Member News

DRIVE is a business mentoring and capital grant funding support programme for small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Norfolk or Suffolk that want to invest in a new project, which can assist with growth & expansion plans. We have 12 hours of free business mentoring available for applicants to discuss the project and business plans with one of our Business Mentors. Once an applicant has finished the mentoring, they can write and submit a grant application for up to 40% of a project’s total costs – capped at £30,000. What can an applicant use DRIVE for? DRIVE’s mentoring sessions are tailored to a business’s specific needs, so if you’re somebody who has never written a business plan before or you’ve written several, our team can help. DRIVE Business Mentors can assist with everything from marketing to risk assessments to competitive analysis, but ultimately, they exist to help you to design and perfect a realistic project plan that could potentially be awarded funding. DRIVE can only support capital investment projects – items that go on to a business’s asset register – so, we can support projects that mainly involve equipment purchases, technology upgrades & innovation, expansion plans, and tourist attractions. This is not a definite list. Who can apply? The DRIVE Team reviews every enquiry on a case-by-case basis because we know some businesses aren’t always straightforward in terms of structure or identification. Most eligible applicants have something to do with: manufacturing, engineering, accommodation, and private sports facilities. However, email driveteam@norfolk.gov.uk for a personal assessment. We cannot support all businesses due to regulations set by our funding provider, the European Regional Development Fund. We cannot assist those primarily involved with cafes, restaurants, bars, pubs, agriculture, horticulture, primary processing, health care, and accredited training. Examples of successful applicants

• An engineering company purchased a CNC machine.
• A brewery bought new cleaning equipment and barrels.
• An animal feed business obtained a new fridge freezer.
• An accommodation business purchased a new houseboat.

“We’d hugely recommend working with DRIVE; it’s been a game changer for our new start up in its infancy and we’re enormously grateful for the experienced support we received throughout the process too.” “I would definitely recommend DRIVE to anyone else for several reasons: the application is pretty straightforward, the mentoring shined a light on our strengths and weaknesses as a business, and the funding available is hugely attractive.” Any red tape?

• All eligible DRIVE applicants must impact the rural economy in one way or another – usually via site location, employees, customers or supply chain.
• All applicants will need to create new employment that is directly related to a project. Our benchmark is that for £25,000 in funding, we would expect to see 1 new full-time employee hired.
• DRIVE will potentially fund any activity that is eligible via ERDF regulations.
• We can support start-ups, but they will need to show more job creation within their 3-year business plan.
• A minimum total cost for a project is £12,500.

Additional information

• DRIVE will issue State Aid letters for our Mentor support at £50 per hour – there will be no invoice to pay.
• The process (from eligibility checks to an offer letter) takes about 2-3 months.
• DRIVE grants will be awarded under de-minimis (EU State Aid).

No expenditure can be incurred prior to signing a grant offer letter.

• Payments will be paid arrears.
• All applicants will need to show they can access sufficient funds for a project to go ahead.

DRIVE Contacts Email: driveteam@norfolk.gov.uk Website: www.driveforbusiness.co.uk Phone: 01603 222643 Twitter: @norfolkforbiz

In a dedicated modern building, Lanchester House, within the leafy grounds of Norwich High School for Girls, the Sixth Form is a place where each individual girl is supported and encouraged to flourish as they look towards a diverse, rich, exciting and unique future. There is an emphasis on pastoral and wellbeing support, a strong network of opportunities provided through the School’s place in the GDST family of schools, and a student-led and democratic approach. We seek to challenge traditional gender stereotypes, encouraging students to take risks and be adventurous to develop a strong sense of themselves free of any feeling that the script has been written for them. In an all-girls Sixth Form, all the leadership posts are taken by girls; with so many opportunities to lead or create groups, students grow in confidence and thrive in our Sixth Form through opportunities to make an impact on the whole school. Given our size, we can be extremely agile and the staff all do their best to fulfil the needs of each individual student. From asking what they would like covered in tutor time or the PHSE sessions, to sourcing bespoke courses in niche subjects, or finding a speaker or contact in an area of interest – we can adapt and develop our forward programme in accordance with the requests from the girls and what is topical externally. Hazel Packer, Director of Sixth Form commented: “Having just watched the Finale performance of our whole school Winter Arts Festival, I was once again blown away by the confidence, poise and composure of our Upper and Lower Sixth girls on the stage. “By placing our trust in them to take on responsibility, they reward us in turn by giving back and delivering in anything we ask them to do. I am always so impressed with their ingenuity and endless energy for innovation.” The Sixth Form follows the approach of the whole school in prioritising the wellbeing and mental health of all the pupils and they are very well supported through pastoral issues. We can tailor the content of our PHSE sessions to our students, and cover topics which will help prepare the students for their future life – from domestic abuse to trans rights, we aim to equip them with a broad awareness that may benefit themselves or their friends and family in the future. We celebrate cultural occasions and put a great emphasis on mutual respect and pupils being authentic – we have a Sixth Form Diversity Captain who has an increased role and kudos within the school. We have hosted assemblies and discussion groups on a variety of topics around inclusion and diversity. Mrs Packer added: “The Head Girls team this year have launched their own podcast, HeadStrong, and the Big Sister project which supports younger girls throughout the school goes from strength to strength. We are currently reviewing our rosta of Captaincy roles, which currently range from Eco Captain, through Media, Equality & Diversity, Social, Wellbeing and Charities to name a few.” Mrs Packer added: “We forge strong relationships with the students which outlast their time with us, and we are regularly in touch with our alumnae. In fact, any time we call on alumnae to give current girls advice; from university applications to careers talks, we are inundated with offers of valuable help.” We have limited spaces available for entry into our girls-only Sixth Form in Norwich, Norfolk for September 2022. If you are interested in finding out more, please call 01603 453 265 or email our Registrar – a.ready@nor.gdst.net to arrange a bespoke tour. Nikitha’s Story Having found her voice through being a Form Leader and Year 7 buddy in the Senior School, Nikitha went on to lead the Big Sister team through lockdown and was elected to the role of Deputy Head Girl. Nikitha has also been instrumental in the work of the Biology Inclusion Group who have sought to create a more diverse and inclusive science curriculum this year. A Grade 6 in Bharatanatyam Dance, she has performed for the school on numerous occasions and led a dance workshop for Prep pupils. With a genuine interest in the wellbeing of others, it was no surprise that Nikitha’s ambitions lie in the service of others. Alongside her A Levels and roles of responsibility in school, she has gained plentiful work experience, including volunteering at C-19 vaccination clinics, to support her application to read Medicine at university. Caitlin’s Story With a strong interest in theatre, music and the arts in general, Caitlin performed in many school productions and concerts throughout her time in the Senior School, most notably Miss Saigon. In the Sixth Form not only has she continued to make her mark through her own performances such as in ‘100’ and ‘Made in Dagenham’, but she also initiated, organised and compered an online theatre night involving collaborating with pupils from across the school in Lockdown. In her final year, she adapted Alan Bennett’s well known play, and directed performances of The History Girls with a cast of Senior School actors. In addition, Caitlin is the school’s Duke of Edinburgh Ambassador helping to nurture the confidence and skill set of younger pupils. Caitlin is looking forward to studying Theatre at university. https://www.norwichhigh.gdst.net/looking-to-the-future-introducing-norwich-high-school-for-girls-sixth-form/

Captain Fawcett is simply delighted to have been included in the Export Award shortlist for the prestigious Insider Made in Central & East Awards 2022. Huzzah! An independent judging panel selected shortlists of manufacturing and engineering businesses with Captain Fawcett proud to be in the company of some of the finest regional contenders. The businesses in question will be showcased at the gala awards dinner which is taking place at the Jurys Inn, Milton Keynes on the evening of 31st March 2022, an event now in its seventh year. The winners of all the categories will be announced during the awards dinner. The awards celebrate and reward the excellence of the manufacturing sector and its skilled workforce, recognising companies that have excelled in innovation, product development and growth in either domestic or overseas markets over the course of the last 12 months. Chaired by Insider’s regional business editor Philip Cunliffe, an independent panel of expert judges scrutinised and assessed all the entries to decide the category shortlists and ultimate winners. Mr Cunliffe said: “We all know how difficult and challenging the last couple of years have been but if there’s a business sector that has risen to these challenges and performed better than most, it’s the manufacturing sector. “Almost from the outset of the pandemic, manufacturers in the region stepped up to the mark and have innovated, diversified and invested to make sure they remain productive and competitive. “Many of the businesses on the shortlists have demonstrated exceptional qualities and we’re really excited to be able to reward them at what I know will be a wonderful night of celebration of the manufacturing sector in the region.”

Your brand is more than your name, we know this. It’s your energy, personality, values, and more personality! It’s a way to connect and build a relationship with your customers on a more deep and meaningful level and create a connection that goes beyond your logo. People want to buy from brands with heart and soul – they want to know who they’re investing in and that you are invested in them. It’s a busy online marketplace and we have just seconds to capture customers’ attention. If you’re happy squirrelling away on a laptop, working 1-2-1 with a client in your therapy room, or practising your scales in your studio, your customers want to see you doing what you do best! What do you think? I want you to fall in love with marketing your business, and the first step to getting there is images that highlight your unique personality, experience and expertise so that you can proudly market why you do, what you do and how you do it, with fresh confidence! So say goodbye to digging through old holiday snaps for your LinkedIn profile, and using stock photos on your website. Not convinced you need new business images? Here’s what some people had to say:

“Working with Rob has transformed my business. I hired Rob based on the many recommendations I had received from friends and the photography he provided was first class. The images have significantly enhanced the quality of my website and social media content. The service was professional, creative and just what I was looking for. I can 100% recommend Rob to anyone looking to improve their business profile.” Matt Fever – Personal Trainer

“Rob is a wonderful person to work with, and the result has always been beyond expectations.” Henriette De Vrijer – Violin Teacher

Ready to book something in? Let’s create photos that are uniquely you, uniquely your brand, and ready to show your business off to the world! Let’s Talk !!  

This article first appeared in the Norwich Evening News ‘School Focus’ by Penny Cottee on Saturday 12 February 2022.

A group of students from Norwich High School for Girls has helped pupils from nearby Parkside School to create artwork which was put on display as part of the high school’s public exhibition at the Forum in Norwich. The independent day school’s annual Winter Arts Festival exhibition, including work from the Parkside School, ran from February 7 to 9. Norwich High School for Girls has been working with The Parkside School, which is a specialist communication and interaction school, for the past five years. A group attends once a week as part of the Lower Six community-based enrichment programme, and works with children with complex needs to express themselves through art. For the girls, meeting the Parkside school children provides them with a rewarding learning experience. “It has been a genuine pleasure to see the artwork that the children have managed to accomplish and to have helped them along the way,” said student Shadan Damnesh. “Having particularly enjoyed talking with the children, I now feel significantly more confident in my communication skills to different audiences, and as a prospective medical student, this experience has motivated me to help out further in any ways that I can.” Fellow pupil Abi Smith added: “I thoroughly enjoyed helping with this project, it has been very inspiring for me to see how creative the group is and how interested in the project they are. I loved seeing how proud they were of the finished outcome, and I think it turned out amazingly.” For this year’s annual Winter Arts Festival exhibition, students have been producing artwork based on the artist and designer, Christopher Marley, who uses natural artefacts as his medium of expression, to enjoy mark making techniques using a variety of materials. Prior to the project with The Parkside School, Norwich High School for Girls also worked with Harford Manor and The Clare School, which are also schools for pupils with complex needs. The value of collaboration Sarah Taylor, Head of Art at Norwich High School for Girls, said, “We really value the ongoing relationship we have with The Parkside School and the opportunity it gives us to help the children produce final pieces they can see in a public place. The children we are working with at Parkside are 12 years of age and it gives them a real sense of pride to see their work on display. The quality of the pieces is fantastic, and we were really impressed with the exhibition.” Jenny Ross-Nevin, from The Parkside School, said, “Norwich High School for Girls students shared their art skills generously with Shark Class at The Parkside School over a period of several Monday afternoon sessions.  Sharks really looked forward to working with the girls, chatting with them and learning some exciting mark making techniques. This collaborative effort, which involved a lot of preparation on the part of the High School girls and some very expressive mark making from the Sharks, really enriched the Parkside children’s experience of art in action.” Assistant Head – Enrichment at Norwich High School for Girls, Owain Hall added: “Enrichment encompasses so much of what we do at Norwich High School for Girls, and we certainly offer stretch, challenge and fun beyond the classroom. Our enrichment programme helps enable students to unlock their potential and develop in confident and resilience, equipping them with the skills and values required in our changing society.” The Norwich High School for Girls Winter Arts Festival 2022 encompassed various events between 4 to 11 February which were open to the public, including two concerts and “The Great Outdoors” art exhibition at the Forum. There was a finale celebration at the Norwich Playhouse. the full write up from the festival can be seen here.

Christmas may have passed but Barnham Broom are bringing it back this March. Everyone loves a Christmas party, full of glitz, glamour and festive spirit, but many missed the opportunity to celebrate in December due to covid. That’s why, on Friday 18th March, Barnham Broom will be hosting their ‘It’s not Christmas, Christmas party’, with plenty of fizz, delicious dishes and music from their resident DJ. It’s the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and make new memories. So, for those that did miss out last year on the turkey and the tinsel, want to get together again to socialise or are just Christmas fanatics, join Barnham Broom for a party night not to remember! Make the experience extra special and combine their Christmas party with an overnight stay, relax in one of their rooms, unwind with a Spa treatment, enjoy a game of golf and make use of their leisure facilities. To book call 01603 759393 or email events@barnham-broom.co.uk You can find more information here: www.barnham-broom.co.uk/whats-on/ Barnham Broom is a resort near Norwich, Norfolk. Overlooking 300 acres of beautiful countryside and the River Yare Valley, the venue features a luxury four-star hotel, spa, leisure centre, two golf courses, award-winning Brasserie restaurant, Sports Bar and conference room. It is a popular choice for weddings and events. Visit www.barnham-broom.co.uk to find out more

From September 2022, Langley School welcomes a brand new Head of Prep to lead the co-educational independent school at its stunning Taverham Park site. After 14 successful years of Headship, Mike Crossley retires from Langley Prep but his successor is no stranger to the school. New Head of Prep Jason Hyatt was formerly Deputy Head for three years, before he took up a role at Gresham’s in north Norfolk in 2018. With decades of experience in education, Jason is also an ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) Reporting Inspector and a Satips (Support and Training in Prep Schools) Council Member. Jason comments, “I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Langley community as the Head of Langley Prep School. It is great to be returning to a school that I know so well from my time previously as Deputy Head.” Langley is famed for celebrating intellectual curiosity, confidence, kindness and integrity, and Jason is keen to see these values in action, particularly given that Langley Prep School sits within a 100acre site of ancient woodland and parkland, home to a fantastic Outdoor Learning Centre, all just a stone’s throw from Norwich. “I am passionate about pupils achieving their best through the many opportunities available to them while having kindness at the heart of everything that they do.” Jason continues, “The School is extremely lucky to be located in such stunning grounds, giving children the freedom to grow. I believe that education is constantly moving forwards, reflecting the ever-changing needs of the world around us, and it is our job to help prepare our young people for this.”

Fosters Solicitors and Norwich City Football Club are delighted to confirm the renewal of their partnership in a new multi-year deal, taking the relationship through to the 2024/25 season. Having first partnered with the Canaries back in 2011 to become the club’s official legal partner, Fosters also supports the Norwich City Community Hero initiative and the Norwich City Fans Social Club. Throughout our decade of involvement with the club, we have helped provide legal support to many Norwich City supporters and its wider community, currently offering a 15% discount on our range of services to season ticket holders and members.* Sam Jeffery, Norwich City commercial director, said: “Our partnership with Fosters is one of the most long-standing of our partner portfolio, and with us now entering an 11th season working with this brilliant local firm, we’d like to place our sincerest thanks to them for their continued support. “As well as supporters, colleagues and partners able to access their legal expertise, the relationship is also firmly embedded in the club’s community, with their wider support for our Community Hero initiative and through the Norwich City Fans Social Club, the Community Sports Foundation. We are proud to be able to extend this key partnership and look forward to working with Fosters as a primary partner for another three seasons.” Andrea Spooner, Fosters’ practice director, added: “The building of relationships forms part of our core values at Fosters, and this partnership embodies this for us. We take enormous pride in having worked together with the commercial team and wider club for over a decade. “Many of our colleagues and clients are Norwich City supporters, but more than that, through the community work and reach of the club and its fans we’ve been able to highlight and support the wonderful work of key charities, people and good causes in our local community.” She added: “This week we have been delighted to launch a fresh new look for Fosters Solicitors, which includes a brand-new logo and website. This will mean a change across our digital, print and physical branding, and we’re thrilled to highlight this new look across our signage and digital assets at Carrow Road at today’s match and those moving forward.”  

TaxAssist Accountants Franchisee Mike Melling joins The TaxAssist Direct Group Board of Directors. Mike Melling becomes the first TaxAssist Accountants franchisee to hold an executive role on the board of directors. He has been appointed as Group Development Director at The TaxAssist Direct Group, a role he will undertake while continuing to operate his highly successful multi-site franchise in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. “It is an honour to have been asked to join the Board of Directors,” said Mike. “I was impressed with the comprehensive TaxAssist Accountants franchise package when I first came across the franchise in 2012 and, having significantly exceeded my business and personal goals I set out as a franchisee, I am now looking forward to contributing to the next, exciting stage of the Group’s global development and growth plans. “Within my franchise I have built a terrific team of colleagues, who seamlessly run my practices, which means I am now in the position where I have the time to take up a position on the Board, and help TaxAssist build on its market leading position in the UK to support small businesses around the world, including the launch of our new financial services business.” Mike’s key responsibilities will be to support the growth of the global businesses, help with the development of the UK based subsidiaries and to develop further support for UK based franchisees using the knowledge and experience he has built up in the ten years he has been a franchisee. Mike joined TaxAssist Accountants in 2012, after purchasing a franchise resale covering Harpenden and St Albans – the first £1m+ resale for the network. Pleased with the results he was generating, he bought a second franchise resale covering the High Wycombe and Beaconsfield area in 2015. He and his team of 25 staff now serve nearly 2,000 small businesses, directors and individual clients from six shops and offices, with the combined businesses being one of the largest TaxAssist Accountants practices in the UK. As well as his UK interests, Mike is a Director and Investor in both TaxAssist Direct USA Inc and TaxAssist Financial Services. Daren Moore, Group Managing Director, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Mike to the Board. As a highly successful franchisee who has lived and breathed the brand for the last ten years, he will be invaluable to both the Board and his fellow franchisees, who will be able to benefit from his knowledge and understanding of running a practice. Mike also brings with him extensive international business experience which will be very beneficial as the brand expands globally.”

The Council is holding its Annual Business Ratepayers meeting next Friday, 11 February 2022 at 9:00am via Teams where the Director of Finance, Ms Karen Sly, will report on the Council’s budget for 2022-23. If you would like to attend please email Christina Webb. See agenda document pack below.  agenda_document_pack_-_annual_business_rate_payers_-_11_02_2022_-_complete_access_preview.pdf

Family friendly rights “An Employment Bill was announced in 2019 and is expected to be passed in 2022. This includes the introduction of statutory neonatal leave and pay for parents of babies requiring neonatal care, and the extension of the redundancy protection period for employees on maternity leave to up to six months after they return to work. The government has also confirmed the introduction of carer’s leave as a new statutory right. This will entitle employees with caring responsibilities to take up to one week of unpaid leave per year from day one.” Third party harassment “Changes to harassment laws are expected in 2022, including an extension to the time period employees have for raising tribunal claims and enhanced protection against harassment from third parties, such as clients, customers and members of the public. Training for employees will need to be updated on this point, as will organisational policies.” Read more here: https://bit.ly/3GO2pa7 Do you need advice on these issues?  Get in touch: sarah@ignitepeoplesolutions.co.uk

MAD-HR has won the Feefo Gold Trusted Service award for 2022 for the second year running and it is fair to say that we’re feeling a little giddy as a result!  This follows on from us being recognised as a finalist in the Suffolk Business Awards in the Customer Excellence category. Since 2014, Feefo has recognised the businesses who deliver exceptional experiences, using feedback from real customers. The Trusted Service Awards are unique as they are based purely on feedback from real customers. This means they are a true reflection of commitment to outstanding customer service. Feefo have given Gold Trusted Service awards to businesses who have collected at least 50 reviews between January 1st 2020 and December 31st 2021, with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 4.9. Liz Owers, Head of Client Services commented: “We’re thrilled to receive this award from Feefo. It means a lot because it’s based on feedback from our clients and, ultimately, keeping them happy is why we come to work each day. The award also recognises just how hard our team have worked in really difficult circumstances. We’re fully committed to the highest quality of service, so it’s vital for us to listen, understand and respond to all our customers.” Congratulating MAD-HR, Tony Wheble, CEO at Feefo, said: “The Trusted Service Awards recognise companies who above and beyond to provide the very best customer experience. “I’m so impressed by how our customers have overcome the challenges of the past two years. I can’t wait to see what they achieve in 2022.” If you would like to learn more about how we support our clients and more importantly how we can support you and your business, please get in touch.   About Feefo Feefo is a leading global customer reviews and insights platform on a mission to empower its clients to fully understand how their customers experience their product or service. The Feefo suite of software, combined with its technical solutions expertise, enables its clients to gain a deeper understanding of customer sentiment, behaviour and intent, empowering them with insights to make better business decisions and improve their return on investment. With 96% of customers relying on reviews to purchase, Feefo also creates trust between consumers and businesses by adopting a unique approach to only collect verified reviews from real people.