Monthly Archives: September 2024

Debt & Finance

It’s disappointing and very concerning that there has been a sharp rise in the number of complaints to the Communications Ombudsman.

The soaring number of complaints being made to the Communications Ombudsman is “disappointing and very concerning”, a leading consumer expert has said.
Consumer expert Jane Hawkes said all companies needed to strive to deliver the best possible service.
Her comments came in the wake of data illustrating how consumer complaints about communications providers are up by 54% on last year, mainly because of service quality, billing and contract issues, according to ombudsman figures.

The Communications Ombudsman has already taken on 17,695 cases to June this year, up from 11,466 cases over the same period last year, it said.

Ms Hawkes said: “It’s disappointing and very concerning that there has been a sharp rise in the number of complaints to the Communications Ombudsman and even more so that most of these issues are customer service related. Despite the number of complaints to the Energy Ombudsman decreasing there are clearly still many shortfalls in this industry too particularly with regard to billing and smart meters.
“All companies should strive to deliver the best possible service to their customers, even more so in essential sectors such as energy and broadband which millions of people rely on. Those who continually nosedive in this respect need to urgently re-evaluate their systems and procedures so customers can get the help they need, when they need it, efficiently and timely. Customers are growing tired of the same old pathetic excuses, it’s time for real changes and improvements to be made. Enough is enough.
Cases about billing grievances have already reached 4,403 this year, up from 2,700 between January and June last year.

Service quality complaints are up from 2,795 in the first half of last year to 3,605 so far this year, while customer service grievances have ballooned from 1,716 last year to 3,934 since January this year.

Complaints about contract issues are up from 1,268 to 1,895, the service’s data shows.

Andy Eadle, business unit director at the Communications Ombudsman, said: “We’ve seen an increase in complaints across all dispute categories, but primarily in service quality, or speed and reliability of service, and billing – continuing into the first half of 2024.

Meanwhile, consumer complaints to the Energy Ombudsman are down by more than a fifth on last year but billing, smart meters and customer service continue to cause households the most problems.

The service handled 22% fewer complaints in the first half of 2024 compared with the same period last year, down from 68,186 cases to 53,210.

Complaints about billing, such as disputed usage and balances and estimated billings and readings, fell from 37,344 between January and June last year but remained the most common grievance, with 32,588 cases so far this year.

The service has handled 6,038 cases of problems with customer service so far this year, down from 8,108 over the same period last year.

Smart meter problems have led to 5,059 cases this year, down from 8,428 between January and June last year.

Ed Dodman, business unit director at the Energy Ombudsman, said: “Last year was an unprecedented time for many with the cost-of-living crisis impacting the country.

“Billing remained the most common reason for disputes into 2024, as consumers kept a closer eye on how their energy use is measured and how they pay for it.

“While case numbers have decreased to pre-2023 levels, we remain committed to increasing awareness of our service so that it remains accessible for all who need it.”

Mr Dodman added: “Last year followed an unprecedented period for the energy sector, which saw prices hit at an all-time high, and a number of suppliers leave the market.

“In this context, it’s understandable why we saw people turn to the Energy Ombudsman to make sure they were being treated fairly.

“As the market has stabilised somewhat, we have seen the number of complaints reduce this year, but they remain higher than they were before the crisis.

“Ultimately, it’s important people understand their rights, including how and when they can use our service.”

News

Students on track for careers in music after taking Spanish steps to education partnership

STUDENTS are on track for careers in music following an inspirational visit to Spain.

A group of Sound Engineering learners from Coleg Cambria Deeside spent two weeks in Barcelona as part of an education and research programme.

In partnership with international careers organisation NexGen, based in the Catalan capital, the trip gave them access to experts in the sector and guidance on how to “take the next steps after college”.

Lisa Jansen from NexGen said: “We explored their skills, including what they are good at and what they enjoy doing, then they developed ideas on what the market needs before going into detail and putting together and presenting business models.

“We try to tailor every programme to the needs of the college and learning group, and we organised visits including to a local festival and to a sound engineering school, which included talks and an introduction to the industry, as well as interesting discussions on future challenges such as AI (Artificial Intelligence).”

The students also had an opportunity to go sightseeing and visit landmarks including Barcelona Zoo, the beach and to see the city from the air on a cable car ride.

Student Tash Bradshaw enjoyed the experience and said: “We came on this trip to learn more about music and gain new skills to further our careers, but it has been so much more than that and brought some of us out of our shells.

“We have also explored different cultures, and it’s had an impact on us overall as people.”

Fellow learner Cory Robinson added: “We learn a lot of technical skills in college so to look at setting ourselves up in business and how to break into the industry was very useful and will give us the knowledge to do that in the future.”

Cambria’s Curriculum Director of Technical Studies Julie Guzzo joined them in Spain and said the close links forged with NexGen and partner organisations overseas will continue to add value to the students’ educations.

She added: “As a college we are looking to provide more and more of these opportunities, to show the learners what is out there for them and that as a college our reach and place in further education in the UK and internationally is growing all the time.”

For the latest news and information on Coleg Cambria, visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk.

Visit the website www.nexgencareers.co for more news and information from NexGen.

Business Podcasts, Business Travel, Lifestyle & Travel, News

Empowered by Hope: A Journey from Shanghai to Toronto on ‘Moving Countries 101’

In a compelling new episode of Moving Countries 101, host Clare Kay engages in a thoughtful conversation with a guest, Jennifer He, who candidly shares her journey from Shanghai, China, to Toronto, Canada. This episode delves into the challenges, choices, and personal growth that accompany such a significant life change, offering listeners an inspiring look at what it takes to thrive in a new country.

Growing up in a multicultural neighbourhood in Shanghai, Jennifer was no stranger to diversity. However, she longed for a deeper immersion into an English-speaking culture. Although initially enrolled in a U.S. university, she ultimately chose Canada as her destination, drawn by the opportunity for permanent residency and guided by her mother’s advice to prioritize her marriage by staying with her husband.

Her arrival in Canada, however, presented unexpected challenges. Searching for work proved to be a stark contrast to the ease with which Jennifer and her husband had previously secured jobs in China. Despite these obstacles, the guest remained resilient, offering a profound insight into judgment—remarking that when people judge others, it often reveals more about the person making the judgment than the one being judged. This perspective has shaped her approach to challenges, focusing on hope and resilience rather than dwelling on others’ opinions.

This resilience contrasted with a friend’s assumption that her move to Canada would be a slice of heaven. For Jennifer, the true challenge was not in the move itself but in her ability to adapt and flourish in a foreign land.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Jennifer shares how women in Shanghai tend to assert their independence, and she herself is not shy about having her say. This cultural influence not only shaped her decisions in China but also empowered her to navigate the complexities of life in Canada.

The episode also touches on Jennifer’s temporary return to China, motivated not by the challenges of living abroad, but by new opportunities that arose. Her reflections emphasize that the difficulties of life are universal, no matter where one lives, and that the true test lies in how we respond to them.

Throughout their conversation, Clare Kay skillfully draws out insights that resonate with anyone who has faced—or is considering—a significant move. Jennifer’s reflections, particularly regarding marriage and her approach to personal development in work, offer a profound look at how she has shaped her life. Adopting an attitude of “says who?” she overcomes doubt and pursues a life shaped by choice rather than circumstance.

Moving Countries 101 continues to deliver engaging stories that go beyond the logistics of relocation. This episode, in particular, is an inspiring listen for anyone at a crossroads, offering valuable lessons in how to navigate the uncertainties of life with confidence.

Tune in to this episode to hear how one woman’s journey across continents has not only defined her life but also her approach to business and personal growth.

 

About Moving Countries 101 Podcast:

Moving Countries 101 is a podcast dedicated to exploring the lives and experiences of individuals who have made significant moves across the globe. Hosted by Clare Kay, the podcast aims to inspire and inform listeners and viewers about the challenges and rewards of living a life in different countries.
It’s a must-follow for anyone who is interested in or is planning on living and working overseas.

Podcast Links:

You can listen/watch and follow this week’s podcast here:
Apple
Spotify
YouTube
Accountancy & Accounts, Business Advice

How to start your own business with no money

The internet, Software as a Service (SaaS), online marketplaces and sharing economy platforms have made it easier than ever to start a business with no money. Intuit QuickBooks has put together a guide on how to turn existing skill sets into a successful business on a budget:

How much money do you need to start a business?

The amount of money needed to become a founder depends on the nature of the business. Some of the costs you could expect to see when creating your starting budget include:

  • Rent of a workspace
  • Office supplies and furniture
  • Tools and equipment
  • Raw materials
  • Website design and hosting
  • Software
  • Business Insurance
  • Labour costs
  • Marketing and advertising costs

The best businesses to start with little money

A low-to-no capital business would be one where the majority of the above costs don’t apply. Online or home-based businesses allow you to avoid having to spend money on renting a workspace. If you do everything yourself, you can eliminate the cost of employees.

Starting a business that uses the tools and equipment you already have allows you to eliminate the cost of buying new. You can avoid needing inventory or raw materials by starting a service or knowledge-based business, as you won’t be making or selling any physical goods. You’ll probably require a laptop, although you may be able to run some businesses entirely on your phone.

You may be able to avoid the costs of creating a website and advertising costs by setting up shop on an existing online marketplace or sharing economy marketplace that handles all that for you.

Below are some business ideas that you can start with no – or very little – money: 

  • Offering errands, handyman work, and household tasks
  • Starting a dog-walking business
  • Selling media and technology skills
  • Renting out a spare room in your home
  • Offering a parking space to rent
  • Renting out your car when not in use
  • Selling homemade or resale products
  • Delivering food or taxi passengers

Of course, these platforms take a healthy cut of your payment, so you’ll still be paying for the use of the app/website, advertising, and any insurance that they might offer. You may also need to factor in the cost of any licensing or permit fees you need for your type of business.

To help keep track of your finances and manage the tax you owe, it’s recommended to get accounting software.

Set realistic expectations

Although it’s easy to set up a business with no money, that doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy to run a business, or that you’ll instantly find the freedom, gratification, and work-life balance you’re dreaming of.

Being an entrepreneur is hard work — you may find yourself adjusting to the fact that you now have multiple bosses, although they’re now called “customers”. As you likely won’t have any employees, you will be responsible for everything, and there may be parts of running your business that you aren’t good at or dislike. You will likely find you’re putting in more hours at work than ever. And despite starting your business with no or little money, you will still need money to pay for your ongoing expenses like taxes, fees, subscriptions, transportation, office supplies or software.

Make sure you do your due diligence to get a realistic idea of how long it can take to get a steady income from your new business. 

How to stay afloat when starting a business

If you’re not independently wealthy or supported by a partner or a nest egg, you’ll need some source of funding to keep you afloat until you can make a living from running your business.

Here are seven ways to fund your small business:

  • Keep your day job. Keeping your day job gives you a steady income as you grow your new business. On the downside, you’ll be working two jobs, which can take a lot of energy and slow down business growth.
  • Get funding from family or friends. Friends or family may be able to provide financial support while you get your business off the ground. However, make sure to discuss and document the details of your agreement to avoid conflict later on.
  • Get a loan. You may be able to get a loan from the government, the bank, or a P2P lending service. Keep in mind that these types of loans require you to pay interest and you’ll need to provide several documents upfront for your loan request to be approved.
  • Apply for a grant. If your business idea evolves around conservation, renewable energy, social and community projects or farming, you may be able to get a grant from the government. However, government grants are often hard to come by and involve a long application process.
  • Make use of crowdfunding. Crowdfunding involves a lot of individuals lending you money, usually through a crowdfunding platform. Be aware that, in return, you may need to give away equity or pay interest.
  • Find private investors. If you have a truly exceptional business idea, venture capitalists or angel investors may be willing to invest in it in return for equity and decision-making power within your business.

Many people dream of owning their own business, and with today’s online marketplaces and sharing economy platforms, it’s easy to try out any number of business ideas without risking too much of your capital.

 

 

 

News from Wales

Charity antiques valuation event raised £200 for Machynlleth church

A charity antiques valuation event raised £200 for St Peter’s Church in Machynlleth on Friday.

 

Maryanne Lineker-Mobberley and Alexander Clement from Halls Fine Art in Shrewsbury provided professional valuations for a wide range of items as more than 30 people attended the event, held in the church.

 

A charge of £2 was made for each item valued, with all the money going to the church.

 

Maryanne took in jewellery valued at around £1,000 for auction, including a Clogau gold pendant and chain and a heart shaped amethyst pendant each worth up to £300.

 

She also saw a Waterloo medal set valued at between £1,500 to £2,000, which had been passed down through the owner’s family and a gold watch Albert valued at around £500.

 

Church members served tea and coffee during the event.

 

The Rev Miriam Beecroft said: “We were very pleased with how the valuation event went and it was good to see a lot of people coming through the door. There was a lovely atmosphere in the church.

 

“I discovered that a communion set that I inherited from my former vicar dated from 1895 which was a surprise and a chalice and paten from the church dated to the early 1700s. It was a fascinating and educational event.”

 

Anyone unable to attend the valuation event but who has antiques, silver, jewellery, coins, medals, watches, ceramics, books or collections that they wish to be valued are asked to contact Halls Fine Art on Tel: 01743 450700.

Mental Health

Expert’s cautious welcome to new nhs 111 mental health support

Changes to the NHS 111’s 24-hour medical helpline to support people experiencing a mental health crisis have been welcomed by a mental health expert.
Lynn Crilly, an author and counsellor who specialises in supporting those living with conditions including anorexia and bulimia, has described the move as ‘a huge step forward in the recognition of mental health issues.’
Ms Crilly, whose daughter Samantha was diagnosed with an eating disorder and OCD 20 years ago, said the move was needed to ensure the conditions are given the same attention as physical conditions.
NHS England announced the move to allow the millions of adults and children who need support for a mental health crisis to call the 24 hour helpline and press option 2 to be directed to a mental health specialist.
Although new to England, the service has been available in Wales and Scotland for a number of months.
“Having been involved in mental health care in England for the past 20 years, this to me is a huge step forward in the recognition of mental health issues as equal to physical health problems,,” Lynn Crilly said.
“Now people in need of medical support can speak to a specialist who can listen and guide them to services such as face to face community support or access to services like ‘crisis cafes’ or other safe places.”
But the campaigner, who has produced a film to raise awareness of living with an eating disorder, says she will “wait to see how this service plays out” in what she described as a “broken” mental health service and says some are “sceptical”.
“There are record numbers of people experiencing poor mental health in an already over stretched and underfunded, broken mental health system,” she said.
“With waiting lists at an all-time high, there are some who are sceptical that this service will work.
“In a recent survey amongst 1500 of my followers, 55% of people said they would use the new NHS 111 service for mental health support.
“The same people asked if they thought the service would help, with 53% responding yes and 43% saying no.
“Many people felt that the demand on the 111 service was already so high they were sceptical that the service had been well thought through, with others questioning whether those who handled the calls were experienced enough to make the best referrals.
“There was also a concern that unless there are direct pathways and support with meaningful support once the call has ended, it could deter patients from calling again, leaving them to suffer in silence.
“But the comments were not all negative. One person said they had received help on the two occasions they had called 111 and many welcoming the recognition of mental health as something which warranted urgent support.”
Ms Crilly – who is behind a new awareness raising film called A Day With An Eating Disorder – said she had “hope” the service would benefit more people than not, but warned the service would need additional support to be able to cope.
“From my experience there needs to be funding allocated to mental health services and those organisations who provide support on behalf of the NHS if they want to make the difference which is desperately needed,” she said.
“We need that recognition that mental ill health across all ages, social backgrounds, ethnicities and gender is now the new pandemic.”
Driving at Work, Logistics, Logistics Tech, News

Queclink and 3Dtracking Webinar to Discuss How Dashcam Innovation is Driving Fleet and Video Telematics Forwards

Queclink Wireless Solutions and 3Dtracking are holding an industry webinar to discuss the evolution of the dashcam and how the latest advances are creating significant opportunities for fleets. The online event will bring together technology specialists from each company to examine market trends and innovations, which will help vehicle operators to target road safety, risk management and operational improvements.

 

“Cloud-connected dashcams have offered an effective fleet tool for the past decade, but there have always been constraints on the processing capacity and connectivity, limiting the capabilities of devices,” explains Vernon Bonser, UK Sales Director of Queclink Wireless Solutions. “In recent years, MDVR-powered, multi-camera systems have come to the fore, but we are now seeing huge potential for the dashcam as the hardware becomes increasingly powerful and intelligent.”

 

The webinar will take place on Wednesday 11th September at 2.00pm GMT and is free to attend. The speakers will explore how the next generation of dashcams will support highly flexible and effective telematics solutions as well as the role this cutting-edge technology will play within the fleet marketplace. They will cover the impact of CAN bus integration as well as the other future and emerging dashcam innovations such as sensor monitoring, Bluetooth connectivity and advanced edge computing.

 

Queclink and 3Dtracking will also be showcasing their all-in-one solution that brings together fleet and video telematics. By connecting with the CAN bus, the CV200 smart dashcam provides critical insight on vehicle status to gain greater understanding of performance and usage, bolstering robust location and behavioural data. As a result, fleets can take advantage of advanced video capture, driver monitoring and tracking features via 3Dtracking’s cloud-based software.

 

“Whenever approaching a specific feature, we always consider the end-user and look to make the user experience as easy and intuitive as possible,” said Roy Michael, CEO at 3Dtracking. “The ability to integrate with a vehicle’s communication system offers true telematics functionality, without the need for multiple solutions. This is just one of the many innovations that we will be discussing alongside Queclink during the webinar that are pushing not only the boundaries of video-enabled fleet technology, but by doing so in a way that makes the overall user-experience seamless and intuitive.”

 

For further details or to book a place at the Evolution of the Dashcam webinar visit https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_u5g3A5j6Q6S2FjnPFk0IEw#/registration.

Home Tech

Leading Aerial Installer Service in Bristol

Finding the right aerial installer in Bristol can be a bit of a task, especially with so many options available. Whether you’re looking to improve your TV reception, set up a home cinema, or install a CCTV system, choosing the right company is crucial. Here, we explore five of the best aerial installer services in Bristol, each offering unique strengths to cater to your specific needs.

Taylor Aerials

Taylor Aerials stands out for its versatility and comprehensive service offerings. They provide everything from standard aerial and satellite installations to more complex setups like home cinema and CCTV systems.

One of the key strengths of Taylor Aerials is their transparent pricing. Customers appreciate knowing exactly what they are paying for without any hidden costs. This transparency builds trust and ensures that clients feel confident in the services they are receiving.

Taylor Aerials is also known for managing intricate installations. Whether you need a multi-room setup or a sophisticated home entertainment system, their team is equipped to handle it. This makes them a top choice for customers seeking more than just basic TV reception solutions.

Their ability to offer a wide range of services under one roof is another significant advantage. Instead of hiring multiple companies for different tasks, you can rely on Taylor Aerials for a comprehensive solution. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency in service quality.

Customer reviews often highlight the professionalism and expertise of Taylor Aerials’ technicians. Their ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues efficiently is frequently mentioned, making them a reliable choice for both residential and commercial installations.

In summary, Taylor Aerials is an excellent option for those looking for a versatile and reliable aerial installer in Bristol. Their transparent pricing, ability to manage complex installations, and wide range of services make them a top contender in the market.

Aerial & Satellite Express

Aerial & Satellite Express is well-known for its customer-centric approach. They offer a wide range of services, including digital TV aerials, satellite dishes, and tailored home entertainment systems.

One of the standout features of Aerial & Satellite Express is their flexible scheduling. They understand that customers have busy lives and offer appointments that fit into your schedule. This flexibility is a significant advantage for those who cannot afford to take time off work for an installation.

Their ability to customise installations to suit individual needs is another strong point. Whether you need a specific type of aerial or a unique home entertainment setup, Aerial & Satellite Express can tailor their services to meet your requirements. This bespoke approach ensures that you get exactly what you need without any compromises.

Customer reviews often praise the company’s attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction. Their technicians are known for being thorough and ensuring that everything is set up perfectly before they leave. This level of service is particularly appreciated by those who are not tech-savvy and need a bit of extra help.

Aerial & Satellite Express also offers competitive pricing, making them an affordable option for many households. Their transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden costs.

In conclusion, Aerial & Satellite Express is a top choice for those looking for a customer-centric aerial installer in Bristol. Their flexible scheduling, bespoke installations, and commitment to customer satisfaction make them a preferred option for many.

Mike Harris Aerial And Satellite

Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite is a trusted provider for quick, same-day TV aerial and satellite installations across the UK. They specialise in straightforward services like Freeview and Freesat installations and are also equipped to handle emergency repairs.

One of the key strengths of Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite is their rapid response time. If you need an installation or repair done quickly, they are the company to call. Their same-day service is particularly useful for those who need immediate assistance.

Their no-nonsense approach is another significant advantage. Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite focuses on getting the job done efficiently without any unnecessary complications. This straightforward approach is appreciated by customers who value efficiency and reliability.

Customer reviews often highlight the company’s professionalism and punctuality. Their technicians arrive on time and complete the job within the estimated timeframe. This reliability is a significant factor for those who have tight schedules.

Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite also offers competitive pricing, making them an affordable option for many households. Their transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden costs.

In summary, Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite is an excellent choice for those looking for a quick and reliable aerial installer in Bristol. Their rapid response time, no-nonsense approach, and competitive pricing make them a top contender in the market.

TV Aerial Installer

TV Aerial Installer, run by Paul Davies, is a community-focused service known for its dependable and friendly approach. They offer a variety of services, including TV wall mounting and multi-room setups, with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction.

One of the standout features of TV Aerial Installer is their personal touch. Being a community-focused service, they take the time to understand your needs and provide a tailored solution. This personalised approach ensures that you get exactly what you need without any compromises.

Their strong emphasis on customer satisfaction is another significant advantage. TV Aerial Installer goes the extra mile to ensure that you are happy with the service. This commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in their positive reviews and repeat customers.

Customer reviews often highlight the company’s friendly and approachable technicians. Their ability to explain the installation process in simple terms is particularly appreciated by those who are not tech-savvy.

TV Aerial Installer also offers competitive pricing, making them an affordable option for many households. Their transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden costs.

In conclusion, TV Aerial Installer is a top choice for those looking for a community-focused aerial installer in Bristol. Their personal touch, strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, and competitive pricing make them a preferred option for many.

TV Aerials UK

TV Aerials UK, under the guidance of James Wilson, provides dependable installation and repair services, particularly excelling in challenging signal areas. They offer specialised services like bird spike installations and international satellite setups.

One of the key strengths of TV Aerials UK is their ability to handle challenging signal areas. If you live in an area with poor reception, they have the expertise to find a solution. This makes them a top choice for those dealing with unique or difficult installation conditions.

Their specialised services, such as bird spike installations and international satellite setups, are another significant advantage. These services cater to specific needs that other companies may not offer. This specialised approach ensures that you get exactly what you need without any compromises.

Customer reviews often highlight the company’s professionalism and expertise. Their technicians are known for being thorough and ensuring that everything is set up perfectly before they leave. This level of service is particularly appreciated by those who have unique installation requirements.

TV Aerials UK also offers competitive pricing, making them an affordable option for many households. Their transparent pricing model ensures that you know exactly what you are paying for, with no hidden costs.

In summary, TV Aerials UK is an excellent choice for those looking for a specialised aerial installer in Bristol. Their ability to handle challenging signal areas, specialised services, and competitive pricing make them a top contender in the market.

Conclusion

Choosing the right aerial installer in Bristol can make a significant difference in the quality of your TV reception and overall home entertainment experience. Taylor Aerials, Aerial & Satellite Express, Mike Harris Aerial and Satellite, TV Aerial Installer, and TV Aerials UK each offer unique strengths to cater to your specific needs.

Whether you need a versatile service provider, a customer-centric approach, rapid response times, a community-focused service, or specialised installations, these companies have you covered. Take the time to consider your specific requirements and choose the company that best meets your needs.

Business, Charity Events, Charity News, South Wales

Consumer Energy Solutions kick off fundraising for Crisis

Leading energy efficiency company Consumer Energy Solutions (CES) has raised money for their charity of the year, Crisis, by taking part in the Swansea beach rugby tournament, Beach Rugby Wales.

The tournament, founded in 2006, sees a host of ex-international rugby stars taking part alongside newbies to the sport. 48 teams took part in this year’s event, sponsored by Nathaniel Cars MG.

Swansea-based CES fielded a team in the annual tournament which took place last month, led by Scott Barclay and Kyle Fisher, raising over £500 for Crisis.

Crisis is a national charity that helps people directly out of homelessness and campaigns for the changes needed to end homelessness altogether.

The Skylight, located on St Helen’s Road, Swansea, is one of 9 run by Crisis across the UK. The Skylight team support people at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness in Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot to end their homelessness through providing advice, support and learning opportunities.

CES, which has permanent bases across Wales and the South West and has a workforce of more than 800 people, supports customers in energy-proofing their homes to reduce their carbon footprint and ultimately, their energy bills.

Gemma Morris, Operations Manager at Crisis Skylight South Wales, said: “I’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to CES for their ongoing support over the years, and for this donation in particular. A big thanks to Scott and Kyle for thinking of us when entering the tournament, and a big congratulations to them.”

Scott Barclay, Technical Surveyor Coordinator, Insulation Department at CES, said: “We’re so pleased to have raised so much for our chosen charity Crisis, all whilst having fun in the sun in Swansea Bay. The annual tournament is a great day out and to have raised much needed funds for such an important charity as Crisis is a great feeling. We hope to do the same again next year.”

Established in 2016, Consumer Energy Solutions delivers money-saving energy efficiency improvements to homes across South Wales and the South West. CES is an approved installer of Government backed scheme ECO4.

For more information, visit: https://www.consumerenergysolutions.co.uk/

Menopause, Menopause at work, News, Wellbeing at Work

Lancashire County Council awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation

One of the largest employers in Lancashire, Lancashire County Council (LCC), has been awarded the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. 

LCC is a public sector political organisation whose mission is to ‘help you to make Lancashire the best place to live, work, visit and prosper’. Its responsibilities include social care: supporting health and education services; building and maintaining roads and bridges; recycling centres; registering births, deaths and marriages and running libraries and museums. As such, it is a very large organisation with 264 settings where staff work, including its head office at County Hall in Preston.

 

Lucy Thompson, Lancashire County Council’s director of People says: “We are delighted to have been given Menopause Friendly Accreditation, which is the gold standard for organisations to reach in showing how seriously they take this very important health issue.

“Here at Lancashire County Council, we are proud to have created a workplace environment where every staff member feels heard, supported and empowered to navigate the menopausal journey with dignity and confidence.

“We focused on creating a culture where menopause is recognised universally as potentially impacting on both mental and physical wellbeing, and where every individual experience is respected and valued.

“We have been proud hearing how much the support we have put in place has touched people and made real improvements to their quality of life at work and at home.

“Listening to the concerns and experiences of our staff, we have proactively raised awareness of symptoms and the challenges they may bring. Not everyone may feel comfortable discussing their menopause experience, so we want to provide flexible solutions and resources suited to individual preferences and circumstances.”

 

The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, established by Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace (www.menopausefriendly.co.uk), recognises high standards and proven practices that embrace menopause in the workplace. Industry-recognised, it’s the only accreditation that sets clear standards which must be met. As such, it is truly meaningful and considered by many as a mark of excellence for menopause in the workplace.

In order to achieve The Menopause Friendly Accreditation, employers are assessed by an Independent Panel and must demonstrate evidence of their effectiveness in five key areas, namely: culture, policies and practices, training, engagement and working environment.

 

LCC highlighted four menopause friendly initiatives of which they are most proud:

  • Their comprehensive training that includes senior leader webinars, awareness training for all staff, separate training for managers, e-learning utilising staff experiences, as well as yoga, nutrition and sleep sessions from a local partner college.
  • Monthly lunch and learn sessions which enable staff to find out ways to support their menopause journey and learn from others.
  • A comprehensive guide and bespoke policy.
  • Peer support network.

 

“We felt the Menopause Friendly Accreditation gave us an opportunity to be recognised externally for the support we have in place while also helping us further improve our offering to staff,” says Lancashire County Council Wellbeing Officer, Debra Jones. “The key to success was gaining senior leader support and bringing together a project group from a diverse range of roles, grades and experiences. By ensuring they are involved throughout the journey, the outcomes are reflective of our workforce and their needs.”

“LCC already had support in place when they began their journey towards accreditation, which was so heartening to see,” says Deborah Garlick, CEO and Founder of Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace. “The independent panel, which makes the accreditation, noted the range of initiatives LCC had introduced as part of a very structured plan. Importantly, they included means by which they could measure the benefits that each initiative was bringing to their colleagues meaning their menopause friendly approach remains fresh and keeps developing.”