Member News

Nicola Hall, Finance Manager at 101 Websites & Apps, will be lacing up her walking boots this May as part of a 26.2-mile charity walk, along with walkers from other local firms, raising vital funds for Nelson’s Journey and Fight Bladder Cancer.

Nicola is joining a team from the popular Norwich gym at Wensum Valley Leisure Club, whose website design is handled by 101, to tackle the full marathon distance, following a scenic route from North Walsham along Weaver’s Way to Aylsham, then continuing along Marriott’s Way to Taverham. Around 50 people are expected to take part, with many opting for either the half or full marathon walk. 

The walk aims to raise £10,000 for two charities close to the organiser’s heart. Nelson’s Journey supports bereaved children and young people in Norfolk, while Fight Bladder Cancer offers patient-led support and campaigns for greater awareness and improved treatment options. 

The event is being organised by Jenny O’Dowd from E-Zee Insurance Solutions, whose personal connection to both charities has been the driving force behind the initiative. Jenny hopes this challenge will not only raise much-needed funds but also help bring more attention to these causes. 

101 is proud to be one of the sponsors backing the walkers as they take on the challenge. Several other Norfolk-based businesses have also lent their support, demonstrating the strong community spirit behind this initiative. 

Nicola said, “It’s a big challenge, but it’s for two incredible causes. We’re all hoping for kind weather and generous donations to help spur us on!”

To find out more about the event or to make a donation, please visit the fundraising page. 

We’re thrilled to announce that Back to the Garden has officially joined the Jarrolds family – and is now proudly known as Jarrolds Letheringsett.

This much-loved destination in Letheringsett, near Holt, is now part of our growing lifestyle and retail offering, bringing the unique Jarrolds experience to North Norfolk. We’re excited to continue its tradition of serving the community with fresh, local produce and warm, vibrant service. Values that align perfectly with our own.

John Adams, retail managing director of the Jarrold Group, says: “Jarrolds has built a well-earned reputation for delivering fantastic food, hospitality and shopping experiences, with our range of cafés, restaurants and the outstanding food hall and delicatessen within our Norwich store. This is something we are extremely proud of.

“With Jarrolds Letheringsett we are extending our brand in new areas, allowing more people to enjoy the very special Jarrolds’ experience. This will be a unique retail and hospitality destination that embodies our values as a business and encapsulates our vision to be an inspirational lifestyle brand that is synonymous with Norfolk.”

With this new chapter, we’re also launching our first-ever Jarrolds own-brand butchery range, supplied by the Astley Estate, right where Jarrolds Letheringsett is located. The beloved Aish Bakery continues to provide its delicious breads and pastries, and the original team remains at the heart of the experience – now joined by new faces as we grow.

We’ve refreshed the restaurant menu to spotlight even more seasonal and local ingredients, and this summer, we’re excited to host evening events in our stunning outdoor space.

Jarrolds Letheringsett is more than a name change – it’s an exciting evolution.

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing more of what makes Jarrolds special, right here in North Norfolk.

Find out more about Jarrolds Letheringsett.

We at Warren have long recognised a challenge that continues to impact our industry – the national shortage of skills across all areas of manufacturing and engineering. While there’s no shortage of meetings, reports and initiatives set up to tackle the issue, lasting change still feels frustratingly slow.

Recently, Make UK and the Government launched a new Skills Commission, bringing together influential voices from education, manufacturing and Parliament, including Lords, policy makers and senior figures in industry. While the creation of another commission might raise a few eyebrows, we took the opportunity to make our voice heard in a different way.

Not another survey…

Rather than simply ticking boxes on the Commission’s initial survey, we decided to take a more direct approach. We told our story. We shared how Warren began, how we built our apprenticeship programme from the ground up and what we’ve learned – the successes, the challenges, and the reality of training in a fast-changing industry.

This honest, first-hand account was shared with members of the Commission and made its way into the right hands.

Warren welcomes the Commission

As a result, on 13th March we were proud to welcome a delegation from the Industrial Strategy Skills Commission to Warren. The visit was led by the Chair of the Commission, the Rt Hon Robert Halfon MP, who spent time learning about our approach to skills and training.

He and the team met with both current and former apprentices, gaining valuable insight into the practical realities of developing talent in the manufacturing sector. It was a great opportunity for open dialogue and we’re proud to say, they were very impressed with what they saw and heard.

We also took the opportunity to recommend a visit to West Suffolk College – our long-standing training partner, so they could see the full picture of how local collaboration plays a vital role in delivering real training outcomes.

A mention in Westminster

Following the visit, Warren was invited to attend the official presentation of the Commission’s final report at Make UK headquarters in Westminster on 1st April. The report is a weighty one, but we were pleased to see Warren mentioned several times throughout the document, a real acknowledgement of the work we’ve put in over the years.

Will things change?

So, will this Commission lead to real change? We remain cautiously sceptical. Too often, these initiatives generate discussion but little action. But one thing’s certain, Warren will continue doing what we’ve always done: investing in people, developing skills, and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers.

We’ll keep doing our bit. And we’re proud to share our story, if it helps inspire others to do the same.

New store in Hunstanton opens today!!

Whether you’re looking to upgrade your mobile phones, explore reliable broadband options, or transition to a modern Hosted/VoIP phone system — our expert team is here to help.

👥 Pop into any of our retail stores for personalised support and advice tailored to your business needs. From troubleshooting mobile devices to planning the best connectivity solutions for your growing team, we’re your local go-to specialists.

🔧 Services we offer:
✔ Business mobile phone support & upgrades
✔ Hosted VoIP solutions for smarter communication
✔ Fast, stable broadband tailored to business use
✔ Ongoing advice and account management

Let’s build your business connectivity the right way — with people you can talk to, and service you can trust.

Swarm Training and Swarm REAGIT are excited to announce their next open day being held at our purpose built engineering centre in Norwich!

Our open days are always popular events where we open our doors to welcome parents and potential apprentices as well as new and existing employers from around the county!!

Come on in and meet some of our current apprentices, meet the dedicated teaching and support team, view the ever expanding facilities and meet some of our supporting organisations too!! 

MigAnglia will be onsite with their incredible Fronius virtual welder as well as their welding kit and demonstrating their Swift Cut CNC plasma profiling table as well as Nederman extraction with some of their incredible range of extractors!

During this event, you can gather information on apprenticeship opportunities, learn about the various pathways in engineering or look at a commercial course to upskill yourself or your team members. 

Apprenticeships Norfolk will be delivering sessions around government funding and initiatives and help to remove some of the confusion around what’s available and how you access it, and how they can support you to employ an apprentice to grow your business.

We will also be launching our new Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship which will officially begin in July. If this is of interest to you and your staff, we highly recommend coming to see how it will be run, what facilities we have and to meet our very experienced tutor! You can then register and enrol staff on the day if you are ready to.

Our full range of practical Apprenticeship courses includes:

Level 2 Carpentry & Joinery (launching in July 2025)

Level 2 Engineering Operative

Level 2 Welder

Level 3 Pipe Welder

Level 3 Metal Fabricator

Level 3 Maintenance & Operations Engineering

Level 3 Installation & Maintenance Electrician

If you would like to attend, you can Register Here for the 10am – 12pm session or Register Here for the 1pm to 3pm session. 

Alternatively, call Lou Stannett on 07951 950197, or email her on lou@swarmgroup.org.uk for more details.

To celebrate the installation of our new print press, we are running a special offer of 1,000 flyers for just £45. Contact us on sales@thisiseffective.uk to claim yours. 

Here’s the thing: a website on its own isn’t enough.

Search Engines need to show you in results pages — that’s where SEO comes in.

We help local businesses get found on Google by the people already searching for what they do.

No jargon, no stress — just great results!

Want a quick check on how your site’s doing? 

Visit our website: https://smashmarketing.co.uk/services/free-website-seo-analysis/

The streets of Cromer echoed with cheers as dedicated fundraisers took on the gruelling Norfolk Marathon, with two incredible individuals running in support of Age UK Norwich amongst the 2,500 participants. Their inspiring efforts have culminated in a fantastic fundraising total that will make a real difference to the lives of older people across the region.

Dan Skipper and Michael Barber donned their Age UK Norwich running vests and pushed themselves to the limit. Their determination and commitment shone through as they navigated the 26.2-mile course around Norfolk, spurred on by the enthusiastic support of the local community.

The final fundraising tally has exceeded all expectations, with an amazing £2651 raised for Age UK Norwich! This phenomenal sum will be invaluable in enabling the independent charity to continue its vital work supporting older people in Norwich and beyond. These funds will help provide crucial services combating loneliness, providing information and advice, and promoting health and well-being.

“We are absolutely blown away by the incredible generosity and dedication of our two marathon runners and their supporters,” said Bethany Grimshaw, Age UK Norwich “To have these two amazing people represent Age UK Norwich amongst so many participants was truly inspiring, and the money they raised will go directly towards making a positive impact on the lives of people over 50 in our community. As we celebrate our 80th birthday, this incredible achievement ensures we can continue our mission for many years to come.”

The runners themselves spoke of their pride in supporting such a worthy cause. Dan Skipper explained, “Running a marathon is hard, it’s not just about the actual race, it’s about the weeks and months of training that you have to do during the winter months and the hours of dedication leading to it. Doing it for Age UK Norwich gave me motivation – knowing my friends, family and colleagues were rooting me on with sponsorship, and knowing the difference the money would make to the charity to help local, older people live better lives, spent locally in Norwich”.

Now, you too can join the Age UK Norwich team and run for a reason!

Inspired by the incredible achievements of our marathon runners? Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking for a new challenge, we invite you to lace up your trainers and support Age UK Norwich in future events. By choosing to “run for a reason,” you can help us raise vital funds to ensure we can continue to provide essential services and support to older people in our community, building on our legacy of over 80 years.

From local fun runs to half marathons and beyond, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Every step you take and every pound you raise will help us combat loneliness, provide vital advice, and promote well-being amongst older people in Norwich.

Ready to make a difference?

Visit our website or call us on 01603 496 333 to find out about upcoming fundraising events and how you can get involved.

Let’s continue to make a difference, together, for many more years to come!

Ensors Chartered Accountants, a leading East Anglian accountancy practice offer new and existing clients a Tailored Finance Function. A custom-built accountancy package that provides bespoke solutions, tailored to a business’ financial needs with the latest technology platforms.

With businesses facing increased financial pressure, the expansive range of services are combined into a bespoke accountancy package to assist clients in understanding their financial obligations and positioning. Clients can pick from a range of core administrative services, such as Bookkeeping, VAT returns and Management Accounts, or they can work with Ensors’ business analysis specialists to maximise business efficiency with a digital audit and overhaul. In addition, the team can also provide benchmarking, forecasting, payroll and pension compliance to provide an end-to-end service offering for all stages of the business life cycle.

The Tailored Finance Function service offers clients full flexibility over the level of assistance they require, including ad hoc requests during peak times, regular and continuous administrative support, or complete outsourcing to release valuable time and resources from within the business.

Charles Stephens spearheads the Tailored Finance Function in the West of the region:

 “After the increased financial burdens placed on businesses following the Labour Budget last Autumn, now more than ever, business owners are looking for a bespoke accountancy package to provide them with value-for-money services designed to suit their specific needs.

“Too often, we see businesses having previously purchased a ‘one size fits all’ product, that doesn’t support their business objectives. At Ensors, our services put clients back in the driving seat of their business whist our team of experts ensure their accountancy processes are optimized for their success.”

For more information and to book in a meeting to discuss your business requirements, visit https://www.ensors.co.uk/services/tailored-finance-function/

The information contained within this publication is given by way of general guidance. Specialist advice should always be sought in relation to your particular circumstances. No liability is accepted by Ensors for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice.

We’re pleased to let you know that registration is now open for the MRS Advanced Certificate training course starting mid-July.  The course is 6 months long and fits easily around your daily work.

It is a highly respected Professional Certificate which opens doors to new opportunities for both individuals and businesses.

Who is it for?

·       For businesses ready to embrace Market Research to make their Marketing much more effective through highly targeted learning and support. 

·       For businesses in the Market Research sector with skills gaps who are needing team members to step up into more project management and strategic roles.

·       For individuals working in the Market Research sector and looking to progress their career to a higher level with higher pay.

Our trainers are very experienced professionals from the Marketing and Market Research industry who will support you to learn the knowledge and develop the skills to achieve the certificate but can also advise on how to apply the learning to lift your business approach to the next level.

For more information, call Sally Harris on 07434 947944, or email on sally.h@swarmgroup.org.uk to request a brochure.  If you would find it helpful, please feel free to request a meeting with one of our tutors for more specific information about the course format and content.

MRS Advanced Certificate — Swarm Bluewater

Due to great feedback and requests we are putting together a small group coaching event. A four-part series that cover each area of our Performance Acceleration program in an accelerated format.

The series is a first come first served basis and the group will complete the series together. due to the nature of our work, we ensure to protect the individuals in each group. 

*YOU MUST REGISTER YOUR INTERESTS FIRST*

Our Leadership Coaching sessions will draw upon Chris’ 15+ years of experience working with the ‘best of the best’ in business, sport, military and performing arts. It will ensure that your present and future self will have enhanced knowledge and tools to a gain a competitive edge through:

Greater physical and mental energy.

Focus and motivation to ensure day-in and day-out commitment.

Enhanced resilience to stress and setbacks.

The ability to perform consistently under pressure.

A greater capacity to perform at your best daily.

—Starts when the first group has 7 participants—

Performance Acceleration – “Introducing the Series + Design Thinking” – Session 1 
1 hour session where Chris Wilson will go through the Performance Acceleration model and will kick-start by introducing the frameworks around design thinking and the physiology of focus. The session will close with an ‘ask me anything’ roundtable and actions to take away.

Performance Acceleration – “Your relationship with Stress + Early Warning Signs” – Session 2 
1 hour session where Chris Wilson will go through the physiology and stress response with insights into the brain and body interactions. Including Early Warning Signs that you are physically and mentally being negatively stressed. The session will close with an ‘ask me anything’ roundtable and actions to take away.

Performance Acceleration – “Building out your performance plan: 3+1s” – Session 3 
1 hour session where Chris Wilson will go through how building out your performance plan can create a cadence of sustainable high performance. Includes Macro, Meso and Micro cycles for optimisation. The session will close with an ‘ask me anything’ roundtable and actions to take away.

Performance Acceleration – “Coaching self then others to increase performance” – Session 4 
1 hour session where Chris Wilson will go through how using coaching conversations can change your perspective on stress and your capacity. Including the ‘big picture’ behind the impact of stress. The session will close with an ‘ask me anything’ roundtable and actions to take away.

Effective Imaging Ltd., t/a This is Effective, has recently expanded their current wide format print service portfolio with the acquisition of the Xerox Versant 280 Digital Colour Press, complete with finishing equipment to bind, stitch, fold and cut. The move towards an in-house small format print service is part of the company’s wider business development plan to offer their customers a single supplier option for all their printing, branding or marketing needs. This is Effective is now able to supply all types of print items on a wide variety of media with different finishes, such as business cards, leaflets, flyers, postcards, greeting cards, posters, brochures and catalogues, notepads, half-fold and trifold leaflets, menus, and much more.

To support this expansion, This is Effective has employed two full-time members of staff – one Production Manager and one Machine Operative. This is sure to creating a positive impact on the local economy – something the business takes very seriously as Strategic Partners of the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce. To ensure that this new development aligns with the company’s core values regarding sustainability, This is Effective is proudly Carbon Balance Certified via the World Land Trust. This goes hand in hand with their commitment to providing customers with eco-friendly solutions, such as the use of water-based latex inks to reduce the use of harmful chemicals often found in traditional solvent inks.

Company Director, Sara Docwra, spoke of the development as “a logical step for us. We already produce an enormous range of wide format print items in-house, such as banners and signage, but there is a huge gap in the local market for a business that can supply everything themselves with complete control over the production chain. This means that we’ll be able to cater to all our customers, without them needing to use multiple suppliers. It’ll be much more manageable from a procurement point of view. We are so proud to be able to do everything ourselves as it’s rare in this day and age. From their signage and workwear to their brochures, business cards and everything in between, we can offer it all in-house. We are so excited about this expansion and cannot wait to see what the future holds.”

This is Effective is an independent, family-run business located in East Norfolk. Established in 2016 by company Director Jonathan Ling, a signage and vehicle graphics professional with over 30 years’ experience, and joined by co-Director Sara Docwra in 2019, the business has grown exponentially since its inception. Now comprising a team of eleven staff members, This is Effective provides a full service catering to any businesses requiring printed items, signage, vehicle graphics, industrial and commercial engraving, customised printed and embroidered workwear and branded merchandise. Each aspect of the production chain is ensured in-house by the team of well-experienced and skilled staff who manage each order with care and attention.