Monthly Archives: July 2023

AV tech, News

i-PRO AI Smart Box Turns Traditional Network Cameras into a Smart Device

Brings serverless AI image analysis to non-AI network cameras at little cost and effort

i-PRO Co. Ltd., a global leader in professional security solutions for surveillance and public safety, today announced its AI Smart Box, designed to turn non-AI network cameras into smart devices. The AI Smart Box is a combination of the known i-PRO mini paired with a new i-PRO in-house application. This powerful, yet compact combination can provide deep-learning analytics by extracting comprehensive object metadata from the real-time stream of a traditional camera.

Available immediately, this new functionality provides an avenue for non-AI cameras from other manufacturers to integrate with i-PRO Active Guard. As part of i-PRO’s open strategy, the Active Guard plugin software delivers a multitude of valuable object attributes for forensic search and live events to popular VMSs like Milestone, Genetec, Luxriot and other VMSs.

“Similar to how we used encoders in the transition from analog to IP 15-20 years ago, this ‘AI encoder’ enables a seamless transition to AI-based analytics. i-PRO leads the way again in making AI accessible to more customers with a unique and cost-effective solution for legacy network cameras to transition to AI while benefiting from i-PRO’s powerful Active Guard software,” said Gerard Figols, President, i-PRO EMEA.

 

The i-PRO AI Smart Box is designed for customers who have some non-AI capable cameras but would like to harvest valuable metadata to be used in detailed forensic search and real-time notifications through integration with i-PRO Active Guard, benefitting from zero additional license fees and no processing delays when seconds count.

 

“Our approach is simple, yet efficient: we have developed a new application for an existing product, enabling customers to turn their non-AI cameras into smart devices by adding this compact box into their system infrastructure on-site. This way everyone can test and experience the benefits of AI-generated metadata by themselves,” adds Philippe Henaine, Manager, Strategic Partners for Europe.

 

The AI Smart Box works by transferring MJPEG streams from a non-AI camera to the AI Smart Box for processing. The results are then sent to the Active Guard server and VMS. Up to two apps can be installed that detect people or vehicles with the ability to detect nearly 100 individual object attributes. Any network camera that supports an MJPEG output and a minimum of 5fps in either 1920×1080 or 1280×720 resolution is projected to be compatible with the AI Smart Box. Customers can enjoy the benefits of generating metadata for non-AI cameras, that match these requirements, after installing the dedicated application to their i-PRO mini (WV-S71300A-F3) device.

 

For more information, visit https://i-pro.com/products_and_solutions/en/surveillance/products/ai-processing-relay

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About i-PRO

i-PRO Co., Ltd., is a global leader of advanced sensing technologies in the fields of Intelligent Surveillance, Public Safety, and Medical Imaging. Established in 2019, i-PRO was built on a legacy of over 60 years of innovation with Panasonic.

The company’s products, software and services extend human senses to capture moments of truth with innovations that inform and protect. In order to help create a safer world, i-PRO Co., Ltd., supports the work of professionals who protect and save lives.

Cloud Providers, News

Cohesity Expands Partnerships with Cisco and HPE to Grow Market Penetration of Its Cloud Services

Cohesity today announced Cisco and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) will each be offering Cohesity Cloud Services (CCS) to bring efficient data security and management to companies operating in today’s modern hybrid and multicloud environments.

Cohesity has benefited from strategic partnerships with Cisco and HPE to help deliver the benefits of the Cohesity Data Cloud to nearly 1,000 joint customers worldwide. In 2017, both companies started working with Cohesity to deliver integrated data protection solutions on Cisco UCS servers and HPE ProLiant and HPE Apollo servers respectively that dramatically simplify data management, harden cyber resilience, and help organisations recover their business operations rapidly in the event of a successful cyber-attack or disaster.

Today, Cohesity and Cisco have over 460 joint customers. Two recent examples of customers that have deployed FortKnox – Cohesity’s new award-winning cyber vaulting service – include the Master Group and Pearl River Community College. HPE and Cohesity have jointly helped over 600 customers including Citizen Potawatomi Nation and Proliance Surgeons, to move to a modern platform that simplifies data security and management, helping them improve their cyber resilience.

“There is always a desire to do more with less in IT, and it is our job to find the best solutions in terms of agility, security, cost, and efficiency to meet our organisation’s goals,” said George Ciarrocchi, executive director of Systems and Networking, Information Technology, Millersville University. “Cohesity has been a great partner in providing the flexibility we need to help us take advantage of a hybrid, multicloud model, while meeting our data security and management needs as well as our cost savings goals.”

“We are constantly working to improve the flexibility, cyber resilience, and simplify the operations of our systems,” said Curt Kwak, chief information officer, Proliance Surgeons. “Cohesity has been a great partner in offering data security and management solutions that provide the flexibility we need to meet our changing needs while helping us strengthen our cyber resilience and reduce complexity.”

Every day, organisations are under threat from cyber criminals, hackers, and nation states all while struggling with the complexities of managing data across hybrid, on-premises, and multicloud environments. Research indicates that 89% of data is stored in hybrid or cloud storage distributed globally,* resulting in increased security risks and operational complexity for organisations.

Cohesity Cloud Services are a portfolio of data security and management offerings, in which the cloud components are fully managed by Cohesity and hosted in Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. This SaaS approach simplifies the management of multiple data workflows. It provides backup and recovery, cyber vaulting and data isolation, automated disaster recovery, and threat defence as a service, on a single platform. This simplification enables IT teams to re-focus their time on more critical business requirements versus managing on-prem infrastructure, helping to increase IT productivity and morale, and business agility.

Cohesity Cloud Services – Accelerating Growth, Innovation, and Industry Recognition

CIOs and CISOs are under pressure to control costs and increase cyber resilience while facing increasing threats of cyber attacks and meeting stringent compliance requirements. As a result, they seek solutions that help to move from legacy to modern hybrid, multicloud models while improving the organisation’s security posture and ability to rapidly recover from a cyber-attack.

Cohesity has seen great success as a trusted vendor for enterprises worldwide and has experienced strong growth in its cloud services business. One in five customers now use Cohesity Cloud Services, and approximately 25% of all new customer and expansion business comes from CCS. In addition, nearly two thirds of CCS Annual Recurring Revenue in the past four quarters have come from enterprise customers with revenue greater than $1B, demonstrating strong interest from large customers.

The company has continued its rapid pace of innovation with the release of the award-winning, SaaS-based cyber vaulting solution, FortKnox and DataHawk, a new service that helps customers protect, detect, and recover from cyber and ransomware attacks. Cohesity recently expanded the availability of its cloud services beyond America, Canada and Europe to new regions around the world, including Singapore and Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Middle East.

“Enterprises are moving away from incumbent technologies to modern platforms for greater risk reduction, an improved security posture, and the ability to restore their systems quickly in the event of a cyber attack,” said Chris Kent, vice president, Product and Solutions Marketing, Cohesity. “We are partner-focused, and these agreements add significant resources to our ability to reach even more customers worldwide, as we continue to innovate and develop efficient, and simple solutions to secure and manage data, wherever it resides.”

“With more applications generating more data than ever before, customers face increased complexity and cost as they look to secure and manage their data while also improving cyber resilience and recovery,” said Jeremy Foster, SVP and General Manager, Cisco Compute. “To address these challenges, we are excited to bring simpler, cost-effective solutions to our customers with Cohesity Cloud Services.”

Cohesity Cloud Services are available today from Cohesity, HPE and HPE resellers. They will be available from Cisco and their channel partners in calendar 2023.

Events, Leisure, Lifestyle & Travel, North of England

So you think you know Blackpool? Think again

Hannah Mooney, Sales Manager at Hampton by Hilton Blackpool says that there is more to Blackpool than people think as the town becomes increasingly recognised as a top events destination

As the Sales Manager of the Hampton by Hilton in Blackpool, partners of MeetBlackpool, the town’s conference and exhibition arm, I am thrilled to celebrate our 5-year anniversary in 2023. This milestone gives us an opportunity to showcase the transformation taking place in Blackpool and its emergence as a top conference destination. I am keen to delve into the lesser-known aspects of Blackpool, the investments fuelling its growth, and how our hotel’s expansion has contributed to the local economy while prioritising sustainability.

 

Unveiling the corporate side of Blackpool

A cultural shift has taken place in Blackpool, often associated with leisure and entertainment,  which now focuses on the town’s impressive corporate events offering. With its striking coastline, excellent transport links, and a range of modern conference facilities, Blackpool offers a unique setting that combines business with pleasure. Corporate event managers will be pleasantly surprised by the diversity of venues, from historic theatres to state-of-the-art conference centres, which can cater to a variety of needs and budgets.

 

Investment in Blackpool’s future

Blackpool’s new perception as a business events destination is fuelled by significant investments across various sectors. The town’s local government, along with private investors, has been dedicated to rejuvenating Blackpool’s infrastructure, public spaces, and iconic landmarks. These improvements ensure a seamless experience for corporate guests, creating an environment that is both visually appealing and conducive to successful business interactions.

 

Hampton by Hilton’s role in economic growth

The extension of our Hampton by Hilton hotel will play a role in Blackpool’s economic growth. We are proud to have created additional jobs within the local community, as our recruitment strategy focuses on hiring talent from within the area. By providing employment opportunities to the residents of Blackpool, we contribute to the overall prosperity of the town and strengthen the sense of community.

On top of this, and crucially as the town expands its event offering, the extra bedspace we now offer has increased the appeal for corporate event managers and agencies alike.

 

Sustainability: our commitment to a greener future

At Hampton by Hilton Blackpool, we understand the importance of sustainable practices and their impact on the environment. Our hotel has implemented various measures to minimise our ecological footprint while ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of our corporate guests. From energy-efficient lighting and water conservation initiatives to waste reduction and recycling programs, we strive to be a responsible steward of the environment.

 

Collaboration and networking opportunities

Blackpool’s growth as a conference destination also offers ample opportunities for collaboration and networking. The town hosts a range of industry-specific events and trade shows, attracting professionals from various sectors. Corporate event managers can leverage these occasions to forge new partnerships, gain insights from industry experts, and establish their organisations as industry leaders.

 

Blackpool is no longer seen solely as a leisure-oriented destination; it has emerged as a hidden gem for corporate events. With investments driving its transformation, Blackpool offers a unique blend of business opportunities and stunning coastal scenery. Corporate event managers can now explore the potential of Blackpool and its vibrant conference scene, making it a top choice for their next successful event.

Business Advice, Business News

Breaking the Mold: How Today’s Business News is Defining Tomorrow’s Industry Trends

In our rapidly evolving world, businesses are increasingly defined by their ability to adapt and pivot in response to external changes. One crucial aspect of this dynamism is the influence of news. In particular, business news serves as a compass, guiding the industry’s direction. Focuses on this phenomenon, with a particular emphasis on the role of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Certificate.

The Impact of FCC Certification on Business Trends

In the digital era, regulatory compliance is not an option; it’s a necessity. The FCC certificate stands as a testament to this fact. Designed to ensure the safe and efficient use of radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic fields, the FCC Certificate serves as a gateway for electronic and telecom products into the U.S. market. The implications of this certification are far-reaching, impacting the smallest start-ups to the largest multinationals.

From design considerations to market-entry strategies, FCC compliance is an essential piece of the business puzzle. For instance, adapting to the technical standards defined by the FCC often requires significant research and development. Likewise, timeframes for product launches must account for the certification process.

How Business News Reflects Changing Regulatory Landscapes

In our interconnected world, the tiniest policy tweak can make headline news, especially when it influences the business sphere. A sudden change in FCC certification requirements, for instance, could force companies to pivot, leading to reshuffled strategies and revised budgets. The business news, therefore, acts as a pulse, offering valuable insights into the changing regulatory landscapes and their repercussions.

Reading Between the Lines: Interpreting Business News

It’s not just about staying updated; it’s about understanding the implications behind the headlines. Business news can be a goldmine of information for predicting industry trends, provided you know how to interpret it. Here are a few techniques:

  • Identify the core issue: Understand the main subject of the news story, be it a regulatory change, a product launch, or a significant business deal.
  • Analyse the impact: How does this news impact various stakeholders, including businesses, consumers, and the broader industry?
  • Look for patterns: Are there recurring themes or issues in the news? These could hint at emerging trends.

Staying Ahead of the Curve: Adapting to Industry Trends

Savvy businesses understand that keeping an eye on the news is crucial to stay ahead of the curve. Netflix, for instance, leveraged its understanding of evolving consumer preferences and tech advancements to transition from DVD rentals to a dominant streaming platform. Such adaptability can be the difference between business success and obsolescence.

The Future of Business: Predicted Trends Based on Today’s News

As we look at today’s business news, we see the inklings of tomorrow’s trends. The emphasis on data privacy, for example, signals a future where businesses will need to invest heavily in cybersecurity measures. Meanwhile, the rise of remote work could spell changes for office spaces and workforce management.

In the same vein, evolving FCC regulations, and their coverage in the news, suggest that businesses will need to focus more on ensuring product compliance. The future might see even more rigorous standards for RF devices, necessitating innovation and adaptation from businesses.

Conclusion

The saying “knowledge is power” has never been truer. In a business environment that’s continually being shaped by the news, staying informed is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. By keeping a keen eye on the news, particularly regarding FCC regulations, businesses can anticipate trends and adapt accordingly. In doing so, they’re not just surviving; they’re breaking the mold, setting the stage for the industry’s future.

FInance, Finance and Banking, News

The Impact of Deepwater Drilling on Oil Trading

As the demand for oil continues to grow, the search for new sources of oil has led to the development of deepwater drilling. Deepwater drilling refers to the exploration and extraction of oil and gas reserves located in deep sea waters. This technology has revolutionized the oil industry, providing access to previously inaccessible reserves. However, the impact of deepwater drilling on https://oiltraderpro.org/ is complex and multifaceted.

Environmental Concerns

Deepwater drilling presents a significant environmental risk. Oil spills from deepwater drilling can cause significant damage to marine ecosystems, affecting wildlife and the local economy. The 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a prime example of the environmental risks associated with deepwater drilling. The spill caused significant damage to the local environment, and the cleanup efforts were costly and time-consuming. As a result, deepwater drilling is subject to strict regulatory oversight to minimize the environmental impact.

Price Volatility

The impact of deepwater drilling on oil trading can be seen in the price volatility of oil. Deepwater drilling is expensive and time-consuming, which means that oil produced from deepwater drilling is more expensive than oil produced from traditional onshore sources. As a result, the price of oil is influenced by the availability of deepwater oil reserves. When deepwater drilling is in high demand, oil prices tend to be higher, and when deepwater drilling is not in high demand, oil prices tend to be lower. This price volatility can have a significant impact on the global economy.

Market Competition

Deepwater drilling has led to increased competition in the oil market. With the development of deepwater drilling technology, countries with offshore oil reserves have been able to increase their production and compete with traditional oil-producing countries. This increased competition has led to a shift in the balance of power in the global oil market, with new players entering the market and traditional oil-producing countries facing increased competition.

Supply Chain Challenges

Deepwater drilling presents unique supply chain challenges. The cost and complexity of deepwater drilling mean that the oil produced must be transported long distances to market. This transportation requires specialized equipment and infrastructure, which can be costly to develop and maintain. Additionally, the environmental risks associated with deepwater drilling mean that the transportation of deepwater oil is subject to strict regulatory oversight.

Conclusion

Deepwater drilling has had a significant impact on oil trading, but this impact is complex and multifaceted. The environmental risks associated with deepwater drilling, the price volatility of oil, increased competition in the oil market, and supply chain challenges are all factors that must be considered. As the demand for oil continues to grow, it is likely that deepwater drilling will continue to play a significant role in the global oil industry.

 

Cryptocurrency, FInance

Digital Fortunes: An Expose on the GALA Coin Revolution

Embark on a comprehensive journey through the dynamics of GALA coin, a promising contender in the crypto universe. This analysis not only scrutinizes its market performance but also addresses the inherent risks. Discover the power of automated trading with BitAi Method amidst the crypto Revolution, unlocking potential digital fortunes with this innovative bot.

 

Examining GALA Coin’s Market Performance

The market performance of GALA Coin is a crucial aspect to consider when evaluating its potential and determining its future trajectory. By analyzing GALA Coin’s price trends and examining its market dynamics, we can gain valuable insights into its current position and future prospects.

When delving into GALA Coin’s price trends, it is important to assess its historical movements and market fluctuations. Understanding how GALA Coin has performed over time can provide a comprehensive view of its growth and stability. By studying historical data, we can identify patterns and trends that may help us make informed predictions about its future performance.

Factors influencing GALA Coin’s price can vary widely. Market demand, investor sentiment, overall cryptocurrency market trends, and regulatory developments are among the key elements that can influence GALA Coin’s value. By closely monitoring these factors, we can gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape GALA Coin’s market performance.

Looking beyond price analysis, it is essential to consider GALA Coin’s market outlook and future potential. Expert opinions and predictions play a significant role in shaping market sentiment and investor confidence. Assessing the opinions of industry leaders and analysts can provide valuable insights into GALA Coin’s growth prospects and market opportunities.

Furthermore, upcoming developments, partnerships, or initiatives within the GALA Coin ecosystem can significantly impact its market performance. Collaborations with established brands, technological advancements, and community-driven initiatives all contribute to shaping GALA Coin’s future trajectory. Keeping a close eye on such developments can help investors and enthusiasts gauge GALA Coin’s potential for further growth and adoption.

While the GALA Coin revolution holds promise, it is also important to address concerns and risks associated with its market performance. Regulatory and legal considerations, such as changing regulations and government interventions, can impact the future of GALA Coin.

Security and privacy considerations are equally important when analyzing GALA Coin’s market performance. Investors and users want assurance that their transactions and personal information are safeguarded. Examining the security measures implemented by GALA Coin and addressing any privacy concerns can build trust and confidence in its market potential.

 

Addressing Concerns and Risks

One of the primary concerns surrounding GALA Coin and other cryptocurrencies is the regulatory and legal landscape. As governments and regulatory bodies strive to keep pace with the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency market, new regulations and policies may be introduced. These regulations can vary across different jurisdictions and may impact the use, trading, and overall adoption of GALA Coin.

In addition to regulatory considerations, security is a significant concern when it comes to cryptocurrencies. GALA Coin users want assurance that their transactions and digital assets are secure from hacking and fraud. Therefore, it is vital to assess the security measures implemented by GALA Coin. This includes evaluating the underlying blockchain technology, encryption protocols, and any additional security layers that ensure the integrity and safety of transactions.

Privacy is another critical aspect that must be considered when addressing concerns and risks associated with GALA Coin. Users want to ensure that their personal information remains confidential and protected. It is important for GALA Coin to prioritize user privacy and clearly communicate the measures taken to safeguard personal data. By implementing privacy-enhancing features and adhering to best practices for data protection, GALA Coin can address privacy concerns and instill confidence in its user base.

The cryptocurrency market is known for its price fluctuations, which can be influenced by various factors such as market demand, investor sentiment, and global economic conditions. Investors and users need to be aware of the potential risks and uncertainties involved in trading or holding GALA Coin and should make informed decisions based on their risk tolerance and investment goals.

To address these concerns and risks effectively, GALA Coin’s development team, along with community participation, should proactively engage with regulatory authorities, implement robust security measures, and prioritize user privacy. Open communication, transparent reporting, and compliance with relevant regulations can help mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of GALA Coin as a digital asset.

 

Conclusion

As the GALA Coin Revolution unfolds, it is crucial to address concerns and risks while evaluating its market performance. By prioritizing regulatory compliance, robust security measures, and user privacy, GALA Coin can build trust, navigate challenges, and realize its potential as a transformative force in the digital landscape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Healthcare, Insurance

What is professional indemnity and do I need it?

If you work in the medical profession as a doctor or something similar, you’ll know that mistakes can happen. Sometimes, these mistakes can be serious and have severe consequences. The University of Manchester has reported that more than 200 million medication errors occur in the NHS each year, with avoidable adverse drug reactions (ADRs) causing hundreds of deaths. This is why it’s so important to have a grasp of professional indemnity insurance. Keep reading to find out more.

What is professional indemnity insurance?

Also known as PI insurance, professional indemnity insurance is a commercial policy used to help to protect you against claims for loss or damage made by third parties or clients. Professionals and businesses use it for added peace of mind, as it can help them to stay financially secure by covering any legal fees or compensation payments that may need to be addressed.

How can professional indemnity insurance help?

Having the necessary protection in place is extremely important in the healthcare sector. It can be used to cover the full scope of your medical practice; it should be arranged before you begin to practise.

How professional indemnity works in healthcare

Whether you’re carrying out medical care at a private or independent practice, it’s important to have the correct protection in place. Having professional indemnity insurance as a medical professional in the healthcare sector gives you a layer of protection against claims made by patients or third parties. It can also be known as medical malpractice insurance. Without it, if a claim were to be raised after a breach of contract due to a failure to exercise reasonable skill and care, it could be ruinous.

What professional indemnity covers

Professional indemnity can cover a variety of claims, many of which are aligned with more common medication errors in a healthcare setting. Examples of this in practice might include giving somebody the incorrect medicine or the incorrect dosage, or failing to check whether somebody has any medication allergies. It can also cover medical negligence, defamation and other errors that have occurred while somebody has been under your care and supervision.

Examples of circumstances that will often not be covered include purposeful misconduct and existing issues that were not disclosed to the insurer. Similarly, cosmetic procedures may not be covered as these are considered especially risky.

Meanwhile, public liability requires a separate type of insurance to cover claims made by members of the public for injury or damage. Employers’ liability insurance is another type of business insurance that protects you from claims by a current or former employee involving injury suffered as a result of working for you. For this reason, medical professionals seeking out professional indemnity insurance should have a clear understanding of what their policy covers.

Appointments, News, Tech, Technology

New Head of Product for Antavo as It Gears up for Accelerated Growth

Antavo, the leading enterprise loyalty cloud, has appointed a new Head of Product as part of its ambitious growth plans. Andras Taraszovics has been promoted from within the business to lead on the company’s loyalty platform development and drive engagement with customers and prospects globally.

Andras Taraszovics will lead the Product team and will focus on ensuring that the company’s product remains at the cutting edge of the loyalty industry. His appointment follows a €10m investment in November 2022, aimed at expanding the company’s global presence and securing clients across the globe. The company has also recently enjoyed a win for ‘Technology Programme/Initiative of the Year’ at the Irish Loyalty Awards, alongside with a win for ‘Best Loyalty Initiative within Leisure, Experience, Entertainment’ at the International Loyalty Awards, and appointments from new clients including Benefit Cosmetics, and announcements with new partners like CarltonOne.

 

Andras Taraszovics – who has already worked within Antavo for 10 years – will focus on developing the product pathway in line with customer needs and expectations. He said: “We often see a gap between our customers’ business goals and the way they describe their needs and requirements from a loyalty scheme. While the ultimate goals of most businesses are very similar, it’s not unusual to find a lack of understanding about the tools that are needed to support customers’ journeys – and how that can help the business achieve its goals.

“Antavo can plug this gap with an easy-to-use, self-service product. I’m excited to work with the business’ talented team to deliver an outstanding product which drives real value to our customers,” he added.

 

Antavo works with businesses around the globe to deliver world-class loyalty schemes. Its lasting focus on its product offering and investment in technological development means that the resulting platform is easy to deploy, simple to use and innovative – meeting most business’ key demands of new software. Customers include BMW, Benefit Cosmetics, Rip Curl, BrewDog and KFC.

 

Attila Kecsmar, co-founder and CEO at Antavo, added: “Antavo is experiencing an exciting phase of growth, aided by our recent investment, and we have ambitious plans for the future. Andras is an experienced member of our team with a thorough understanding of both the product and our customers and his plans for the future of the platform will ensure that it remains a cutting edge, innovative solution that effortlessly meets clients needs.” 

 

About Antavo

Antavo is an Enterprise Loyalty Cloud, providing best-in-class technology to manage experience-based, paid, and lifestyle loyalty programs online, in-store, or on mobile.

Antavo’s no-code, API-centric platform makes the loyalty program experience fully customizable and empowers loyalty and marketing teams to run their program internally, without IT help. The company invests 60% of its revenue into its product and issues quarterly product releases.

Antavo is a pure-play loyalty technology vendor recognized by Forrester, Gartner, Loyalty360, and is the preferred choice for loyalty consultants, agencies, and system integrators all over the world. Antavo empowers clients like BMW, KFC, La Cage, Kathmandu, Luisaviaroma and BrewDog, as well as global businesses in the travel, pharma and fashion industries. For more information, visit antavo.com.

 

News, Property Rentals, Retirement

Embracing Retirement Renting: Donald Chemney’s Life-Changing Decision

In February 2023, Donald Chemney, an 89-year-old retired butcher, baker, soldier, and oil industry worker, made a life-changing decision. He moved into a charming one-bedroom property at Brook Court in Salford, Greater Manchester, which he rented through the retirement rental company, My Future Living. Donald considers this move to be one of the best decisions he has ever made, second only to marrying his beloved wife.

A Perfect Fit

Having spent several years living in Saudi Arabia while pursuing his career, Donald knew that Salford, his hometown, was where he wanted to retire. His main motivation was to provide care for his wife, Shelia, who suffers from dementia. Unfortunately, a fall in his garden resulted in a broken thigh, rendering him unable to care for his wife. As Shelia moved into a nearby care home, Donald realised it was time to downsize and find a more suitable home. That’s when he came across My Future Living through a newspaper advert, and fate seemed to guide him towards an apartment in a retirement development on the road where his wife grew up. It felt like a perfect match.

Brook Court: A Welcoming Community:

When he visited Brook Court for the first time, Donald instantly fell in love with the place. Located just a 15-minute walk from his wife’s care home, it offered great convenience for his daily visits. Beyond the practicality, what truly attracted Donald was the overwhelmingly friendly atmosphere within the community. Everywhere he turned, there was a friendly face, a kind word, and someone to have a conversation with. He describes the social life at Brook Court as vibrant, with a wide range of activities such as bingo, games nights, BBQs, coffee mornings, and more. Donald no longer feels alone, as people welcome him with friendly greetings and engaging conversations.

Active Engagement and Volunteer Work:

In his spare time, Donald volunteers with the local scout group, a commitment he has upheld for several years. He proudly claims to be one of the oldest scouts around, having been involved since the age of eight. Throughout the years, he has served as a scout leader and established several scout groups. Brook Court provides him with ample opportunities to pursue his love for gardening. Donald has taken on a section of the communal gardens, enriching them with colourful plants.

Financial Benefits and Freedom:

Renting a retirement property has proven to be a sound financial choice for Donald. Proceeds from the sale of his previous home now support Shelia’s care, while renting also grants him a comfortable and hassle-free retirement.

Donald is pleased he now has the freedom to enjoy life, travel, and visit his sons, including one who lives in Sydney. With funds in the bank, he eagerly is looking forward to his goal for next year: a trip to visit his son and meet his grandchild and he can now afford to travel first class and get extra leg room to make the journey more comfortable.

Donald Chemney’s decision to embrace retirement renting through My Future Living has had a positive impact on his life. By moving to Brook Court, he found a home that offers not only convenience but also a warm and welcoming community. Engaging in volunteer work, tending to the communal gardens, and participating in various social activities have invigorated his retirement years. Financially, renting has provided him with stability, allowing him to support his wife’s care and enjoy his retirement.

News

North Wales students cutting it on the international stage

COLEG CAMBRIA students are gaining vital work experience on the international stage.

In past months, learners from the college’s Deeside site visited countries across Europe to enhance their skills and explore different careers on the continent.

Among them were a cohort from the booming Esports programme, who journeyed to Barcelona, and a group from the popular Hair and Beauty course, who spent two weeks cutting-it at leading salons in Pistoria and Montecatini, Italy.

Director of Care Therapies Julie Guzzo said the knowledge transfer has had a positive impact on students and staff, with further activities planned at the Sophia Hilton Salon in London, Banbury Postiche and more.

Partnerships with globally renowned names including L’Oreal and Dermalogica have also gone from strength to strength, and she is excited to see so many new avenues opening up for the college globally.

“The Esports trip to Barcelona and time spent by Hairdressing students in Italy have given these technical programmes a new dimension,” said Julie.

“I took eight students to Montecatini, and they gained incredible experience out there on an internship, overcoming any challenges around the language and the way they approach the industry, which is very different to here in the UK.

“It was really interesting and built their confidence, giving them a fresh sense of independence and a chance to immerse themselves in the culture and lifestyle they have out there.”

Julie added that additional Europe and the wider world placements include 10 Childcare learners visiting a college with a Montessori nursery in France, and 15 learners from Health and Social Care taking part in a Challenges Abroad project in Vietnam.

“We have taken students overseas in the past but there have never been so many opportunities, it’s an incredible USP for prospective students, a chance to see more of the world while boosting skills and gaining an insight into diverse ways of working,” she said.

“There is huge demand out there for skilled people in the hair and beauty arena, aesthetics, health and social care and childcare, so now is the time to join us.”

For more on the wide range of courses and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria, visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk.