gem, Pea Puree, Jerusalem Artichoke, Cockle Beurre Blanc. Cod Loin, Crushed new Potato Cake, Cauliflower Puree, Samphire, Mange tout, King Prawns, Fennel Velouté. Mixed Nut & Fruit Wellington, Roast Potatoes, Parsnip Puree, Savoy Cabbage, Carrots, Wild Mushroom Gravy. **** Granny Smith Parfait, Blackberry Gel, Granola, Cinnamon Doughnuts, Sorrel. Vanilla Panna Cotta, Lemon Curd, Raspberry Sorbet, Meringue, Poppy Seed Macaron. Glazed Chocolate Mousse, Caramel, Banana Ice Cream, Chocolate Soil, Peanut Butter Fudge. Egg Custard Tart, Brown Bread Ice Cream, Brandy Snap, Poached Raspberries, Candied Nuts. Selection of Homemade Ice Creams & Sorbets. Norfolk & English Cheeses, Binham Blue, Baron Bigod, Black Bomber, Cornish Yarg, Celery, Mixed Crackers, Grapes & Chutney (£3.00 Supplement) **** Tea or Coffee served with Petit Fours   £40 per person. Treat your mum to a spectacular Sunday lunch in Norfolk. Relax and enjoy our luxury Hotel surroundings and make some extra special memories. Call one of our friendly team on 01603 737 531 to book a table.

In our most popular episode to date, climate change expert Dr Mathew Hampshire-Waugh chats to James and Mark about the realities of what’s ahead, and what steps businesses can take to protect themselves. In this BITESIZE episode, we focus on Mathew outlining the history of the climate crisis and how we got to where we are, as detailed in his book, Climate change and the road to net-zero.

Listen to the full episode here, or why not watch this engaging chat in full on YouTube.

GET IN TOUCH! We would love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode, email us at [email protected] or leave us a voice note here.

You can listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcast, or click here to listen now!

We would also love it if you could rate us 5 STARS on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, this really helps people find us!

Thank you to our sponsors Larking Gowen, Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors – check out their website to see how they could help your business www.larking-gowen.co.uk

• Output and Optimism Indices fall to lowest levels since third national lockdown in February 2021, now sitting in contractionary territory
• BDO’s Inflation Index reaches record high after energy price cap increases in October
• Rising inflation and dampened outlook drive a fall in employment with further declines expected in coming months

October saw BDO’s Output and Optimism Indices fall to their lowest levels since the third national lockdown in February 2021, as record-high inflation continues to dampen the economy and prompt fears of a recession, according to the latest Business Trends report from accountancy and business advisory firm, BDO.

The latest figures indicate that inflationary pressures are to blame for the decline across three of BDO’s four indices, as Optimism, Output and Employment all recorded their weakest readings for at least six months. BDO’s Inflation Index reached an all-time high in October forcing businesses to re-evaluate production in line with demand and supply-side headwinds and exercise caution in their outlook and hiring intentions.

October saw BDO’s Output and Optimism Indices plummet to 93.10 and 94.63, respectively, their lowest levels since the third national lockdown in February 2021. Both indices now sit in contractionary territory, below the 95-point mark – regarded as the watershed between growth and decline, an indicator of a recession.

The dip in productivity was driven by a fall across both the Services and Manufacturing Indices for the second month in a row. Continued disruption to global logistics networks and increased input prices have pushed manufacturing activity into negative territory, whilst the cost-of-living crisis has impacted consumer demand, driving down services output.

Confidence amongst businesses followed a similar downward trajectory as the weaker macroeconomic environment drove a seventh consecutive month of decline for BDO’s Optimism Index.

BDO’s Inflation Index rose by 1.67 points in October to a record high of 120.67 following an increase in the energy price cap which caused consumer price inflation to climb. At the same time, diminished spending power due to a weaker currency put considerable upwards pressure on input inflation leading to a record high of 121.26, as businesses importing goods paid higher prices.

Driven by inflationary fears, the Employment Index mirrored waning confidence among businesses with a fall of 1.14 points to 113.05 last month. However, the index has remained resilient, and the unemployment rate stood at a historic low of 3.5% on the most recent reading in the three months to August.

Despite the index remaining firmly in positive territory, hiring intentions are set to decline in the longer-term as businesses continue to tackle mounting inflation and a recession, resulting in further falls in the index over the coming months.

Peter Harrup, partner and Head of East Anglia at BDO LLP, said: “A contraction in both optimism and output is a concerning bellwether for firms, as inflation is expected to continue climbing in the run-up to Christmas. A weaker currency and drop in consumer spending power will have real and tangible consequences for firms relying on imports or customers in the retail and services sector, alongside the knock-on effects of managing political and economic uncertainty.

“We also know that rising energy costs are a top concern for nearly half of mid-sized businesses this winter as we’re only just beginning to see the impacts of the energy price cap rise. Firms will be looking to the Autumn Statement for the support they need as they navigate a tough period ahead.”

Image provided by BDO of Peter Harrup

Whether you work from home or in the office or a bit of both, we all need to remember to take care of our wellbeing. It is too easy to forget about looking after ourselves when we are engrossed in our work. Just stop for a moment and have a look at some of these simple and easy self-massage techniques.

Stress Headache
Depending on what is more comfortable for you, choose your thumb, your fist, or a tennis ball. Find the tender spot in front of your ears (which is on the same level of your eyebrows). Once you find the tender spot, rub in circular motions applying constant pressure for 2-3 minutes. Move up towards the top of your head, one inch at a time and repeat. Taking deep slow breaths will also help you to relax.

Scalp Massage
There is nothing more relaxing than a scalp massage – it helps to stimulate blood flow and ease the tense muscles around your head. Place the heel of your palms under your hair on either side of your head near your temples. Push your scalp up towards the ceiling, hold a few seconds and release. Work in sections, until you have covered your entire scalp. Also, massaging your scalp with your fingers as if you are washing your hair is very comforting.

Jaw Clenching
A high majority of us tend to tense our jaws without thinking. Relax the muscles in your face by placing your fingers just under your cheekbones, gently applying pressure, with circular motion, as you drag your fingers down towards the corner of your lips. Repeat several times, finally pulling down to a spot next to your lips.
Smile! This is a good way of relaxing your jaw and face muscles and if no-one is looking pull all sorts of faces mouth open or shut!

Neck and Shoulders
Probably the most common complaint we see – neck and shoulder pain as a result slouching over a computer. As human beings we are not designed to sit down for hours at a time.
Start off with taking a deep breath, drop your shoulders and slowly tuck your chin to your chest, this will gently be stretching your neck. Please be aware to do this gently and stop if it ever feels uncomfortable. Then place your fingertips to the back of your neck where your shoulder begins. Press in firmly and hold for several moments, releasing when the muscle feels more relaxed or after ten long seconds. Finish with rolling your shoulders forward and backward several times.

Hand Massage
Our hands often get forgotten about – time to give them some TLC. Place your thumb in the centre of your inner wrist, rub gentle circles across that spot on both wrists. Next, take your fingers and move to the heel of your palm, apply pressure in a gentle circular motion.
Take your thumb and rub at the first knuckle of your thumb, and rub in a circular motion for twenty seconds, move to the next knuckle and finally move to the nail and repeat the motion, then gently pull the finger to stretch the joint. Remember to repeat on each finger.

Make a point of taking regular breaks and practice these simple techniques, you will soon feel so much better.

Image provided by Hands On At Work

It has not been an easy road for independent agencies over the past 20 years, with uncertainties such as a recession and the more recent Covid-19 pandemic. Coming out stronger than ever is Naked Marketing, proudly celebrating their 20th anniversary this July 2022. 

With a purpose of helping organisations be the very best they can be by exposing their greatness through on and offline, branding, design, and marketing, Naked, a creative marketing agency, has transitioned with the developments in technology to incorporate the rise of social media and digital platforms. Proud advocates of Norfolk businesses, Naked have built up an impressive client roster over their 20-year history including Midwich, Hadley & Ottaway, and Allen & Page, and, more recently, AF Group, Gasway and Roarr! Dinosaur Park. A key value of Naked’s is  ‘Once naked, stay naked’; more than 50% of their clients have been with them for over five years and 20% have been naked for nearly the full duration.

Although a focus on awards isn’t their primary objective, Naked were honoured to have received EDP Small Business of the Year and runner-up Business of the Year Awards in the same year.

Naked started their 20th anniversary year strongly, announcing the appointment of James Hale as a new Director and the Head of Marketing and Digital. Experiencing strong digital growth, Naked reported their 2021-22 revenue increased by 86% in digital and marketing services alone. 

David Lloyd, Managing Director at Naked Marketing has been with the firm from the outset as co-founder. With over 20 years experience in the creative industry, David, a graphic designer, has co-lead the design team with Dan Bradfield and managed Naked’s design studio. He stepped up into his current role as the UK moved into Covid-19 lockdowns and has steered the team to triumph in their 20th year.  

Reflecting upon the success they have achieved over the years, their ethos of keeping it simple, with a no-nonsense, stripped-back approach to marketing continues to enable their growth supporting local businesses. 

David comments ‘Working with businesses of all shapes and sizes, it’s an organisation’s ambition or story that turns us on rather than their budget – we have to add more value than we charge. This concept helps us create long-term relationships that are mutually beneficial. We get to know our clients better. We want to create a marriage. It’s been the recipe for 20 years of success!’

Looking to the future, Naked are moving forward with a focus on brand marketing led by Dan Bradfield, Creative Director, Head of Design and Branding. Their ultimate aim is to take away over-complicated ambiguous definitions and jargon, and help small to medium businesses present themselves to their audience.

To mark the prestigious monument, Naked celebrated in style, with a grand birthday bash held on 15th July 2022. Clients new and former were invited to the festivities with the Naked team.

Images provided by Naked Marketing

Captain Fawcett has received many requests to augment his renowned Hair Styling range and as such is delighted to present his simply magnificent and entirely new product line of most efficacious Hair Pomades.

Created with old school panache, the Captain’s Patent Pomades will ensure the discerning gentleman goes about his business with ne’er a hair out of place. Unless, perchance, one prefers a more dishevelled style!

Sculpt all manner of looks from slick and super glossy to tousled and texturised with a no-shine matt finish. Malleable texture, maximum volume, strong control all delivered with a rather sophisticated fragrance of verdant wood and subtle spice with a citrus spike to keep things sharp.

And, may I add, Captain Fawcett’s Patent Pomades work really rather well for adding a pert polish to Pin-Up kiss curls. One for the glamour gals! I say!

The fragrance is subtle and sophisticated combining verdant wood notes and a hint of spice sharpened with citrus. Presented in handsome, highly collectible and environmentally friendly reusable tins, classically styled in 4 complementary colours with luxurious gold embellishment. Perfect for displaying as a set, smartly lined up on the bathroom shelf or dressing table.

Award winning Barber and Educator Sid Sottung says;
‘The packaging is bloody brilliant. The container is easy to grip so they’re incredibly barber friendly to use. It’s also very large so you really get your money’s worth. Fantastic both for barbers and for clients to style their hair at home.’

Hair Dressing at its very finest…no less! 

Huzzah!

SHOP HERE: www.captainfawcett.com/collections/pomade

 

Images provided by Captain Fawcetts