Does your business have an idea worthy of innovation funding? Get free mentoring and bid writing support to help you secure the grants you need to develop your project or idea!
Innovation funding can help you take your business to the next level, but getting the funding can be a complicated process and take a lot of time. We’re here to help Norfolk and Suffolk micro, small and medium businesses submit strong applications.
Our team are thrilled to announce that we are working with long-term client, JosTec (Jostec.co.uk) on a total refresh and rebrand.
Having worked with JosTec (formerly RJ Acoustics) for over 5 years, we are delighted to have seen them through significant periods of growth and business progression. Working with their design, development, technical, branding and PR teams, JosTec are now well on their way to success with a new and improved brand.
Although the previous website performed extremely well in the building acoustic testing and building regulations compliance spaces, the brand was in need of a refresh and all the opportunities this would present. Thus, there has been a great deal of search engine optimisation (SEO) work we have been working with JosTec on to ensure a smooth transition and a strong progress plan.
Pages and URLs – One of the key elements of moving from an old to a new site is making sure that the page URLs are not too drastically changed. Therefore, there is a great deal of ‘page mapping’ that is needed to ensure a smooth switch and seamless transition from an older to a newer site.
Crawling Factors – There are, in SEO various key factors, often referred to as ‘crawling factors,’ which are those that are key to Google and other search engine’s crawling and understanding of any website. IT is crucial that these are updated when any site goes live; whether a refresh or a brand-new website.
On Page Content – A key tenet of SEO is the content which is found on any and all pages of a website. Making sure website content is up to date is key. When refreshing a website, combing through and auditing the content is an important consideration, to allow for overall better performance when the new site goes live.
Website Feel and Design – As with any refresh of any website, design elements like colour schemes as well as the look and feel are always going to be updated and this is always a great opportunity to pay attention to important SEO factors and elements like site speed, user experience and mobile factors.
In this week’s episode of Impromptu Business Chat, James and Mark chat about the multiple benefits for businesses encouraging their teams to embrace cycling and similar activities.
As usual they provide 3 top tips, and along the way they make reference to the UK government’s Cycle to Work Scheme, Amsterdam’s cycling culture, foxes, badgers and Katie Melua!
We would love to hear your feedback on the podcast, or if there are topics you would like us to cover or re-visit! Contact us on [email protected]
If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcasts. Whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast!
You can also catch up on all our past series on our website here.
Norfolk-based renewable heating firm, Finn Geotherm, is has appointed five new staff as part of its ongoing expansion, following the award of a multi-million pound contract to install a series of heat pump projects in the public sector.
The new starters have joined the installation and quotation teams, bolstering Finn Geotherm’s capabilities for specifying and installing new heat pump projects for both commercial and domestic customers.
Joining the team are:
Jamie Moore – electrician, responsible for installing and commissioning heat pump systems. Jamie joins with seven years’ experience as an electrician working in factory maintenance.
Sam Groves – trainee electrician, working alongside Finn Geotherm’s experienced team. Sam joins from College, having completed a Level 3 diploma.
Ross Brown – multi-skilled engineer, responsible for installing heat pumps. Ross has a background in offshore electrical and mechanical engineering and has spent the past six years installing Combined Heat & Power (CHP) systems.
Jeremy Dowsing – electrician, responsible for installing and commissioning heat pump systems. Having spent 32 years in the RAF as an aircraft avionics engineer, Jeremy was looking for a change and keen to join the renewable sector.
Jude Duguay – quotations assistant, working alongside the heat loss surveyor and supporting the quotations team in assessing potential heat pump projects.
Established in 2006, Finn Geotherm is one of the UK’s most experienced heat pump installers. The new starters will work alongside the existing team to deliver a series of significant new heat pump projects across East Anglia and further afield, as well as working on Finn Geotherm’s other new and existing installations.
Guy Ransom, commercial director at Finn Geotherm, said: “We are delighted to welcome these new starters to join our growing business. This is a great time to become part of this exciting and dynamic industry. Renewable heating is playing an increasingly important part in cutting the country’s carbon emissions and with these new appointments, we are looking forward to continuing to roll out heat pump technology to more homes and businesses.”
Good afternoon to all our customers and followers!
Today has been a day of reflection here at Team Shield.
Thinking back to this time last year; we were in mid lock down and, like many business owners, we were extremely worried about how Covid-19 would affect our business.
We feel extremely proud to have grown and flourished in what has been a particularly difficult year.
Last June (2020) we had 6 employees. This June (2021), we have 13 employees – this is a testament to all of the hard work both the office and training team have provided in such a tough working environment.
We would also like to say a massive thank you to each and every one of our customers who have supported us during this difficult period and we look forward to continuing to support you with any Health & Safety training needs you may require.
First Intuition, the award-winning accountancy training provider, is now offering a bespoke apprentice recruitment service to assist employers in their search for the best talent. With an extensive network and 10+ years of expertise in training accountants, First Intuition will consult, advertise, screen, and advise potential candidates. The service is free and available upon request to businesses recruiting accountancy apprentices who will study with First Intuition.
The expert team will set up an initial discussion to establish what role(s) employers are looking to be filled. The team will then handle advertising the role to First Intuition’s bank of candidates and networks, as well as screen all applicants to present the best. Lastly, the team will advise on the recommended learner journey for the chosen candidate(s) and provide resources to support the apprentice(s) into the workplace.
Apprentice Recruitment Service:
1. Initial consultation
Whether it’s one vacancy or a wider intake of multiple apprentices, First Intuition will ensure we select suitable candidates that are well suited to the role and organisation. That way you can focus your time on interviewing candidates who have a good chance of filling your vacancy.
The initial discussion will explore the role(s), what criteria you would like to set in terms of academic achievement, personal specification, transferable skills and discuss the appropriate programme(s).
2. Advertise the role
We will then list the vacancy on the National Apprenticeship Service website for as long as required to get the necessary responses and reach out to candidates who have reached out to First Intuition directly.
3. Screen the applicants
We will check over each application, rejecting any that are unsuitable. Any that we think fit your criteria will be sent across to you for consideration. Once a shortlist has been drawn up, we will put you in contact with the candidates for you to interview/screen.
4. Advice on next steps
We will continue to support you with advice on interviews, funding, eligibility and training programme options for your shortlist/new candidates. This includes our range of pre-start resources which are free for you to share with your new apprentices to help them prepare for and settle into their role with you.
Apprenticeships offer a significant opportunity for both employers and apprentices. We believe an apprenticeship offers a real alternative to the standard routes of work or higher education. We work with them and their employers to develop their individual technical and all-round skills that help businesses to thrive and grow. Apprenticeship funding is available for both large and small employers with First Intuition.
James and Mark chat about how desk-bound workers can increase their energy levels despite the increasing demands of virtual meetings. As usual, they provide 3 top tips, and along the way they take inspiration from Aubrey Marcus’ recent podcast with author and body alignment expert Aaron Alexander (episode #319), American social psychologist Amy Cuddy and James’ 90’s smash hit Sit Down! Show notes:
We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on [email protected]If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever else you get your podcasts. Whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast!
This month, we are offering you a super offer on our own brand domestic blinds; buy one, get one half price!
This offers includes:
Pleated Blinds,
Venetian Blinds,
Vision Blinds,
Vertical Blinds and Roller Blinds
Norwich Sunblinds offer you:
Free measuring and fitting.
5-year guarantee
Order by 30th September 2021
Please mention this Buy One Get One Half Price on own brand blinds offer when booking your appointment over the phone (01603 334085) or in our Attleborough showroom.
Age UK Norwich is calling on local residents aged 50 and over to lace up their trainers and rediscover the joy of the beautiful game, at a slower, more sociable pace. Our Walking Football clubs are going from strength to strength, offering a fun and accessible way for older adults to stay active, make friends, and improve their overall wellbeing.
With the energy and excitement of the Women’s Euros still fresh in our minds, there’s never been a better time to get moving and embrace the game, whatever your age or ability. Whether you’re rekindling an old passion for football or simply curious to try something new, Walking Football offers the perfect opportunity to channel that inspiration into action.
Walking Football is a slower version of the game you know and love – no running, no contact, just plenty of laughter, teamwork and goals. But don’t be fooled, it’s still a great workout! Regular participation can improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, balance and coordination. For many, it’s also a confidence booster and a chance to reconnect with a lifelong passion in a supportive, age-appropriate environment.
Just as important are the mental health benefits. Playing as part of a team builds a sense of purpose and belonging. It combats feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially important in later life, and boosts self-confidence. Every session ends with a chance to socialise over hot drinks and biscuits, strengthening the friendships made on the pitch.
“Walking Football is a brilliant way to improve your physical health without the pressure of intense exercise,” says Thomas Taylor, Health Coach at Age UK Norwich. “It’s all about moving more, boosting your confidence, and having a good laugh with others. You don’t have to be a footballer to get stuck in – just willing to give it a go.”
A club attendee said “This club is the best part of my week. I love having the opportunity to meet new people while enjoying the sport I’ve always been passionate about, in a way that suits my current lifestyle. On top of that, I’ve made some great new friends and seen a big improvement in my fitness.”
We’re proud to offer two weekly Walking Football sessions in Norwich, open to anyone aged 50 or over:
GOALS, NR1 2GB Every Wednesday | 12:30pm – 1:30pm SPACES AVAILABLE – contact us to come along and join in!
The Arena, NR7 9AT Every Thursday | 11:00am – 12:00pm WAITING LIST IN PLACE – but you can still register your interest.
Whether you’re a former player or completely new to football, our sessions are designed for all abilities. You don’t need to be fit or experienced – just willing to give it a go and have some fun.
So why not come and try it for yourself? If you’re 50 or over, get active, make friends, and enjoy a cuppa at the end. Sign up today and take your first step towards better health and happiness.
In this weeks Impromptu Business Chat, Mark and James chat about the importance of enjoying your job and the benefits this bring to business and life. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips, and along the way take inspiration from various sources including Richard Bandler & Owen Fitzpatrick’s book Conversations, 301 Ways to Have Fun at Work by Dave Hemsath and Leslie Yerkes and even Lionel Richie!
We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on [email protected] If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast!
At Barnham Broom we offer our fully-inclusive Signature Meetings Package to event organisers looking for an environment to stimulate fresh ideas and encourage productivity.
The package is specially designed to incorporate all the needs of your delegates from the outset and maintain energy levels throughout.
From our award-winning chefs to our first-class meetings and events team, we will strive to make every meeting a success and will be on-hand to help during your time with us.
Whether you are planning a board meeting, full-scale conference or product launch, our dedicated events and conference team will work with you to create a bespoke package. Our purpose built facilities and high class service, all set in a superb location, make Barnham Broom an ideal place to hold a conference or business meeting.
We offer a choice of purpose-built conference and banqueting suites so you can create exactly the right space for your event. Whether it’s a breakfast, lunch, evening or an all-day event, you’ll enjoy the uninterrupted peace and quiet that will enable you to focus on the issues at hand. Our suites are equipped with LCD projectors when required, screens, flip charts, telephone points and free Wi-Fi.
Norfolk County Council and the Transport for Norwich (TfN) partnership are asking for feedback on proposed changes on Boundary Road. The aim of this scheme is to provide better connections across the busy outer ring road, making it safer and easier for travelling on foot or by bike.
What’s being proposed and why?
This project is part of a programme of infrastructure changes in the Greater Norwich area, which was agreed by the county council’s Cabinet last year and is funded by the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Transforming Cities Fund. As we deliver these projects, we are carrying out a series of public consultations to help identify any issues for consideration when finalising the plans we put forward for construction.
We are consulting on two options to improve crossing facilities. One option is to upgrade the existing junction at the B&Q car park, whilst retaining the existing pedestrian crossing on Boundary Road near the junction with Vera Road. The other option is to install a new cycle crossing connecting Vera Road to Rye Avenue, which would also retain the existing pedestrian crossing on Boundary Road near the Vera road junction.
Further details on both options are available by following this link where you will find a letter and plans at the bottom of the page.