Monthly Archives: April 2023

Children and Childcare, interior design

Creating a Cosy Kids’ Bedroom: Bedding & Decor Tips

As parents, we all want our children to have a comfortable and happy space to call their own. A cosy bedroom can go a long way in promoting restful sleep, encouraging creativity, and providing a safe haven for your child to relax and unwind. But creating a cosy kids’ bedroom isn’t always easy, especially if you’re on a tight budget or working with limited space. Here are some bedding and decor tips to help you create a comfortable and inviting space for your child to call their own.

1- Choose the Right Bedding

The first step in creating a cosy kids’ bedroom is to choose the right bedding. Soft, comfortable sheets, blankets, and pillows can make a big difference in how comfortable your child is in their room. Choose a bed made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, as these materials are breathable and help regulate body temperature.

Look for bedding with fun prints or colours that your child will love, and don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures. You could even go one step further and get a dedicate boy or girls bed that is themed towards their personality.

2- Add a Cosy Rug

A soft, plush rug can add warmth and comfort to any bedroom, and it’s especially important in a kids’ room where they may spend a lot of time playing on the floor. Choose a rug made from a durable material like wool or polypropylene, and look for one that’s easy to clean. A shag or plush rug can be especially inviting and comfortable for kids.

3- Incorporate Soft Lighting

The lighting in a room can significantly impact its overall atmosphere. In a kids’ bedroom, it’s important to have a variety of lighting options to accommodate different activities, such as reading, playing, and relaxing. Soft, warm lighting can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, while brighter task lighting can be helpful for homework or art projects. Consider adding a nightlight to help your child feel secure and comfortable at night.

4- Display Artwork

Displaying your child’s artwork is a great way to personalise their space and make it feel like their own. Hang their drawings or paintings on the walls, or create a gallery wall with a mix of their artwork and favourite photos or prints. You can also encourage your child to create a special piece of art for their room, like a canvas painting or a framed collage.

5- Use Storage Wisely

A cluttered room can feel chaotic and uninviting, so it’s important to have ample storage space in your child’s bedroom. Use shelves, baskets, and storage bins to keep toys, books, and other items organised and out of sight. Consider using under-bed storage or a storage bench to maximise space in a smaller room.

6- Add a Reading Nook

Creating a special spot for your child to read or relax can be a great addition to a cosy kids’ bedroom. A comfortable chair or bean bag, a small table, and a bookshelf can create a cosy reading nook where your child can curl up with a good book or play a game.

7- Incorporate Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements like plants, wood accents, or woven baskets can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a kids’ bedroom. Plants not only add a pop of colour, but they also help purify the air and promote relaxation. Wood accents like a rustic headboard or bedside table can add warmth and texture, while woven baskets can be used for storage or decoration.

8- Consider Safety

When decorating your child’s bedroom, safety should always be a top priority. Make sure all furniture is anchored securely to the wall to prevent tipping and choose window treatments that are cordless or have cord safety devices. Avoid using heavy or sharp objects that could pose a danger to your child.

9- Get Your Child Involved

Finally, involve your child in the decorating process. Ask them for their input on colour schemes, bedding, and decor, and let them help with the decision-making process. This will not only help create a space that they love, but it will also encourage them to take ownership of their bedroom and feel more comfortable spending time there.

In conclusion, creating a cosy kids’ bedroom is all about creating a space that is comfortable, inviting, and personalised to your child’s tastes and interests. With the right bedding, decor, and accessories, you can transform your child’s bedroom into a space they love spending time in. Use these tips to get started, and don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the decorating process!

 

News, Technology

JumpCloud’s New Mobile Management Functionality for iOS and Android Accelerates IT Cost Reduction

JumpCloud Inc. today announced several upcoming releases as part of its Open Directory Platform that make hybrid work easier, more secure, and less expensive for IT admins and the users they manage. JumpCloud’s new mobile functionality includes the JumpCloud Admin app and adds Android device management to JumpCloud’s platform at no extra cost, giving IT admins full visibility and control over any type of iOS and Android device within JumpCloud; one platform, all of your devices.

With this release, JumpCloud expands its unified suite of device and identity management capabilities and gives IT admins a more flexible and less costly solution to secure employee access on any trusted device, including:

  • Android and iOS device management for corporate-owned devices (COD) and bring-your-own devices (BYOD).
  • Enhanced employee security with multi-factor authentication (MFA) through JumpCloud ProtectTM and JumpCloud Password ManagerTM for iOS and Android.
  • The JumpCloud Admin app, a new mobile app for IT admins to manage users from anywhere, at any time, and on any device.

Historically, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have either had limited device management due to outsized costs, or have had to restrict employees’ choice of devices for the sake of simplicity or compliance with the company security policies. With JumpCloud, admins have access to centralised, secure device management for all major operating systems, eliminating costly point solutions while improving visibility and control over mixed device environments.

“JumpCloud’s unified device and identity management capabilities transform how we deliver secure, frictionless access to our employees in a modern, cloud-first, hybrid work environment,” said Ricky Jordan, senior technology manager, Primitive Apparel. “The new Android device management capabilities and admin mobile app are a welcome addition that will enable us to boost our security capabilities while simultaneously lowering our administrative overhead and costs.”

 

Support for Android Enterprise Mobility Management (EMM)

  • Holistic mobile device management: IT can now manage both iOS and Android devices from a single pane of glass.
  • Device inventory: IT teams can view and manage all Android devices that are enrolled in their system, including device type, serial number, and operating system version.
  • Security policies: IT teams can enforce security policies on Android devices, such as requiring passcodes and remote wiping in the event of a lost or stolen device.
  • Application management: IT teams can manage Android app installations, updates, and removals to ensure that only authorised apps are installed on devices.
  • Remote actions: IT teams can remotely lock, locate, and wipe Android devices in the event of a security breach or lost device.
  • Account management: Streamlined account management in the Google Play accounts including enterprise enrolment, provisioning, and lifecycle management.

“Providing Android support has been a top request from our customers, and the addition of Android management reflects JumpCloud’s arrival as a full stack unified endpoint management (UEM) vendor,” said Greg Armanini, vice president of product management, JumpCloud. “This addition to our platform will make it easier for IT teams to manage their entire device fleet, regardless of the device type or operating system, while in compliance with company security policies and respecting end user privacy.”

 

New Mobile IT Management App

The release also includes the introduction of the JumpCloud Admin app, which offers centralised IT and device management from a single pane of glass.

  • Holistic heterogeneous support: IT can manage users from anywhere, at any time, and on any device with the JumpCloud Admin app.
  • Remote user password management: IT can remotely manage locked out users, including adding, deleting, and resetting passwords.
  • Remote device management: IT can resend activation emails, suspend accounts or change MFA and Security Key settings for devices.
  • Designed with security in mind: The app uses the same encryption and security protocols as JumpCloud’s cloud-based Open Directory Platform, ensuring that all sensitive data is kept secure and that IT admins can manage their devices and users with confidence.

Both iOS and Android support and the JumpCloud Admin app are included for free with all device management plans. Android EMM will be available for all customers in early May, but admins can download the JumpCloud Admin mobile app from Google Play or the Apple Store today.

 

Additional Resources for IT Admins

  • The Path to Secure Password Management, a whitepaper detailing how hybrid password managers simplify collaboration, let users easily manage passwords across all their devices, and improve IT control and visibility.
  • JumpCloud for MSPs, an overview of how JumpCloud provides MSPs an Open Directory Platform for delivering modern IT services that are identity centric, cloud native, and vendor agnostic.
  • Zero Trust Demystified, a small to medium-sized enterprise’s guide to Zero Trust and actionable tips for successful implementation.
  • JumpCloud Android Enterprise Mobility Management, an overview of the key features and benefits of the JumpCloud Android EMM solution.

About JumpCloud

JumpCloud® helps IT teams Make Work Happen® by centralising management of user identities and devices, enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to adopt Zero Trust security models. JumpCloud has a global user base of more than 200,000 organisations, with more than 5,000 paying customers including Cars.com, GoFundMe, Grab, ClassPass, Uplight, Beyond Finance, and Foursquare. JumpCloud has raised over $400M from world-class investors including Sapphire Ventures, General Atlantic, Sands Capital, Atlassian, and CrowdStrike.

Learn more: https://www.jumpcloud.com/

Accountancy & Accounts, FInance, News, Wales News

Spring brings green shoots of business optimism for Welsh accountants

Welsh accountants sense that the worse of the economic turmoil may be behind us

After months of economic turmoil, a measure of confidence is returning to the economy says accountancy professional body ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). A poll of accounting professionals found cautious optimism about the economic impact of the UK government’s Spring Budget compared with the Autumn Statement in late 2022.

The survey was completed by ACCA members – including members in Wales – working across all sectors of the economy.

In the poll, conducted in the second half of March and following the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, 36% of respondents felt the measures announced in the UK March budget would have a positive impact on the economy.

However, the gloom was not completely lifted. Nearly four in ten (39%) felt the budget wouldn’t make a difference, while around a quarter (25%) felt the impact would be negative.

But the positive feeling contrasts with feedback after the Autumn Statement in late 2022 which suggested that only 18% of respondents felt optimistic about growth potential.

Nevertheless, optimism appears fragile and does not yet appear to have translated into firmer investment or hiring intentions. For the majority (71%), the budget had no impact on recruitment plans, with only 3% more likely to recruit as a result.

Similarly, measures had limited impact on investment plans for almost two thirds (68%), though 11% were more likely to invest and, positively, nearly half (46%) felt that their, or their clients’ organisations, would make use of changes to capital allowances, including new rules allowing full year expensing.

Commenting on the feedback from members, Lloyd Powell, head of ACCA Wales, said:

“After months of financial turmoil these findings suggest accountants and financial professionals may cautiously feel the worst is behind us. However, this optimism is tentative and would suggest firms are still exceptionally cautious about investment and hiring intentions.

“With trading conditions still exceptionally tough, between high inflation and interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis hitting consumers’ pockets, the UK and Welsh governments need a laser focus on tackling these challenges. It’s clear that individual announcements won’t be enough to restore business confidence – a long-term approach to boosting business investment is needed.”

Absence Management, News, Wellbeing at Work

Five strategies businesses can deploy to reduce long term sickness at work

Written by Emma Capper, UK wellbeing leader at Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing 

The ONS figures were published ahead of the “Back to work” Spring budget, which included some positive health measures including a £400 million support package to improve mental health and musculoskeletal resources, and the expansion of the placement and support scheme for individuals with these conditions providing them with greater access to digital apps and offering businesses enhanced occupational health services.

The government’s plans may not go far enough as the fallout from the pandemic continues to affect access to diagnosis and treatment services. The NHS is overburdened, resulting in limited access to GPs and other services, leading to more individuals being absent from work due to ill health and struggling to receive proper treatment and diagnosis. While the government has outlined some plans to address this, employers play a big role in supporting not only their employees but the NHS as well.

Employers can take a more proactive approach to reduce absences by considering the culture they want to create in their organisation and aligning their  HR policies with it. For example, this could involve reviewing working practices to ensure employees can work to the best of their ability or reviewing their systems and processes.

What else do businesses need to consider?

1. Implementing a robust absence management policy

Companies need a clear and robust absence management policy that outlines the notification procedures and who is responsible for managing absence. It should provide guidance on policies and procedures, including flexibility for different conditions, individual circumstances and returning to work on a phased basis. It should specify the information employees need to provide, such as details about their condition, their expected absence duration and if they need to provide a Fit Note.

Having a good absence management system in place will help businesses to track, record, and report absences, and identify trends so appropriate action can be taken to manage absence levels.

 

2. Train line managers in absence management

Another important consideration is providing absence management training for line managers as they will be liaising with absent employees. It is important to assess whether they require additional support, particularly when they are having difficult conversations or supporting an employee or need training to manage such conversations.

 

3. Use Occupational Health

Does the business have access to an occupational health provider? If so, is there an established criteria for referring employees and are line managers aware of it so they can set expectations with employees when they hit certain milestones of absence?

Other key questions to consider are: Who is responsible for making referrals, and at what point should a referral be made? What information should be included in the referral? It’s vital to provide comprehensive details, including what has been tried, what worked and what didn’t, as well as details on the employee’s condition, and their role. The more information provided, the higher the quality of the response back from your Occupational Health provider will be.

If you don’t have access to an occupational health provider, consider finding one that accepts ad-hoc referrals for certain circumstances.

 

4. Group Income Protection & Added Value Services

If a Group Income Protection policy is in place, it is important to know what additional services the policy includes, such as early intervention support for employees, to help them return to work more quickly. These can and should be accessed well before the end of the deferred period that applies and certainly no later than half-way through.

Virtual GPs, app-based support, and Employee Assistance Programmes are also commonly included in policies and can be used pre or post-absence. These benefits must be communicated well so employees know what support is available and how to access it.

Group Income Protection providers typically offer rehabilitation support to assist individuals back into the workplace. Providers may also offer access to physiotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and other mental health therapies.

Encouraging employees to access these services can ensure employees are treated quickly and help facilitate their return to work much sooner and reduce pressure on the NHS). Providers can support partial claims and claims for shorter periods of absence – referring employees to these services early on, particularly for mental health and musculoskeletal conditions, can be beneficial as this may shorten the length of the absence considerably.

 

5.Private Medical Policies

Businesses need to make employees aware of any diagnosis or treatment options available to them through their private medical policy, and how to access it for faster treatment.

Emma concludes, “There are many measures businesses can take proactively to support employee healthcare and help to reduce absence, but it is key to remember, the early part of an employee’s absence is critical as interventions will typically have the most success – returning to work becomes increasingly difficult the longer an employee is absent. Providing early support to employees during their absence can increase their chances of returning to work – with this in mind, embedding a well-designed absence management strategy and supporting it within the company’s culture is key.”

 

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About Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing

Howden Employee Benefits & Wellbeing (HEBW) provides strategic advice to consumers, SMEs and corporate clients on healthcare, protection, wellbeing, and pension benefits, both in the UK and internationally. HEBW is multi-award winning and widely recognised for its innovative and creative approach and employs nearly 200 people across the UK.

Education

A Complete Guide to Redoing Your A Levels

Taking A Levels requires more work, and you should be determined to do well in your studies and pass the exams. A Levels is your portal to university education and often to a good career. Choose the subjects that appeal to you and will help you reach your goals, whether for undergraduate studies or your career.

Several careers expect you to have a university degree or certain A level results before you can apply for a position. Moreover, A Level study equips you with the skills you need to grow academically and professionally.

Studying A Levels is essential, but most A Level test-takers fail to meet the grade requirement for different reasons. But the good thing is you can retake your A Level exams several times.

It is understandable to feel disappointed if you fail to achieve the required grade for your chosen career, university or college course. You do not have to feel guilty because, often, redoing A Levels is more beneficial. This does not mean that you should not exert effort on your first try. Rather, retaking the A Levels gives you another chance to study better and work harder to meet the grade requirement of your chosen university or employer.

 

Where to retake the A Levels

You can retake your A Levels in your school, although you should ascertain that the school allows retakes. You can also enrol in an independent college. You can retake your A Levels in a tutorial college where you will receive more focused and personalised tutoring. You can also retake the course online.

 

Need to retake the whole course

In previous years, you could retake only the subjects you think need better grades. But recent developments changed the ruling as they shifted to a linear system, so now you have to retake all the subjects.

 

The exam date is now once a year

Today’s A Levels have a new schedule to give students more time to prepare and study. They are now given once a year, around May or June.

 

Maximise the opportunity

You want to retake your A Levels to improve your grades to enter the university of your dreams, so resolve to earn a higher score this time by knowing what went wrong the first time. You can request a copy of your previous A Level test from the exam board to review it more thoroughly. However, find out the deadline for making the request. Find your weak points and ensure that you will do more to improve your grades. Develop a study plan and avoid cramming. Use your time wisely and seek expert help to prepare for the exams better.

 

Consider one-to-one tuition

If you are determined to achieve a higher grade in your A Level retake, consider personalised tutoring from a sixth-form college. Your A Level retake course will concentrate on the areas where you need more support. This option might give you the best chance to succeed in the exams.

Since you have determined that you will retake your A Levels, remember not to cram. Instead, study in chunks to help you retain information better, concentrate on your weak areas, choose where you want to retake your A Levels carefully and get professional help.

Image Credit: Pexels 

 

Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business, Business Expansion, Business Mergers, Acquisitions & Partnerships, Business News, News from Wales

Flotek acquisition of Toolk-IT marks seventh deal since launch

South Wales IT provider Toolk-IT has been acquired by the Flotek Group, the fast-growing, innovative MSP with an ambitious mission to provide the most customer-centric, fully integrated IT and Telecoms support in the technology market.

 

Founded by Richard Williams out of the need for an informed IT provider that enables businesses to keep up with diverse and evolving technology demands, Toolk-IT’s comprehensive service offering includes cyber-security, broadband and helpdesk support.

 

The acquisition, which is Flotek’s seventh since launching in May last year, sees Toolk-IT access further telecoms support and resources through the Group, to augment its offering to clients.

 

Flotek CEO Jay Ball said: “We are delighted that Toolk-IT has joined the Flotek Group. Since launching we have developed a strong reputation in South Wales and the South West, therefore this acquisition is a natural fit that brings our nationwide client base to over 1,000 and our turnover reach almost £5m, in line with Flotek’s ambitious growth strategy.

 

“With Richard donning one of our purple shirts and taking on the role of Client Account Consultant, his valuable knowledge and experience complement our existing team and further enhances our ability to provide exceptional customer service to clients.”

 

An accomplished sales director, Richard boasts over 20 years’ experience in generating new business, account management and accelerated revenue streams in the wholesale telecoms and MSP market.

 

He said: “I am excited to be joining the Flotek Group and work alongside the ever-growing team. We share an aligned vision of ensuring businesses get the IT and Telecoms support they deserve.

 

“Combining our current IT expertise with Flotek’s integrated offering enables us to provide greater telecoms services to clients, offering them a more complete solution to meet their needs and fuel their own growth.

 

The deal follows the Flotek Group’s significant expansion into North Wales, the Midlands and North West England, developing a key target of providing a set-time response to clients through dedicated teams now with local engineers.

 

Connect with Flotek: at www.flotek.io.

Business Travel, Careers, Travel

5 Advantages of Working in the Cruise Industry

Cruising is a unique and enjoyable way to travel the world. Working in the cruise industry can be an incredibly rewarding career, with opportunities to meet new people, explore different cultures, and enjoy life at sea. Working on a cruise ship offers some of the most diverse and exciting job opportunities in the hospitality industry, allowing you to gain valuable experience while traveling around the globe. From bartenders to tour guides, countless positions are available to those looking for a career in the cruise industry. Therefore, if you are working on a Southampton no-fly cruise, here are some benefits you will get during this time.

 

Unique Experiences

Working in the cruise industry can be an exciting and unique experience. You get to travel to different parts of the world, interact with people from different cultures, and make new friends. The opportunities for growth and personal development are endless. One of the biggest advantages of working in the cruise industry is working with a diverse group of people. From chefs to entertainers, engineers, and housekeeping staff, everyone comes together to ensure guests have an unforgettable experience. The teamwork required in such an environment helps you develop strong communication skills and teaches you how to problem-solve effectively. Apart from working with a diverse team, working on a cruise ship also allows you to visit exotic locations worldwide.

 

Cross-Cultural Connections

Building cross-cultural connections is essential when working in the cruise industry. Cruise ships are floating cities, and the staff and passengers come from worldwide. Communicating effectively with people from different cultures can be challenging, but it can also be an opportunity to learn about other cultures, broaden your horizons, and enrich your life. To build cross-cultural connections in the cruise industry, start respecting other cultures. Observe their customs and traditions without judgment or criticism. Learn some basic phrases in their language to show that you are trying to communicate with them on their terms. Be patient and understanding as they adjust to a new environment.

Another way to build cross-cultural connections is to participate in onboard activities celebrating diversity. Attend cultural events such as dance performances, music concerts, or culinary experiences that showcase food from different countries.

 

Employee Benefits

Apart from exploring different destinations, you can enjoy several benefits as an employee. One of the most significant advantages is the opportunity for growth and advancement within the company. Many cruise companies offer training programs that help employees develop their skills and knowledge, which can lead to promotions and higher pay. Another benefit of working in the cruise industry is the chance to meet people worldwide. You will interact with passengers from various countries, cultures, and backgrounds as a crew member. This exposure helps broaden your perspective while improving your communication skills – both vital assets in today’s globalized workforce.

Additionally, many companies provide free or discounted travel opportunities for employees during their time off, which can be an excellent way to see new places without spending much money.

 

Travel Opportunities

Working in the cruise industry is not just a job but also an opportunity to travel the world. As a crew member, you’ll have access to some of the most beautiful and exotic locations on earth. Whether you are working as a waiter, bartender, housekeeper, or entertainer, your work schedule will be designed to allow for exploration during off-hours. Crew members can explore destinations across Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond. They can indulge in local cuisine and experience unique cultures while earning money. For those who love adventure activities like scuba diving or zip lining, this is an opportunity to do so at discounted rates offered exclusively to crew members. Working in the cruise industry provides opportunities that are unmatched by any other profession out there.

 

 

Entertainment, Games Sector, Gaming & Entertainment

The Factors that Make iGaming a great business

The iGaming industry has seen significant growth over the past few years, with a market value of $66.7 billion in 2020 and projected to reach $92.9 billion by 2023. With such rapid growth, it is important to understand the factors that make iGaming a great business.

Growing Demand for iGaming

The demand for iGaming has increased due to several factors, including the rise of mobile devices and access to the internet. The convenience and accessibility of online gaming have contributed to its popularity. In addition, the increasing number of countries legalizing and regulating the industry has also contributed to its growth.

Technological Advancements

The iGaming industry heavily relies on technology, facilitating the creation of highly realistic and immersive gaming experiences for players. For instance, live casino games featuring real dealers have gained popularity, enabling players to enjoy a more authentic casino experience from the comfort of their homes. Some gaming platforms are even incorporating virtual reality technology to enhance immersion.

Regulatory Framework

The regulatory framework is crucial to the success of the iGaming industry. Governments and regulatory bodies ensure that operators adhere to strict fairness, security, and responsible gaming standards. Successful iGaming operators, such as 32red casino uk, understand the importance of complying with regulatory standards to maintain their reputation and retain their customers. The United Kingdom Gambling Commission, for example, is responsible for regulating online gaming in the UK, and its regulations are among the strictest in the world.

Competitive Landscape

The iGaming industry is highly competitive, with numerous operators vying for customers’ attention. Successful operators differentiate themselves through innovative offerings, such as unique game variations, exclusive partnerships, and exceptional customer service. In addition, successful iGaming companies use data analytics to understand their customers’ preferences and tailor their offerings accordingly.

Customer Experience

Customer experience is critical in the iGaming industry. Operators that provide exceptional customer service and offer a seamless gaming experience will retain their customers and attract new ones. Successful operators provide a variety of payment options, fast and secure transactions, and 24/7 customer support. Companies that offer personalized promotions and rewards to their customers are also likely to have higher customer loyalty.

In Summary

The iGaming industry is a great business opportunity due to the growing demand for online gaming, technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, competitive landscape, and customer experience. As the industry continues to evolve, operators that stay ahead of the curve by investing in innovation, adhering to regulations, and providing excellent customer service are likely to succeed.

 

News

Green light for holiday park development as leisure firm goes from strength to strength

A LEADING leisure company creating jobs and supporting the coastal economy is making a significant investment in two of its key holiday parks.

SF Parks has received planning permission to build a new high ropes course, spa, sauna, and gym complex and wine bar at White House Leisure Park in Towyn.

The development will also feature an upgrade to the popular Jakes family restaurant and pub, an amusement arcade, a cinema room, and soft play, complementing existing facilities including a crazy golf course and food and drinks outlets.

The good news comes as directors Jonathan and Oliver Seldon put forward proposals to construct a rooftop bar, bowling alley, reception area and extend the arcade at the neighbouring Golden Gate Holiday Centre.

The business – which has five parks in North Wales, employing up to 120 full time and seasonal staff – is also looking to increase the current 7 ½ month season to 10 ½ months at Golden Gate in a bid to employ more full-time workers and increase spend in the local area all-year round.

“We are pleased to receive the green light and thankful to Conwy’s planning team and councillors for their support,” said Jonathan.

“Our vision is to keep enhancing the customer experience, keep investing in our parks and most importantly, contribute to the local economy through jobs and tourism.

“As well as the improvements we are making to our facilities, we are pushing to increase the season from 7 ½ months to 10 ½ months because that will enable us to recruit more people full time, rather than seasonal workers, which in turn will have a positive effect on employment in this area and allow owners to enjoy the park facilities for a longer period.

“Our aim is for Towyn to be busy all the time, not just for part of the year, so we hope to receive positive news on that front soon.”

He added: “The investment we are making at White House and Golden Gate is significant and to be followed by upgrades to our other parks.

“We are always looking at the bigger picture and want to expand in the future, while at the same time building on the overall customer experience and developing our identity as one of the region’s top hospitality and tourism operators.”

In addition to White House and Golden Gate – which host more than 830 caravans – SF Parks owns Riverside and Sun Valley in Rhuddlan, and Sirior Bach in Moelfre, Abergele.

Oliver believes their commitment to the North Wales coast and becoming an even more sustainable organisation will stand them in good stead post-pandemic.

He said: “We are bringing all five of our parks in line with the wider brand so across the board we can continue to enhance and improve our offering for our caravan owners and guests.

“As White House and Golden Gate are so close it makes sense for them to become more integrated, so owners can enjoy these improved facilities long-term.

“We will soon be in consultation on the Golden Gate plans and will be keen to receive feedback and suggestions; we always want to hear from our customers, as well as the local community, because they are a big part of this.”

Jim Jones, CEO of North Wales Tourism, congratulated SF Parks on its commitment to improving the Conwy coastline, supporting local jobs and tourism.

“The revitalisation of our seaside towns through investment is essential in helping to boost the local economy, creating new opportunities for businesses and our community alike,” he said.

“I am pleased to see the plans from Jonathan and Oliver Seldon and think they will bring much-needed entertainment and job opportunities to the area. Let’s hope all the proposals receive approval and contribute to the rejuvenation of these wonderful coastal areas.”

For more information and to contact SF Parks, email opteam@sfparks.co.uk.

Alternatively, visit www.whitehouseleisurepark.com or www.seldonsgoldengate.co.uk.

News

Earth conference will unite industry and education to promote biodiversity for future generations

STUDENTS are aiming to unite education and industry at an event promoting biodiversity and sustainability for future generations.

To celebrate Earth Week (April 16-22), Coleg Cambria Animal Management learners Anna Grimaldi and Lucy Windsor-Jones have organised a conference and expo entitled Invest in our Planet.

Hosted by the college’s Northop Business school from 6.30pm on Wednesday April 19, the evening will raise funds for North Wales Wildlife Trust.

Anna, from Ruthin, and Bodelwyddan-based Lucy wanted to provide Level 4 and Level 5 classmates on the HND programme with a platform to showcase their passion projects – including presentations on reforestation in Costa Rica and the plight of our oceans – while giving local and national organisations the opportunity to display information, network and forge partnerships centred on conservation and the environment.

“This will be an important event, not just academically but in bringing the community and industry under one roof to highlight the best ways we can invest in our planet together,” said Lucy, a former pupil at Emrys ap Iwan secondary school, Abergele.

“We will have a pledge wall for people to sign and support, and hope young people will come along as they are going to be the ones who make the big difference in shaping the world we live in going forward.

“However, it’s also vital we see an immediate commitment to the environment, climate change, recycling and other crucial issues on a national and global level.”

Anna, an ex-pupil at Ysgol Brynhyfryd in Ruthin, added: “We are committed to sustainability, and all we ask is that guests bring their own cup to enjoy refreshments available on the night.

“For organisations wanting to attend, it’s a chance to share their experience and tips for living a green lifestyle or running a green business, while discussing best practice on lowering their carbon footprint and how to have an impact on our planet for years to come.”

There will also be guest speakers from North Wales Wildlife Trust and Jackson’s Animal Rescue, Wirral.

Animal Management programme leader Sadie Thackaberry is proud of her students for their dedication, diligence, and vision in bringing the conference together.

“There will be a lot of take-home messages for both the learners and organisations there on the night, and hopefully we can all work together in the future,” she said.

“The event is an opportunity for prospective students and their families to find out more about our other courses, apprenticeships, and qualifications, and we will be launching the new Level 2 Certificate in Sustainability and the Green Environment.

“There will be a lot for people to enjoy, and much to inform them on the position we are in, the challenges ahead and how we can all work together to conserve, preserve and celebrate our planet for generations to come.”

Tickets are £6 for individuals or a family of four (children 12+).

To attend the event, visit http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/invest-in-our-planet-earth-week-conference-tickets-591460152237.

If you are a business or organisation wanting to exhibit, email sadie.thackaberry@cambria.ac.uk.