Mark is inspired this week by a TEDx talk which leads him to reflect on one of his favourite topics – evolution, tribes and what makes humans tick.
It’s a tough question to ask yourself, but are you creating a cult or a culture? Mark and Becky discuss where the idea of culture comes from and what it really means for businesses. “Cult leaders see greatness in themselves”, whereas, if you operate as a culture, you see greatness in the team.
They also discuss the impact the CEO/owner has on a culture and why active engagement is important. They consider the negative connotation behind the term ‘HR’ and why, perhaps, this no longer fits the modern world…
GET IN TOUCH! We would love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode, email us at [email protected].
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
World leading marine products and services supplier, Fendercare Marine recently received praise for their fendering support to a flotilla of NATO warships in the Port of Cardiff during the NATO summit.
Yokohama pneumatic fenders were supplied by Fendercare Marine for the two largest vessels – the French anti-submarine frigate La Motte-Picquet and the Royal Navy’s newest warship, the Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan.In total, 16 Yokohama pneumatic fenders (measuring 2.0m diameter. x 3.5m length) were used on the Type 45 destroyer HMS Duncan and 8 Yokohama pneumatic fenders (measuring 3.3m diameter. x 6.5m length) were used on the French anti-submarine frigate La Motte-Picquet.
Following the NATO summit, Commodore AJG Miller CBE, Royal Navy said “I would like to take this opportunity to offer my gratitude for the support that all those at Fendercare Marine provided to my men and women on the ground in support of the NATO Warships visiting Cardiff for the recent NATO summit. The final result was in no small part due to the hard work and commitment from yourself and all those at Fendercare.”
Fendercare Marine has been a supplier of fenders and marine hardware to the MoD since 1999 and also supports navies throughout the world, winning a $29 million contract with the US Navy in 2012. From a base in the Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, their Naval Solutions division also provides fabrication, welding and coating services for the MoD, having worked on nuclear submarines, warships and naval support vessels.
Commodore Miller added “I am exceptionally grateful for the support offered…throughout both the planning phase and execution in recent weeks and days. (Fendercare Marine’s) positive and flexible approach to dealing with the unusual requirements of 6 warships entering a commercial dock ensured that both HMS Duncan and La Motte-Picquet achieved a safe and faultless arrival and departure.”
Global lifestyle retailer Urban Outfitters has opened the doors of its new store at Chantry Place in Norwich and it looks incredible!
Located in the former Carluccio’s unit with access via the Chantry Square entrance, the new store is spread across two floors and has a range of on-trend and capsule pieces for both men and women.
Paul McCarthy, general manager at Chantry Place, said: “Our customers have wanted Urban Outfitters in Chantry Place for a long time and it is incredible to see the brand arrive at the Centre and look so impressive in its design. This is a brilliant moment for Chantry Place and Norwich to see Urban Outfitters invest in a store with us and strengthens our brilliant fashion offering, joining the likes of H&M, Levi’s and Zara at the Centre. With its fashion and accessory pieces, this new opening gives our customers even more variety when shopping with us and follows on from Moda in Pelle opening at Chantry Place last month.”
As well as selling a mix of on-trend women’s and men’s clothes, and handpicked vintage clothing under its Urban Renewal label, Urban Outfitters sells homeware items including tapestries, bathroom accessories and furniture. It also has a Music & Tech collection providing vinyl, records and tech accessories.
The only other Urban Outfitters in East Anglia is in Cambridge, which opened in 2021.
For more information on Chantry Place, visit www.ChantryPlace.co.uk or follow chantryplacenorwich on social media.
The TaxAssist Accountants National Support Centre, based in Norwich, has been shortlisted for the In-house Marketing Team of the Year award, at the prestigious Accounting Excellence Awards 2023.
The annual awards are a highlight of the accountancy industry, showcasing forward-thinking firms, individuals, teams and projects. All 21 categories are judged by a line-up of industry experts and senior professionals covering a wide range of specialisms from within and outside the accounting community.
James Mattam, TaxAssist Group Business Development Director, said: “Being nominated as a finalist for this award is a huge achievement, where even to make it to the shortlist is hotly contested. I’m incredibly proud of the team who do an outstanding job of supporting our network of over 200 UK accountants and their 78,000 clients.
“The award entry required us to show the value of the campaigns and strategies we operate on behalf of our accountants, providing clear evidence of measurable impact on brand engagement and return on investment, as well as positive feedback from our clients. We had to demonstrate our objectives and audience understanding, and how we ensure this integrates with our marketing, sales and service line growth objectives.
“It was important to demonstrate the work that goes into making TaxAssist Accountants a market leading brand and coming hot on the heels of our recent 5-Star franchisee satisfaction award, and also being shortlisted for the SME Accountancy Firm of the Year award at the British Small Business Awards, this is great validation of our business model.”
The winners of the awards will be announced at a ceremony at the Round House in Camden, London on the 3rd October 2023.
Suicide Awareness is a 3.5-hour workshop designed to teach the warning signs of suicide crisis and how to respond.
Content
How to get help for yourself or learn more about preventing suicide.
The common causes of suicidal behaviour.
Looking at the lived experience of suicidal thinking.
The warning signs of suicide.
How to get help for someone in crisis.
Resources
Includes free certification valid for three years and local resource/information booklet.
Suitable For:
‘Non-Specialist’ front line staff working in health, social care, the wider public and other services.
Individuals who are likely to have direct and/or substantial contact with people who may be at risk of mental ill health, self-harm or suicide.
Dates
15th September 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
4th October 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
13th October 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
18th October 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
9th November 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
14th November 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
21st November 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
4th December 2023 (13:00-16:30) – Online via Zoom
The sixth round of the Caterham Graduates Racing Series brought Alpha 7 to the picturesque Anglesey Circuit, where the team continued to shine across both the 135 and 150 classes. The weekend delivered a mix of weather and track conditions, testing the drivers’ adaptability and car setups.
Friday was warm, and the track conditions were tricky with limited grip, making the testing sessions challenging. Drivers found that running new tyres gave them an advantage, as managing overheating and tyre wear became critical. The team worked hard to fine-tune setups in preparation for the weekend’s races.
Jamie Ellwood entered the weekend with a chance to secure the 2024 CGRC 150 class championship—and he didn’t disappoint. He dominated the weekend with three pole positions, three fastest laps and three first-place finishes! Cementing his status as the new 2024 champion. His car, built over the winter by Alpha 7, performed flawlessly, and Jamie declared it the best Caterham he’s ever driven.
Race one saw Jamie pull away early, leaving a fierce battle between Will Stilwell and Max Haynes in his wake. Stilwell edged out Haynes in the final moments, but Jamie remained untouchable at the front. Jamie’s consistent pace throughout the weekend earned him another two victories in races two and three, bringing his season total to nine wins and seven fastest laps. A monumental achievement for both him and the Alpha 7 team.
Matthew Willoughby also had a solid weekend, securing a podium finish after battling consistently at the sharp end of the grid. Ian Anderson, had his best weekend of the season, making up four places in one race and finishing P9, followed by a P6 and another top-10 finish in the final race.
Ed Benton, racing in his second event, continued to impress by collecting two more signatures for his racing license. With only two more needed, he’s on the brink of removing his novice cross. Ed travelled to Anglesey for the first time, having only ever driven 270 laps in the simulator. Ed fought hard throughout the weekend, swapping positions with his rivals and setting a personal best lap time, a full second quicker than his qualifying pace. His rapid improvement is a testament to his growing confidence and skill.
Sunday morning greeted the 135 class with a damp circuit for their second race, creating an unpredictable mix of weather conditions throughout the day. Although the skies threatened rain, the track dried out, keeping everyone guessing until the last lap.
Sean Cronin made his debut for Alpha 7, with support from his daughter Niamh. He had an impressive weekend, gaining seven places in his first race and securing P7 in his last race, thanks to some thrilling overtakes. Meanwhile, Amanda Anderson battled back after a tough second race where she spun due to contact. Despite the setback, she finished the weekend strong with an 11th-place finish, engaging in some exciting on-track scraps.
Sean Crellin, back for his second event with Alpha 7, also performed well, overcoming worn tyres and securing some strong overtaking moves. His tenacity ensured a solid finish, capping off a weekend filled with action.
The Anglesey round marked a milestone for Alpha 7, with Jamie Ellwood’s championship win and stellar performances across the board. The team now sets its sights on Donington for the final round of the season, ready to push for more podiums and personal bests. Well done to everyone, and let’s bring the same energy and success to the next race!
For those inspired by our drivers’ achievements, Alpha 7 offers personalised driver development programmes to help you take the next step in your motorsport journey. Contact us to learn how we can help you hit the track and achieve your racing goals.
In today’s fast-paced working world, health and safety are no longer optional—they’re essential. As organisations strive to build stronger, more resilient workforces, investing in proper training is key. One of the most recognised and respected health and safety training programmes in the UK and globally is the IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) course. Whether you’re a team leader, manager, or frontline employee, completing an IOSH course can offer wide-ranging benefits—not just for you as an individual, but for your entire organisation.
What is IOSH? IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. Their courses are designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to identify and manage risks in the workplace effectively. The most popular courses include: IOSH Managing Safely – Ideal for managers and supervisors across all sectors. IOSH Working Safely – Perfect for employees at any level, in any industry. These courses are widely recognised and set a solid foundation for creating safer work environments.
Top 5 Benefits of Completing an IOSH Course
1. Improved Workplace Safety IOSH training empowers individuals to identify potential hazards and implement effective risk control measures. A trained team leads to fewer accidents, injuries, and near-misses—creating a safer and more productive workplace.
2. Legal Compliance Health and safety legislation is complex and constantly evolving. IOSH courses ensure that your team is aware of their legal responsibilities, helping your organisation stay compliant and avoid costly fines or legal issues.
3. Boosted Employee Confidence and Morale When employees know that their workplace prioritises safety—and that they are trained to handle risks—it significantly boosts morale. A confident, safety-conscious workforce is also more efficient and motivated.
4. Enhanced Reputation Organisations known for their commitment to health and safety gain a competitive edge. Clients, customers, and stakeholders are more likely to trust companies that demonstrate a proactive approach to employee wellbeing.
5. Cost Savings Workplace accidents can lead to significant costs—from lost productivity to compensation claims. By reducing incidents through effective training, organisations can see measurable financial benefits over time. Who Should Take an IOSH Course? IOSH courses are suitable for a wide audience: Managers and Supervisors – To effectively lead safe teams. Employees – To work responsibly and spot hazards early. New Starters – To instil a safety-first mindset from day one. Health and Safety Champions – To deepen their expertise and lead initiatives.
Conclusion: A Smarter, Safer Future Completing an IOSH course is more than just ticking a compliance box—it’s a proactive step towards a safer, more successful workplace. With the right training, your team can manage risks confidently, protect each other, and contribute to a positive safety culture that benefits everyone. Whether you’re an individual looking to boost your skills, or an employer aiming to raise safety standards, IOSH training is a smart investment in your people and your future.
We are running an IOSH open course in Wymondham 15th-17th July 2025. Get in touch for more details.
After Christmas, your employees will be more likely to be prioritising their health. You can help them achieve their goals and improve wellbeing and productivity by booking Norfolk Health Checks to visit your workplace in January 2023!
The NHS Health Check is a free check-up of overall health for people aged 40-74 and takes 20-30 minutes to complete. Specially trained Health Check Practitioners will do some basic tests and complete a questionnaire with participants, before giving tailored advice and signposting to help them reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. The service is fully funded by Norfolk County Council, meaning that we can deliver health checks to your employees, at their place of work, free of charge. We will also provide any employees that are not eligible for a health check with access to a wide range of resources to help understand and improve their health.
Interested in health checks at your workplace? Visit the new Employer Page on our website, give us a call on 0808 175 0413 to find out more
“I work for DWP and as a decision maker I can say that the service that you delivered was exemplary. A comment has been made that it was lovely – that it didn’t feel like a tick box exercise but an empathetic and informative experience that they would recommend to others. The practitioners were both very knowledgeable and friendly, so they easily put you at ease. As a site wishing to promote personal wellbeing, the sessions have been very helpful in helping others to think of their own help first.” – Heidi Mann, Department for Work and Pensions
“Overall it was a hugely positive experience and I know that many (staff) have already started to make small changes to their lifestyles to improve their health.” – Simon Hobbs – Managing Director of Electrical Testing Ltd
Step into a world of festive enchantment at The Priory 1101, where history and elegance combine to create the perfect setting for your private corporate Christmas party.
Our dedicated event coordinator’s will ensure every detail is perfect, from gourmet catering to top tier entertainment, creating a magical evening where your team can celebrate the years achievements in style!
Zest, one of the UK’s fastest-growing EV charging networks, has invested in new EV charging facilities at Chantry Place in Norwich, one of the region’s largest shopping centres.
Zest is providing sixteen charging bays at Chantry Place, a Savills retail destination of 90 shops, cafés, and restaurants in Norwich city centre. Zest will also operate and maintain the charging facilities, in order to provide a reliable long-term service for customers and staff.
According to recent research by LCP Delta, 74% of UK EV drivers would more frequently visit destinations with charging facilities. The chargers at Chantry Place have been selected to reflect the average dwell time, with 22kW fast chargers adding around 90 miles range in an hour. The first eight charging bays are now open in the centre’s lower-level car park, with the second phase set to bring eight more in its upper-level car park.
For Zest, Chantry Place is the latest in a rapid series of retail destination projects that includes Metrocentre in the North-East and Merry Hill in the West Midlands.
For Chantry Place, named in Trip Advisor’s top five places to shop in Norfolk, this is the latest in a long list of sustainability innovations. The centre has already implemented carbon-reducing features such as natural ventilation, the latest LED lighting, and 772 solar panels on its roof.
Paul McCarthy of Savills, General Manager of Chantry Place, said: ““Our aim is to provide an unrivalled retail and dining experience in Norwich and provide everything under one roof for shoppers. We are incredibly proud of the 1,000-space car park we offer and being sustainable is a huge priority for us, so we are incredibly grateful to Zest for their support and putting these EV chargers at Chantry Place.”
Robin Heap, Zest CEO said: “We know that people just want to charge where they park as part of their normal routine. Retail destinations, like Chantry Place, that respond now to this demand are those that will thrive as new EV drivers establish their charging habits.”
“Do I Have Enough Money to Retire?” – Clarity Through Cashflow Forecasting
It’s one of the most important and most frequently asked questions we hear: “Do I have enough money to retire?”
For many, the idea of retirement is both exciting and daunting. The thought of stepping away from work and embracing the next chapter of life brings dreams of travel, hobbies, and freedom. But it also raises serious concerns: Will my money last? Can I maintain my lifestyle? What if something unexpected happens?
At Brancaster House Financial Planning, we understand that retirement isn’t just about reaching a certain age or hitting a magic number in your pension pot. It’s about confidence. It’s about knowing that your finances will support the lifestyle you envision, for the rest of your life.
Understanding What Retirement Really Means
Retirement means different things to different people. For some, it’s a complete exit from the workforce. For others, it might mean reducing hours, changing careers, or pursuing passion projects. Regardless of your definition, the common thread is financial independence – the ability to make decisions without being limited by money.
Planning for that kind of freedom doesn’t happen overnight. It requires thoughtful analysis, strategic decision-making, and most importantly, clarity. That’s where we come in.
It’s Not Just About the Pension Pot
When people think about retirement planning, they often zero in on their pension. While your pension is undoubtedly a key piece of the puzzle, it’s far from the whole picture. Savings, investments, property, state benefits, and other assets all play a role. So too do your expenses, both essential and discretionary.
The big question isn’t just “How much have I saved?” but “What do I want my retirement to look like, and will my resources support that vision?”
This is where lifestyle planning becomes essential. Are you hoping to travel extensively? Do you want to help children or grandchildren financially? Will you remain in your current home or downsize? All these choices carry financial implications.
How We Help: Clarity Through Cashflow Forecasting
At Brancaster House Financial Planning, we use advanced cashflow forecasting tools to give you a realistic, personalised view of your financial future. This isn’t just about looking at your savings and investments on paper. It’s about modelling your actual lifestyle – your income, expenditure, tax obligations, and future goals.
We’ll work with you to build a detailed picture of what your retirement might look like, taking into account:
Your current assets and liabilities
Anticipated income from pensions, savings, and investments
Expected and potential expenses (e.g. travel, healthcare, care costs)
Inflation and investment growth assumptions
One-off events, such as gifting money or moving house
The result is a living, breathing financial roadmap that helps you understand whether you’re on track or whether adjustments are needed.
Real-Time Insight With Your Personal Client Portal
We also provide each of our clients with a secure, personalised customer portal that gives you real-time access to your financial information. From tracking your outgoings to monitoring the performance of your investments, this platform brings transparency and control to your fingertips.
No more guesswork. No more digging through paperwork. Just a clear, accessible view of your finances, whenever you need it.
Planning for the Unexpected
A good retirement plan isn’t just built for the good times; it accounts for the unexpected as well. Market volatility, health issues, changes in family circumstances or new tax rules can all impact your financial position.
Through our planning process, we’ll stress-test your forecast under various scenarios. What happens if inflation rises faster than expected? What if you live 10 years longer than you assumed? What if you need to provide care for a loved one? These are uncomfortable questions, but addressing them now gives you the confidence to navigate the future with peace of mind.
Making the Most of What You’ve Got
Part of our role is helping you make your money work harder. That might mean:
– Making better use of tax allowances (such as ISAs and pension contribution reliefs)
– Reviewing investment strategies to suit your retirement timeline
– Considering phased retirement to draw income tax-efficiently
– Evaluating the potential benefits of downsizing or equity release
– Aligning estate planning to minimise inheritance tax
None of these strategies are one-size-fits-all. That’s why everything we do is built around you – your goals, your values, your lifestyle.
Why People Delay…and Why You Shouldn’t
It’s natural to put off retirement planning, especially if you’re uncertain about what lies ahead. But the earlier you start asking the right questions, the better positioned you’ll be. Even if retirement is 10 or 15 years away, decisions you make now – around saving, investing, or paying off debt – can have a major impact on your future options.
And if you’re already nearing retirement age? There’s still time to make meaningful changes. Many of our clients come to us just a few years before they plan to retire. Through careful planning and considered advice, we help them gain clarity and confidence about what lies ahead.
Book Your Free Financial Health Check
If you’re unsure whether you have enough money to retire, we encourage you to take the first step today. Our free financial health check is a no-obligation opportunity to talk through your current situation and understand your options.
Retirement isn’t a destination; it’s a new phase of life that should be enjoyed with confidence and freedom. Asking, “Do I have enough to retire?” isn’t a sign of doubt; it’s a sign that you’re ready to take control of your future.
