Member News

LSI’s Crome Court project was winner of the Design through Innovation Category at the East of England RICS Awards. LSI Partners Trevor Price and David Andrews and Associate Mirja Mainwaring, alongside representatives from UEA, Aecom and Ramboll, collected the Award at the RICS East of England Awards Dinner in Bury St Edmunds on the 6th May. Crome Court was also a runner up in the Infrastructure category and was shortlisted for Project of the Year and will now go through to the National RICS Awards in London later this year, often referred to as the ‘Property Oscars’.

The Judges commented that “Crome Court creates a new focal point within the residential quarter of the campus. It achieves extremely high standards of sustainability and is designed and built to reduce the carbon footprint significantly. Innovation comes through the design enhanced by the application of technology and construction methods.”

Partner Trevor Price said that Crome Court proves it is possible to create a distinctive, attractive and highly sustainable building within a tight budget and programme;”We’re absolutely delighted to have won the Design through Innovation RICS Award category. Crome Court is a great example of how we can design sustainable attractive buildings that are also highly efficient and offer great value for money. The University is delighted that the sustainability standards exceeded the brief, and can look forward to reduced energy and running costs in comparison with other residences.”

Martin Lovatt, Estates Project Manager at UEA commented “There is no doubt that the innovation and design of Crome Court has made a significant contribution to the character and appearance of this section of the campus and the surrounding area.At the beginning of the project, we sat down with LSI and spent an afternoon around the table to ask lots of very quick what if questions, to see what the implications were for the life cycle costing. What we actually found was a sweet spot where the life cycle costing and the capital cost of those materials were in line with each other. Our U value targets became secondary to finding what actually the best value for the building was. We estimated that in that afternoon around the table we saved £750,000…a good afternoon’s work!”

The secret of clear communication is keeping it simple. We recently proved this with the commercial we created for ‘Our Family Trust’. The company offers a legal document which enables householders to protect the ownership of their property for their descendants. Naturally there were caveats and legal niceties all over the place, so our creative team worked through (and rejected) a host of scenarios based on solicitors, or people making wills, or worried grandparents, or houses being re-possessed.

No, the teamsaid, let’s be simple and direct. Illustrate the fear of a grandparent for the future security of a grandchild, and represent the property using building blocks. Child builds house, granny happy. Child knocks house down, granny worried. Child builds up again, happiness restored.

And a final clever twist? Our modelmakers painted the blocks in the client’s corporate colours. And that made the graphic designer happy because it matched his animation. Simplicity all round, everyone happy. Most importantly, our client, of course! Everything was produced by our in-house team and shot in our TV studio in Norwich.

On average nearly one million UK workers were off sick from their employment for more than one month between 2010 and 2013.[i] Furthermore, it is estimated that sick days are costing UK employers about £29 billion a year as British workers take up to four times as many days off than rival economies, according to research from accountancy firm PwC[ii].

Against this backdrop, the Government has launched a new Fit for Work Service to combat this costly problem. It is hoped that the Fit for Work Service will help employees who have been on sickness absence for 4 weeks to return to work and support employers to better manage sickness absence among their workforce.The Government claim that the service is predicted to save employers £70 million a year and cut the time people spend off work by 20%.

However dealing with sickness absence continues to be a legal minefield for employers even in circumstances that the new Fit for Work Service supports employers managing longer term sickness absence.

Ashton KCJ’s employment team will explain how to get to grips with ill health absence of all kinds as well as how to get the best out of the new Government service at Norfolk Chamber HR Forum on 17 June at Dunston Hall.Issues that employers need to be aware of and effectively manage include:-

– monitoring absence of all kinds and recording it properly to get the best result

– considering whether or not the absence is genuine and issues of misconduct and malingering

– awareness of conditions which constitute a “disability” within the meaning of the Equality Act 2010

– pregnancy-related sickness absence

– mental health and stress absence

– differing strategies for dealing with long term or chronic sickness versus persistent short term absences

– the impact of ill health on entitlements under permanent health insurance (PHI) and pension schemes

– dealing with the medical and occupational health profession in a language your business can understand

Further details of Fit for work are available here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fit-for-work-guidance-for-emp…

To book a place for our HR Forum please visit:https://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/events/chamber-event/hr-forum-fit-work

[i] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/a-million-workers-off-sick-for-more-t…

[ii] https://www.hrmagazine.co.uk/hro/news/1077757/sick-leave-costs-uk-employe…

Many experienced executives may already have noticed that the traditional models of leadership are changing. Our world is rapidly moving on, and as a result, business leaders need to adapt to create and maintain a stable economy, and to ensure decisions work not only for the business, but for everyone around them and the environment.

Modern day society seems much more complex with economic, political and environmental crises reminding us that a major event thousands of miles away could affect our businesses, and our own stability.

With so many issues to tackle, it is becoming widely acknowledged that business has a significant role to play in tackling the causes to create a more balanced and stable world so we can all flourish.

As anexecutive recruitmentspecialist, Pure Executive aims to stay in touch with changing trends. Conscious leadership is one such trend – a movement emerging in response to our need to adapt, so we can help combat fundamental global issues such as poverty and climate change.

A deeper level of mindfulness, wisdom and emotional intelligence is required when making business decisions that benefit the whole, rather than just the bottom line. Since conscious leadership is a new phenomenon, we thought it useful to introduce the key characteristics required by a conscious leader.

1. Emotional intelligence

Until recently the word ’emotional’ was rarely used in the context of business. However, conscious leadership is shifting expectations, requiring increased levels ofemotional intelligence. Historically more emphasis has been put on IQ – not EQ – when it comes to running a successful enterprise, but conscious leaders need the ability to connect and empathise with others in order to build relationships with people of all kinds. EQ also entails being more aware of your own emotions and behaviour, and possessing the ability to manage yourself effectively.

2. Self-improvement

Another idea that drives conscious capitalism is the need for businesses to reach the highest possible potential. To achieve this you, as a leader, need to be prepared to not only be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses, but you also need to be willing to constantly improve yourself as an individual and as a senior professional. In doing this you also set an example to your employees, investors and shareholders who expect to see your organisation’s leadership demonstrating the brand’s values.

3. Identify a deeper purpose

The ability to identify and clearly communicate a deeper purpose for your business is key. However, this purpose should go well beyond financial targets, charity fundraising, reducing the carbon footprint and other traditional business goals (although all are important to sustainable business). Conscious leaders make the good of the planet and its people one of the fundamental reasons they are in business in the first place. Leadership expertJV Crum IIIsums it up nicely: “The new model of effective leadership demands that you evaluate the purpose of your business; more importantly, it requires that you dig deeper and ask, ‘What purpose does my life serve?'”.

4. A compassionate approach

Running a business with care and compassion is important to making decisions that have a long-lasting, positive impact on employees, customers, the supply chain and other stakeholders. Taking an understanding approach transforms errors into opportunities to improve, helping employees feel safe to explore new ways of working and innovating.

5. Lead with humility

Conscious leaders lead businesses with humility and typically avoid portraying a persona of power or status. They respond to the shift from a more traditional self-focused approach to a more aware and holistic leadership style. Successful conscious business is built on sharing information and knowledge, enabling others to do their best, collaborating with colleagues and sharing the credit of achievements.

For more information on conscious leadership, look at the member-owned organisation,Conscious Business, and its LinkedIn GroupConscious Business UK.

Pure Executivecan also help provide further insight into leadership skills. Contact us on 01223 209888.

Norwich website design and digital agency, Bigfork, have just finished the new Russian website for Porelle Membranes, who design and manufacture breathable films for high performance fabrics. Porelle Membranes want to expand their Russian presence and we recommended a standalone Russian website to fully optimise their search engine presence in Russia. Bigfork translated the existing English site into Russian and then built a new, responsive site which you can see at https://www.porellemembranes.com.ru/

Bigfork – we make websites stand outwww.bigfork.co.uk t:01603 513080

We’re delighted to be sponsoring the Adnams Spiegeltent again this year at theNorfolk & Norwich Festival 2015.

Inside theAdnams Spiegeltentyou’ll find world class performers who will thrill, entertain and enlighten with live music, dancing, acrobatics, comedy and more.

In partnership with Norfolk & Norwich Festival, we have a pair of tickets available for a night at the Spiegeltent on Saturday 23rd May to watch contemporary circus performersCircafollowed by British Blues & Folk bandCC Smugglers- both Sold Out events.

To enter visit:https://adnams.co.uk/win-a-night-at-the-adnams-speigeltent/

Aston Shaw, East Anglia’s fastest growing accountancy firm have become a partner sponsor on the inaugural Run Norwich 10k which will take place in the heart of the city on August 30th.

As partner sponsor Aston Shaw are keen to help increase the awareness of this exciting event which will not only boost the local economy through increased tourism, but will serve to raise the profile of the city and bring the local community together.

The run, which is limited to 4,500 spaces is open to runners of all abilities, has been taken from concept to reality by Norwich City Community Sports Foundation (CSF) with support from key organisations in Norfolk. It is hoped that following a successful first year, Run Norwich can go on to become a long standing tradition in the city.

Aston Shaw Director, Mark Noakes said:

“Aston Shaw are extremely excited to be sponsoring the first Run Norwich 10K. Not only will it be a great day to showcase the wonderful landmarks in the city, but also Run Norwich is going to be a chance to demonstrate the benefits of our community to everyone travelling down to run”.

Ian Thornton, director of CSF said:

“We’re extremely grateful for the support from Aston Shaw, who are clearly as enthusiastic as we are about Run Norwich and the benefits it will bring to our city. Support like this in our first year is invaluable to make Run Norwich a success, and we look forward to a memorable day in August.”

The run is likely to be one of the biggest events in Norwich this year. Over 1,000 people registered their interest on the first day of its announcement and thousands more are expected to visit Norwich on the day to watch the run.

We are out and about and on display this weekend!

Tourists walking down a Elm Hill will find this lovely display of the stars of our Christmas show, Beauty and the Beast, as well as a flock of puppets made by the pupils of Angel Road School with a little help and a lot of facilitation from their friends in Norwich Puppet Theatre’s Education and Outreach Team.

Over the weekend of 16th and 17th families of all ageswithout Norwich vs Ipswich Play off tickets can try their hand at making puppets like those in the Norfolk and Norwich Festival Children’s Garden Party in Chapelfield Gardens:https://www.nnfestival.org.uk/festival/children/the-garden-party4.

And over May Half Termwe have more activities on offer! This half term children can get creative and enjoy making their own characters at a themedpuppet making workshop. At the end of eachsession participants will have a wonderful working puppet to take home for a show! 5-11 years: Knights, Princesses and Monsters. Friday 29 May, 11am-12.30pm: Create a knight in shining armour, a beautiful princess or the monster who wants to take over the kingdom! 4+ years: Family Puppet MakingSaturday 2 May, 11am-12.30pm :The spaceships have landed!This is a fun-packed Aliens and Astronauts workshopfor children, mums, dads andgrandparents to create a cast of galactic puppet characters together.

More detailshttps://www.puppettheatre.co.uk/whats-on/workshops

And if you would like to know how your business could help, please contact the team to discuss opportunities to get your brand placed in our unique spaces, or in support of our outreach work with children, please call01603 615564.

With millions of people visiting the polling stations earlier this month in the UK General Election to decide the future Government, local charity East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) is asking people to cast more votes to help support their vital work.

EACH is just one of many charities hoping for success in the Community Fund run by Aviva;one of the UK’s leading insurers. Open to Aviva customers, employees, insurance brokers, financial advisers and the general public – Aviva asked people to submit projects and explain what a difference support from the Community Fund could make.

There are four categories: Health, disability and wellbeing, supporting the younger generation, supporting the older generation and community support with funding available from £1,000 up to £25,000.

EACH is entered in the health, disability and wellbeing category and is hoping to secure funds for their £10 million nook appeal for a new purpose built children’s hospice in the heart of Norfolk. If EACH secures enough votes the charity could be entered into the finals where a judging panel will award the funds. Voting closes on May 30th – to vote for EACH visit: https://community-fund.aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/2197/

When you visit the site you’ll need to register where you’ll then be given 10 votes which you can use to vote for EACH, or you can spread then around.

Continuing the voting theme, EACH is also looking for votes as part of the John Lewis Community Matters scheme. Every three months John Lewis shops select three community groups to help and customers use a token to vote for the organisation they’d like to support.

EACH is currently one of the beneficiaries of the Community Matters scheme at the John Lewis store in All Saints’ Green, Norwich. The Community Matters boxes will be located in the catering areas of the shop and EACH is encouraging people to supportthem every time they shop in the store.

Gary Cook, The Nook Appeal Corporate Fundraiser, said: ” With the country gripped by the recent election fever, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to inspire the local community to vote for EACH in two very important fundraising schemes.

“We’re delighted to be involved with such respected businesses as John Lewis and Aviva and would like to encourage as many people as possible to vote for us in the Aviva Communty Fund and Community Matters scheme at John Lewis in Norwich.

“Your votes could make a real difference to the lives of local life threatened children and young people as well as the families using EACH services.

22 April 2015

The new principal and chief executive of the College has officially started his new role this week.

52 year old David Henley joins the College with an excellent track record in education.

Mr Henley – who is married with two daughters – has joined Easton and Otley having previously been the Principal of Bicton College in Devon for five years.

His first position in education was as a technician at Oaklands College in Hertfordshire, before progressing to teach engineering subjects.

Since starting out, the son of a farmer – who grew up in Yorkshire – has gained over 30 years in land-based education and training that includes ten years as Principal of Kinston Maurward College in Dorset.

Chair of governors, Sally Bendall, said “We welcome David to this region and are delighted to have him leading the way forward for the college. His agricultural background and leadership experience make him the perfect choice to continue to position Easton and Otley College as a front runner in land based education both locally and nationally.”

On his new role, David Henley, said “I feel privileged to be able to lead Easton and Otley College on the next chapter of an already impressive journey. I’m excited by the challenge ahead and can’t wait to get started. I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor (David Lawrence) and will be looking to make my own mark, whilst also building on the strong legacy that he has made.”

“I’m also looking forward to working in this wonderful part of the UK, establishing new friendships and partnerships in the local communities and business world, whilst building on the many solid links that we have in East Anglia and beyond.”

David will be taking over from interim principal, Christina Sadler. Christina said “I’ve enjoyed my time as interim principal and will be continuing to work hard to support David in his new role. He has an impressive range of skills and a superb knowledge of the educational sector. The college is delighted he has chosen to work with us as we set about continuing to make a positive difference to the lives of those who choose to study and work with us.”

“I would also like to thank David Lawrence OBE – the former principal of college- for his outstanding contribution to education and we wish him all the very best for the future.” she added.

David Lawrence had to step aside as Principal for health reasons earlier this year. A celebratory event to mark his 22 years at Easton (before the merger of Easton and Otley) and then Easton and Otley College will take place in June 2015.

Vice Principal, Clive Bound will also be stepping down from his role in July. A successor for Mr Bound – who has spent seven years in his role – has yet to be announced.

Since 1995 we have provided high quality products and services and being located in a modern and spacious premises will help us to serve our customers to even higher standards. With this year bringing not only a new premises but 20 years in business and a year since we began our official manufacturing of ASAMS subsea MPI equipment, we are confident that wewill continue to not only offer the same professional service to meet our customers’ needs but,no matter the size or complexity involved, with so many years of experience, we are sure we canprovide solutions for even the most demanding requirements. Photos of our official opening ceremony will follow shortly.

We are also looking forward to watching our sponsored parties in action over the coming months. With the talented James Cowton riding inthe Isle of ManTT in place of injured team mateRob Barber and East Anglian Game FairJunior Sporting Clay Shoot winner Charlie Soanes, the summer is set to be as exciting as the beginning of 2015 for TVC.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers and suppliers for their support and look forward to continuing our relationship into the next 20 years.

If you read our blogs regularly, you’ll probably know that Pure is a real supporter of employee engagement. It works for everyone – it adds to the bottom line while giving people a great place to work.

Through our ownBest Employer awardswe’re seeing more and more fantastic engagement strategies being created by employers of all sizes around the East of England. Whether they’re charities, manufacturers, accountancy firms, media agencies or retailers, employers of all kinds are seeing the benefits from truly engaging with their people.

But we remain curious as to what other organisations are doing, since we want to learn from it ourselves, and we’re sure that you would like to keep up to date on what’s happening in the world of employee engagement too.

So we’ve been looking around for more inspiring examples of what employers are doing at the moment. Here are just a few that might just whet your appetite if you’re thinking of ramping up your own engagement activities.

1. State Street staff give TED talks

State Street, America’s second oldest financial institution is responsible for 12% of the world’s assets. Yet, this long-established organisation is moving with the times and embracing technology in its employee engagement activity – the firm has an exciting partnership withonline talk series, TED.

Employees submit presentation ideas for their own TED talks, and those shortlisted are coached by TED to refine their presentations. Employees present their work at the TED@State Street event held each year. Colleagues, friends and families are invited to attend, and presentations even go online onTED’s website.

2. Sainsbury’s very own heroes

Sainsbury’s employees’ receive recognition and rewards for outstanding contribution to charity and community support through the retailer’s Local Heroes scheme. Some staff have even been rewarded a trip to St Lucia to find out more about how Fairtrade supports banana farmers on the island, and their local communities.

And when not running one of the UK’s biggest supermarkets, CEO Justin King is listening to ideas from staff, and putting some of them into action. ‘Tell Justin’ is a scheme where people send their suggestions directly to him by text, email or postcard, and each message receives an individual response within six weeks.

3. Wellness scheme for international Mars staff

Multinational giant, Mars, runs a global wellness initiative for its employees, or associates, calledWinning with Wellness. The company offers discounted gym memberships, wellness weeks, health screenings, support for people who want to stop smoking, free activities such as yoga, football and badminton, on-site physiotherapy, on-site massage, theatre trips, among other activities, at sites around the world. Everyone is encouraged to get involved, and, importantly, activities are adapted according to the culture of each regional Mars site.

4. Engagement app at Heathrow

With most of Heathrow’s employees working across different areas of the huge airport, the staff engagement is a real challenge. So they developed an app for staff smartphones – it’s the ideal way to communicate with people on the move or working shifts. The content is regularly updated by employees themselves, sharing important information such as security notices and daily briefs.

5. Royal Mail staff website

With similar issues to Heathrow Airport, Royal Mail employees are located all over the UK, without desks or access to traditional employee communications, creating significant challenges for the company to keep people engaged. The company’s very own employee website,My Royal Mail, provides colleagues with relevant and topical content, input from the CEO, information about employee benefits, employee shares, charity news, competitions and opinion polls.

6. Pure’s wellbeing and fundraising combo

We couldn’t resist including our very ownPedometer Challenge, which combines our wellbeing strategy with our work for charities. Our staff in our offices in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich and Norwich take part in lunchtime walks, recording their mileage on pedometers as they go. Distances are logged and when we reach a combined target of 500 miles, Pure makes a corporate donation to our chosen charities.

If you want more information about employee engagement and its benefits to your organisation and its workforce, why not give us a call on 01223 299888.