Member News

Level Two and Three Art and Design students at the College of West Anglia (CWA) were given a unique insight into the world of professional tattooing as respected tattoo artist, Alice Nicholls visited the college to speak about her career, industry trends and the creative opportunities within the field.

Alice, known for her distinctive style and growing presence within the tattoo community, delivered an engaging session that explored the realities of working as a tattoo artists. The session covered subjects from building a portfolio and developing a personal brand to navigating client relationships, industry regulations and the increasing influence of social media in shaping modern tattoo culture.

Students gained first hand understanding of the creative and technical skills required in tattooing as well as the dedication, professionalism and safe practice standards expected in the industry. The session also highlighted the importance of storytelling through body art and how media skills such as photography, videography, and content creation can support artists in promoting their work.

The workshop formed part of CWA’s continued commitment to giving students meaningful encounters with industry professionals, expanding their understanding of creative career paths and helping them explore areas they may not have previously considered.

Alice Nicholls said “Visiting colleges gives young artists a real glimpse into the world of tattooing, offering honest guidance, practical skills, and the confidence to turn their creativity into a career.”

Lydia Dennis, Work Placement Coordinator for Creative Arts, said “We have many aspiring tattoo artists on our art and design courses, and it’s not always easy to provide them with opportunities due to age and safety restrictions. Alice’s workshops are perfect for bridging this gap by providing an introduction into the industry, apprenticeship and portfolio tips, and allowing our students to experience designing and tattooing first-hand in a safe environment. Alice is an inspiration and we can’t wait to work with her again!”

Students responded enthusiastically to the visit, asking questions about apprenticeships, design processes and what it takes to establish yourself in a competitive creative field.

Students from the Inclusive Learning Department recently took part in a charity bag packing event in support of Papyrus, raising an impressive £265. 

The activity brought together learners from across the department, including Internship, Developing Work Skills, Bridge to Vocation, Moving On Into Independence, Developing Independence, and Becoming Independence, offering students a valuable opportunity to engage with the public while supporting an important cause. 

Throughout the day, students developed key employability and life skills such as communication, listening, teamwork and customer interaction, while confidently undertaking bag packing and sharing information about the work of Papyrus. Members of the public were extremely supportive, treating our students with great respect and enthusiasm. 

One learner, Eden Langford, achieved a personal milestone by fulfilling her ambition to work at the tills and also took part in shelf stacking. A moment that she had previously spoken about during a tutorial, making the experience especially meaningful. 

A huge thank you goes to all the staff and students involved for their dedication and positivity, and for representing the Inclusive Learning Department and CWA as a whole so brilliantly in the community. 

We’re Activate Insurance Brokers, directly authorised by the FCA and proudly independent, which means our advice is transparent, unbiased, and always tailored to client needs. 

We’re set to serve a diverse range of commercial clients across the region and UK. What sets us apart isn’t just the policies we arrange, but how we work: with clarity and a commitment to making insurance simple, personable and ourselves accessible.

Our Approach
Insurance can feel overwhelming for some, but we believe it shouldn’t be. That’s why we cut through the jargon and take the time to really understand your business, its processes, and your underlying circumstances. Whether you’re an established company, an emerging start-up or an individual, we tailor cover to fit needs.

As an independent firm, we have the agility and flexibility to adapt quickly to changing markets, emerging risks, and evolving client needs. Without the heavy layers of corporate bureaucracy, we can respond fast, think creatively, and provide solutions shaped around you or your business. 

We also care about our community and supporting local and independent businesses is part of who we are from high street retailers to contractors.

We keep ourselves accessible and we appreciate not everyone has time to spare that’s why we don’t have endless phone menus, that’s also why you have a dedicated point of contact, no repeating your queries to a different person every time – simply put, there are no barriers between you and the help you need when you need it. 

Whether you prefer a friendly phone call, a teams call, or a visit to our office, you’ll always know exactly who you’re dealing with and when you it dealt with. 

The Benefits of Working With an Independent, Directly Authorised Brokerage:

Working with an independent, FCA-authorised brokerage like ourselves brings meaningful, practical advantages;  the kind that directly improve your experience and the quality of protection you receive.

Unbiased, Client-First Advice
Independence means we work for you, not an insurer or corporate group. Our recommendations are shaped purely by your needs, with no hidden agendas, narratives or targets.

Direct FCA Authorisation –  Stronger Protection
Being directly authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority ensures that every piece of advice we give is regulated, accountable, and aligned with the highest standards.

Agility & Flexibility
Without corporate red tape, we can react quickly, navigate changing market conditions, and adjust solutions as your life or business evolves.

Consistency & Personal Service
You deal with one advisor who knows you. No call centres, no scripts, no repeating yourself, just continuity, familiarity, and genuine relationships.

Tailored Solutions, Not Templates
Large organisations often rely on standardised offerings. We specialise in crafting cover that reflects the real nuances of your business or personal life.

Local Insight, National Capability
We combine the understanding of a local broker with access to national markets, A-rated insurers, and Lloyd’s of London when needed.

Clarity & Transparency
Independence allows us to keep things simple; clear terms, honest conversations, and straightforward explanations without the jargon. These benefits sit at the heart of everything we do and underpin the experience our clients rely on every day.

What You Can Expect When You Work With Us
•    An experienced dedicated advisor who supports you from quotes, to adjustments to renewal – we offer a full 360 service.
•    Access to a broad panel of A-Rated insurers and, where needed, Lloyd’s of London
•    Transparent terms, clear explanations, and honest guidance
•    Insurance that’s kept simple, understandable, and transparent

What We Offer
We provide both commercial and personal insurance, ensuring every part of your life or business is protected with confidence and ease.

Our full range can be viewed at:
https://activateinsurance.co.uk/
https://activateinsurance.co.uk/commercial-insurance/
https://activateinsurance.co.uk/personal-insurance/ 

Why We Were Created — And Why It Matters
Activate Insurance was founded during a period of major consolidation in the insurance industry. High street brokers across the country were being bought out, and while the corporate acquisitions brought national backing, something important was being lost – the relationship and accessibility for clients. 

Clients suddenly found themselves dealing with unfamiliar teams, disrupted service, and the disappearance of the trusted advisors who had supported them for years. The personal touch faded, and local businesses and individuals felt the impact.

We set out to be the alternative. 

At Activate Insurance, we believe insurance should always feel personal, reliable, and grounded in real relationships. By staying independent, we ensure our clients continue to receive continuity of service, genuine care, and advice – not from a rotating call-centre desk or winding phone menus.

We combine:
•    the security of FCA-authorised advice 
•    the personal service of a local broker,
•    the flexibility, speed, and warmth that large corporate structures often can’t offer.

In short, we exist to give you the best of both worlds: the professionalism and expertise you expect, with the approach and accessibility that you deserve. 

At Taylor Investigations, we see every day how justice can hinge on the smallest of details. An address, a document served on time, a door opened that once felt impossibly heavy.

For many of the people supported by Norfolk Community Law Service (NCLS), those details are the very things standing between them and a safer, more certain future. That is why we proudly provide free desktop tracing and process serving, ensuring that no one is denied progress simply because they cannot afford it.

What may be routine for us can be transformational for the families we help. And nowhere is this clearer than in the stories NCLS have shared.

Jane’s Story – A Mother Fighting for Her Son’s Wellbeing

Recently, Jane came to NCLS in a moment of crisis. After years of silence from the father of her child, a sudden court application had been made concerning their child, an unexpected development that brought fear, confusion, and uncertainty. 

The child has significant additional needs, making sudden change extremely difficult, and Jane felt deeply worried about what might happen next.

NCLS stepped in immediately to provide support. But to move forward in any meaningful way, they needed information that Jane simply didn’t have: the other party’s current address.

That’s where we were able to help.

We completed the trace at no cost, giving NCLS what they needed to continue supporting the family at a critical moment. It was a small action on our part, but one that removed a major barrier for a parent already carrying so much.

NCLS captured it perfectly:

“It illustrates the power of our pro bono network, with both the barrister and Taylor Investigations being instrumental in achieving this success.”

Sometimes, justice begins with simply knowing where to start.

Toni’s Story – Rebuilding a Lost Connection

Toni’s story, as shared in her NCLS case study, is one that stays with you long after you read it.

Toni explains how she had lost hope of ever seeing her children again. They were taken from her care seven years earlier by her ex-partner, without her consent, and she had no idea where they were living. 

When Toni reached out to NCLS for help, they contacted Taylor Investigations. We traced her ex-partner’s address, enabling NCLS to make a fresh application to the family court so she could re-establish contact with her children.

After months of hearings, statements, and support, Toni finally received the news she had been desperate for, she would be able to rebuild her relationship with her children. Contact is now progressing from letters to video calls, and soon, to meeting in person. 

Toni expressed her gratitude with words that remind us why we do this work:

“The help from NCLS and Taylor Investigations has changed her world.”

A trace may take minutes.

Its impact can last a lifetime.

Why Our Partnership Matters

Every day, NCLS meet people who are trying to navigate the legal system while juggling fear, trauma, uncertainty, and financial pressure. Many have been silenced or overlooked for years.

When we step in, whether by locating someone who has disappeared or serving documents on their behalf, we are not just providing a service.

We are giving them momentum.

We are giving them clarity.

We are giving them a chance to be heard.

From the outside, our role may seem small. In reality, it is often the missing piece that allows a frightened parent or vulnerable individual to move forward, seek justice, and rebuild their life.

Our Commitment

We are honoured to support Norfolk Community Law Service and the incredible clients they stand beside. Their stories remind us that compassion has power, and that justice is not an abstract idea, it is something that must be made accessible, one case at a time.

To every NCLS client who has trusted us, and every NCLS advisor who works tirelessly to advocate for them, thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey.

If your organisation works with vulnerable communities and needs discreet, reliable, lawful and ethical tracing or process serving, we are always here to help.

www.taylorinvestigations.co.uk | 0330 090 4031 | [email protected]

Sustainability has risen to the top of the agenda for countries, global leaders, and businesses alike in 2025.

As the world looks ahead to the Conference of the Parties (COP 30) in November, there is set to be a broader focus on identifying sustainable practices. This includes offsetting carbon emissions, using renewable energy, and promoting a circular economy with a focus on recycling and reusing materials.

This growing emphasis on taking an eco-friendly approach is recognised by UK businesses and reflected in new industrial research commissioned recently by Southgate Global, a leader in equipment, consumables, and servicing in packing and fulfilment operations. According to its findings, companies across logistics, fulfilment, and packaging, rated themselves most confident in their environmental practices – ranking this higher than safety standards, cost control, operational efficiency and equipment reliability.

As a direct response, Southgate has updated its Eco Product Framework, aimed at cutting waste and saving resources by taking achievable and immediate steps towards a greener future for its business and its customers. 

Its new framework, the 5Rs, consists of: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Replace and Repair. Each existing and new Southgate listing will be reviewed against these, with these segments providing a structure to evaluate and envelope its product range, making sure that every offering is considered through a sustainability lens, and items that already deliver on that promise are highlighted:  

·       Reduce – focuses on products that decrease the production of waste or help to save raw materials or energy through smarter material choice or automated systems, such as Southgate’s strapping and wrapping machines. 

·       Reuse – spotlights products that help customers cut down on consumables and extend asset life in fast-paced logistics environments, such as Southgate’s shredders, which repurpose cardboard into void fill. 

·       Recycle – highlights products that are made from recycled content or are recyclable after use, thus supporting the circular economy. Southgate’s edge boards are an example of a product that is made from materials that are fully recyclable after use. 

·       Replace – looks at items which can be upgraded to more eco-friendly and efficient options for customers, such as switching from virgin plastic air pillows to 30 per cent fully certified recycled-content ones. These are 100 per cent recyclable, yet equally as effective in protecting products in transit, while also keeping costs down.

·       Repair – focuses on extending the life of material handling equipment and machinery, from carts and trolleys through to strapping machines. Prioritising repair not only helps customers reduce downtime but also reduces consumption and raw material usage.                                 

Through the new framework, Southgate can continue its drive towards meeting its high sustainability expectations without compromising product and operational performance.

By updating this framework, Southgate continues to maintain its commitment to sustainable operations. In 2023, with the help of One Carbon World, it achieved carbon neutrality for Scopes 1 and 2. This means it has implemented all the changes needed to deal with both direct emissions from its owned or controlled carbon sources as well as its indirect emissions arising from the purchase and use of the power the business needs. It has also achieved a Silver EcoVadis rating, showcasing its focus on driving sustainability both within its operation and the wider industry.

Alongside this, it has continued to stress the importance of taking achievable and realistic steps to help the industry meet circular economy targets and back up ambitious sustainable claims with meaningful, actionable and immediate solutions. Southgate’s new Eco Product Framework is just one of the ways the organisation is taking small yet strategic steps towards making significant change. 

Gavin Gill, Head of Compliance at Southgate Global, said: “Our industrial research suggests that sustainability is a core operational priority for organisations. It is no longer viewed as just a compliance issue or tick box exercise, but a factor that is influencing every aspect of operations. 

“For us, sustainability means designing, sourcing, and delivering packing and fulfilment solutions that meet today’s operational needs while measurably reducing the environmental and social burden on tomorrow’s world – wherever we can. We think this is best achieved by looking for small immediate actionables that add up to making a big difference. By reviewing our current inventory and practices with our new Eco Product Framework, we can continue to make rapid steps towards helping ourselves and our customers reduce their carbon footprint.”

At Swarm Training we’ve been looking back at 2025, how we’ve made a difference and what we can be doing to build on this in 2026. Not just in an internal facing way, but also what we’ve done with our learners, employers, partners and local community. Earlier this month we visited Ormiston Victory Academy to donate a set of laptops to their students. We wanted to share this with you, not as a ‘look at what we did’, but to encourage everyone to think about how we can all support the community in our own way. Corporate Social Responsibility can sometimes sound like buzzwords or a box ticking exercise, but as Chamber members it’s what we are all about. Supporting each other, and our local community.

Our CEO at Swarm Training, Jennifer Perry, said, “As a CIC we are always looking for ways to support the local community. Community support doesn’t need to be complicated and is within every business’s reach to have something to offer.”

So what could you do? Maybe you have some surplus equipment or, you could offer a bit of mentoring time or share something you’ve learnt that’s helped you and your business. Also think about what aligns with your values. There are so many things we can give or do that could make a real difference. Whether it’s supporting young people, environmental projects or staff volunteering days, let’s do whatever we can to create a stronger local community for 2026 and beyond.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your loved ones, from everyone at Swarm!

Hi Norfolk Chamber Members 

I hope you’re all well and looking forward to taking some time off over Christmas. 

My name is Will George and I run a video production agency in Norfolk called Rolling Wave Media. I have had the agency just over a year, but been a freelance videographer since 2022 after I graduated from Norwich University of the Arts where I also studied film production.

We work with businesses all over Norfolk to help them solve their businesses problems with creative video solutions. This can be anything from producing landing page videos to make your website more engaging, to helping you plan, shoot and deliver a whole bunch of short form content for your socials to increase brand awareness and personal brand, or we can even help with testimonial content to show how you’re businesses is helping your clients or how show off how your company is an amazing employer in order to attract future employees. But just because what your business might need wasn’t mentioned in that small list above doesn’t mean we can’t help you out with it, because a large part of my job is to be a problem solver so we can help your ideas and visions come to life no matter the size of the project.

Some of our clients include Mattishall Golf Club, Who’s the Ref, Age UK and Bullards Gin. 

Outside of work I am a passionate Norwich City Fan (and even have my own brick at Carrow Road), and if any of you want to chat about the weekends match, I am always up for a chat.  Another one of the sports I love is F1 too and it was even an early dream of mine to film and work for one of the teams and even used to film other race categories such as GB3 for a few years.

I am frequent cinema goer too, so if an email goes unanswered for a few hours that will most probably where I will be! Despite being 25 I am still a massive nerd who love’s reading comic books, playing video games and playing Dungeons and Dragons and will say having these passions and hobbies also helps me out creatively with work too. Something else I am hugely passionate about is live music too and have been able to go to some amazing concerts this year including Oasis and Linkin Park. 

Something else I am doing currently is training for the London marathon with my Dad in which we will be running for Break and will be one of the biggest challenges I have ever done, so if any of your are runners I am always open for tips and advice on that too. 

I really can’t wait to meet you all virtually or in person at the hub or networking events in the future, but if any of you want to have a chat with me about video production, football or any of my other interests drop me an email or message me on LinkedIn and lets grab or a coffee or jump on a zoom. 

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-george-%F0%9F%8C%8A-b8b490174/

Best wishes 

Will. 

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The College of West Anglia brought festive energy to the King’s Lynn campus last week as Music students from Year 2 and Year 3 showcased their talents during two sold out Christmas Gigs held on Tuesday 25th November and Thursday 27th November in Studio One. 

Across both evenings, audiences enjoyed an impressive mix of original music, covers, and collaborative performances that highlighted the students’ growing professionalism and creativity. 

The first night featured sets from Videodrome, Halfpenny Lane, Soundwave, Doc and the Veg and Tutti Frutti, alongside a performance by Jamie and Finn. 

On the second evening, the lineup included Kramson 7, Possum, Je Melange Le Chien, Inversion, Lecksia, Death Moth, and Steak, each bringing their own style and atmosphere to the stage. 

Charlie Hiom, Programme Manager of Creative Arts said  ‘Collaboration, confidence, teamwork and positive energy were on full display at our music gigs this week. As students prepare for their upcoming assessments, these performances offered a valuable opportunity to shine and share with friends and family the results of their dedicated rehearsals. The events were a resounding success thanks to the outstanding efforts of all participating students and dedicated staff support.’ 

Extended Diploma in Music Level 3, Course Director John Kramarchuk “How very gratifying to hear our young musicians performing with such confidence, surety and fellowship. For many, this was the first gig in front of an audience. For all, it was the first gig in a band that only formed ten weeks ago. A testimony to the hard work of our students, staff and support workers who were all part of these performances. It is also worth noting that CWA performances now have the feel of a true gig, attracting young audiences to stand-up events with dancing and joy.”

Second year music student, Lidia Nieweglowska said ‘“The gigs are such a fantastic experience! Even though it can be quite stressful leading up to them with preparing and rehearsing. When the nights come round, it always pays off and everyone who took part is happy and proud of each other!’

These gigs formed part of CWA’s ongoing commitment to providing students with authentic, industry aligned performance opportunities, helping them build confidence, develop technical skills, and experience the reality of live event delivery.

By offering regular public-facing showcases like this, CWA continues to provide emerging musicians and create pathways to future careers in the creative industries, ensuring students can thrive both academically and artistically. 

Two College of West Anglia students have achieved outstanding success at the WorldSkills UK 2025 National Finals, demonstrating exceptional skill, dedication and professionalism on one of the UK’s biggest skills stages.

Millie McCullough, 17, from March, represented CWA in Hairdressing, impressed judges in the Foundation Skills category with her skill, confidence and professionalism, but unfortunately didn’t place. Isabelle Mears, 18, from Hunstanton, competed in Health and Social Care. She delivered an exceptional performance and was awarded a Silver Medal – a significant achievement in a category with almost six hundred registrations nationally.

Both students were selected following months of rigorous preparation and qualifying stages, where they excelled in demonstrating the industry-level standards required to reach the national finals.

CWA Principal and CEO, David Pomfret, praised the students for their achievements and the dedication behind their success. He said, “I couldn’t be prouder of CWA’s talented students and the staff that supported them, for another inspiring performance at the WorldSkills UK national finals. Millie’s determination, confidence, positivity and skills were inspiring. Millie didn’t win a medal, but we couldn’t be prouder of her achievement.

Isabelle won silver in the Health and Social Care category, an exceptional achievement; Izzy demonstrated outstanding technical and communication skills and boundless resilience and determination.”

WorldSkills UK lead at CWA and Hairdressing lecturer, Sarah Smith, expressed her pride in the students’ hard work and commitment. She added, “It was an amazing few days in Wales for the WorldSkills UK finals. The energy, talent and passion were incredible. I couldn’t be prouder of our hairdressing student, Millie. She showcased such talent and professionalism, and confidence, took everything in her stride and pushed for excellence. And a huge congratulations to our Health and Social Care learner Izzy, on her silver medal; she smashed it out of the park.”

BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care Course Director, Kelly Anne Neale, said, “Watching Izzy achieve silver this year was a wonderful moment and a testament to her talent, hard work and determination. WorldSkills is much more than competition; it’s the energy, teamwork and the shared commitment to helping students realise their potential. I’m immensely proud of what our students and staff have achieved together.”

Millie said, “Competing in WorldSkills was an incredible experience. There were moments where the pressure kicked in, but I always felt confident knowing I was creating a hairstyle that truly reflected my skills. My tutors, Sophie Goodacre and Sarah Smith, supported me every step of the way. They were always there to help me through challenges and keep me grounded.” Her advice to anyone wanting to compete in WorldSkills would be “don’t overthink. You’re capable, you’re talented, and just getting to this stage is an achievement in itself. Believe in yourself and go for it.”

Isabelle said, “Before the competition started, I felt quite nervous, especially since the competition is UK-wide. As I completed each patient pressure test, I found that my confidence increase,d and I started to really enjoy the trip as a whole. I especially enjoyed spending time with the mental health patient and learning how best to help them – I think this is what led me to get a silver medal, which I am super proud of.”

Both Isabelle’s and Millie’s achievements underline CWA’s dedication to delivering high-quality, industry-informed training, and giving learners the chance to push themselves in real professional environments. Taking part in WorldSkills UK allows students to grow in confidence, refine advanced technical skills and demonstrate the impressive vocational talent that continues to thrive across the college.

Level 1 Diploma in Health and Social Care students at the College of West Anglia brought festive cheer to King’s Lynn campus last week as they hosted a Christmas fundraising fair, raising an impressive total of £523.18 for King’s Lynn Foodbank and King’s Lynn Night shelter. 

The event was planned, organised and run entirely by the students, giving them the opportunity to develop key teamwork, communication, and event- planning skills while supporting two important community services during the winter period. 

Stalls included a popular ‘guess the number of sweets in a jar’ competition, a sweet treat sale, and a range of festive games designed to bring staff and students together and encourage charitable giving. All proceeds from the fair were donated to both King’s Lynn Foodbank and the King’s Lynn Night shelter to support their work helping local individuals and families in need. 

Alexa- Louise Hewitt, who is studying Level 1 Diploma in Health and Social Care was running the Tombola with her friend Tia Edwards, said, “I think these are two very good causes to be fundraising for, as The King’s Lynn Night Shelter and King’s Lynn Food Bank are helping people who are in desperate need and financial struggle to get the daily necessities, without them many people would be suffering right now.”

Helen Waters, Level 1 Diploma in Heath and Social Care Course Director said “The Christmas fair was a clear demonstration of the students’ dedication to both their studies and the community. Their enthusiasm, compassion, and commitment to making a positive difference reflect the values central to the Health and Social Care course at CWA.”

The college remains committed to supporting students in developing practical experience, strengthening community ties, and gaining the skills, confidence and professionalism they need for future careers.