The Norfolk & Suffolk Nature Recovery Partnership are pleased to advise that the public consultation for the Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS) is now open.
The consultation runs
from 16 April to 11 June 2025, and this is a key opportunity for
individuals, landowners, organisations and communities to help refine our
shared approach to restoring and enhancing nature across Norfolk.
– Share your views through the online consultation survey
– Circulate the link to others who may be interested in
taking part
Your
continued interest and support are truly appreciated. By working together, we
can create a Strategy that reflects local priorities and leads to meaningful
action for nature across the county.
If the Suffolk LNRS is more relevant to you, please follow this link.
If you ever question whether you are successful as a good employer and that your engagement strategy is working well, Pure can give you guidance to help you identify some of the typical signs.
Since Pure is the proud sponsor of the Employer of the Year category at this week’s Cambridge News Business Excellence Awards, we are using our blog to share some of our expertise in this area.
So drawing from the awards and our own initiative, Best Employer Eastern Region, we have selected some key indicators that can help you get a snapshot of whether you have a positive workplace, and whether staff enjoy working for you. We suggest looking through the below list to see if you recognise these encouraging signs:
1.A positive staff survey
If you already run regular staff surveys and respond to opinion, then you are already doing the right thing. However, it is not just the results that matter – depending on the size of your organisation, if you can achieve a minimum 75% response rate, you have a very reliable indicator that you are taking the right approach to engagement. It is also likely that they believe their views are valued and will be taken on board.
2. Results are improving
Many leading brands put employee engagement at the core of their business strategy since they know it can boost productivity and support customer relationships. For instance, LEGO says its 15% growth in profits is due to “highly engaged” employees. If you are also seeing improving results and a high level of repeat business, your staff are probably happy in their jobs and are giving customers an excellent service as a result.
3. A mutually respectful culture
If your employees seem to genuinely care about each other’s progress and wellbeing, you can be confident that your leadership has influenced this behaviour. A culture of mutual respect and support is essential to a happy workforce, but the challenge is to maintain this, especially during times of change or disruption. Being honest and as open as possible is always the best approach.
4. Staff engage with their managers
Good employers rely on strong relationships between managers and their teams. Research shows that the main reason people either stay with an organisation or leave, is because of their relationship with their line manager. For example, open communication channels between employees and managers help people feel that their opinions are taken seriously, and that they matter. Therefore, spending budget on developing your managers to support these key relationships is one of the best investments you can make.
5. Positive outside opinion
They say word of mouth is the best form of advertising, and an organisation’s reputation spreads quickly among local communities. If people outside your organisation are saying good things about you, then your employees have probably become excellent advocates. Not only is this kind of feedback very rewarding, but it is invaluable in regards to your employer brand when you are recruiting.
6. You are attracting high quality candidates
Staying with the subject of recruitment, if candidates cite your reputation as a good employer as a reason for applying for jobs, you should feel very proud. Your reputation attracts high quality applicants who want to work for a supportive employer; and they are more likely to stay and develop their careers with you.
7. Your staff engage with charity work
A good employer knows that driving business purely to maximise profit does not cut it with its people. As a result, it is becoming increasingly common to mobilise staff to give something back to its communities. Engaging employees in charity fundraising or volunteering is rewarding and empowering. If your teams are happy to organise and engage with the activities, they are probably responding to your leadership’s passion for giving something back.
We hope thatthis quick list provides a steer as to whether you are on course as a good employer, or whether you need to change tack and revamp your engagement methods. Either way, if you need advice, please get in touch with us on: 01223 209888 or nicola.robinson@prs.uk.com.
Mattioli Woods recognised in second edition of London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain report 2015
Identifies fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) in UK
Recognition of Mattioli Woods’ continued success in becoming one of the UK’s leading providers of wealth management and employee benefit services
Mattioli Woods has been identified as one of London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain. The report is a celebration of the UK’s fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium sized businesses.
To be included in the list, companies needed to show consistent revenue growth over a minimum of three years, significantly outperforming their industry peers. More detail on the methodology can be found in the report online at www.1000companies.com.
Mattioli Woods is one of the UK’s leading providers of wealth management and employee benefit services. Over the past 24 years, Mattioli Woods has created one of the most successful businesses in its area of expertise, becoming an AIM-listed company with over 6,000 clients. It now has offices in Leicester, Aberdeen, Glasgow, London and Newmarket.
Inclusion in the London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain list comes off the back of recent strong results which saw the company report a 23.4% increase in revenue for the first half of this financial year.
Ian Mattioli, CEO, Mattioli Woods said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of London Stock Exchange’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain. As we enter our 25th year, we are witnessing very exciting times for the business as we look to position ourselves as a leading 21st century financial services provider. Recognition like this serves to reinforce our ethos and rewards the hard work shown by our employees to get us where we are today.”
Xavier Rolet, Chief Executive, London Stock Exchange Group said: “This report is a significant part of London Stock Exchange’s broader campaign to support UK high growth companies in their journeys from Start-up to Stardom and to create an entrepreneurship revolution. I’m delighted that a strong alliance between UK Government, financial market participants, investors, entrepreneurs and companies has been created to support these inspiring businesses.”
A full searchable database of all of the companies, along with a downloadable pdf of the publication, can be found online at www.1000companies.com.
Norfolk’s Recycling Revolution continues to go from strength to strength with the latest campaign push focusing on rinsing the recycling before putting it in the bin to be recycled. Norfolk’s residents have really got behind the recycling effort and with the new types of rubbish being accepted at the Costessey plant it means thousands of tonnes of more rubbish canbe recycled.
Two issues remain however and they are around contamination – either food or liquid remaining in carton/bottle/tub or the rubbish being ‘bagged’ up. The ‘Rinse and Recycle’ campaign aims to tackle this issue to ensure as much rubbish as possible can be recycled.It’s supported by a colourfulposter campaign and a new 3 minute video JMS producedfor Norse (see below)to show how the plant works and the importance of cleaning out the rubbish before putting it in the bin.
Norwich based Kettle Foods, producers of Kettle Chips, is the latest company to sign up for the nook business network scheme, pledging to raise funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) nook appeal to help deliver a new purpose-built children’s hospice in the heart of Norfolk.
Kettle Foods has supported the charity’s current Quidenham hospice for over 20 years through fundraising, promotion of the charity’s work and gift and product supply. Most recently they also co-sponsored the nook appeal launch event in November, at the Norfolk Showground, in the presence of EACH Royal Patron HRH The Duchess of Cambridge.
The support from the company continues with Kettle Foods signing-up to the charity’s new corporate scheme for local businesses – the nook business network. This new scheme encourages companies to commit to raising money over the duration of the appeal in return for a numberof benefits and support the charity will provide.
Dominic Lowe, Managing Director of Kettle Foods, said: “As part of our contribution to the local community Kettle Foods has been a long-term supporter of Quidenham and the important work that they do at the hospice. We feel passionate about giving something back and so are really pleased to be involved in raising funds for the much needed services that will be provided by the nook.”
Gary Cook, the nook appeal corporate fundraiser, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that Kettle Foods has seen fit to continue its long-term support of EACH by pledging to help us make our vision of a new purpose-built children’s hospice in Norfolk, for Norfolk families a reality.
“We really enjoy working with the team at Kettle Foods who are proactive in their support and in all that we do. The generosity, not only from the company but also the individuals within the company with their time, effort and enthusiasm is extremely heart-warming. I know Kettle Foods place a lot of emphasis on its role within the community and their continued support further displays this. We look forweard to working with them going forward.”
Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the appeal or the nook business network, should contact the Norfolk Fundraising Team on 01603 666767 or funding@each.org.uk and for more information about Kettle Foods visit: www.kettlefoods.co.uk
The demands placed on senior financial professionals in both the public and private sectors have never been greater. The role and responsibilities have evolved considerably over the last decade. They have become increasingly complex with FDs having to balance heightened levels of scrutiny and accountability whilst contributing to the strategic direction of an organisation.
In Pure’s work in helping employers recruit senior finance professionals and providing executive career coaching, we have seen first-hand just how much the skillset has changed in the last 10 years. Ahead of our next Future FDs Forum in June, run in partnership with Deloitte, we thought now would be the ideal opportunity to take a look at the skills required by the next generation of FDs.
From change management to commercial acumen, aspiring FDs need to develop a broader set of qualities alongside technical knowledge. Below is a glance at the breadth of leadership skills required by professionals who are aiming for promotion.
1. Influencing key stakeholders
Influencing fellow board members and external stakeholders is a key skill, since FDs are answerable to a wide range of people. They are also expected to answer questions, explain results and forecasts, and identify growth opportunities. Knowing how to influence and challenge people including the CEO, non-executive directors, investors, shareholders, customers, legal partners, trade organisations, auditors and banks requires exceptional skills in relationship building, negotiation and persuasion.
2. Strong leadership
Motivating and inspiring a team is key to employee productivity, loyalty and creativity. A strong leader uses a whole range of skills and qualities to generate excellent results; high levels of energy, determination, focus and vision drives people to perform at their best. Positivity is also a key to unlocking people’s potential – everyone wants to work in a happy team, especially during times of additional pressure.
3. Managing change
Many organisations operate in fast-paced environments, developing in line with shifting customer expectations and rapid economic changes. Ineffective change management can do serious damage to an organisation’s reputation, employee morale and performance. Since FDs are involved in making major business decisions and with change happening more frequently, senior finance professionals need to have proven experience on their CVs.
4. Commercial insight
Whether you work in the private, public or not-for-profit sector, commercial acumen has become absolutely crucial. Understanding how business works, customer behaviour, market trends and the broader industry all influence the strategic decisions made by the FD. Therefore, keeping up to date on commercial developments is a must.
5. Clear communication
Where finance professionals may have solid accountancy expertise, they also need the qualities that help them engage confidentially with people from non-finance backgrounds.They need to bring financial data to life and put it into context, so people understand the implications of the information for them and their teams. Taking the time to hone and develop your communication and presentation skills, will pay dividends in the medium term.
If you are an aspiring FD and you would like an opportunity to develop these skills, come along to our next workshop. In addition to the seminars, delegates also have access to mentors who are all highly experienced CFOs. The next seminar, ‘Making the Change’, takes place in Cambridge on June 4th. Contact Gill Buchanan to find out more: 01223 209888 or gill@prs.uk.com.
After replying to a request from the Norfolk Chamber of Commerce with regards to allowing the BBC to visit and film companies in the area, we were lucky enough to get the go ahead and arranged for them to visit yesterday morning at 09:00.
The reporters were here in conjunction with the General Election Campaign which begins today and filmed the workshop and spoke with our colleagues on the shop floor and last night saw TVCand some of our staff featured in a special report for the BBC’s News at 10. Reporters were keen to find out what smaller towns were looking for in their politicians as Great Yarmouth is just one of many marginal constituencies whose votes could swing what appears to be an unpredictable election this year.
The report can be seen in full on iPlayer until 18:30 on 31/03/2015 viahttps://bbc.in/1ORUV6n. The segment relating to Great Yarmouth begins at 12:12 and TVC are featured at 14:42.
Screenshots of the report are attached to this article.
A recent survey of over 300 businesses across Norfolk and Suffolk has revealed a strong appetite for workforce development, highlighting that nearly three-quarters would upskill their teams if barriers to training were removed.
The survey, delivered by the Norfolk and Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) on behalf of Norfolk and Suffolk Chambers of Commerce, examined critical areas such as training access, workforce development, staff retention, and inclusive employment, and provides critical insights into the skills gaps facing employers across both counties both now and in the future.
The vast majority of businesses (over 60%) indicated that budget limitations and a lack of funding was the key factor in not upskilling their staff, with workload pressures and the complexity of navigating the skills agenda impacting almost half of those surveyed.
Businesses across all sectors voiced a strong desire for better alignment between employers and training providers, calling for more flexible training options and improved awareness of available support.
Dean Pierpoint, LSIP Skills Director for Norfolk and Suffolk Chamber commented:
“The LSIP findings show that businesses are not only aware of the skills challenges but are eager to be part of the solution. By working collaboratively with providers and stakeholders, the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP can build a more resilient, skilled workforce that drives growth and opportunity across our region.”
Amanda Ankin, Operations Director at Suffolk Chambers of Commerce, added:
“This is more than just a survey – it’s a call to action. Businesses are ready to grow, and skills are at the heart of that growth. With continued support and collaboration, the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP can build a future powered by a skilled, adaptable, and inclusive workforce.”
When you’re in your 20s or even early 30s, saving for retirement might feel like something far off your radar. Between navigating new careers, paying off student loans, and managing rent or mortgage payments, retirement can seem like a distant worry for “future you” to deal with. But when it comes to financial planning, one of the smartest moves you can make is to start contributing to your pension early, no matter how small the amount.
Here’s why paying into your pension at a young age is not just a good idea, but crucial to your long-term financial well-being.
Compound Growth
The earlier you start contributing to your pension, the more you can take advantage of compounding growth, which is essentially earning interest on your interest. Even small, consistent contributions early in your career will grow exponentially over time.
More Time Equals Less Stress
One of the key advantages of early pension contributions is that it spreads the financial burden over many years. Instead of scrambling to make large contributions later in life when expenses like mortgages or family commitments might peak, starting early allows you to contribute smaller amounts over a longer period.
This gradual approach not only reduces financial stress but also makes your saving efforts more sustainable. As your career advances and your income grows, you can increase contributions with less strain.
Early pension contributions can save you stress later in life.
Employer Contributions
Many employers offer pension schemes that include a matching contribution, meaning they’ll match the amount you contribute up to a certain percentage of your salary. By not taking advantage of this when you’re young, you’re leaving free money on the table.
If you start early, you get more out of these employer contributions over the years. This can significantly boost your retirement fund without any additional effort on your part.
Flexibility Later in Life
Life is unpredictable, and having a well-funded pension means you won’t have to worry as much about financial security if unexpected changes happen in your career or personal life.
Contributing into your pension early will help you achieve your dream retirement.
Good Financial Habits
Starting a pension early in life also establishes good financial habits. Consistently setting aside money for retirement trains you to live within your means and prioritise saving. As your income grows, you’ll already be in the habit of saving, making it easier to increase your contributions and plan for other financial goals like homeownership, vacations, or investing.
The discipline of early pension contributions often spills over into other aspects of your financial life, helping you to become more conscious of budgeting, debt management, and long-term planning.
Even though retirement seems light-years away, think of contributing to your pension as a gift to your future self. Your older self will thank you!
How Can We Help?
Our retirement planning and pension review service is specifically designed to help you take charge of your own retirement plans. We will help you assess your current pension, if you have one, or multiple pensions and consolidate them into one and advise on the next steps you should take based on your unique needs. Get in touch to find out more.
Regional heavyweight law firm Howes Percival has announced it is to move its Norwich office from Colegate – home for over 25 years – to a brand new 15,000sq ft development in the city’s historic Cathedral Close district.
Construction work has just begun on the £3m development on Bedding Lane, just off Palace Street on the site of the former Busseys Ford dealership, and the new Palace Plain development is expected to be completed by the end of quarter one, 2016.
The project includes the construction of a new three story building and the refurbishment of the adjacent Grade II listed 1 – 2 St Martins building, which dates back to the 17th Century. The new St Martin’s House will be exclusively for Howes Percival’s use, on a 15 year lease and will feature a modern open plan layout, with state-of-the-art conference and meeting room spaces. The original features and façade of the historic building will be maintained.
Construction and infrastructure company Morgan Sindall has been appointed by the landlord Bussey & Sabberton Bros. Limited for what will be the largest new office development in the centre of Norwich for over five years.
Andrew Barnes, Howes Percival’s senior partner said; “This is a fantastic new development, right in the historic heart of the city. While Colegate has been our home since we opened the Norwich office in 1989, this will completely transform our day-to-day working environment. It will be a more modern and efficient space, which will enable better team working as well as being more accessible for clients and staff. St Martin’s House gives us exactly what we need to continue providing a first class service for our clients for years to come, plus room for us to continue growing in Norwich.
“We’re a forward looking firm with a proud, independent tradition and I think this office reflects our strong personality perfectly. It combines the best of both worlds with original features and character, alongside contempory design and purpose-built office space. It will be a really prominent building, in an outstanding location.
Andrew Barnes concluded: “This is very exciting time for the firm with two new offices opening this year and significant property upgrades for three other locations.”
The building was designed by Norwich architects Chaplin Farrant. Commercial property specialists Roche Surveyors advised Howes Percival in their search for new offices and the leasing of St Martin’s House, while REAL Consulting acted as client project manager and tenant’s surveyor.
The new office will be the latest in a series of significant property moves for the firm. In February 2015 Howes Percival opened a new Milton Keynes office. The Leicester office moved to new premises in 2013 and the Northampton team will be moving to a modern development in the next 12 months. The firm has also announced plans to open a brand new office in Cambridge in 2015.
The month of May is National Walking Month. The weather is (hopefully) better, the days are getting longer, and it feels good to be outside with the sun on your back. And there are some real benefits to stretching your legs.
Boost your fitness – any activity that raises your heart rate will help to make you fitter; Improve your mood – the combination of exercise and daylight increases levels of serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps humans feel happy; Save money – if you can walk to your destination rather than take the car.
But life is already very full, and adding a walk to a busy schedule can be challenging. The key to success is fitting activity around your other commitments and making it fun. Get off the bus a couple of stops early, get out of bed 20 minutes earlier, or plan a weekend walk with friends or family.
At Westfield Health, we want you to stay at your fit and healthy best, so while there’s plenty you can do to take care of yourself, you can rely on our Chamber Primary Health Plan to lend a hand. Visit www.westfieldhealth.com/chamber for more information.
New Covent Garden Soup Co. recently ran a competition enabling one lucky winner to win a Chili Red MINI One D. The competition received over 35,000 entries from across the UK, Channel Islands and Isle of Man.
The lucky winner of the car was Mr Achim Witte from Ipswich, all from his carton of MINI-strone soup. He collected his car from Listers King’s Lynn, where he received lunch before the unveiling of his prize. The prize was handed over by Jeremy Hudson, CEO of Hain Daniels Group, Mark Dawson, Procurement Director for Hain Daniels Group, and Geoff Lister, the Chief Executive of Listers Group.
Receiving the news that they had won the car was the best news they had received in a while, as Mr Witte’s wife, Eliana, has been battling a brain tumour for the past 18 months and is currently recovering after surgery.