Member News

Huxley Events are delighted to announce the launch of a fresh, new virtual team experience “Property Empire”! Perfect of groups from 10-100+ Guests wanting to immerse themselves into something completely new!

• An exciting, unique and never done before, realistic glimpse into the complex world of real estate investing
• Created by real life investors who are walking the walk and talking the talk
• If you’re looking for a new experience to get your team talking and their hearts racing then this is the one for you.

The aim of the game is for teams to build a property portfolio, accumulating as much wealth as possible.

The winning team are the team with the most money at the end. They do this through three rounds and during each, they acquire varying amounts of investment properties and cash. Their choices at the start of each round, and their success in navigating the different challenges that await, will determine their position at the end.

After a short introduction into the world of property investing, teams will be given the choice of what investment strategy they want to follow first. Their choice will determine their possible score, which will add to their wealth.

The first round is a series of property-themed multiple-choice riddles and brain teasers, with questions designed to engage all participants, varying from mathematical puzzles to wordy brain teasers (no prior knowledge of the property world required).

Round 2 then takes teams to their second choice of strategy. After they have decided their investment route, they must work through a series of light hearted but realistic, hypothetical property-based scenarios (scenarios range from tenant issues to moral dilemmas, to how to deal with shady investors).  With each scenario teams must decide what kind of investor they want to be, and how much risk they are willing to take. This will really test a team’s communication, risk analysis and decision-making skills, whilst giving them a glimpse into the ever surprising, and sometimes murky world of real estate.

The final round is a series of fast paced questions and challenges, where a team effort is required if they are to answer all the questions in time. The questions are fun and interesting, and are based on wealth and real estate.

In between rounds, teams will see their wealth increase or decrease before their very eyes, based on their decisions and scores, encouraging competition and excitement. In addition, throughout the event, teams will have the opportunity to boost their wealth through bonus questions, and other surprise elements. However, as is true in the real world of property investing, teams’ journeys won’t always be plain sailing. There will be curve balls and setbacks, which could damage their investments, and ultimately jeopardise their position on the leader board. It will be down to each team to decide how to respond!

Are you brave enough to build your empire?

Contact the Huxley Team to chat about your event, or event for your client! www.huxleyevents.com or call 01953 308386

What is customer experience? It’s the emotional connection that the customer has with a business. Better known as customer service, it’s more than just functionality – experience is about how people are made to feel. Judy is here to explain why this is incredibly important for tourism, leisure and hospitality businesses to focus on, moving out of the pandemic, and to secure their future past the initial frenzy of ‘being let out again.’

Judy has worked with food and beverage-based businesses for decades, from accountancy to marketing, from secret shopping to research & development (R&D). She is currently helping advise businesses on their brand reputation, which is the biggest risk to them moving out of lockdown. You don’t normally get a second chance at making a first impression, but for many leisure businesses, this is the opportunity they now have!

Judy walks Chris through exactly what the customer experience really is; how staff need to be encouraged to take ownership of this experience; and how a business’s values and strategy must be key in all decisions.

She highlights the need for a tweak on your USP – unique, small and personal; a focus on the three P’s: people, process and performance; how product knowledge is key; and remembering that your people are your biggest and most important asset! There is a difference between having a task and a role, and investment in your staff might be key for your good reputation!

Judy’s overall insights for, and message to, businesses in the sector is an important one not to be missed and is essential listening for anyone working at any level within the sector.

Learn more about the work Judy does with insight6 here.

Listen here!

Due to dramatic growth, Shield Health & Safety Ltd, are currently looking to recruit experienced and qualified forklift instructors to join our busy and dynamic team based in Norwich.

Successful applicants will be involved in delivering Accredited training throughout East Anglia and at multiple locations.

All course presentations and paperwork will be provided.

We are offering the benefits of a full time employed position to the right candidate.

Included in the package is a company vehicle and enrolment on our pension scheme.

The applicant should:

Hold Instructor RTITB or AITT qualifications

Ideally have experience in delivering multiple forklift courses

Be willing to travel to various locations throughout East Anglia.

For any addittional information or to enquire about the position please contact enquires@shieldhealthandsafety.co.uk

See more information here. 

The online service to make a claim through the fourth Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant is now open.

The eligibility criteria for the fourth grant are notably different from the SEISS grants that preceded it, specifically the requirement to have a ‘reasonable belief’ that there will be a ‘significant reduction’ in trading profits.

Without proper assessment of these requirements, claimants risk exposing themselves to HMRC penalties if it is later determined that the criteria have not been met.

With the very specific eligibility conditions required by the fourth SEISS grant, it is important to be aware of the procedure for reporting overpaid grant amounts and the process HMRC will action in recovering these amounts.

Informing HMRC about overpayments

If a SEISS grant has been overclaimed and not repaid to HMRC, they must be informed within their notification period – this is 90 days after the overpaid SEISS grant is received.

To recover the full amount of an overpaid grant, HMRC will make a tax assessment. If an assessment is made, the claimant will be notified by HMRC and payment must be made within 30 days of the assessment.

Interest will be charged on any late payments and HMRC may also charge late payment penalties if the amount remains unpaid 31 days after the due date.

Overpayments and Self Assessment

If the overpaid grant is repaid, or HMRC have made an assessment by the date the tax return is submitted, it does not need to be included in the Self Assessment tax return for 2020 to 2021.

If the overpaid grant is not repaid and HMRC have not made an assessment by the date the tax return for 2020 to 2021 is submitted, details of the overpaid SEISS grant must be included in the return.

Penalties

A penalty may be charged if HMRC are not informed, within the notification period, about an overpaid grant that the taxpayer was aware they were not entitled to.

The penalty could be up to 100% on the amount of the SEISS grant that the claimant was not entitled to receive or keep.

If the taxpayer was not aware they were not entitled to the grant, a penalty will only be charged if the grant has not been repaid by 31 January 2022.

The HMRC Payment Support Service can be contacted on 0300 200 3835.

Email scams

It is vitally important to stay vigilant and mindful of all requests that you receive asking for personal information or any contact from someone purporting to be from HMRC.

Increasingly, some of the fraudulent campaigns in circulation are extremely convincing and persuasive. There is a current email scam targeting claimants of the fourth SEISS grant, the email has the subject line “HMRC SEISS Tax Refund Notification” and uses an official GOV.UK logo.

Below is an example of the scam

There are grammatical errors within the email, highlighting it as a phishing scam, in addition to the fact it refers to the grant as a ‘tax refund’ rather than a grant.

The email asks the recipient to click on a hyperlink to make their claim and then advises them that their passport and driving licence details are required in order to complete the claim.

Recipients of the phishing scam have advised to be heedful of any emails from support@access.service.gov.uk (mailto:support@access.service.gov.uk)

St Edmunds Society recently spoke to the EDP about the wonderful work they are doing in our local community.  Helping young people get valuable work based skills ready for employment.

Please read the feature HERE and watch the video attached.

TaxAssist Accountants, the UK’s largest network of accountants, founded in Norfolk, is celebrating another landmark in its success story – the opening of its 250th shop.

While many brands have been forced to close stores over the past year, TaxAssist Accountants, which last year won ‘Business of the Year’ at the Norfolk Business Awards, has continued to grow its network by opening 20 new tax and accounting shops across the UK between July and December 2020, and seven so far in 2021.

Since the very first shop opened on Aylsham Road in Norwich in 2002, their branded offices have continually proven to be one of the largest sources of client growth for the network, because of their highly visible locations and their open and welcoming atmosphere along with décor designed to reflect the friendly, modern service on offer by the accountant.

Each practice is independently owned by over 240 franchisees across the UK and in the last few years, further shops have opened up across Norfolk, in Attleborough, Kings Lynn and the latest on Ber Street in Norwich in 2019.

The network’s 250th shop was opened by Caterham-based Karthik Vasanthakumar, who only launched his accounting practice in October 2020, having quickly found and fitted out his shop, and is already making a real difference in his local community.

“It has been a long-held dream to build my own practice and I’m really enjoying the client interactions I’ve had so far. With footfall now increasing, and lots of positive comments from clients on the look and feel of the shop, I’m confident it will continue to be a draw as I look to grow the business.”

James Mattam, Group Business Development Director, said: “It is fantastic news that we have been able to continue to open many shops especially during such an unprecedented year, and that more businesses will be able to benefit from our first- class service offering.

“With growing interest in joining the TaxAssist Accountants network and an increased demand for our services from clients, the indications are that the network is set for further substantial growth through our unique shop model.

“Our entire business model has always been centred around what clients want. We decided nearly 20 years ago that clients want a retail experience where they could get away from their own business and focus on their finances with our advisers. They often take comfort from the fact that their TaxAssist Accountant is on their side and a part of their team to ensure their finances are managed well and their tax bill is reduced wherever possible and our shops provide that safe space to address these matters.”

The network, which was founded 26 years ago, has grown consistently year on year since opening their first shop in Norwich. Globally, it now services more than 83,000 business clients with a fee bank of more than £57 million from 435 shops and offices. As well as operating in the UK, TaxAssist Accountants has successfully launched in the Republic of Ireland, Australia, Canada and the USA, with further expansion planned in the short term.

If you have a background in finance and share a passion to help local independent businesses, a TaxAssist franchise provides the systems and support you need to be successful. Regular Virtual Discovery Days are available to attend, where you can find out more about the technical, marketing and business development support on offer. Call 0800 0188297 for an initial conversation or submit an enquiry here, to register your interest.

Paralympic swimming champion, Jessica Jane Applegate MBE, has become a keen cyclist during the pandemic lockdowns and is urging local cyclists to sign up to the Norwich 100 which takes place on Sunday 6th June. This year funds raised for Big C will go towards the charity’s new cancer support and information centre in the heart of Norwich.

Jessica-Jane who lives at Burgh Castle near Great Yarmouth, said, “I am a local girl and I love supporting local causes. Big C is a great charity doing so much to help those in our community with cancer and their families. The new centre in Norwich will be a fantastic facility that will provide support for many. Depending on my training commitments, I am hoping to ride the Norwich 100 on their behalf and I would encourage any keen cyclists to do the same and raise much needed funds for the charity.

“I am new to cycling and it will actually be my first cycling event! I have discovered that Norfolk has a wonderful cycling community, I didn’t know it could be so much fun! What I like about the Norwich 100 is that it is a fun challenge and you don’t have to push yourself too hard if you don’t want to. It’s a lovely scenic route too.”

The Norwich 100 starts from Norwich City Hall, taking riders on a mighty 100-mile journey through picturesque countryside, passing landmarks such as Horsey Mill and Blickling Hall. There is also an adventurous 60-mile option or more relaxing 30-mile route available. The finish is located at Norwich Cathedral where they’ll be music, a beer tent and delicious food options to help everyone refresh, replenish and celebrate! All cyclists will receive a medal at the finish.

The cycle ride is fully Covid compliant and supported with clearly signed routes, marshals, medical cover, cycle mechanics and pick up vehicles.

Tom Holmes, Events and Engagement Manager at Big C, said, “The Norwich 100 is one of our first in-person events taking place since Covid restrictions have started to lift and we couldn’t be more excited! A big thank you to Jessica Jane, our wonderful sponsors and everyone else who is supporting Big C. We are extremely grateful to anyone who signs up and decides to fundraise for our charity and those affected by cancer locally. Whether you sign up for the 30, 60 or 100 mile ride every pound you raise will go directly towards the build and development of a vital new cancer support centre in Norwich.”

The main sponsor for the event is Loveday and Partners Independent Financial Planners. Mark Loveday, director of the company, said, “We chose to sponsor this event and continue our support of Big C because they contribute significantly to the improvement of cancer prevention, diagnosis, care and treatment in our county. Proactively working to improve these areas is essential and Big C funds a significant amount of scientific research, whilst also providing practical support in our community when it is most needed. We also chose to support Big C this year in memory of Ted Hare, a trustee of Big C who recently passed away.”

Also sponsoring the event are long term supporters of Big C, Norwich Accountancy Services. Jon Hook, Director of Norwich Accountancy said, “It’s a privilege to sponsor Big C cancer charity and the Norwich 100! I’m supporting this event in memory of a great man, Michael Hook, my Dad who sadly passed away from cancer earlier this year. He was my hero and will be greatly missed.”

How do I take part in the Norwich 100?

1. Choose your distance and sign up for the event on the Bike Events website https://www.bike-events.co.uk/Ride.aspx?id=2700
2. Create your online fundraising page on Just Giving and start collecting sponsorship from your friends and family https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/Norwich100
3. Any questions, contact Big C’s fundraising team at fundraising@big-c.co.uk

www.big-c.co.uk

On this week’s episode of Impromptu Business Chat, Mark and James welcome special guest, TEDx Talk presenter and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) legend, Owen Fitzpatrick! They chat about the language of leadership, the science of decision making, reframing the language we use to motivate and positively influence ourselves and those around us, and how this applies to businesses!

As a qualified psychologist, Owen has coached more than 10,000 clients and worked with numerous large global corporate brands to help them perform more effectively, including professional sports stars, Olympic athletes, and billionaires!

Owen shares a fascinating insight into self-talk, practical neuroscience and the world of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). This chat really encourages you to think about your own strategies and which words and phrases work for you personally and professionally. Understanding how these language patterns can motivate us also applies to how your team operates and can even be used in your sales and marketing strategies.

This is a must-listen for all business owners, or anyone wanting to learn more about how understanding ourselves better can help us work smarter!

If you are enjoying Impromptu Business Chat, why not subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts, and leave us a 5* review, this helps others to find our podcast!

Local cancer charity, Big C, has expressed thanks and hailed the incredible fundraising success of newly crowned Norwich City Fans of the Season 2020-21, Chris Reeve and Jack Reeve.

Last weekend, co-hosts of the popular You Tube fan channel, TalkNorwichCity, streamed a 24-hour charity show which has raised a final grand total of £23,295 adding to the support they have given the charity over the past two years.

Former Norwich City players Darren Huckerby, Bradley Johnson, Dean Ashton, Russell Martin and Grant Holt took part in the weekend marathon with Bryan Gunn donating his personal winners medal. Norwich players Ben Gibson, Oliver Skipp, Adam Idah, Todd Cantwell, Jordan Hugill, Aston Oxborough, Russell Martin and Elliot Bennet all donated to Big C, with support from fans coming from across the globe for the Norfolk and Waveney cancer charity.

Tom Holmes, Events and Engagement Manager at Big C, said, “An enormous thank you to Jack and Chris for everything you have done for Big C this season and especially such an epic fundraiser last weekend! What a difference you have made to those with cancer and their families in our region. It was also amazing to see the support from fans and players for the Norwich and Norfolk community, a big thank you to all.”

PRESS RELEASE   Norfolk Feather Company Relocation to Snetterton, Norfolk   One of Diss’ oldest employers is closing its facility and relocating 47 staff to brand new Headquarters in Snetterton. After 50 years in the town, the Norfolk Feather Company, who provide quality feather and hollowfibre products to homes across the UK, will relocate all of its operations to Snetterton from September this year.   The Diss factory site has been sold to Michael Howard Homes who have been specialising in the strategic planning, property development and construction of individual properties of style and distinction for over 30 years.   Managing Director of the Norfolk Feather Company, Peter Crellen said: “whilst we are sorry to be leaving Diss after so many years of being synonymous with the town. The long term vision and strategy for the company has changed and that is to streamline manufacturing to meet the demand for high-quality, sustainable textile products. Our new “state of the art” building will provide better working conditions for all staff, including more space, a modern factory facility, larger warehousing, offices and a showroom. The new facility is an exciting prospect for Norfolk Feather, who with the support of its staff, are looking forward to the transition”.   Peter Crellen Managing Director   Photograph – Peter Crellen (left) and Patrick Hockley – Michael Howard Homes (right)

Ashtons Legal is delighted to announce the appointment of two new Senior Associates and 12 new Associates from within the firm.  

Promoted to Senior Associate level are Annabel Mayer and Faye Stolls. Annabel works in the Disputes team in Bury St Edmunds and Faye is also based in Bury in the firm’s Lifetime Planning team.

The new Associates are Joanna Baker, Karen Collins, Craig Fiddaman, Victoria Harnett, Roger Loomes, Sameena Manzar, Stefan Mitham, Kate Palombo, Jessica Piper, David Sloman, Amanda Smitherman and Emma Starr.

Working in Ashtons’ Bury St Edmunds office are Joanna Baker in Disputes and Kate Palombo who is a part of the firm’s Project Management Team.

In Ipswich, the new Associates are Karen Collins and Roger Loomes from the top-tier Personal Injury Team, Craig Fiddaman from Corporate and Commercial and Emma Starr who is the firm’s Lead Business Systems Analyst.

Based in the Norwich office are David Sloman in the Corporate and Commercial Team, Victoria Harnett in Commercial Property and Jess Piper in Employment Law.

In Cambridge, the new Associates are Sameena Manzar from the Family team, Stefan Mitham who heads up BD and Marketing and Amanda Smitherman who works in Lifetime Planning.

On route to their promotion all completed the Becoming an Effective Leader and Leading Effective Teams programme that Ashtons’ deliver internally.

Ashtons CEO, Edward O’Rourke says: “I would like to congratulate all on this achievement, which is richly deserved.  It is always rewarding to be able to promote talented team members from within the firm and this cohort is no exception”.

He adds: “These appointments demonstrate the commitment we have to investing in the professional development of our staff and take the number of associates in the firm to 47. Together with our 36 partners, they are working to meet a wide range of legal needs across the region and beyond.”

Pictured are: (l-r) Annabel Mayer, Craig Fiddaman, Roger Loomes, Faye Stolls, Karen Collins, Joanna Baker, David Sloman, Stefan Mitham and Sameena Manzar.

If you’re thinking about revamping your workplace, chances are you’re brimming with ideas and raring to go. But before you start throwing out furniture and ripping up carpets, there are a few key considerations to make before engaging the services of an interior designer.

To help you get started, we’ve compiled 6 top tips to get your project off on the right foot. They’ll help to define what you want to achieve and the people involved so your designer can hit the ground running – saving you a lot of time and money in the process.   Read the full article HERE   Layrd Design Ltd. www.layrddesign.co.uk 01223 952992