Join us for our East Anglia Clean & Green Awards 2026 – the region’s premier celebration of sustainability excellence! On 26th March at Kesgrave Hall Ipswich where leaders, innovators and trailblazers from across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex will come together for an unforgettable evening honouring the organisations shaping the future of our industry. Why attend? Because this is where the sector meets. Where connections are made. Where excellence is recognised. Enjoy an elegant drinks reception with live music, followed by a sumptuous three‑course dinner paired with fine beverages. Our awards ceremony, hosted byDavid Whiteley, will spotlight the outstanding contributions driving real environmental progress across the region. And the night doesn’t end there — join us for our exclusive after‑party and networking, bringing together the brightest minds and biggest influencers in the sector. This is more than an awards night; it’s a rare opportunity to celebrate, connect, and elevate the clean and green energy community in style. Limited tickets and table packages are available now: www.cleanandgreenawards.co.uk
Steeles Law has launched its new website – take a look at: https://www.steeleslaw.co.uk/ to find out more about our services, our people and tokeep up-to-date with our news, events and publications.
Deanna Auker has joined the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) as marketing manager, bringing with her a wealth of experience in marketing for national and international clients.
In a career spanning more than 13 years, Deanna has worked successfully and closely with international airlines KLM, Flybe and bmi in her role as commercial and marketing manager at Norwich International Airport, and has been responsible for the marketing strategies and all communications as marketing manager for M&H Plastics and The Castle Mall, Norwich.
Most recently Deanna led communications and events focused on a clinical restructure of more than 4,000 staff at the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust. “I am really pleased to be joining EEEGR at such an exciting time for the organisation and the energy industry,” said Deanna.
“I am really looking forward to meeting existing stakeholders and establishing relationships with new ones. By using my knowledge and experience of marketing on a global scale I hope to present new opportunities for members and to help grow EEEGR, while building on the continued success already achieved by my new colleagues.”
EEEGR chief executive Simon Gray said: “I know all the team and directors will welcome Deanna to this exciting position which is so essential for the organisation’s future prospects. I’m sure her ability and experience will add even more to what our excellent EEEGR team has already achieved.”
Steeles Law’s employment team would be delighted to welcome you to our next employment law update briefing, which will be held on Thursday 21 March 2013 at St Andrews House, St Andrews Street, Norwich, NR2 4TP, 8.00am (for 8.30am start) to 10.00am.
The briefing will be delivered by qualified and experienced lawyers who specialise exclusively in employment law, with the emphasis on the practical implications of the law for your business. Delegates find these briefings a fantastic opportunity to keep up-to-date with the latest legal developments:
“An excellent update, a must attend for the HR professional. Very good value for money!”
“I find these briefings to be an essential part of keeping up-to-date with varying employment matters. You give real information and practical guidance to take away and apply. Thank you.”
Wide-ranging and radical reforms of employment legislation are due to take place during 2013 and beyond. The briefing will cover essential recent and forthcoming developments in employment law, including the following topics:
Termination of employment: Looking at new plans for pre-termination negotiations and “settlement agreements”, as well as changes to compensation awards for unfair dismissal and a review of some recent cases in this area.
Tribunal rules of procedure: A brief overview of major changes to the tribunal rules taking effect in April 2013 including the introduction later in the year of fees for lodging tribunal claims as well as plans for compulsory pre-claim conciliation.
Redundancy: Outlining changes to the rules on collective redundancy consultation due to take effect in April and some recent cases on redundancy dismissals.
Family-friendly rights: Looking ahead at plans for shared leave as well as extensions to flexible working and parental leave rights.
Working time: Reviewing the latest developments in relation to sickness absence and holiday, and plans for reform of the Working Time Regulations.
Employment status: Considering the impact of recent case law and looking at Government plans for the introduction of a new “employee-shareholder” status from April 2013.
TUPE: Outlining major proposals for reform of the existing TUPE Regulations and key case law developments in this area.
Religion and belief: Looking at recent high-profile decisions from the European Court of Human Rights and considering the potential impact for employers.
We can offer confirmation of attendance for CPD purposes for those delegates who require this.
Booking details
The briefing will start at 8.30am on Thursday 21 March 2013 (breakfast will be served from 8.00am) and will finish at approximately 10.00am, allowing you to attend with minimum disruption to your working day. Parking is available nearby at St Andrews car park.
The cost of the briefing is just £30 plus VAT per person and includes a buffet breakfast, which will be available before the briefing. If you book a place by 4 March 2013, you can book a second place at half price, for just £15 plus VAT.
If you would like to attend please contact Gemma Pendleton, Marketing Manager, with details of delegate name(s), job title, full company name and address, telephone and email contact details, and details of any dietary requirements.
Employees from the Norwich branch of Pure Resourcing Solutions (Pure) put their decorating and gardening skills to excellent use this week by renovating a garden wall at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) in Quidenham. As with all of the charity’s hospices, Quidenham cares for life-threatened children and their families by providing short breaks, care at end of life, bereavement support, and many different activities and therapies.
Eight volunteers, split into two teams, spent Tuesday 12th and Wednesday 13th February giving the wall in the hospice’s sensory garden a revamp. As a place of relaxation for children and young people with life-threatening illness, it is vital the area is kept in excellent condition.
The volunteering builds on a long-term relationship between Pure and EACH, whose Royal Patron is The Duchess of Cambridge.
Joseph O’Sullivan, Pure Office Manager and one of the volunteers, says, “We really enjoyed volunteering for EACH Quidenham. First, the wall had to be cleared of ivy – one brave team member even climbed the six foot wall to get rid of it! We then sanded it down and gave it a coat of bright yellow paint. It was an inspiring day that makes you realise you can do something to help others – you just need to give a little bit of your time.”
Gill Buchanan, Director of Pure, says, “Pure is proud to continue our support of EACH not just in Quidenham, but across the East of England. Volunteering is a wonderful way to help EACH keep the hospice in great condition for the children, young people and their families. Our volunteers also feel a great sense of satisfaction knowing they are helping.”
Gary Cook of EACH, says, “Our children and young people need pleasant, cheerful and calm surroundings so they can be as comfortable as possible. We are delighted that staff at Pure in Norwich were able to give their time to help us provide a home-from-home for everyone who visits – be it for one day or for an extended period.”
The Pure volunteering project kicks off another year of charity activity; the company already has fundraising events planned in Norwich, Ipswich, Cambridge and Chelmsford, to raise funds for EACH and other charities in the East of England. To find out more about Pure’s charity support, contact Anna Hill, Marketing Manager on 01223 209888 or [email protected].
Norwich International Airport’s travel show has been re-scheduled to take place on Saturday 23rd February from 9am to 3pm in the airport terminal building with free entry and free parking for all visitors in the short stay car park.
The event, now in its fourth year, is a great way to start planning for your 2013 holiday and offers local holidaymakers the perfect opportunity to meet and talk with tour operators and airlines flying from Norwich International and to pick up brochures including Fly Norwich 2013 which is being launched at the event.
Over 25 tour operator, airline and business stands including local hotels, and flying schools will be on hand throughout the day to chat, offer first-hand destination and product advice on their Norwich departures.
There are also great opportunities to save money with exclusive offers and fantastic booking incentives available on the day including 5% off and free Norwich airport parking for all holidays booked.
Plus, the chance to win fabulous prizes in the Grand Draw being held at 2.30pm with the main prize a fabulous holiday for 2 to Lake Garda, other prizes in the draw include; short break to Isle of Man, return flights to Aberdeen, holiday vouchers, flying lessons and much more. Additional free to enter competitions will be taking place throughout the day with many more great prizes to be won.
A must visit event for all your travel needs from Norwich International!
Bigfork have just designed and launched the new website for Archway Events, East Anglia’s leading corporate hospitality and events management company. The new website has a greatly improved navigation system combined with a modern, image led design promoting corporate dinners, sporting events, parties, golf days, theatre nights and so much more. You can see the new website here.
Freebridge Community Housing is proud to announce the completion of its new affordable housing development in the heart of Brancaster Staithe.
The development, comprising of 12 homes, has been built on the former site of Freebridge properties that were damaged beyond repair during a major fire in July 2022, caused by electrical storm arcing onto nearby trees during extreme heat.
The development was made possible thanks to funding from Freebridge and Homes England’s Affordable Homes Programme, and was delivered in partnership with Robson Construction Ltd, who worked closely with Freebridge to realise the vision of The Design Partnership’s plans which ensure the homes reflect the character and charm of the local area and includes seven three-bedroom houses, four two-bedroom houses, and one two-bedroom flat.
All properties are designated as affordable housing, helping to address the shortage of suitable homes for local families.
Among those celebrating the unveiling was Marlene Keeling, a former resident of one of the original homes, who returned to cut the ribbon on her brand-new house.
Marlene was joined by her family members, Freebridge CEO, Anita Jones, and North-West Norfolk MP, James Wild, as well as Brancaster Staithe Parish Council and representatives involved in the design and construction.
Mr Wild commented: “The design of these new homes shows a great respect for the village’s character with their quintessentially Norfolk flint work and red brick detailing to their modern touches from solar panels to EV charging.
“Having supported this project from its beginning after the original houses were damaged in the 2022 heatwave, it’s great to see these homes ready for local families to move into”.
This development represents a significant step forward for Brancaster Staithe, a village where the rise in second home ownership has made it increasingly difficult for local people to find affordable places to live.
With many properties in the area used as second homes, holiday homes or short-term lets, the availability of permanent housing for year-round residents has been limited.
By delivering homes that are both affordable and environmentally conscious, Freebridge is helping to rebalance the local housing market ensuring that those with strong ties to the community can continue to live, work, and thrive in the community.
Anita Jones, CEO of Freebridge Community Housing, said: “We’re proud to mark the completion of these new homes in Brancaster Staithe, an important milestone in our commitment to supporting sustainable communities across West and North Norfolk.
“This development goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about enabling local people to remain rooted in the places they call home, despite growing pressures from second home ownership and rising housing costs.
“By investing in high-quality, energy-efficient homes, we’re helping to secure the future of coastal villages like Brancaster Staithe, ensuring they remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient for generations to come”.
The Click Design Consultants are delighted to announce that they have been appointed to create an advertising campaign for the National Trust.
The campaign will aim to highlight the breadth of offer, encourage repeat visits and communicate the Trust’s great outdoor experiences – as well as showcase the wonderful properties. Launching in May, the campaign will run across the East of England.
Creative Director, Bobby Burrage comments:“We’re extremely proud of our client list. Year on year it becomes evermore diverse with a wonderful array of organisations. It’s an honour to be able to name the National Trust as a client and we’re very excited about starting work with them.”
Our next open morning will be on Saturday 16th March, 9-11am.
A year group of students will act as your guides and you will have the opportunity to visit a Boarding House, all the Teaching Departments of the College and the Music, Drama and Sports facilities.
The Principal, senior staff members and Admissions Office staff will be available to welcome you and discuss the opportunities that the College can offer your son or daughter.
Pure Resourcing Solutions has expanded its Norwich team with the appointment of Emma Saunders who joins the recruitment consultancy’s Accountancy Division.
Joining the company’s Norwich office, Emma brings over 10 years experience in specialist consultancy recruitment to the role. She previously worked for Hales Group and has recruited in the Norwich and Norfolk market dealing with a range of organisations ranging from SME’s to large blue chip organisations.
On joining Pure Resourcing Solutions, Emma said: “My approach to recruitment is very much in line with Pure’s ethos of taking the time to understand the client’s business needs and expectations whilst providing a fast turnaround of quality candidates. It is great to be working with a team that takes an honest, committed approach, and places such an emphasis on developing long term client and candidate relationships, to achieve the best quality service.”
Emma, from Briston, will be responsible for temporary accountancy vacancies across Norfolk. These include Credit Controller’s, Ledger Clerk’s, Bookkeeper’s, Payroll, Accounts Assistant and Part Qualified Accountants.
Director of Pure Resourcing Solutions, Gill Buchanan, said: “Emma has solid experience in the accountancy sector, coupled with an impressive recruitment background. She is a motivated professional who will make a valuable contribution to the team – it’s fantastic to have her knowledge and expertise on board as we move into 2013.”
Pure’s Accountancy division covers the full spectrum of accountancy positions from accounts clerical – Purchase and Sales Ledger Clerks – to board level – Finance Director and CFOs – on an interim, contract and permanent basis. Our client base covers commercial businesses – from local SME owner-managed businesses to Blue Chip companies such as Aviva, Greene King, AXA, ARM and Willis – Public and Third Sector bodies – Charities, NHS, Housing, Education and Local Authorities – to firms of Accountants, ranging from small local firms to the Big Four.
A report published by the Legal Ombudsman today (28 February), entitled “The Costs of Separation”, has featured highly in today’s news. The report found that divorce lawyers have the highest number of complaints from clients, compared with other areas of law. The report also found that some divorce lawyers are failing to advise their clients to settle financial matters out of Court, therefore resulting in unnecessary costs.
Emma Alfieri from Steeles Law’s family team commented that she is “not surprised” by the report, having heard stories of previous experiences from her own clients, and added that, as a family lawyer, “you must provide your client with a fee estimate at the outset, and keep clients regularly updated with issues that arise later on during the case, which may have an effect on the initial fee estimate”.
However, Emma also feels that some media reports have been “an unfair generalisation”, based on the actions of a small number of unscrupulous individuals: “Nowadays we find that very few cases proceed to Court. The focus is now on settling matters out of Court, using alternative methods of dispute resolution, such as mediation. An application cannot be made to the Court until mediation has been attempted. Where mediation is not appropriate, or parties do not feel that they wish to attend, we can offer what is known as a “round the table meeting”. This is where both clients attend a meeting with their legal representative, in different rooms. This is another way of encouraging settlement without the use of the Court.
Family lawyers are now trained in this way and follow a code of practice that promotes a non-confrontational approach to family problems.
At Steeles Law we recognise that costs are an issue for clients going through divorce and separation. With this in mind, and due to the need for our clients to have certainty as to their costs, we have recently launched fixed fee divorce packages, which allow our clients to know from the start exactly how much the divorce is going to cost them.
We suggest to all clients that they attend one of our offices for an initial consultation and then, at that meeting, we can advise them whether they would qualify for a fixed fee service. This very much depends on the complexities of the case and bearing in mind that everybody’s circumstances are different. For example, a person wishing to bring a divorce (without children) would be offered a fixed fee of £650 plus VAT, plus Court fees of £385.
Emma Alfieri commented: “We also ask clients for partial payment at set times during the process. This enables clients to budget and know from the outset how much the whole divorce is going to cost. We also provide fixed fee financial settlements for clients wishing to finalise financial matters.”
For further information about fixed fees please contact a member of our family team on 01603 598000 or email [email protected].