Microsoft are just one of the growing number of leading technology companies trying to crack the code of cancer using AI, but this big upcoming project is something that really impressed me.
On November 1st, I visited Microsoft’s Future Decoded Business Day 2016 at the ExCel in London. I sat in the Auditorium hearing about all the new really cool stuff going on at Microsoft where I learnt about the new project, of the most precise quantification to kill a cancerous tumour.
This AI looks through the pixels of a radiology scan, and does the job that would take a doctor 1-2 hours to segment the organs and allows the doctors to produce a quantitative analysis on which parts of the tumours are cancerous.
Microsoft’s goal here is not to replace doctors, but the capabilities of machines are to work as complements to the capabilities of experts.
This is just one of the many ways Microsoft are trying to “solve” cancer. Adding to the new Microsoft Research machine-learning project, aiming to absorb all documents and help predict which drugs and combinations can be most effective.
Although the research is still very early stages, Working with Artificial Intelligence, Microsoft are aiming to crack the code of Cancer for 10 years time.
Parliament’s debate on triggering Article 50 and formally initiating the Brexit process is taking place against a backdrop of UK companies arguing that the EU will, and must, remain an important trading partner.
These views have been underlined by the latest International Trade Survey published by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
Based on nearly 1500 responses, the survey found that UK companies remain committed to strong trading relationships with European customers and suppliers despite the UK’s vote to leave the EU.
Three-quarters (76%) of respondents currently sell goods and services into the EU market, with a similar proportion (73%) saying that they source goods and services from Europe.
Despite the UK withdrawing from EU membership, more than a third (36%) of survey respondents reported that they intend to put more resources into exporting to the European market over the next five years.
The survey also found that 18% of businesses are planning to allocate more resources to sourcing products and services from the Union’s Member States.
In terms of the UK’s future trading arrangements with the EU, respondents identified the three main priorities for Brexit negotiations as: tariffs; non-tariff barriers; and product standards, certification and compliance.
Commenting on the findings, Dr Adam Marshall described the results as an important reminder of the fact that it is businesses that trade, not governments. Businesses want the best possible terms of trade following the Brexit negotiations, whatever the ultimate model adopted, he added.
“Although the likely outcome of the Brexit negotiations remains unclear, businesses still see Europe as a primary market for both selling and sourcing inputs – even after the UK leaves the EU,” Dr Marshall concluded.
Pure, the professional recruitment company for the East of England, has worked with Birketts LLP and accountancy firm PEM to deliver a series of business breakfasts designed to help demystify the potentially imminent IR35 changes to ‘off-payroll’ workers in the private sector.
With many complexities and uncertainties still surrounding the proposed reforms to Intermediaries Legislation, known as IR35, more than 170 HR professionals, business owners and self-employed workers attended the region-wide events looking for expert guidance on the changes, which are due to come in to effect for private sector businesses on 6 April.
Ian Walters, CEO at Pure and host of the breakfast briefings, said: “These proposed regulations are still only in draft form, having been postponed due to Brexit, and now they are also in the process of further consultation. However, despite these uncertainties, there is a real possibility that medium and large businesses will need to be ready and legally compliant in less than two months’ time. We know many businesses like the flexibility of working with individuals who can provide services through their own limited companies or via agencies. We also support many organisations in the region with recruiting temporary professionals at all levels, providing interim cover and short-term injections of talent and expertise. As a business we need to understand and prepare for these changes. We want to support other businesses to do the same.”
The changes are being made by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to prevent tax avoidance from what it sees as ‘disguised employment’. This is when individuals work ‘off-payroll’ for an organisation and supply their services through their own limited companies as an intermediary, and where they don’t meet HMRC’s definition of self-employment. In essence, workers who would normally be considered an employee if they were providing their services direct to an organisation will be required to pay broadly the same tax and National Insurance contributions (NICs). To achieve this, the ultimate responsibility for determining an individual’s IR35 status, and their subsequent tax payments, will move from the worker’s company to those paying the worker and the end client organisations, however, small businesses are expected to be exempt under the new rules.
In collaboration with Birketts and PEM, Pure delivered briefing sessions in Cambridge, Chelmsford, Ipswich and Norwich to help businesses understand whether the new regulations will affect them and how to prepare and manage the changes.
The sessions covered how businesses can determine whether individual workers fall inside or outside of IR35, the potential pitfalls of the different tax status assessment tools and case study examples of issues raised since the changes were first introduced within the public sector in 2017. As well as looking at the impact on the end client businesses, and where the ultimate liability will rest within different employment chains. The events also explored what the changes will mean for contractors, temporary workers, intermediaries and employers. It was clear that delegates had concerns about the proposed regulations, with polls run across all sessions showing that 59% of delegates believed the off-payroll working rules should be delayed and 51% expecting to incur extra costs as a result of the changes.
Annette Wyld, Head of Finance at Pure, added: “We have produced guides for our clients and workers to help them understand the changes and to communicate the IR35 reforms. Although these are still only draft regulations at the moment, we are fully prepared and have put our own strategies in place to help support both our clients and our workers. Having gone through this process, our key advice for other businesses is to avoid making ‘blanket decisions’. Review each assignment based on the reality of the relationship and ensure contractual terms are in place which reflect this, whether engaged directly or via agencies, and to communicate plans and timings with everyone involved.”
Visit Pure’s dedicated IR35 website page for more information about its approach and the guides it has produced for clients and workers. For more information about temporary professional recruitment solutions contact your local Pure office.
Norfolk Chamber members Finn Geotherm and Flagship are working together to improve heating for residents living in 21 bungalows in Quayside Court, Suffolk.
A new communal ground source heat pump system in Suffolk is set to cut the heating bills of housing association Flagship’s customers by hundreds of pounds a year. This ground source project follows on from a similar award-winning installation completed at Flagship’s Orchard Close estate of 30 flats in Watton, Norfolk, last year.
The new system being installed at Quayside Court in Lakenheath will improve quality of life and affordability for customers, as well as reduce CO2 emissions.
The district heating system, which draws energy from the earth using a central heat pump and distributes it from a standalone plant room to each home, will replace the current individual electric storage heaters and oil boilers, providing a more effective and efficient system for the 21 bungalows.
Each home will be individually metered and customers only charged for the energy they use.
The installation will qualify for the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), a Government scheme which assists with the project’s capital cost by providing quarterly payments for 20 years, allowing Flagship to roll out the much-improved heating system into other homes in the future.
Director for Asset Management at Flagship, Lorna Blackmore, said: “Ground source heat pumps are a low maintenance, sustainable way of heating our homes.
“We are committed to continually improving our renewable energy sources to help tackle fuel poverty and reduce our carbon footprint, and this system does that.
“Capital investment by Flagship as well as the RHI provides a positive and sustainable return for us and our customers.”
It is anticipated customers will start to use the new system shortly after Christmas. Bryan and Maria Kelly have lived in their Quayside Court home for 11 years and said: “Getting the new heating system is fantastic. Once it’s up and running, we’re likely to save around £500 a year. Having this additional money in the bank will allow us to use it on other things such as a holiday, it gives us extra financial freedom.”
Attleborough-based renewable heating expert, Finn Geotherm, is working in partnership with Gasway Services Ltd to install the system. Finn Geotherm was responsible for the district heating system at Orchard Close, the first installed in East Anglia for a housing association. The Orchard Close project has subsequently won numerous awards for its innovative, energy and cost saving heating.
Finn Geotherm’s Commercial Director Guy Ransom said: “We are delighted that Flagship has chosen to install a second district heating system for its tenants. We have seen first-hand the difference a heat pump such as this has made to Flagship customers by eradicating fuel poverty and creating homes that customers can enjoy living in. It is a pleasure to be working with an organisation which not only puts its customers at the heart of its operations but also its responsibility to reducing carbon emissions and energy use.”
The system is also connected to the Finn Geotherm offices which allows it to be monitored wirelessly to ensure optimum performance and to highlight any potential maintenance.
Key benefits of the project include:
Reduced energy bills – immediate and long term
Zero CO2
Encourages customers to heat their homes, positively impacting on their health – reduction in damp and improved air quality
Low maintenance requirements – cost and frequency
Less intrusion for customers as equipment is stored in an external plant room
System lasts three times longer than a conventional boiler
British Maltster supplying craft brewers and distillers across the world, boosted by AEO Accreditation.
Importing and exporting has always come with its challenges. Never more so than now, with all the uncertainty surrounding the exact terms on which the country leaves the EU.
At the same time as exploring the new opportunities this might bring, British companies that operate internationally are looking to mitigate any potential negative impacts brought about by the changes. That means preparing for every eventuality and ensuring that export logistics operations and administration can continue as seamlessly as possible.
Crisp Malt’s timely achievement last week of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status is a case in point.
“AEO accreditation is recognised worldwide,” says Crisp’s craft brewing and logistics director Rob Moody. “It shows that the Crisp’s role in the international supply chain is secure and efficient and provides valuable reassurance to customers and port authorities both at home and overseas.
“Having AEO status will help ‘fast-track’ our exports through customs. This will reduce bureaucracy and time in transit, allowing our malts to reach craft brewers and distillers faster and more efficiently.”
It may seem strange for countries that grow and malt barley to import it from Britain, but there are extremely good reasons for it. As Rob says,
“Some of the best barley in the world is grown in East Anglia and Scotland, where, conveniently, our maltings are located! This includes the revered variety Maris Otter and the 19th Century heritage variety Chevallier through to the innovative Clear Choice. They are expertly grown by specialist farmers in North Norfolk and brought to our maltings in Gt Ryburgh for processing into malt.
“The special flavours and characteristics of these malts are very different to those made in other countries. They allow craft brewers across the world to make authentic English-style ales as well as create new Craft beer styles. Our malts are in high demand and we are currently supplying brewers in 34 countries, the largest markets being the USA and Japan.
“Equally, we are able to supply craft distillers with malted barley grown and processed in Scotland, the universally recognised home of whisky distilling. This again provides them an integrity and quality that only the real McCoy, in terms of ingredients, can deliver.
“There is an opportunity to build the market for UK malt. Having AEO status contributes to the service levels we can provide to export customers, and will be helpful in the quest to gain new business among craft brewers and distillers across the world. A growing number of drinkers in countries near and wide will be savouring the tastes of East Anglia or Scotland as they sip their craft beers and whiskies.”
Who we are With roots going back to 1980, Select as it is now began in 1995 as a specialist office support recruiter. We have since diversified our sectors and expanded across the country. Today, the local experience of our recruitment experts means that Select is able to provide a recruitment service that is unrivalled in numerous fields for its quality, value and service.
Select Norwich, based on Exchange Street right in the heart of the city, has been offering recruitment services to Norfolk and Suffolk for 25 years. Over this time, more offices have been opened to offer an even better service to the East of England, including locations in Lowestoft, Cambridge, Chelmsford and Newmarket.
The name, Select, was chosen with considerable care and we continue to adhere to the dictionary definition of Select – “chosen for excellence – pick out as best or most suitable”. This definition forms the basis of our company culture and our commitment to a quality service that far exceeds the expectations of both candidates and clients.
What we do Finding a new job is a significant milestone in your life. At Select, our recruitment consultants know a thing or two about the job market and will do everything in their power to find the right job for you.
Our goal is not only to find you your perfect job but also to look after you throughout the job seeking process and beyond. We aim to be your preferred recruitment agency and build a long-term relationship with you. Our service is more than finding you your ideal job – our Job seeker Advice Centre will give you lots of help to make the right decisions about your future, and of course our consultants are happy to advise and guide you at any time.
It is our belief that – by finding you a job that fits with your personality, ambitions and personal circumstances – we can enable you to take the next important step in your career. The support and guidance that we offer will give you a real head start in finding your perfect job and shaping your future.
This Year 2020 is a big year for us, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary. We are kicking off our celebrations by launching a brand new brochure (also available as a PDF at the bottom of this page) with a new look and feel to our branding. Or if you would prefer a more personal touch, please get in touch and find out what support we can offer you today.
At Todd Hayes Search & Selection “The Recruitment Specialists”, bringing over 50 years of combined recruitment experience, we would like to present a special offer to all Chambers members a one off fee of 10%, which includes the following services:
A client Visit – to ensure best possible match to the role
All vacancy advertising included in the fee!!
All candidate’s compliance checked and registered
Full telephone screening of all candidates
Face to Face interview of all candidates by Todd Hayes Consultants, prior to being presented to clients
Full candidate interview Preparation
Full After Sales Service Available
No up front costs!! – Strictly no placement!! – No fee!!
If you would like to hear more, please take advantage of our no obligation consultation!!
Please call today on 01603 251787 and ask for Kristina Baldwin.
As all our blinds are hand made to your measurements here in Norfolk, we can take bookings quite close to Christmas and still get them fitted for you in time for the big day!
If you wouldlike yournew blinds fittedbefore Christmas, you can order any timebefore 12th December. As you can see from the list, this date applies for venetian, roller and vertical blinds.
You will need to book an appointment for the measurements to be taken, and to discuss designs.
Saxon Air – Trusted non-scheduled aviation leader.
Alex Durand Saxon Air’s Managing Director explains how the LSIP has benefitted them.
“We’ve been involved with the LSIP from the outset, contributing to early workshops and now chairing the Norfolk and Suffolk Green Skills Sector LSIP. We’ve also been involved with feedback meetings with Norfolk Chambers of Commerce and the Dept for Education. We’ve also taken learning and feedback from this to the Department for Transport Aviation Skills forums”.
“It’s the most important skills development work we’ve seen, for the first time taking a business led approach to determine the skills that need developing for the workplace. It’s also helped shape a more collaborative approach between local authorities and businesses, which is needed to bridge the chasm that exists between skills the education system is(n’t) producing and those skills needed in the current and future workplace”.
“The LSIP adds value in terms of identifying the skills that need developing, but the process itself has the potential to be transformative. Businesses have had good reason to be frustrated with the lack of suitable vocational or work ready skills being produced by the education system , but it’s also highlighted areas where businesses aren’t getting involved or investing – apprenticeships, training budgets, engagement with schools/colleges/training providers. Where the LSIP process can work best is getting the full range of stakeholders to do more and in closer collaboration”.
KLM UK Engineering’s new facility is off to a flying start with the steel structure starting to take shape for this two bay aircraft hangar. The hangar is due to officially open in November 2020 a long with its new Workshop facility.
Pure has collected 622 shoeboxes filled with Christmas presents and essential items which will be distributed to children in need around the world as part of Operation Christmas Child by Samaritan’s Purse.
Not only did team members at the professional recruitment agency fill their own shoeboxes, they also ordered extra shoeboxes from the charity and encouraged other businesses across the Eastern region to get involved.
Joseph O’Sullivan, Manager of Pure’s Norwich Office, where the campaign was launched, explained: “At Pure we pride ourselves on supporting our local community and charity initiatives like this. As well as filling up shoe boxes ourselves, we decided to make it as easy as possible for other local people to get involved. We set up our offices as easy, central points for people to pick up or drop off shoeboxes, and arranged for members of our team to collect the boxes where needed.
Paul Sheldrake, Manager of Pure’s Ipswich Office, which supported the initiative as part of the #IpswichBig10 anniversary campaign, added: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the support we’ve received and have collected far more boxes than we ever could have hoped for. They may only be small, but they will have a big impact by providing gifts and much-needed items to children who may not receive anything else this Christmas.”
Each shoebox is filled with Christmas gifts, selected to suit a boy or a girl within age categories ranging from two to fourteen. They have also been packed with essential items such as hygiene products and school supplies. All 622 shoeboxes have now been passed to Samaritan’s Purse which will deliver them to children around the world this Christmas, including communities in need in countries across Africa, Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Following extensive refurbishments, Caistor Hall Hotel, in Caistor St. Edmund, Norfolk, is hosting an exclusive event for local businesses to come and experience the new offering on Thursday 5th March from 6.30pm-8.30pm.
Nestled within 32 acres of historic grounds and woodlands in the roman town of Caistor St Edmund, Caistor Hall is a boutique hotel offering luxury accommodation and breathtaking rooms ideal for corporate events but also for weddings, business and leisure breaks.
Following a brief name change in 2019 to The Boudicca, the hotel is proudly returning to its roots and reverting back to its original name of Caistor Hall; a decision influenced by the strength of the brand within the local community over the years.
Caistor Hall is inviting local businesses to join the new management for an intimate evening of wine and canapes on March 5th between 6:30 to 8:30pm; providing the perfect chance to take a look at the newly refurbished facilities Caistor Hall has to offer.
Caistor Hall is an ideal venue for hosting meetings, training courses and awards celebrations for all size businesses, with a variety of room sizes, a capacity of up to 300 people and the option to hire the venue exclusively. Located south of Norwich City Centre with ample free parking on site, just 2 miles from the A47 and a short taxi ride from Norwich Airport and Norwich Train station, the venue also provides an ideal accommodation for those attending an event in Norwich or the surrounding area.
Having remained a firm favourite with both local residents and the wider community for decades, Caistor Hall perfectly captures the beauty and heritage unique to Norfolk and is committed to providing guests with a stylish, unique experience that is second to none.
Caistor Hall is also home to Palm Court Bar & Restaurant, attracting both local clientele and those visiting the area for business. A new chef has been hired to oversee the menu, which is set to be a modern-european bistro with fresh produce that is locally sourced wherever possible. The restaurant will be ‘floating’, as there is the capacity to move the restaurant to several other beautiful rooms within the main body of the house depending on requirements. The bar will be stocked with wines, champagnes, brand and local spirits, and local ales.
Advance reservations for the local business event on the 5th March 6:30pm-8:30pm can be made by calling 01508 494998.