Monthly Archives: May 2024

News

Small businesses in Wales take flight with free international export programme

SMALL businesses will take flight by capitalising on export opportunities with the support of Antur Cymru Enterprise.

The Global Reach Out Programme is funded by UK Government, powered by Levelling Up and delivered by Antur Cymru Enterprise in collaboration with International Trade Support Group and Powys County Council.

The project explores trade and overseas partnerships via a series of funded remote and in-person training sessions which resume this month.

Delivered by international trade advisor Clive Barnard – who has more than 30 year’s industry experience, including a decade with Business Wales – attendees from across the region can learn all about the world of international sales and customer relations, no matter the size of their commercial operation.

As part of a small team of industry experts who launched ITSG in 2019 – and subsequently the Wrexham-based Centre for International Trade Support – Clive says small and independent companies in any sector should target exports, particularly given the economic and social challenges of recent times.

“Our Never Too Small to Export programme with Antur Cymru demonstrates there is a market out there for all businesses, especially at a grass roots level,” said Clive.

“In fact, many smaller firms have already sold products or dealt with customers outside the UK to some extent and have experience of dealing in exports, but don’t consider that an avenue to pursue further.”

He added: “In Wales since the pandemic – and this is certainly the case in Powys and rural areas of north and mid Wales – there are many talented independents in different sectors, especially retail, selling online and in a position to capitalise on the huge demand out there – we can help them do it.

“There have been geopolitical events which have affected international trade – Covid 19 and Brexit for example – so we navigate any issues and look at the principles from targeting which countries to sell to, distribution, transport and logistics, documentation and more.

“The feedback has been very positive so far and I’m sure interest will grow in the months ahead.”

The course runs over 10 weeks and runs parallel with other support packages delivered under the Global Reach Out Programme

While the project is for a matter of weeks ITSG’s involvement continues via guidance and advice as the entrepreneurs look at entry into relevant markets and start building relationships overseas.

Additional advice around wider business topics is also available through Antur’s Local Business Support Project.

“By combining Antur’s reputation for excellence in business support with our experience and partnerships, including with various embassies, we have a robust understanding of opportunities to enable local businesses to grow their markets,” said Clive.

Bronwen Raine, Managing Director of Antur Cymru, added: “So many small businesses are unaware of the many opportunities out there globally, not just here in the UK or on their doorstep.

“This programme explores where they are and how to make the most of them, so we hope to see a good turnout later this month. As an organisation that has worked to support businesses for more than 40 years, it is fantastic to be able to expand our offer into this specialist area with the support of ITSG ”

For more on Antur Cymru, visit the website www.anturcymru.org.uk and follow them on social media at @AnturCymruWales.

Alternatively, call 01239 710238 or email info@anturcymru.org.uk. Visit www.itsgworld.com for more news and information from International Trade Support Group (ITSG).

Finance and Banking, Fintech, News

Gen Z FinTech Prograd Announces Expansion To US After Successful UK Launch

London, April 2024 – Prograd, the UK’s leading financial literacy platform for Gen Z, has today announced that it is expanding to the US in September this year.

Officially launched in 2022 after early support from TechStars, the company has gone from strength to strength and now boasts an engaged audience of 250,000 Gen Zs after just 15 months of operations.

 

Prograd has been widely praised for its approach to financial literacy education, which sees users earn ‘points’, redeemable as money, for learning more about managing their finances.

This mission is particularly important in the UK, where over 70% of young people believe they are not taught enough financial literacy at school.

Furthermore, through leveraging partnerships with businesses and job boards, Prograd has helped young people in the UK earn a collective £5M of additional income.

 

Alongside empowering young people, Prograd has also used its engaged community to advise a number of large financial institutions in the UK, such as Barclays, Plum, Starling and more. 

 

Through its user insights and in-depth research, Prograd has been able to consult companies on how to acquire and appeal to Gen Z users, an audience that many businesses are still trying to crack.

Now, after a successful UK launch, Prograd has its eyes set on The States.

 

Commenting on the move, Ethan Fraenkel, Co-Founder at Prograd commented “Having grown the brand to over 250,000 users in just 15 months in the UK, it was a no-brainer to expand to the US.

“Our mission is to help more young people earn, save and invest, and that’s an issue that affects young people globally, not just in the UK. We’re excited to continue expanding in the US and helping more young people navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape”

 

Find out more about Prograd and their mission at https://www.prograd.uk/

 

About Prograd

Prograd is a pioneering marketplace tailored to assist Gen-Z in understanding, accessing, and managing essential financial products for their progression in life. Leveraging alternative data points and AI, Prograd offers a personalized financial journey to its users. Our community consists of a vibrant pool of over 250,000 Gen-Z individuals. Prograd is the largest provider of Gen-Z insights in the UK, working with major global market research companies such as Ipsos, Dynata and YouGov to help them extract opinion data from Gen-Z.

Prograd research is accredited by the British Polling Council

Food & Drink, News, Travel

Soreen launch new on-pack promotion with Forest Holidays

£60 off with every pack and the chance to win a FREE Forest Holidays break.

The UK’s original malt loaf brand, Soreen has today announced a new partnership with B-corp holiday provider, Forest Holidays, to bring even more treats to their consumers with their latest on pack promotion.

Find a Soreen Gold Lunchbox Loaf – ten to be sought out across the UK – to win a Forest Holidays break for the family, from a choice of 12 forest locations, inclusive of a Forest Ranger Experience (experts in bringing the fun to the great outdoors) and bike hire.

There’s something for everyone this summer too as every purchaser of Soreen’s Lunchbox Loaves 5 pack in the flavour of their choosing – Malt, Banana, Apple, or strawberry – will also receive £60 off a UK Forest Holidays break.

Liz Jacobs, Marketing Director at Soreen said: “Soreen has always been a firm family favourite, offering tasty products with great nutritional value for the whole family, but we’re also associated with adventure and activity, championing healthy living and wellness in general.

“We have always encouraged and championed feel good nutrition, ensuring we launch healthier cake options.”

“Forest Holidays is a fabulous partnership for us, given that the brand is synonymous with people, sustainability and wellbeing, which are also aligned to our consumer values. We hope this offer, which is available throughout the summer will help families to enjoy the great outdoors in some wonderful locations across the UK without the requirement for a passport or extensive travel.”

With the cost-of-living crisis and passport prices increasing, it’s expected that less families will go abroad this year in order to try and save money. Forest Holidays provide an escape in the UK that’s just a car ride away.

Featured on four of Soreen’s best-selling products (Soreen Lunchbox Loaves), the promotion will run for a four-month period, from the 1st May up until August.

Liz added: “Our products are unique in the sense that they provide a treat-like taste that’s popular with children and adults alike but with much lower sugar and fat than the average cake bar, as well as providing a squidgy energy boost, making Soreen the ideal snack to accompany a healthy and active lifestyle.

 

Gemma Chance, Head of Brand Purpose and Guest Experience at Forest Holidays said: “Our holidays are all about doing good and feeling good and this year we’re on a mission to get even more people into the UK’s forests. We’re excited to be partnering with Soreen, who share our love of adventure in the great outdoors and understand the far-reaching benefits nature brings.

“Our partnership means even more people can discover our holidays and enjoy a wellbeing boost this summer.”

 

For full details of the promotion and how new Soreen purchasers and regular fans can be in with a chance to win, visit: SoreenForestHolidays.co.uk

 

Food & Drink

Three Shrewsbury chefs to cook for Wales at Sharjah culinary contest

Three Shrewsbury chefs, including brothers Calum and Connor Smith, have been selected to cook for Wales in a prestigious international culinary competition in the United Arab Emirates later this month.

 

Calum, 23, sous chefs at Shrewsbury School, Shrewsbury, will captain the team and Connor, 19, commis chef at the Lion and Pheasant, Shrewsbury, will make his international debut for Wales.

 

Jordan Howorth, 25, who works with Calum as a sous chef at Shrewsbury School and Dylan Evans, 21, commis chef at L’Enclume, Cartmel, will also be making their debut for Wales. Originally from Welshpool, Jordan now lives in Baschurch.

 

The Culinary Association of Wales (CAW) has been invited to compete against eight other countries in the Alen Thong Golden Coffee Pot Young Chef Challenge at The International Emirates Salon Culinaire, during Expoculinaire 2024 Sharjah from May 20-22.

 

Also flying the flag for Wales will be sous chef Harry Paynter-Roberts, 26, and head chef Sion Hughes, 26, from Carden Park Hotek and Spa, near Chester.

 

Calum captained the Junior Culinary Team Wales, which included Harry and Sion, to silver and bronze medals at the Culinary World Cup in 2022.

 

Sion will have Calum as his commis when they compete in the Global Chefs Challenge final in Singapore in October.

 

“To have the opportunity to represent Wales is a privilege and an honour,” said Calum. “This competition will be extra special with having by younger brother, Connor and one of my closest pals and work colleagues, Jordan, in the team.

 

“Making their international debut is going to be nerve-racking for them but they need to cherish and enjoy the competition because it’s a fantastic moment in their careers.

 

“Practices at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport have gone really well and we are all working in harmony, like we have worked together for years. Everyone is looking forward to a potential podium finish in Dubai, if we deliver what we have all worked incredibly hard on

 

“I can’t thank both Culinary Association of Wales president Arwyn Watkins, OBE and vice-president Colin Gray enough for all the support and guidance they have given the team and we hope we can repay their hard work with a positive result in Dubai.”

 

The Alen Thong Golden Coffee Pot Young Chef Challenge aims to become the most notable gastronomic contest anywhere in the Middle East for young chefs under the age of 28 years.

 

Three teams compete daily, creating an internationally themed edible cold salad, appetiser, dessert buffet and hot main course for 20 diners. Teams can cook a main course of their choice and Wales have chosen chicken.

 

Each team will make a gateau, three modern desserts and a hot dessert, which will be prepared with diners and judges watching.

 

Nine Worldchefs judges, including Colin Gray, managing director of Capital Cuisine, Caerphilly, will judge the competition.

 

The last time Welsh chefs competed in this competition as a senior team in 2013, they came away with a gold medal.

 

CAW sponsors are the Welsh Government, Castell Howell, Hybu Cig Cymru / Meat Promotion Wales, ICC Wales, Cambrian Training Company, Radnor Hills, Dick Knifes, Cygnet Gin, Capital Cuisine.

News

Cambrian Community Rail Partnership seeking a new host organisation

The Cambrian Community Rail Partnership (CCRP) is seeking a new organisation to manage a hosting agreement with Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast.

 

Interested organisations have until May 14 to submit an expressions of interest to CCRP chair Neil Scott at hello@thecambrianline.co.uk . Visit https://www.thecambrianline.co.uk/ for further information.

 

Ceredigion County Council is the current host and financial management authority for the partnership which is funded by Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast and Shropshire County Council. The council has hosted the partnership officer since 2014 and hosted all arrangements for the partnership since 2019.

 

Now more than 20 years old, the CCRP covers a wide area, spanning 120 miles and 34 stations from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and up the Wales coast to Pwllheli.

 

The CCRP is looking to work with an organisation that excels in good governance, sustainable funding and a successful track record in bidding, securing and managing external funding from a variety of sources. developing resilience in voluntary sector organisations, managing finances and community engagement and influencing.

 

The partnerships says it will particularly welcome applications from third sector organisations with interests in place-based community led projects, community development and engagement with a good knowledge of the area it covers.

 

CCRP is an accredited community rail partnership, awarded by the Community Rail Network, Department for Transport and Welsh Government.

 

The Cambrian Railway spans 120 miles of unspoilt natural beauty and is one of the most scenic routes in Britain. From Shrewsbury, the Cambrian Main Line takes passengers across the border into Wales, through rugged mountain terrain, quaint market towns, World Heritage sites and castles, cross country towards the picturesque west coast of Wales.

 

At Machynlleth, the line merges into the Cambrian Coast Line offering spectacular views, coastal walks and places to visit along the Wales Coast Path.

 

CCRP members include Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Network Rail, British Transport Police, Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway, Talyllyn Railway, Snowdonia National Park, Ceredigion County Council, Gwynedd Council, station adoption representatives, tourism representatives and third sector partners.

 

CCRP’s business activity plan aims to provide a voice for the community, promote sustainable, healthy and accessible travel, bring communities together and support diversity and inclusion and support social and economic development.

News

Education partnership creates pioneering ‘data dashboard’ with engineering firm

AN EDUCATION and industry partnership created a pioneering ‘data dashboard’ for an engineering solutions company.

Medru – a joint initiative between Coleg Cambria, Bangor University, and The Open University in Wales – teamed up with AMRC Cymru to create the system for Hawarden-based LCA Group Ltd.

The project highlights the synergies between academia, industry, and technology in driving forward digital transformation in North Wales.

They developed a proof-of-concept data dashboard that showcases the power of real-time data analysis and visualisation. Medru’s commitment to leveraging advanced data integration, adaptive design, comprehensive analytics, and stringent security measures promises a transformative impact on how businesses interpret and utilise their data.

“Our collaboration with AMRC Cymru and LCA Group Ltd exemplifies Medru’s dedication to bringing innovative data solutions to the forefront of business operations. This data dashboard is not just a tool, it’s a gateway to unlocking actionable insights that can drive strategic decisions and operational efficiency,” said Nick Tyson, Coleg Cambria Vice Principal, Medru.

“This innovative dashboard has revolutionised our workflow, allowing for a clear, live, and accurate display of data through each manufacturing phase. We’ve been collecting data since 2020, but now it’s dynamically showcased across multiple locations, enhancing visibility and impact.”

Alan Sheppard, Managing Director at LCA Group Ltd added: “This transparency in budgets and targets ensures every team member understands their role and contributes effectively.

“The dashboard’s real-time updating allows supervisors to dynamically assign tasks, catching and compensating for any shortfalls early in the process. It’s not just about what’s happening now – upcoming jobs are visibly planned, promoting a proactive work environment.”

Luke Byrne, Production Supervisor, echoed those words and said: “Customers and visitors have positively noticed how this tool demonstrates our command of technology and our commitment to continuous improvement. It’s also transformed how we conduct briefings, using the dashboard to engage and inform our team directly on the shop floor.”

The process begins with a thorough assessment of existing data capture methods and aims to integrate seamlessly with the client’s data frameworks. The result is a custom-built dashboard that offers a comprehensive view of crucial data points, adaptable to various devices and fortified with the highest levels of security.

“AMRC Cymru is proud to contribute to this initiative, which aligns perfectly with our mission to enhance manufacturing processes through digital innovation. This partnership with Medru and LCA Group Ltd is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of Industry 4.0,” said Bobby Manesh, Head of Research at AMRC Cymru.

Beyond the proof of concept, the collaboration opens avenues for future projects focusing on data analytics, digital storytelling, and the development of digital twins, as well as upskilling via Degree Apprenticeships and the bespoke Medru suite of digital training courses, marking a significant step towards integrating traditional manufacturing processes with the digital future.

“The enthusiasm is contagious – other departments have seen its potential and are eager to harness similar capabilities for their data, sparking a wave of innovation across the company. It’s clear that this is just the beginning, there are already numerous ideas brewing for what we can achieve next with this technology,” added Alan.

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria.

News

Top 5 school unveils ‘garden classroom’ for pupils with additional learning needs

CHILDREN with additional learning needs are thriving thanks to innovative methods and investment at a top secondary school.

Ysgol Eirias in Colwyn Bay has redeveloped its curriculum and facilities for ALN pupils, including the construction of a new accessible outdoor learning space and ‘garden classroom’.

The school secured grants of £40,000 via a £20m Welsh Government capital funding scheme, allocated to improve the inclusivity of teaching environments, create quiet or sensory areas, upgrade or purchase new equipment and for works to improve additional provision for young people with ALN and/or disabilities.

Ysgol Eirias – listed fourth in Wales in the Sunday Times Parent Power league table, and winner of the Secondary School of the Year title at the North Wales Education Awards – has created a safe, secure hub for its students, as well as revisiting and redeveloping the curriculum to offer a more bespoke, tailored approach.

Additional Learning Needs Co-ordinator Liz Gunby said: “Pre Covid we began exploring and identifying the areas we could improve and expand our ALN provision.

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic we continued to make great strides in upgrading our MLD (Moderate Learning Disability) base and adapting timetables to meet the pupils’ needs and requirements, because there is no one size fits all system.

“That has included the introduction of more life skills, more of a focus on health and wellbeing and trying to bridge the gaps that became even more prevalent during lockdown and beyond.”

Reflecting on the new outdoor development, she added: “Demand for ALN support has risen so we have increased the number of staff and resources to meet that, including a Wellbeing Officer and a Nurture Coordinator.

“We have also increased the number of rooms we have and introduced the outdoor space and classroom, which has been a breath of fresh air.

“Developing these safe, diverse spaces for ALN and Inclusion has given the pupils a place to learn but also to enjoy nature and be active during movement breaks, helping them to focus and concentrate on mindfulness, to feel centred and calm via sensory input.”

Learners will create garden furniture, tables, and benches as part of classes, and other equipment includes a cross trainer, rowing machine, leg press, pull-up bars and more.

“That pushing/pulling movement helps, and yoga techniques and breathing for children who have sensory processing issues, notably those with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder),” said Ms Gunby.

“Proprioceptive input helps them to understand where their body is and what it should be doing, so these ‘heavy work’ activities will be very beneficial mentally and physically.”

Deputy Headteacher Drew McKenzie added: “For ALN pupils it can be quite intimidating and daunting being surrounded by four walls all day, so the outdoor learning space and garden classroom is a much more proactive and accessible alternative.

“The children absolutely love it, it gives them an escape and even just being out in the fresh air helps, using the wildlife and nature as part of lessons.

“At Ysgol Eirias we know the value of empathy, encouragement and building relationships and trust to unlock their potential and support these students as much as possible on their educational journey, which is why we are trying to provide them with the belief they can go on and be successful in whatever they choose to do in the future.

“That’s a huge priority for us, and always will be.”

For the latest news and information from Ysgol Eirias, visit www.eirias.co.uk and follow them on social media.

Environment, Insurance

Secure Your Future: Environmental Liability Insurance Explained

Environmental risks are becoming more prominent in today’s business landscape. Companies are increasingly held accountable for their impact on the environment, and the penalties for non-compliance can be severe. This is where environmental liability insurance comes in. It’s designed to protect businesses from the financial consequences of environmental incidents, providing a safety net in a world where one misstep could lead to costly fines, legal battles, and reputational damage.

As environmental regulations tighten and public awareness grows, businesses need this type of insurance to ensure they can navigate these challenges without risking their future. For expert guidance on the Future of Environmental Liability Insurance, turn to Rowlands & Hames. They offer tailored advice to help businesses manage environmental risks and find the right insurance coverage, providing a guiding hand in this complex landscape.

Defining Environmental Liability Insurance

Environmental liability insurance is not just for industries working with chemicals and industrial processes. Any business can face environmental liabilities, making this insurance a necessity for all. It covers risks like pollution, contamination, and hazardous waste, mitigating these risks and providing a financial safety net. By having this coverage, businesses can operate with greater confidence, knowing they’re protected against unexpected environmental issues.

Why Environmental Liability Insurance Matters

Environmental liability insurance is not just a luxury. It’s a necessity. Environmental incidents can be not only costly but also damaging to a business’s reputation. Legal penalties can reach millions, and cleanup costs can be even higher. Without this insurance, businesses might struggle to recover. Environmental liability insurance helps cover these expenses, protecting businesses from financial disaster and preserving their reputation.

It also supports a company’s reputation; being seen as environmentally irresponsible can drive away customers, investors, and business partners. The right insurance shows a commitment to environmental responsibility, which is vital in today’s market. To stay relevant in the Future of Environmental Liability Insurance, businesses must maintain comprehensive coverage and adapt to changing regulations, ensuring they are well-informed and prepared.

Types of Environmental Liability Insurance

There are several types of environmental liability insurance, each catering to different business needs. Site-specific coverage focuses on specific locations, protecting environmental risks associated with that site. This type of insurance is ideal for businesses with manufacturing facilities, warehouses, or other fixed locations.

A contractor’s pollution liability is designed for contractors and builders who work on various sites, offering coverage for possible pollution risks during their work. Environmental impairment liability, or EIL insurance, covers a broader range of environmental hazards, including those caused by historical contamination. Understanding these types helps businesses choose the right policy for their unique risks.

Key Features of Environmental Liability Insurance Policies

When selecting an environmental liability insurance policy, key features include coverage limits, which determine how much the insurer will pay in the event of a claim. Pay attention to policy exclusions, as some policies may not cover risks like pre-existing contamination or deliberate environmental violations.

The claims process should be clear and efficient, minimizing delays. Customizable policies are valuable because they can be tailored to your business’s needs. Flexibility in terms and conditions is also a plus, allowing businesses to adjust coverage as operations evolve.

Assessing Your Business’s Environmental Risks

Assessing environmental risks within a business is a critical step in choosing the right insurance policy. Start by identifying common sources of environmental liability. This could include waste disposal practices, chemical handling, industrial processes, and transportation. Consider the potential for environmental damage at your business’s locations or during its operations. Examining any historical contamination affecting your business’s current or future liabilities is also important.

Conducting a thorough risk assessment helps businesses understand where they are most vulnerable and informs their choice of insurance coverage. By understanding these risks, you can select a policy that provides adequate protection.

Choosing a Reliable Environmental Liability Insurance Provider

To get the best environmental liability coverage, choose a reputable insurance provider. Seek one with a solid track record in handling environmental claims. Industry expertise is crucial—providers with experience in your sector are more likely to understand your risks and offer tailored coverage. You’ll want a provider that is responsive and easy to work with.

Reading reviews and asking for recommendations from other businesses can help. A reliable provider offers comprehensive coverage and guides you on risk management and claims processing. For expert advice and personalized service, consider Rowlands & Hames.

Understanding Policy Exclusions in Environmental Liability Insurance

Every insurance policy has exclusions, and environmental liability insurance is no exception. Common exclusions include pre-existing contamination, criminal negligence, and deliberate environmental violations. Some policies might not cover certain types of pollution or may require additional endorsements for specific risks.

Understanding these exclusions is crucial to avoid surprises when filing a claim. To ensure comprehensive coverage, discuss any uncertainties with your insurance provider. You might need additional endorsements to cover specific risks. By knowing your policy’s exclusions, you can make informed decisions and ensure your business has the right protection. For expert guidance on navigating policy exclusions, consult with Rowlands & Hames.

Conclusion

Environmental liability insurance is a key part of a solid risk management strategy. It shields businesses from the financial impacts of environmental incidents, allowing them to operate confidently. Businesses can secure their future and be ready for any environmental risks by choosing the right policy and provider. It’s essential to assess your business’s unique risks, explore policy options, and invest in adequate coverage.

With this insurance, you can focus on growing your business without worrying about unexpected incidents. For expert advice and customized insurance solutions, consider Rowlands & Hames. Visit the website for more information and contact their team.

 

News, Scotland, Travel

10am check-out times scrapped by Scottish holiday park group as part of a trial

Largo Leisure Parks are offering their guests the chance to check out at whatever time they like as part of a trial on 2-night weekend breaks in May and June at all six of their holiday parks in Scotland.

Forget the traditional holiday park check out time of 10am, guests who book a lodge or cabin for a 2-night stay arriving on a Friday in May and June, can keep their accommodation for the entire day of departure. As long as they have left by the stroke of midnight, there is no extra charge.

Rachel Mabbs, Commercial Director for Largo Leisure Parks said: “The downside to enjoying a weekend break is having to get up early on the last day in time to pack up and vacate your holiday accommodation by 10am. That’s why we have decided to give our lodge and cabin guests a well-deserved lay in and the full day to use their accommodation and have more fun before heading home.”

The offer is available for stays at Loch Tay Highland Lodges and Cruachan Farm in Perthshire, Braidhaugh Holiday Park in Crieff, Letham Feus Holiday Park in Fife, Campsie Glen between Campsie Fells and Fintry Hills and Sauchope Links near Crail.

Breaks

Loch Tay Highland Lodges –

1 Bedroom Cabin at Loch Tay

Stay on Friday 17th May for 2-nights with no early checkout offer at Loch Tay Highland Lodges in a Signature 2-bedroom Lodge (sleeps 4) from £111 per person per night (based on 4 people sharing).

Stay on Friday 31st May for 2-nights with no early check out offer at Loch Tay Highland Lodges in a 1-bedroom cabin (sleeps 2 adults & 2 children up to 12 years old) from £85 per person per night.

Letham Feus Park–

Letham Feus – Forth View Lodge

Stay on Friday 17th May for 2-nights with no early check out offer at Letham Feus in a Traditional 2-bedroom Lodge with Hot Tub (sleeps 4) from £61 per person per night.
Stay on Friday 7th June for 2-nights with no early check out offer at Letham Feus in a Retreat 1-bedroom Lodge with Hot Tub (sleeps 4) from £60 per person per night.

Braidhaugh Holiday Park –

Braidhaugh Contemporary Lodge

Stay on Friday 31st May for 2-nights with no early check out offer at Braidhaugh in a Riverside 1-bedroom Lodge with Hot Tub (sleeps 4) from £77 per person per night.
Stay on Friday 14th June for 2-nights with no early check out offer at Braidhaugh in a 2-bedroom Caravan (sleeps 4) from £62 per person per night.

To book a no early check out 2-night break, visit Largo Leisure Holidays

 

 

Domestic Abuse, Finance and Banking, News, Social Housing

IDAS secures £1.685m investment from SASC to expand housing for domestic abuse survivors

Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS), the largest specialist charity in the North of England, supporting people affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence, has secured a significant social investment loan of £1.685 million from Social and Sustainable Capital (SASC) to expand its range of safe accommodation for those fleeing abuse.

The loan from SASC’s Social and Sustainable Housing fund (SASH II), is complemented by a £400k grant from Access Foundation’s Cost of Living Social Investment Support Fund* and marks a pivotal moment for IDAS in its mission to provide safe housing for those escaping violence and abuse.

IDAS will purchase 16 one-to-three-bedroom properties in Sheffield and Barnsley for single people and families escaping domestic abuse. This marks the charity’s first step into property ownership.

In Sheffield, IDAS will expand upon the dispersed properties the charity has in partnership with Target Housing, an existing SASH borrower[i]. In Barnsley, the properties will be IDAS’s first dispersed units in the area alongside existing refuge provision.

Since its inception as Women’s Aid in the 1970s, IDAS has undergone significant growth, extending its services beyond York to encompass parts of North Yorkshire. Over the years, it has expanded its support framework to include male victims of abuse, leading to its rebranding as Independent Domestic Abuse Services in 2008.

The charity now offers a comprehensive range of services, including housing across multiple locations, 7-day helpline assistance, drop-in facilities, outreach programs for women and children, advocacy services, and domestic violence training. Tailored support, including specialised mental health assistance, is provided to all individuals, including children and young people, seeking refuge in IDAS accommodation.

In the previous year alone, IDAS supported over 10,000 victims and survivors of domestic abuse across Yorkshire, responding to approximately 30,000 helpline calls and offering emergency accommodation with intensive support to over 250 individuals, including 153 with children.

The urgency of IDAS’s mission is underscored by national statistics, it is estimated that 2.1 million people aged 16 years and over (1.4 million women and 751,000 men) experienced domestic abuse in England and Wales in the year ending March 2023[ii]. 100,000 people in the UK are at imminent risk of being murdered or seriously injured because of domestic abuse every year[iii].

Sarah Hill, CEO of IDAS and Chair of the Women’s Aid Federation of England said: “Taking on social investment will shift our reliance on the private rental sector and give us greater control over our properties and where they are located. This loan has come at the right time as demand for our services is growing and we are unable to accommodate everyone referred to us.

“Buying properties will enable us to help more women, men and their families escaping domestic abuse. Our work is often transformational, and survivors regularly tell us that our support has changed and, in many cases, saved their lives. We believe everyone should be able to live lives free from abuse and violence and want to ensure this is a reality for those we support and future generations.”

Mark Bickford, CEO of SASC said: “IDAS is a long-established and well-recognised provider of domestic abuse services in the North of England with close relationships with commissioners and other local partners. The move to property ownership will help IDAS with future re-tenders with local commissioners who favour partners with scale and properties under ownership. It will contribute to the long-term sustainability of the charity and provide vital accommodation and services for people experiencing domestic abuse.”

SASH II, launched in November 2022 as the successor to the first SASH fund, exemplifies SASC’s ongoing dedication to supporting charitable organisations that combine housing provision with vital support services.

For more information on Independent Domestic Abuse Services, please visit: www.idas.org.uk

For more information on SASC, please visit: www.socialandsustainable.com

*The £400k grant is from the Cost of Living Social Investment Support Fund, administered by the Access Foundation, to enhance the capacity of social investors to address the challenges posed by rising living costs in underserved communities affected by long-term economic decline.

[i] https://www.socialandsustainable.com/portfolio/target-housing/

[ii] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/bulletins/domesticabuseinenglandandwalesoverview/november2023

[iii] https://idas.org.uk/who-we-are/our-impact