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Take home your very own piece of the GoGoSafari trail at charity art auction!
After a wild summer of roaming the streets of Norwich and Norfolk the GoGoSafari sculptures will be getting ready to find their forever homes at a one-night-only charity art auction. To be held at Saxon Air, Norwich on Thursday 2 October, and hosted by ITV’s Becky Jago and Chris Page, alongside celebrity auctioneer Natasha Raskin Sharp, from TV’s Bargain Hunt, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance for fans, collectors and art lovers to own a unique piece of art from the popular trail.
With over 50 lots, from lions, elephants, gorillas, giraffes and rhinos to the exquisitely designed MINI Collection, and a couple of surprise Mini Gs, these sculptures are show-stopping statement pieces that will look spectacular in homes, gardens, offices, hotels and restaurants. Each one is a one-of-a-kind creation by some of the UK’s most talented artists, and now they’re ready for new adventures with all proceeds going to the charity behind the trail, Break, supporting their work with young people in, around and leaving care across East Anglia.
Auction guests can expect an enjoyable evening surrounded by the 56 sculptures up for grabs, with a sparkling reception, food served by local catering firm Norfolk’s Edge and drinks throughout the evening. And for bidders unable to attend there is the option to take part via the online auction portal or over the phone.
“It’s been wonderful to see so many people enjoy the GoGoSafari trail this summer and we can’t wait to see what’s next for our sculptures!” comments Ellie Edge, Break Partnerships Manager. “So many people have fallen in love with them and have their favourites. Our incredible artists have created some amazing designs making something completely unique. This auction is the perfect opportunity to be able to take home an original piece of art and a memento of another fantastic trail all whilst supporting Break and the work we do with young people in care.”
The evening starts at 6pm with the auction commencing at 7pm with tickets at £35 per person. available on the Break website break-charity.org/auction.
For fans and trailgoers who want to see how much their favourite goes for, it will be streamed live on our GoGoSafari Facebook page, along with updates posted throughout the evening on the trail’s socials.
PACT Animal Sanctuary
PACT Animal Sanctuary is a small animal charity based in Woodrising, Hingham. We rely on the kindness and generosity of our supporters to be able to carry out our work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming domestic animals. PACT also has a dedicated wildlife hospital, providing specialist care to Norfolk’s wildlife, always with the aim to release them back to the wild. Through education and community outreach we are dedicating to improving the lives of all animals in East Anglia.
MENS MENTAL HEALTH – UK STATISTICS
MENS MENTAL HEALTH – UK STATISTICS The UK faces a significant mental health crisis among men, with various statistics highlighting the challenges they face:Mental Health Disorder: 12.5% of men in England have a mental health disorder. Suicide Rates: Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, with 74% of deaths by suicide in 2023 in England being male. Substance Abuse: Men are more likely to develop a problem with substances, with 4.3% of men having a dependence. Mental Health Awareness: Only 36% of all NHS referrals for psychological therapies are for men. Workplace Concerns: 52% of men would be concerned about taking time off for mental health-related reasons. These statistics underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, support, and action to improve mental health outcomes for men in the UK.
TAKE ACTION NOW and seek support from Eudaemonia who have a number of therapists who will ‘meet you where you are at’ to help you invest in your mental health and wellbeing!
Should Businesses Have Policies & Procedures Around Domestic Abuse?
Businesses have a range of policies and procedures designed to create a safe, structured and fair working environment for their employees.
They set out clear guidelines of what is expected of employees and what they can expect from their employer, ensuring that they feel supported in the workplace.
In recent years, there have been increased calls for businesses to review these to ensure that they cover trending issues such as mental health and domestic abuse.
Guidance released alongside the Domestic Abuse Act (2021) implored businesses to take an active role in tackling domestic abuse, specifically reminding them of their duty of care to their employees.
Despite this recommendation, research conducted by the Vodafone Foundation found that just 5% of employers had specific policies or guidelines around domestic abuse.
There are many reasons why this figure may be so low. For example, employers may feel that they do not know enough about domestic abuse to confidently draft policy and procedure.
There will also be some businesses that don’t believe it is a workplace issue or are unaware of the impact that it will be having on their employees and their organisation.
However, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime, reiterating the fact it is an issue that should be taken seriously.
Not only is it good practice to have policies and procedures around domestic abuse, but it can also have many other benefits for businesses and organisations.
They can help to provide a clear framework, enabling you to respond effectively to support an employee experiencing domestic abuse.
This ensures a consistent and empathetic response to disclosures of abuse, which can help employees to get the support they need and allows businesses to put their own workplace support plan in place.
Policies and procedures can also save businesses money, reducing the cost that domestic abuse has through lost productivity or recruitment costs – estimated to be a staggering £14bn every year.
Measures such as adjusting an employee’s working arrangements can have a positive impact and are often quite easy for businesses to implement.
There are many upsides to having specific policies and procedures around domestic abuse and we believe that now is the time for businesses to consider their role in tackling this important issue.
Why Now?
There has never been a better time for businesses to assess gaps in their policies and procedures to ensure that they are covering increasingly trending issues such as domestic abuse.
With a Bill looking at introducing paid leave to survivors of domestic abuse currently going through parliament, it is an issue that employers need to be aware of and know how to respond to.
This will undoubtedly impact businesses across the country, particularly as an estimated 10% of the workforce are experiencing domestic abuse.
Despite being a prevalent issue across society, knowledge around domestic abuse remains relatively limited and knowing how to translate this into actionable policies and procedures can be a challenge.
This is where Leeway can help you!
We have experience of supporting businesses and organisations to or draft policies around domestic abuse, helping them to meet their duty of care to their employees.
We also provide Domestic Abuse Awareness Training which aims to equip businesses and organisations with the knowledge and ability to spot the signs of domestic abuse, whilst also being able to signpost employees or clients to access support.
This provides a great platform for your business to understand domestic abuse, the impacts that it is having on your organisation, and the role that you can play in tackling it.
To find out more about how Leeway can support your business, email training@leewaynwa.org.uk or visit our website www.leewaysupport.org/training.
We are also running a free Domestic Abuse Training taster session exclusively for Norfolk Chambers of Commerce members! For more information about this or to book your place click here.
The 3 Pillars of a Strong Pension Plan
Pensions Awareness Week (15th to 19th September 2025) is officially here; and its a perfect time to take a close look at your financial future.
While pensions might seem like a complicated topic, understanding the basics is the first and most crucial step toward securing a comfortable retirement.
At its core, a pension is a long-term savings plan with one simple purpose: to provide you with an income when you stop working. Unlike a standard savings account, a pension is specifically designed for retirement, so the money you put in can’t be accessed until you reach a certain age.
Types of Pensions
In the UK, there are three main types of pensions:
· The State Pension: This is the basic pension provided by the government. To qualify, you need to have paid National Insurance contributions for a certain number of years. It acts as a safety net, but it’s typically not enough to live on comfortably. The State Pension age is also rising, so you can’t be sure of when you’ll be able to access it.
· Workplace Pensions: If you’re employed, you’re likely “auto-enrolled” into a workplace pension scheme. You, your employer, and the government all contribute to it. This is a powerful tool because your employer’s contributions effectively give you free money.
· Personal Pensions: If you’re self-employed or simply want to save more, a personal pension allows you to manage your own retirement savings. You choose the provider and how your money is invested.
The Main Issues: Why Pension Planning Is Crucial
Despite the clear benefits, many people put off pension planning. Here are the main issues we see:
· “Set It and Forget It” Mentality: While auto-enrolment is great, many people contribute only the minimum amount and then forget about their pension. This can leave them with a much smaller pot than they need.
· The “Pension Puzzle”: Over a career, you may have multiple jobs, leaving you with several small, scattered pension pots. Keeping track of them and knowing how they’re performing can be a huge headache, leading to billions in unclaimed funds.
· Inflation & Cost of Living: A pension pot that looks healthy today might not buy as much tomorrow. The value of your savings can be eroded by inflation, making it essential to ensure your money is invested effectively to grow over time.
The Three Pillars of a Strong Pension Plan
So, what can you do to take control in this confusing environment? It’s simpler than you might think, and it all starts with a proactive approach.
Pillar 1: Find Your Missing Pots
This is often the easiest and most rewarding first step. Over a career, it’s common to lose track of old workplace pensions. Do you have old paperwork in a drawer? Do you remember a pension from a job you had a decade ago? These small pots can add up to a significant sum, and locating them is the first step to consolidating your retirement savings.
Finding these pots and bringing them together into a single, manageable fund offers a host of benefits:
Clarity: You get a single, clear view of your total retirement savings.
Simplicity: Fewer accounts mean less paperwork and less to manage.
Reduced Fees: You can often save on fees by combining multiple small pots into a larger one.
Pillar 2: Understand Your Goals
What does a comfortable retirement look like for you? A few more holidays? A new hobby? Simply living without financial stress?
This is where a good financial adviser becomes your most valuable partner. By understanding your goals, we can help you calculate exactly how much you need to save to make that dream a reality.
Pillar 3: The Power of Independent Advice
The final and most crucial pillar is seeking professional help. A good, independent financial adviser is worth their weight in gold. We can:
Consolidate Your Pensions: We have the tools and expertise to locate your old pension pots and handle the paperwork to bring them all together.
Create a Holistic Strategy: We look at your entire financial picture, from savings and investments to your attitude to risk, to build a pension strategy that is tailored specifically for you.
Navigate the Complexities: We stay on top of all the political and legislative changes so you don’t have to. We’ll help you understand how potential reforms might affect you down the line and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Pensions Awareness Week: Your Moment to Act
Pensions Awareness Week is a reminder to take charge of your financial future. While politicians will continue to debate, you have the ability to act right now. Take this opportunity to check on your pension, find those old pots, and start thinking about the future you want to create.
How We Can Help
Get on the front foot of your pension.
At Brancaster House Financial Planning, our team of independent advisers is here to help. Are you retirement ready? Use our retirement health check to see what you might need.
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Brancaster House launches new equity release guide
For many homeowners over the age of 55, your home is your most valuable asset. In retirement, as budgets tighten and new expenses arise, the idea of unlocking the wealth tied up in your property can be a compelling one.
Whether it’s to fund a dream holiday, make essential home improvements, pay off existing debts, or provide a financial gift to loved ones, the equity in your home can offer a solution.
Brancaster House Launches New Equity Release Guide
However, the world of equity release is shrouded in misconceptions and complex jargon. It’s a topic that can feel daunting, and with so many myths floating around, it’s difficult to know who to trust.
At Brancaster House Financial Planning, we believe that making an informed decision is the only way forward. That’s why we are incredibly proud to announce the launch of our new, comprehensive Equity Release Guide. Designed to empower you with clarity and confidence, this guide is your first step toward understanding one of the most significant financial decisions you may ever make.
What is Equity Release, Really?
At its simplest, equity release is a way for homeowners aged 55 and over to access the tax-free cash tied up in their home without having to move. You continue to live in and own your home, but a portion of its value is released for you to use.
The two most common types of equity release are:
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Lifetime Mortgages: This is the most popular option. You take out a loan secured against your home. You don’t make any monthly repayments unless you choose to; instead, the interest rolls up and is paid back, along with the loan, from the sale of your property when you pass away or move into long-term care.
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Home Reversion Plans: You sell all or part of your property to a provider in exchange for a tax-free lump sum. You retain the right to live in your home rent-free for the rest of your life. When the property is sold, the provider takes their agreed-upon share.
This brief overview is just the start. The real value lies in understanding the finer details, which is exactly what our new guide is for.
Addressing the Elephant in the Room: The Common Fears
When we speak to clients, we hear the same questions and concerns time and time again. The myths around equity release can be powerful, often preventing people from even considering a solution that could be perfect for them. Our new guide directly addresses these head-on.
Myth 1: “Will I lose my home?”
The most common and understandable fear. With a plan that adheres to the standards of the Equity Release Council – a crucial standard that we, as independent advisors, always adhere to—you are guaranteed the right to live in your home for life or until you move into long-term care. You remain the legal owner of your property.
Myth 2: “Will it leave my family with a debt?”
This fear is rooted in outdated plans from the past. Modern, reputable plans come with a “No Negative Equity Guarantee.” This means that no matter what happens to house prices, the amount to be repaid will never be more than the value of your home when it is sold. Your family will never be left with a debt.
Myth 3: “Is it a last resort for when I have no other options?”
Absolutely not. While it can be a solution for those who have exhausted other avenues, more and more people are using equity release as a proactive financial tool. It’s a way to plan for your future, enjoy your retirement years, and help your family when they need it most.
Why We Created This Guide
Our mission at Brancaster House is to provide independent, clear, and honest financial advice. We recognised a significant knowledge gap in the public understanding of equity release. There is a lot of information out there, but very little of it is truly unbiased and easy to understand.
Inside, you will find:
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A simple explanation of what equity release is and how it works.
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A clear comparison of Lifetime Mortgages and Home Reversion plans, helping you understand the pros and cons of each.
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An essential checklist of key questions to ask a provider and an adviser.
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Real-world case studies that show how different people have used equity release to achieve their goals.
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A glossary to demystify all the financial terms.
We firmly believe that by giving you this information upfront, you will be in a much stronger position to decide if equity release is right for you. It allows you to explore the topic at your own pace, in the comfort of your own home, before you even consider speaking to an adviser.
The Brancaster House Difference
Downloading our guide is the first step, but it is not the last. While the guide will provide you with a wealth of information, the most important part of any financial decision is a personalised conversation with a qualified, independent advisor.
At Brancaster House, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. When you come to us, we will look at your entire financial situation. We will explore every option available to you, from downsizing to using other savings, before we even recommend an equity release plan.
If it’s not the right solution for you, we will tell you. Our independence means we are committed to finding the best possible solution for your unique needs, even if that means advising against equity release.
Ready to Find Your Clarity?
Don’t let confusion or fear hold you back from exploring your financial options. Your home has worked hard for you over the years, and it’s time to understand how it can continue to support you in your retirement.
Our new free guide is the perfect starting point. It provides the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and gives you the confidence to ask the right questions.
A Celebration of Robert Burns Celidh & Dinner The Keep Norwich Castle
About the event
Immerse yourself in the warmth and tradition of Burns Night in the grandeur of Norwich Castle. Experience the best of Scottish culture, from the taste of a traditional meal to the thrill of a live ceilidh band! All this in the new Keep at Norwich Castle.
Ticket Options
Full Evening Experience
Price: £96 per person (+ Vat and Booking Fee )
Includes:
A Piper to pipe you in at the bridge to the castle
- Welcome drink (Prosecco or Irn Bru)
- Three-course traditional Scottish dinner
- A dram of whisky to toast the haggis
- Entertainment featuring an Address to the Haggis with a dram, toast to the lassies, with the lassies’ response to the laddies, and ceilidh dancing led by Stroma, a live four-piece ceilidh band (With Caller)
Ceilidh-Only Ticket
Price: £36 per person (+Vat and Booking Fee)
Entry to the ceilidh from 9:00 pm
Menu for the Night in the full evening experience
(Full dietary options available upon request. ) must be given 10 days before the event.
- Starter: Hearty Scotch Broth
- Main Course: Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties (Dram from McInnies for the address to the haggis)
- Dessert: Cranachan, plus coffee, tea, and shortbread
Tables are on rounds of 10 – Shared
Please contact us for any questions: tracey@outofofficeevents.co.uk with any dietary requirements by January 18, 2025. Tel: 07393971897
Dance the Night Away!
Enjoy a traditional Scottish ceilidh led by Stroma, our fantastic four-piece live band, complete with a caller to guide you through every step of the dance. Whether you’re a ceilidh regular or a first-timer, our caller will make sure everyone can join in the fun!
The bar closes at 11.30 pm
Event dancing finishes at 12.00 midnight
carriges 00.15 am
Exclusive Hotel Offer The Maids Head Hotel – Quote BURNS26
Secure Your Tickets Now for a Night to Remember at Norwich Castle!
Great Gatsby Christmas Party Nights
Great Gatsby Christmas Party Nights
This December, experience the glitz and glamour of the Roaring ’20s at Carrow Road’s Great Gatsby Christmas Party Nights.
Fancy dress encouraged!
What’s included:
• A drink on arrival to begin the evening
• Two-course buffet
• Entertainment and dancing until the early hours to our resident DJ
Timings:
• 7pm – Arrival
• 7.45pm – Buffet served
• 1am – Evening to end (approx.)
Venue:
Gunn Club, Barclay Stand, Carrow Road
You can reserve your date now with full payment by contacting us on 01603 218724 and speaking to our special events team.
Please note bookings can be provisionally held for two weeks. Full payment is required to secure a booking, with no deposits being taken.
Dates available for 2025: Thursday 4th & 18th, Friday 5th & 19th and Saturday 20th December
Tickets are priced at £48.00 per person.
Over 18s only
Your email list..
You’ve got a list of emails… but when’s the last time you actually used it?
Your past clients, enquiries, and subscribers are warm leads, people who already know your brand.
Yet for most businesses, that list just collects dust while competitors show up in inboxes weekly, building trust and making sales.
Every week you don’t send an email is a missed opportunity.
We had to pleasure of attending FWD: London this month, Mailchimp’s biggest conference, and one thing’s clear: email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to grow your business without spending a penny on ads.
We create email campaigns that:
– Build relationships and drive repeat sales
– Speak to the right people at the right time (segmented and personalised)
– Look slick and on-brand
– Include welcome and sales sequences that run while you sleep
– Actually get opened (and clicked)
Ready to stop ghosting your audience and start seeing results?
Get in touch for a free chat.
SpiderIT
Established in 2000, SpiderIT has grown from an IT support company to a full-service digital agency, helping businesses across Norfolk and beyond thrive in the digital age.
Whether you are looking for bespoke web development, a high-performance website, SEO optimisation, digital marketing, or reliable IT support, SpiderIT will deliver a cost-effective, scalable solution designed around your needs.
Proud of our Norfolk roots, we work with businesses across a wide range of industries – always with the core goal in mind of helping them grow, adapt, and succeed.
At SpiderIT, we specialise in simplifying technology, streamlining operations, and building digital strategies that drive long-term success. From secure IT infrastructures to tailored online marketing campaigns, we ensure your business stays competitive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
YALM nominated for Best Food Hall in the UK 2025
We’re excited to share that YALM has been nominated for Best Food Hall in the UK 2025 at the British Street Food Awards and voting is now open.
This nomination is more than a recognition of food, it’s about celebrating culture, connection, and a sense of place. Each vote is a show of support for Norwich’s thriving indie food scene.
How to support: