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Help us shape the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS)

The Norfolk & Suffolk Nature Recovery Partnership are pleased to advise that the public consultation for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is now open.

The consultation runs from 16 April to 11 June 2025, and this is a key opportunity for individuals, landowners, organisations and communities to help refine our shared approach to restoring and enhancing nature across Norfolk.

To view the draft Strategy and to respond to the consultation follow the link www.norfolk.gov.uk/naturerecovery

We would greatly appreciate it if you could:

– Share your views through the online consultation survey

– Circulate the link to others who may be interested in taking part

Your continued interest and support are truly appreciated. By working together, we can create a Strategy that reflects local priorities and leads to meaningful action for nature across the county.

If the Suffolk LNRS is more relevant to you, please follow this link.

Stronger Workplaces start with Mental Wellness – Free Mental Health Workshop 16th May 2025

At Haswell Training we are dedicated to delivering awareness around Mental Health in the Workplace. On the 16th May 2025 we are offering a Free Mental Health in the Workplace – Suicide Awareness & Prevention half day workshop. 

Location: Haswell Training Centre, Salhouse Road, Norwich, NR7 9BB

Time: 1pm – 4pm

Are you:

– Interested in supporting the wellbeing of you & your team at work

– Concerned about the devastating suicide statics within the UK

– Want to feel better equipped to support your team members

Then this FREE workshop is for you.. 

To coincide with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, we are pleasured to offer this workshop specifically tailored to support in the workplace.

Delivered by an HCPC Registered Occupational Health Therapist this workshop will explore how to support someone that may be in a mental health crisis as well as ways that we an all firmly place mental health and wellbeing at the forefront of the workplace. 

Limited places available so please email frances@haswelltraining.co.uk or call us on 01603 394352 now to secure your place. Maximum of 2 places per organisation. 

Get More Leads Online or Your Money Back — SEO That’s Proven to Work

Yup, we really do offer a 6-month money-back guarantee on our SEO services.

Why? Because we’re confident it works. (And it always has.)

You won’t find any waffle here. Just real people, getting real results — and helping you get more leads online, without wasting money on stuff that doesn’t work.

Local to Norwich.
Big on results.
Backed by experience. (and happy clients)

Let’s make your marketing actually do something.

💬 Send us a message to find out more.

https://smashmarketing.co.uk/affordable-monthly-seo/ 

Drink, dine, dance…and make a difference to disability in Norfolk

The BUILD Charity has been providing services to people with disabilities in Norfolk for 58 years and that happens because people continue to support our work in offering social, leisure and learning opportunities to anyone, with any disability, aged 18 or over in Norfolk. Statistically, that is 20% of the population according to recent research – and one day could be you as 83% of people with disabilities acquire them during their lifetime, not at birth.

So protect the possibilities of your future by supporting us at our Charity Dinner, Dance, Auction and Entertainment at Carrow Road football stadium on Friday 4th July.  Single or multiple tickets available in tables of 8 or 10.  Visit DINE, DRINK, DANCE………. and make life a whole lot better for people in Norfolk with disabilities. It’s simple you have fun, we raise funds, our members get to enjoy the kind of social life that most of us just take for granted. To make both of these happen, please buy tickets for our BUILD Charity Dinner and Dance Event on Friday 4th July at Carrow Road Football Stadium. Full details here for more information https://www.buildcharity.co.uk/Event/build-charity-fundraising-dinner-dance-2025

Jarrolds Logistics invests for the future with new site to support strong business growth

Jarrolds Logistics, part of The APC delivery network – the UK’s largest independent parcel delivery network – has announced the opening of a new 30,000 sq. ft. depot in Norwich. This marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing investment strategy and its continued focus on supporting businesses across the NR postcode area.

Located in Avian Way, the new depot replaces the business’s previous 22,000 sq. ft. site in Long Stratton. The larger facility increases operational capacity by over 35%, bringing all services under one roof and enabling greater efficiency across next-day parcel delivery, warehousing and fulfilment. Its central location also improves delivery route planning, reduces driver travel time and allows for later collection times – helping local businesses connect more effectively with customers across the UK through The APC network.

This expansion comes in response to sustained business growth, driven by increasing demand for reliable, high-quality delivery services from customers across the region. Following a significant year-on-year increase in parcel volumes, Jarrolds Logistics is on track to achieve a substantial turnover  this year – a result of its continued success and the strength of the local community seeking reliable, high-quality logistics solutions.

Alongside other Jarrold Group divisions in Norwich, the site also strengthens operational collaboration across the wider group. Jarrolds Facilities Management – another arm of the group – will oversee Cleaning, Maintenance PPM and Security services at the depot.

The Jarrold Group continuing its reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable workplace solutions across Norfolk.

Mary Wisbey, Managing Director of Jarrolds Logistics and Jarrolds Facilities Management, said:

“This move represents a significant strategic advancement; enabling us to operate more efficiently, reduce mileage that minimises our environmental impact and creates local employment all while enhancing the quality of service we deliver to our Clients and Customers.

Joining The APC network in 2023, we’ve been committed to developing a logistics operation that stays true to our local heritage. The launch of our new Norwich depot is a major milestone in that journey. With its central location, added capacity, and increased flexibility, the depot empowers us to better support local SMEs across the region. This investment strengthens our role in connecting regional businesses with national networks, offering tailored support, with the Jarrold service that people expect, helping local enterprises thrive, unlocking exciting new opportunities for growth and collaboration within our home county

The Norwich site currently employs a 30-strong local team, including 20+ drivers and dedicated operations and customer service teams. As demand grows, Jarrolds Logistics plans to expand the team to support new service offerings. This includes warehousing and fulfilment for e-commerce clients.

Jarrolds Logistics became part of The APC network in 2023 following the acquisition of RDM Distribution, a long-standing member of the network. Since then, the business has gone from strength to strength – expanding its delivery capabilities while maintaining a strong focus on customer service and community engagement.

Jonathan Smith, Chief Executive at The APC, said:  “Across our network, we remain focused on responding to the evolving needs of our customers and consistently delivering exceptional service. Jarrolds Logistics truly exemplifies this commitment through their investment in growth, dedication to service excellence and strong support for Norfolk’s SME community. This new site is a genuine example of how Jarrolds Logistics is building for long-term success, committed to elevating local service and creating meaningful partnerships that enable customers to grow with confidence.”

UK Drug Testing Launches New Ultra Sensitive Drug Test Kits for Enhanced Workplace Safety

UK Drug Testing, a leading supplier of workplace drug and alcohol testing kits based in Norfolk, is proud to announce the launch of its new range of ultra sensitive drug test kits. Designed to meet the growing demand for early detection and enhanced accuracy, these innovative new drug tests offer even greater reliability for employers and healthcare.

The ultra sensitive range of drug screening tests includes both urine and saliva testing kits that can detect substances at lower concentrations than standard tests. This makes them ideal for safety-critical industries and workplaces where zero-tolerance drug policies are in place.

“Accurate and early detection is key to ensuring workplace safety and compliance,” said Dr Kate Garside a spokesperson for UK Drug Testing. “These new kits offer increased sensitivity, helping employers identify potential issues before they become critical. They’re easy to use, cost-effective, and available for next working day delivery.”

UK Drug Testing continues to support UK businesses with expert advice, rapid delivery, and a wide range of fully certified drug testing products. Whether you’re running routine workplace drug screening or need rapid results in a healthcare setting, these new kits provide peace of mind with industry-leading sensitivity.

 

For more information or to order online, visit: www.ukdrugtesting.co.uk

We’re officially CHAS Elite Accredited!

We’re proud to announce that we’ve achieved CHAS Elite status — the highest standard of accreditation offered by CHAS. This includes both the SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) certification and the Common Assessment Standard, meaning we’ve met rigorous requirements across health & safety, environmental practices, quality management, and more.

✅ Health & Safety
✅ Environmental Responsibility
✅ Quality Management
✅ Financial & Corporate Standing
✅ Equality & Diversity
✅ Anti-bribery & Modern Slavery Compliance

Being CHAS Elite accredited demonstrates our unwavering commitment to operating safely, ethically, and professionally at every level.

💬 This is more than a badge – it’s a reflection of how we operate, every single day.

A huge thank you to our management team for their dedication in securing this accreditation, and an even bigger thank you to our teams in the field, your commitment to safety, quality and professionalism is what made this possible. 

80 Years in the Making – Age UK Norwich History Exhibition

This summer, the heart of Norwich will beat with the stories of generations past as Age UK Norwich celebrates a remarkable milestone. From 4th – 7th of August, Age UK Norwich will take over The Forum, presenting a dynamic, interactive exhibit showcasing the charity’s lasting legacy and the vital role it continues to play in the lives of older people.

Limited edition whisky bottle launched to honour VE Day

A special commemorative whisky bottle has been launched to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

The country’s oldest registered whisky distillery, The English Distillery, has teamed up with Norfolk charity Walking with the Wounded for this initiative.

The single malt whisky, aged in a mix of ex-bourbon and virgin oak casks, is limited to just 3,000 bottles.

Each decanter is hand-bottled at the Norfolk distillery, based at Roudham near East Harling.

The collaboration aims to raise funds for the charity, which supports the UK’s veterans struggling to adapt to civilian life.

From each bottle sold, £2 will be donated to the charity.

Kate Tabain, director of fundraising and communications at Walking with the Wounded, said: “We are thrilled to once again be partnering with The English Distillery to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day.

“Not only will the bottle acknowledge the sacrifices of so many to ensure peace in Europe, but all donations raised will be used to support veterans, whose service has maintained that peace.”

Katy Nelstrop, from The English Distillery, said: “We’re honoured to collaborate with Walking with the Wounded on this special bottle release.”

Captain Fawcett appears on BBC TV’s Bargain Hunt

At the beginning of 2025, the Captain & crew at Fawcett HQ took great pleasure in welcoming the masterminds from BBC’s Bargain Hunt to King’s Lynn to film a segment for their half time intermission.

 

After being kept under embargo for a number of months, the episode first aired on 21st April at 12:15 on BBC1 and is now available to watch on iPlayer. Huzzah!

Antiques expert and Bargain Hunt presenter Charlie Ross spoke to company founder Richard Finney MBE (aka The Right Hand Man) regarding his extensive collection of historic shaving mugs. Almost 500 mugs form an impressive display wall at Captain Fawcett’s Marvellous Barbershop Museum, with many more in the private collection.

 

Richie Finney says “It was a true delight to chat with the ever ebullient Charlie Ross and the Bargain Hunt crew, fellow enthusiasts for all things antique. I am hugely intrigued by the social history to be found in objects such as shaving mugs – what incredible stories these fascinating items could tell! Once upon a time, barbershop regulars would each have had their own shaving mug, razor and brush, reserved for their exclusive use and hung on a large wooden rack alongside the shaving kit of friends and neighbours. The barbershop has been a convivial meeting place for men over many centuries, a really important space for supporting one another’s wellbeing whilst getting a trim or decent shave. 

 

“Should you wish to behold the mugs for yourself (there are hundreds!) do take a trip to Captain Fawcett’s Marvellous Barbershop Museum where you’ll find a veritable cornucopia of tonsorial treasures – some dating back 400 years! You’ll be most welcome. And if you ring ahead, it is usually possible to rustle up a pot of tea and slice of cake!

 

Alas, since ‘Bargain Hunt’ came calling, my small screen career appears to have stalled once more! However, rest assured, I shall remain intent upon ‘Keeping A Stiff Upper Lip RegardlessTM’!”


 https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m002b8dy/bargain-hunt-series-71-kings-lynn-12?_kx=NhtfH4_3P5Mn_H-RSOty8w.Vt8f6J 

Celebrating 10 Years of Leading Business Services

This spring marked a special milestone for us at Leading Business Services – 10 years in business, supporting companies and individuals across the region through change, and often financial uncertainty.

What began as a small, dedicated team has now grown into a firm of over 70 people, with 3 licenced Insolvency Practitioners, all united by a shared commitment to helping clients navigate challenging circumstances with clarity and compassion.

After Leading Business Services (then known as Leading Corporate Recovery!) was founded by our Director Jamie Playford in 2015, following his many years of experience in the industry, our team made a move to a larger office at Lawrence House, Norwich in 2019. Other highlights include two of our Leading Managers being nominated at the IPA Awards in 2023.

Our team celebrated the anniversary with a gathering at The Assembly House in Norwich, where we spent some time to look back at our journey so far. It was a chance to honour long-serving members of our team, reflect on some of the milestones we’ve hit and share our ambitions for the next chapter.

As part of the celebrations, we also held an Easter-themed raffle, raising £348 for the Alzheimer’s Society, and kicked off fundraising, supporting our eight team members taking on this year’s Macmillan Mighty Hikes challenge, with both causes being close to our hearts.

Here’s to the next ten years, built on the strength of our people and the trust of those we serve.

Andrew Thompson & Associates Insurance Brokers joins Alan Boswell Group

Alan Boswell Group (ABG) announced today that Andrew Thompson & Associates (AT&A), an East-Suffolk-based commercial insurance broker established in 2010, has joined the Group. This follows the company’s purchase of two Norfolk-based brokers, Priory Insurance Brokers and The Insurance Centre, in 2024.

AT&A’s staff and premises will be retained, while their clients will benefit from the additional support and services of the 450-strong financial services group. This acquisition, alongside ABG’s office in Bury St Edmunds, bolsters the Group’s presence in Suffolk.

Commenting on the purchase, Andrew Thompson, Founder of AT&A, said, “We’re excited to join Alan Boswell Group and remain committed to providing the same care and service our clients are familiar with. Being part of a larger brokerage means we will benefit from an increased presence in the market and additional resources and expertise, enhancing the service we deliver.”

Alan Boswell, Executive Chairman of Alan Boswell Group, said, “We’re pleased to welcome AT&A to the Group and look forward to working with the team. AT&A shares our values and commitment to delivering exceptional service to clients, and we’re confident that Andrew and the team will be a fantastic addition to the Group.”