Monthly Archives: December 2021

International News

Moving Abroad In 2022? Here Are Some Essential Pointers

Moving abroad is a huge undertaking. It is one of the most exciting steps that you can ever take, and it also one of the most daunting. This is not just any old move, this is taking your life and starting it somewhere entirely new. Now, granted, some countries may be more similar than others, but everywhere will have its own unique culture and customs that you will have to get to grips with. If there is one thing that any ex-pat will tell you, it’s that it is better to be prepared. With that in mind, we have put together a few handy pointers to help you be as ready as you will ever be for moving abroad in the coming year.

 

Start Saving Now

We do not need to tell you that everyone has felt the pinch financially over the last couple of years. It does not matter what industry you work in or where you live, it has been a brutal 24 months for us all even though job markets are starting to bounce back. But one thing that we all know about moving is that there are always going to be more costs involved than you expect. Just when you think you have tallied everything up, along comes another bill or another service that you need to pay for. If you are moving in the near future, start looking at what costs you can cut right now to give yourself as much of a cushion as you can.

 

Visit The City You Are Moving To

We know that when you are moving home, time is never going to be on your side. However, one of the most important things that you can to do make sure that you are as prepared as possible for the move is to visit the place you are moving to ahead of time. Even if it is just for a few days, giving yourself a better idea of the place, the climate and the people will help enormously. If you are moving with your family, you should try to include them in this trip if you can. Remember that this is something that is going to be a huge change for them as well, so do everything that you can to make things as easy as possible.

 

Get Local Advice

The chances are that you will have been through the moving process at least a few times in your home country. We get used to the processes, how long things take, what kind of numbers we should be looking at, what we need to be looking out for and so on. What you need to remember when you are moving to another country is that everything you know may no longer be useful. Say you are moving to Singapore, for example. You will quickly find that there are going to be a lot of differences that you are not aware of and using the right mortgage company will make a huge difference. If you are looking for a Singapore housing loan, then talk to Property Guru. With access to the best rates and packages from all major banks, they will be able to guide you through the process and find the right mortgage to suit your needs.

 

Ask For Help From Your Employer

When you are moving to a new country, one of the most valuable resources that you will have available to you are your employers. The chances are that they will have been through the process of helping people to relocate before and they may well have a number of ways already in place to help things go nice and smoothly. Get in touch as soon as the deal is done to talk about how they can help you to get set up quickly and get acclimatized. Ask about everything from travel routes to the weather to the best schools to send your kids. It is also worth asking for tips on socializing and to see if they are able to connect you with other ex-pats who have made this journey before.

 

Dive Right In

One of the biggest mistakes that you can make when you are moving to a new country is dragging your feet. It is always going to be a bit overwhelming when you relocate, but this is also a huge opportunity. The best way to make the most of it is to start getting involved as soon as you can. For example, start learning the language as soon as possible to make sure that you can explore without having to worry about asking if anyone speaks English. Instead of looking for restaurants that serve the food that you are used to get to grips with the local cuisine and specialties. Take advantage of the local nightlife, and check the best bars list to see how your new home ranks in nightlife. Find out what the best places to visit are and try to get out of the city and into the countryside. There may be a culture shock but exploring and experiencing is the best way to get acclimatized.

News

3 Reasons to Hire Rather Than Buy Equipment for Your Business

Businesses of all types and sizes require various pieces of equipment to complete their tasks or gain a competitive advantage over their competitors. When trying to find a competitive edge and areas to cut their expenses, businesses should weigh the option of hiring the equipment it needs and buying and owning it outright. Hiring is often seen as the better option and in this article, we will examine why.

Cost

Buying equipment can be very expensive. This is especially true when you consider equipment that you are not going to be using that much, and thus you will not be able to extract maximum value from it. Hiring this type of equipment makes more financial sense than buying it outright.

Storage Costs and Additional Issues

When you purchase equipment for the business, you need to think about what to do with it when it is not being used. The obvious solution is to set aside some storage space for all your equipment. However, this does not really work for larger equipment such as forklifts or bulldozers because they require a lot of space. The space you set aside could end up being very valuable depending on how much space you have left over.

Leaving this equipment outside can lead to issues such as malfunctioning and rust, both of which would require costly repairs. The last solution is hiring the equipment when you need it and returning it when you are done with it.

If your business operates a warehouse, for example, a forklift for hire is a great option as it helps keep your storage costs low, helps you avoid storage headaches and saves you from the issues that arise when forklifts are left idle for too long. For such businesses, Multy Lift offers a wide range of LP gas, diesel, and electric forklifts for hire. Their forklift for hire service is cost-effective and flexible since you can hire a forklift in as little as one working day.

Better Equipment

When you decide to buy equipment for your business, you will always be thinking about how much the equipment will cost the business. This can make you end up buying equipment that is not of the best quality to keep those costs low. However, you do not have to think about the cost of the equipment when you hire it. You only have to think about how much you need to pay to hire it, which is usually lower than buying the equipment.

With cost considerations out of the way, you can hire the best equipment for what you need. Better equipment will help you complete what you are doing faster and help you do a better job while you are at it.

It might seem counterintuitive to hire equipment when you could buy it, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. When these considerations are weighed against the benefits of hiring rather than buying, it is obvious that hiring is the better option.

News

Space Forge – Europe’s fastest growing space tech startup – raises record-breaking $10.2M seed round

Space Forge, based in Wales is developing fully returnable satellites that are designed for manufacturing next generation super materials in-space

  • Space Forge is a Cardiff-based startup that is harnessing microgravity to reduce the carbon impact of super-material production – producing these materials in earth’s orbit in returnable satellites
  • Investors include Type One Ventures, World Fund and SpaceFund, recognising the global potential of Space Forge’s returnable platform for in-space manufacturing to reduce CO2 emissions
  • $10.2 million seed round comes as Space Forge aims to launch up to two missions next year

Space Forge has closed Europe’s largest ever seed round for a space tech company; raising $10.2 million. The oversubscribed round, reached four times the original target with investment from across the globe.

Space Forge’s aim is to advance the expansion of the microgravity market for premium research and development applications by lowering the barriers to entry. Dedicated in-space manufacturing, coupled with reliable return, enables Space Forge to leverage the benefits of the space environment, namely: microgravity, vacuum, and temperature, to create products impossible to manufacture on Earth. Its focus is on producing materials and products which offer game-changing levels of performance and efficiency in power-hungry infrastructure and systems – reducing the environmental impact of production on earth to unlock new value and innovation. Research suggests that manufacturing these materials in space could reduce CO2 emissions by 75% – the equivalent to removing all petrol cars from the UK.

Space Forge recently announced that, along with partners, it is developing a world-first service incorporating both launch and return of a new small class of vehicle – the ForgeStar – that can be deployed from conventional launchers to provide rapid, reliable and reusable in-space infrastructure. This returnable service, which will enable microgravity research on demand, has been awarded a $2.4m contract through the European Space Agency’s Boost! Programme, supported by the UK Space Agency.

Highlighting the appetite for investment in space for good – technology that harnesses the power of space to improve life on earth – Space Forge’s record-breaking seed funding is from forward-thinking portfolio holders who recognise the potential in Space Forge’s returnable, and relaunchable in-space manufacturing satellite platform and the ability it offers to manufacture next generation super materials.

The round was co-led by US-based SpaceFund and Type One, who champion innovation in space and cutting-edge technology, and Berlin-based World Fund, a new European fund which backs companies pioneering climate tech.

Other US-based funds, including SpaceVC, Starbridge Venture Capital, Quiet Capital, Kencoa Aerospace, Trousdale Ventures, Dylan Taylor, and FJ Labs participated in the round. They were joined by Newable Ventures – the UK’s leading early-stage investment network which works with disruptive, potentially high-growth companies and Virgin Galactic’s George T. Whitesides.

Space Forge will use the funding to take the next steps in its journey towards the first launch and return of a ForgeStar. One of the more unique aspects of the company’s business model is the ability to not only manufacture materials in space, but the complementary and much needed capability to return those materials from orbit without the use of an ablative capsule – significantly improving the characteristics of return from space and aiding refurbishment.

Andrew Bacon, CTO and co-founder of Space Forge: “Over the last three years we have taken our return technology from paper designs to real hardware. This support from our investors will supercharge our development plans to lead the way in making space work for humanity.”

 

Joshua Western, CEO and co-founder of Space Forge: “Making space work for humanity and our planet has always been our goal and this investment enables us to build our first generation platforms and undertake several missions in pursuit of that goal.  We’re just getting started.”

 

Science Minister George Freeman: “This major seed investment of $10.2 million in Welsh start-up Space Forge is a massive vote of confidence in the fast-growing UK space sector – now worth over £16 billion.

“Space is a key priority sector for the Government, as set out in our National Space Strategy. With the first satellite launches from the UK on track for next year and the growth of exciting space tech companies like Space Forge, we are fast becoming a global hub for investment and innovation in the space economy.”

 

Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency: “I’ve visited Space Forge in Cardiff and was impressed by the raw energy, creativity and innovation on show there. Clearly international investors are also impressed, with the investment round four times oversubscribed and millions of pounds secured to support the company on the next steps of its journey.

“Space Forge are demonstrating why the UK is the place to invest in space, and showing the significant commercial opportunities from technologies like in-orbit manufacturing.”

 

Tarek Waked, Founder of Type One Ventures: “Joshua and Andrew prove that there is real value that can be brought to humanity via building a space company. If you have the will, capacity, and the idea, anyone can build a space company in the 2020s, not just billionaires. I could not be more proud of the team at Space Forge and look forward to working with them for a very long time.”

 

Meagan Crawford, Managing Partner of SpaceFund: “SpaceFund is always looking for the companies that not only have the vision, but have the technical and market capabilities to execute on that vision. Unlike many of the other in-space manufacturing companies we’ve reviewed, Space Forge has the right combination of technology, team, and market timing to provide significant return to investors, while helping save the environment.”

 

Danijel Višević, General partner, World Fund said: “As the global semiconductor crisis has shown us, manufacturing these advanced materials is extremely hard and carbon-intensive but these tiny components are essential to modern life. But simply no one else has tried to find a solution to this because it is an extremely complex problem. Andrew, Josh and the Space Forge team have a unique approach to solve this problem using the untapped potential of space. It’s this innovative thinking that is essential if we are to fight the climate crisis and reduce global emissions.”

 

Welsh Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: “Wales has a track record of delivering high value manufacturing and innovation which puts a vibrant cluster of space industry leaders operating here in a prime position to flourish in this growing sector.

“Space Forge is a shining example of the sort of innovative, agile and sustainable company we are committed to supporting. I congratulate them on this record-breaking funding round.”

 

Maj RC Atchison, Military Assistant to Commander UK Space Command:

“The success of Space Forge highlights the current interest in Space and shows how people see advancement in this area being vital. The Commander and a number of key personnel from the Ministry of Defence have visited Cardiff. All left energised, inspired and fascinated to see what the future holds for this world leading company”.

 

News

South Wales entrepreneur acquires garden machinery business with HSBC UK funding

A South Wales entrepreneur has secured a six-figure funding package from HSBC UK to acquire a garden machinery and e-commerce business.

With the help of the finance package from HSBC UK, Steven Williams will take over ownership of Cheltenham Mowers following the retirement of Jonathan Heasman who has run the business for the last 20 years.

Cheltenham Mowers has been selling, servicing and repairing garden equipment, including lawn tractors, hedge trimmers and chainsaws, for the last two decades. New owner, Mr. Williams will bring his extensive business management experience to the company, having previously established and owned three DPD Local depots in Cardiff, Swansea and mid-Wales.

The acquisition is the first in Mr. Williams’s buy and build strategy, where he plans to create a group of agricultural and industrial business providing a comprehensive wholesale and retail offering.

 

Steven Williams, Owner of Cheltenham Mowers, said: “I’d been looking to grow my portfolio as an entrepreneur so when this opportunity to purchase such a reputable business presented itself, I jumped at it. The business has been run brilliantly by Jonathan and his team over the years so we are looking forward to building on its success and expanding it even further.

“The support we’ve received from HSBC UK and, in particular, our relationship manager Michael Barber, has been crucial in making this deal happen. We look forward to continuing to work with the bank.”

 

David Butler, Area Director at HSBC UK, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support such an experienced businessman who will bring a wealth of experience to Cheltenham Mowers. We look forward to continuing to see the business flourish under Steven and supporting him in his ambitious business plans.”

The deal was advised on by corporate finance dealmaking business, The GS Verde Group.

News

Ludlow Street Healthcare welcomes more new members to its long service 10 Year Club

2021 has ended on a high for 13 staff at specialist healthcare provider, Ludlow Street Healthcare, after they became the latest members of the company’s exclusive 10 Year Club and received their long-service bonus.

The latest intake of staff means that current membership of the 10 Year Club stands at 146, a mixture of clinical and support staff spread across the company’s services in South Wales and Bristol.

Ludlow Street Healthcare, which specialises in providing care for adults over the age of 18 with complex mental health problems, autism, learning disabilities, and neuropsychiatric conditions including dementia and acquired brain injuries, launched its 10 Year Club six years ago to honour its long-serving team members.

One of the staff celebrating this significant milestone is Bridie Longdon. Bridie started as a Support Worker at Pinetree Hospital and since then has progressed to become an Activity Coordinator planning many of the service user events that they run at Pinetree.

Speaking about her decade with Ludlow Street Healthcare, Bridie said: “Ludlow Street Healthcare is such a positive place to work. They really care about their staff and want to see them progress. I’ve seen a lot of changes during my time in the company but the way everyone pulled together at the start of the pandemic was inspiring and I’m proud to be part of such a strong team.”

Ludlow Street Healthcare is committed to offering all staff a tangible career path with many options for promotion, which is one of the many reasons that their 10 Year Club continues to grow. The organisation invests in training for all its staff members and regularly reviews pay to ensure that staff receive some of the best pay rates in the sector.

David Lawrence, CEO of Ludlow Street Healthcare, said: “While in many ways 2021 was an improvement on the year before, it was still fraught with challenges which all our staff rose to magnificently, ensuring that our service users were secure and supported throughout.

“We work hard to ensure that Ludlow Street Healthcare is a positive place to work and the latest entrants into the 10 Year Club show that we are indeed doing something right. We’d like to welcome the 13 newest members to the club and thank them for all their hard work over the last decade.”

Set up in 2005 by healthcare specialists, Ludlow Street Healthcare provides transition-focused healthcare and bespoke step-down services, including specialist assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and education, throughout Wales and the South West of England. The organisation has developed a reputation for its person-centred approach, community-focused settings and specialist staff.

Since its inception, Ludlow Street Healthcare has supported and cared for over 800 people. For over a decade, it has worked in partnership with the NHS, developing services and investing in the necessary health infrastructure and staff training, to support patients on their journey to recovery and a more independent and fulfilling life, through step-down to community living – improving social integration and inclusion.

News

New HR Director appointed at New Directions as growth continues across the group

Genevieve Nock will lead on strategic HR direction amid ongoing expansion of the group

The New Directions Group has appointed a new HR Director as growth in demand for its services continues to drive expansion.

Genevieve Nock will take a strategic HR lead at the award-winning group of companies, further investing in its people and teams to add even more value to the services it provides.

The New Directions Group comprises of New Directions Education, New Directions Pharmacy, New Directions Social Care, ND Care & Support and Checks Direct. It provides specialist recruitment and training support within Education, Pharmacy and Social Care, delivers specialist Domiciliary Care to individuals and their families, as well as offering an effective online management system for employee checks to organisations UK-wide.

Genevieve, who brings more than two decades of HR experience to the role, said she’s looking forward to developing a group-wide HR approach that continues to underpin the group’s wider business strategy, through the support and development of all employees.

“New Directions already has some of the best people in the business working across a number of different sectors and I’m really looking forward to building on this and continuing to do the best by our employees. The current recruitment climate is very competitive, so it’s more important than ever that we continue to attract, develop and retain talented people,” Genevieve said.

A senior HR professional with board level experience, Genevieve was previously Director of People and Business Services within the recruitment industry for over 15 years, and has worked across a number of sectors, including retail and business process outsourcing.

At New Directions, Genevieve will work to implement effective practices across the board in a role encompassing all aspects of HR including employee relations, learning and development, reward and recognition, employee engagement, and recruitment and retention.

Bethan Schuchardt, Finance and Operations Director at New Directions, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Genevieve to her new role as HR Director. It’s clear to see that she is a highly motivated individual, with great integrity and a passion for developing and valuing a workforce that we can continue to be proud of.

“We’re a people-centric business and our biggest asset is our people, so we’re really looking forward, with the guidance and support of Genevieve, to further investing in our current and future colleagues across the New Directions Group.”

Established in 1994 and with its headquarters in Wales, New Directions is a leading group of award-winning companies whose purpose is to support and safeguard the communities it works with across the UK.

For more information on the New Directions Group, visit: www.new-directions.co.uk

Gambling, News

Gambling Helpline Advisers warn of the Christmas risks around gambling

The charity Gamcare – which operates the National Gambling helpline – is urging people to recognise the signs that someone may be struggling with gambling over the Christmas period, highlighting their live chat option for those who are not able to make a private phone-call.

Helpline advisers are warning that, for those experiencing gambling harms, “not being able to buy presents for the children is something that hits home for many more than anything else.” The helpline recorded an 18 percent increase in referrals into treatment during pre-lockdown January 2020*, with staff also reporting an increase in safeguarding issues around the festive period.

 

Christmas can expose:

  • The financial issues, social isolation and mental health difficulties that often surround a gambling problem.
  • An early December payday can add extra temptation to gamble with other triggers including the influence of alcohol, changes in routine and an increase in sporting events to bet on.

 

New research of over 1000 UK adults carried out for GamCare in the lead up to Christmas** shows that over six million Brits know someone with a gambling issue.  One in five Brits (20 percent) have used either their Christmas pay or bonus on placing a bet, with eight percent saying they do it regularly.  A quarter of Brits (25 percent) have regretted placing a bet before.

A helpline adviser said: “A lot of people get their Christmas pay early, so if they bet it all there won’t be another wage until end of January.  This is a long time to go without any money.”

“The biggest risk is the expectation that those struggling with a gambling problem will feel from others to provide for their family at Christmas.  If they are hiding their gambling, but needing to explain why they haven’t been able to buy presents, they will feel very vulnerable at being found out and very low that they have let people down”.

A helpline caller, who didn’t feel like they could tell their partner they had gambled their wage, “tried to chase it back and inevitably lost it all again – the final straw was that they couldn’t buy their baby Christmas presents.”  One more caller, “sold presents to find money to fund their gambling habit, which caused deep regret for them and their family.”

Help and support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week from the National Gambling Helpline over the festive period. The charity is urging people who may have privacy concerns to contact the helpline on live chat, which can offer more discretion if families or housemates are in close proximity. Live chats made up around 43% of all target calls in 2020/21, up from 37% the previous year*** and the charity expects this trend to continue.

Fiona Macleod, Director of Clinical and Communities, said: “With more financial and family pressures, we know that the festive holidays can be a tough time for people trying to control their gambling. During December, along with an early wage, there are more sporting events in close succession, heavy advertising from gambling companies, coupled with many people having free, unstructured time away from work.

“People who have an issue with gambling may have also spent a long time hiding it, and we often hear that Christmas may be the trigger for them facing their problem.  Not being able to buy presents for their children is something that can hit home for those experiencing gambling harms more than anything else. For some people it might be the isolation and loneliness that is the trigger.

“We are always here to listen and support you, when you might feel you have no other options. A message of hope – that is essentially what we’re giving people.  Our phone line is open 24/7 over the Christmas period.   In lockdowns we have seen an increase in people opting for our live chat option.  We want to remind people that this is still available, if privacy is a concern.”

Five signs to look out for if you’re concerned about someone else’s gambling:

 

  1. Withdrawn –Not wanting to join in or losing interest in usual activities or hobbies like going out with friends or spending time with family can be one of the early warning signs that gambling could be harmful this Christmas. Wanting to stay at home more frequently, needing to check their phone constantly to check the latest results as so much is riding on a bet during the festive season.
  2. Changing mood –There could be noticeable changes to their mood and behaviour, including looking worried, agitated or upset for no apparent reason in the lead up Christmas.
  3. Sleeping problems –If someone is chasing losses and losing money they might not be sleeping. Anxiety or constant worrying can lead to people being up all hours. Continuing to gamble on their phone during the night could lead to sleep patterns being affected – especially in the lead up to the festive season when there is more pressure to have the perfect day.
  4. Financial signs –Has money gone missing from bank accounts, or are they regularly short of money on a regular basis and are having to borrow money? There may also be more pressure to get loans out, chasing losses now not just to generate income but also to have a nice Christmas.
  5. Lying –Are you noticing that this person is lying about what they’re doing with their time? The biggest risk is the expectation they will feel from others to provide for Christmas and if they are hiding the gambling but needing to explain why they haven’t been able to buy presents they will feel very vulnerable at being found out and very low that they have let people down.

Gambling is also known as the ‘hidden addiction’, and quite often the signs are not clear.

 

To find out more, visit https://www.gamcare.org.uk/

Driving, News

How to protect your car and save on insurance when parking outside this winter

With only one in eight vehicles parking in a garage, the typical car will be spending winter outdoors – at risk of damage and deterioration and even increasing car insurance premiums, according to leading car insurance comparison site Quotezone.co.uk.

It says that while working from home could result in more vehicles behind left outside, a few simple precautions could help reduce the risk. According to recent figures from the National Travel Survey, just 12% of vehicles are now usually parked in a garage, down from 22% in 2002,  although the number parked on private property such as a driveway has increased from 50% to 61% during the same period.

Greg Wilson, Founder of Quotezone.co.uk, says: “36% of households across the UK have at least two cars, making parking a real problem for many families. Typically people now use their garage for storage, and park their car on the drive or on the street – especially at Christmas, when people need extra storage for presents and supplies.

“However, with recent restrictions increasing to include a return to working from home, demand for garages to be transformed into a more permanent office space is highly likely to increase – leaving vehicles once again, out in the cold and at risk.

“If motorists park on the street, the vehicle is more at risk of damage and theft, which in turn can increase the cost of the insurance premium.”

Greg offers the following tips:

Park in a well-lit area – if you have to leave your car on the road, try to park under a lamppost and ideally in clear view. If it’s on the drive or at the side of the house, consider security lighting.

Don’t tempt thieves – never leave Christmas presents or valuables in plain sight. While most cars now come with alarms, you can take extra precautions by installing a dashcam or CCTV cameras.

Try to park off road – research by Quotezone.co.uk found that policyholders could reduce premiums by an average of £140 by parking on a driveway compared to parking on the road.

Consider erecting a carport – carports can be installed at a relatively low cost and could pay for themselves within two years. Carports do provide some protection from the elements and surprisingly, in some cases, they may be lower risk than a garage because of the possibility of the vehicle being damaged while entering or leaving the garage. In fact, Quotezone.co.uk’s research found that carports were the cheapest parking option in terms of insurance, with these policyholders saving an average of £230 compared to drivers who park on the road.

Check what your policy says about parking – often when applying for insurance, drivers will say their vehicle is kept on the driveway or in a garage, then over time they may forget what exactly is indicated on the form. However, if this is the case and you do have to make a claim, the insurer may not pay out.

Quotezone.co.uk helps around 3 million users every year, with over 400 insurance brands across 60 different products including car insurance, convicted drivers and breakdown cover.  Quotezone.co.uk is recommended by 97% of reviewers on Reviews.co.uk. –

News, North of England

Is your soil suitable? Study raises questions over what’s inside what’s on sale

A study of topsoil in the UK has revealed serious concerns about the standard of the product on sale to the public across the country, with half found to be unsuitable for use in general purpose landscaping schemes and residential gardens.

Independent research was carried out nationally on 30 bulk bags from 17 different suppliers bought online and in stores from stockists and direct from producers.

Market Research company PCP test purchased the products and took samples which were sent for analysis at one of the UK’s leading soil testing facilities by Tim O’Hare Associates to find out if they were suitable for use.

 

Of the 30 samples, 47 per cent (14) were found not to be suitable and did not meet the British Standard for Topsoil[1] for a number of reasons – uncommonly high pH levels, high levels of salt concentration, high potassium levels and excessively high sand contents and on one occasion, elevated levels of a known carcinogenic chemical.

The study was commissioned by the Rolawn Group, the Yorkshire-based award-winning producer of topsoil and turf, who are concerned that other businesses are not paying as much attention to the quality of their products, risking serious reputational damage to the industry at large and damaging consumer trust.

Rolawn’s two product samples were among the 16 which were deemed suitable for use as topsoil in general purpose landscaping schemes and residential gardens, and were free from contamination, something they confirm with regular in-house testing.

 

Independent gardening and horticulture expert David Hurrion says the impact of using unsuitable soil is clear:

“Using poor quality and badly formulated topsoils for general-purpose landscaping or in a domestic garden could prove to be both disastrous and costly in terms of turf or plant establishment and growth. Success rates can be severely compromised and may lead to plant failure in extreme cases.

“Many consumers would no doubt be horrified to discover that the topsoil they have purchased in good faith, often based on the marketing claims of the producer or stockist, was in fact not suitable for use and indeed does not meet British Standards.”

 

Rolawn’s Chairman and Managing Director, Paul Dawson added: “We suspected that all was not as it seemed with the quality of topsoils, though we were surprised at the high number that are not suitable for use in residential settings. At Rolawn, we strongly believe there should be compulsory independent testing to make sure that what a customer is being told is in a bag is what they receive and that it is fit for purpose.

“The process of self-test to the British Standard is clearly being abused. Rolawn will be presenting a summary of the findings to the Government and Trading Standards and is calling for more frequent and independent testing be done to ensure adequate rules are in place and that those rules are followed. Meanwhile, we intend to keep up our own independent testing programme and reporting on the results.”

 

Professional soil scientist Tim O’Hare said: “It is important that gardeners and landscapers have confidence that the product they purchase is suitable for the use intended and that they can trust their supplier to deliver this. It is clear from this valuable piece of independent work commissioned by Rolawn and the detailed analysis we have carried out that this is not always the case.

“Given the impact that this can have, it raises the question whether there are enough checks within the industry to ensure standards are being upheld and products are not mis-sold to gardeners, landscapers and builders.”

 

News

The Multi-Academy Trust Finance Awards 2021 winners revealed

The winners of the inaugural MAT Finance Awards have been announced by IMP Software, specialists in Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) budgeting and financial management software, which is in use within over 120 Trusts.

The awards were launched in September to provide a unique platform for MAT finance professionals to celebrate their hard work, share best practice and showcase their impact across six categories. Following the 29th November submission deadline, the winners were officially unveiled on The MAT Finance Awards’ social media platforms on 15th December.

An expert judging panel – comprising Confederation of School Trusts CEO Leora Cruddas, Institute of School Business Leadership (ISBL) CEO Stephen Morales, Dartmoor MAT CEO Dan Morrow, L.E.A.D Academy Trust Deputy CEO Bobby Thandi, Bishop Fleming Audit Partner and Head of Education Pam Tuckett, and IMP Software Co-Founder Will Jordan – reviewed nearly 100 nominations received.

The judging panel also chose the individual recipient of the Outstanding Contribution to MAT Finance award: Micon Metcalfe, CFO at The Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust.

IMP Software Co-Founder Will Jordan said: “It is exactly 12 months ago that we first had the idea to set up The MAT Finance Awards given the gap we perceived for MAT finance leaders, teams and wider Trust champions to be recognised and rewarded through such an awards scheme. We wanted individuals and teams to come forward with their nominations for our six award categories, and to hear from both unsung heroes as well as leading lights in the sector. We have been overwhelmed by the response and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for submitting such fantastic nominations, engaging with this project and helping to shine a light on the great work that is taking place within the sector. The judging process has been a really tough challenge, reviewing nearly 100 nominations and picking winners for each category, from a truly inspirational set of entries. Congratulations to all the winners, and all those highly commended runners up. Given the number of worthy nominations received, being shortlisted was also a terrific achievement.”

 

The MAT Finance Awards 2021 winners:

 

MAT Finance Leader of the Year

To recognise outstanding CFOs, or equivalent, in a MAT for their leadership and management of MAT finances.

 

Winner

Judy Brinson, Director of Business and Finance, Truro & Penwith Academy Trust

 

Judges’ comments:

“Judy Brinson was nominated for this award due to her outstanding commitment to the highest quality financial management of a Trust meeting the needs of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable families in rural and coastal communities. The submission outlined how Judy has overcome monumental challenges for schools and their budgets to ensure the Trust has a healthy reserve, good financial security and budget plans for the future sustainability of the smallest schools. The range and scope of impact achieved under Judy’s leadership is truly inspirational. It has provided the Trust with strategic insight and impactful actions that have helped safeguard the provision and futures for children, as well as taking the agenda forward for the Trust and wider region. In her approach Judy exemplifies the Nolan principles, the basis of ethical standards expected of public office holders, and genuine system leadership to build a collaborative and self-improving sector which improves the life chances for all those served.”

 

Highly Commended runner-up

Helen Anderson, Director of Finance, Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust

 

MAT Finance Team of the Year

To recognise exceptional MAT finance teams, large or small, who go above and beyond in ensuring the smooth running and effective operations of MAT finance.

 

Winner

Boudica Schools Trust

 

Judges’ comments:

“The finance team at Boudica Schools Trust were nominated for this award for their individual and collective outstanding contribution – and dedication – to the Trust, schools and the wider sector which goes above and beyond what would be expected. Outstanding features of this entry included a saving of £85,000 over three years by reviewing maths software provision across all the Trust’s primary schools, helping another local Trust implement their new finance system by sharing their knowledge and experience of setting the system up, and leading the way nationally on implementing e-invoicing. Also of note was being amongst the first to make use of the automatic uploads on the Annual Accounts Return (AAR) and a report from consultants specialising in procurement who were unable to identify any savings across a number of areas of non-pay, highlighting the diligence with which the finance team have consistently achieved the best value for money.”

 

Highly Commended runner-up

Bishop Wilkinson Catholic Education Trust

 

MAT Finance Champion of the Year

To recognise inspirational MAT leaders – CEOs and Trustees/governors – who at a strategic level champion innovative practice around MAT finance and/or who motivate and inspire the core team to achieve success through effective leadership.

 

Winner

David Clayton, Chief Executive, Consilium Academies

 

Judges’ comments:

“David Clayton was nominated for this award for his tireless work in ensuring all students within Consilium Academies have access to an equitable education. As part of this, he has championed the adoption of GAG pooling within the Trust, which helps drive value of equity across the Trust. Through his hard work, all members of the finance team (and wider teams) work with the values of equity and integrity at the forefront of everything they do. David is clearly an exceptional role model with a deep understanding of finance underpinned by his background as a Chartered Accountant. He has a keen eye for detail to ensure maximum resource makes its way into the schools and into classrooms, while always achieving value for money. The finance team feel empowered to suggest new methods, come up with new ideas that may help to streamline processes and make life easier for school-based staff.”

 

MAT Finance Rising Star of the Year

To recognise younger MAT finance team members, aged 30 or under (as of 31/8/21), who have demonstrated excellence in their role.

 

Winner

Saffron Buckfield, Finance Apprentice, Leigh Academies Trust

 

Judges’ comments:

“Saffron Buckfield began her role at Leigh Academies Trust as a finance apprentice in October 2020 and she was nominated for this award for her achievements which have spectacularly exceeded expectations and have led to a permanent contract. Described as indispensable, great under pressure and extremely resilient, Saffron introduced new systems and processes for capturing costs associated with the Covid-19 testing of students across 15 secondary academies which enabled leaders to manage testing budgets and for the CFO to present reports to the Trust Board. She also quickly became an expert user of the PS Financials accounting system, and now effectively ‘owns’ the whole purchase ledger process, as well as making numerous other contributions to the Trust. Overall, it was absolutely wonderful to read about Saffron’s success as an apprentice. This is just the sort of thing that Trusts should be doing – recognising and valuing talented young people.”

 

MAT Finance Project of the Year

To recognise innovative MAT finance projects which have had a direct impact on the financial operations of the Trust.

 

Winner

Trust-Wide Finance and Operating Model Transformation, led by Alex Duffety, Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust

 

Judges’ comments:

“In January 2021 DEMAT rolled out its new financial operating model across all locations. This was the culmination of a finance and operating model transformation project, which began in Autumn 2019, was delayed slightly due to the pandemic and realised the Trust’s vision of a more aligned, sustained and strategic finance function. The new operating model includes localised hubs, centralised and outsourced invoice processing, revised financial reporting and a centre of expertise for compliance and reporting. Successfully delivering the project has allowed the Trust to benefit from immediate operational improvements in financial reporting, consistency and decision-making, but also provided a sustainable platform for the Board to make critical strategic decisions about its future. What is particularly impressive about this project is the complete restructure from a decentralised model to a three-hub model, using existing staff, and the extensive range of benefits. The new model is 25% less expensive allowing a needs-led redeployment of resource into teaching and educational improvements.”

 

Highly Commended runners-up

The New Way Forward, led by Mark Guest and Alexa Rendell, PolyMAT

Electronic Procure to Pay, led by James Rant, Red Kite Learning Trust

 

MAT Finance Education or Community Impact of the Year

To recognise innovative MAT finance projects which have had a wider impact on education or the wider community.

 

Winner

Supporting Our Networks, led by Sue Prickett, SENDAT

 

Judges’ comments:

“This nomination highlighted how, during the first lockdown and after RAG-rating all staff and learners for various SEND categories, the Trust CEO and finance team physically supported sourcing supplies and packing boxes filled with welfare items, food and learning resources. These went out to all pupil premium grant children and other identified families in the Trust as well as another large local school for Severe Learning Difficulties/Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties. The team co-ordinated drops using the local authority minibus drivers who would usually transport the children. This showed huge initiative to deliver food parcels before Edenred’s scheme was put in place. Supporting the most disadvantaged, and putting children first, is at the heart of this submission. Other examples including working throughout the 2020 Christmas holidays to plan the rollout of onsite testing in SENDAT schools with guidance that had not been streamlined to be SEND specific, and establishing its own quality assurance so staff and families were secure in knowing they were entering safe spaces.”

 

Outstanding Contribution to MAT Finance

 

Winner

Micon Metcalfe, Chief Financial Officer, The Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust

 

Judges’ comments:

“Micon Metcalfe is a vastly experienced education executive leader with extensive knowledge of business support and operations. She is also an experienced Chief Financial Officer, a DfE accredited School Resource Management Adviser and a Fellow of the Institute of School Business Leadership. In recent times, Micon has used her expertise to the benefit of three MATs (also United Learning and Inspiration Trust) in both financial and operations leadership roles. She is also experienced in change management and is interested in how school business professionals can contribute to the changing educational landscape. As a leading respected figure within the education finance area, Micon is a worthy recipient of this Outstanding Contribution award for promoting and championing the profession. Her technical knowledge (including around Integrated Curriculum Financial Planning) is exemplary and she is always the voice of reason when it comes to providing no-nonsense commentary on wider education/MAT funding or topical discussions.”