Member News

Hi, my name’s Rob! I’m new to the Business Hub and wanted to quickly introduce myself. If you’re a solopreneur, the following may chime with you.

At the age of 29, I walked away from a secure full-time corporate role in service delivery management to follow my dream of becoming a full-time musician. It wasn’t easy, but it changed my life forever. I’m 51 now and have never returned to a traditional full-time job. If I hadn’t had followed an unconventional path, I wouldn’t have had the experiences and opportunities I’ve been fortunate to experience.

Through strategy, hard work (and some luck), I’ve been lucky to tour the world performing alongside music icons like Metallica, build multiple businesses, and helped hundreds of musicians understand how to monetise their music careers in healthy, sustainable ways. Everything’s been achieved by self-management, by meeting people, and growing real relationships that can change lives.

Along the way, I’ve discovered some things about me: I genuinely love helping people succeed and avoid costly mistakes. I’m not afraid to step outside of my comfort zone if it means I learn something that will benefit myself and others that choose a challenging path.

That’s why I created Kickstart Business Growth — to bring together everything I’ve learned from the music world, the corporate world, and the world of entrepreneurship, and use it to support founders, startups, and creatives on their own paths to success in business. Though effective coaching and mentoring, dreams and ambitions can’t be achieved and not at the risk of poor mental health and wellbeing.

I’ve had the privilege of mentoring university students at WaterBear – The College of Music in Brighton, guiding young musicians not just on how to navigate the music business, but how to thrive within it. To inform them that there are wonderful opportunities and ways to help people if you look up from smartphones. That same passion for mentorship drives Kickstart. Whether you’re in music or any other industry, I want to help driven, BOLD people avoid the common traps, build confidence, and feel genuinely happy doing what they do.

My approach is simple: give people the tools, support, and mindset they need to succeed — not just in business, but in life.

From sitting in front of my parents’ hi-fi as a kid, to playing to massive festival crowds, to coaching new founders today; every bit of my experience has reinforced one thing: success is deeply personal. It’s not just about scaling a business; it’s about building something meaningful, on your own terms, with good people, and being happy while doing it.

If you see me at the Business Hub, feel free to say hello. I’m always up for a chat over a cup of tea and happy to see how I can support your business success.

Rob Town – Kickstart Business Growth

Banham Zoo is delighted to announce the birth of twin cotton-top tamarins (Saguinus oedipus), a critically Endangered primate species, marking an important milestone in our ongoing commitment to global conservation.   Six-year-old Belle, who arrived at Banham Zoo two years ago, has formed a strong bond with our resident male, Barnard, also six years of age. This birth is the pair’s first, and both are proving to be exemplary parents.   Barnard has assumed the role of vigilant protector, while Belle is nurturing the young with unwavering care, carrying them close, feeding them attentively and ensuring their well-being.  In cotton-top tamarins, parental cooperation is vital; both the mother and father share the responsibility of carrying the offspring, who are typically born weighing just 40 grams. As the twins grow more adventurous, their sexes will be determined and names selected in due course.   The birth of these twins is a moment of celebration not only for Banham Zoo but for the species itself.   Cotton-top tamarins are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, with an estimated 6,000 individuals remaining in their native forests of north-western Colombia. Their numbers have plummeted due to extensive habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trafficking and historical exploitation in biomedical research.   These new arrivals are a beacon of hope in the battle against extinction. It underscores the vital role that ethical zoological institutions play in the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity.   Netanya Noy, Team leader of Primates at Banham Zoo, said: “We are extremely delighted with cotton top twins.  This is not only great for the breeding programme of this critically endangered species, but also a great way to educate the public with our conservation projects for smaller species.”   Through breeding programmes, education, and support for conservation initiatives, Banham Zoo continues to contribute meaningfully to the survival of this charismatic yet sadly threatened species. We invite the public to join us in celebrating this joyous occasion and to learn more about how they can support conservation efforts for cotton-top tamarins and other endangered species.  

Do you like dragons? 🐉✅
Do you like boats? ⛵✅
Do you like doing your bit for a great cause? 👏✅

Well then, this one is for you. 👇

Brave Futures are putting on our second dragon boat race to raise funds for the amazing work we do, supporting children & young people who have experienced sexual abuse.

🐲You could be a business who wants to enter a team (10 + a drummer).
🐲You could be a business who wants to collab with another business to make a team
🐲You could be someone with some pals who can make up a team together.

Do you need boat based experience? NOPE 🙂‍↔️
Do you need to want to have fun & raise money for a great charity. YEP 🙂‍↕️

Saturday 20th September at Whitefriars Bridge, Norwich. 

Only 4 boats left, so be quick..

Contact Rachael for more info rachael@bravefutures.org or visit www.bravefutures.org 

Age UK Norwich has launched a new, cloud-based telephone and mobile system in partnership with Dupliq, bringing smarter, more flexible communications to our charity. This major upgrade is already improving how we stay connected with our staff, volunteers, clients, and the wider community.

Every month, Age UK Norwich handles over 1,500 phone calls from older people, their families, and professionals seeking advice, support, and connection. These conversations are at the heart of what we do, so it is vital that we can respond quickly and securely.

As a proud local brand partner of Age UK, one of the UK’s leading charities for older people, clear and reliable communication underpins all our services, from advice lines and wellbeing checks to home visits and social clubs.

Dupliq’s modern system helps us meet these demands. A Dupliq representative shared “We’re proud to support Age UK Norwich with a communications system that’s cost-effective, secure, and built for the future. It enables staff to work smarter and stay connected – wherever they are.”

What’s New?

• Cloud-Based Phone System: Staff can now make and receive calls from any location – using desk phones, laptops, or mobiles. This flexibility ensures that client calls are answered more quickly, even when teams are working remotely or out in the community.
• Business Mobiles for Key Staff: Our outreach teams remain in touch while on the move, ensuring we can check in with clients, respond to urgent needs, and stay connected across Norwich.
• Cost Savings: These savings are being redirected into frontline services allowing us to support more people, more often.
• Increased Flexibility: Staff can transfer calls, join virtual meetings, and access voicemail and call data from anywhere. This helps us avoid missed connections and improves continuity of care for clients.
• Secure and GDPR-Compliant: The system is fully compliant with data protection standards, keeping sensitive information safe and giving clients confidence in our service.

This upgrade is more than a technical change. It is a meaningful step forward in how we support people. With faster response times, fewer missed calls, and improved collaboration across teams, we are making it easier for older people to get the help they need, when they need it.

The new system is being introduced gradually throughout July, with Dupliq working hand-in-hand with our IT and operations teams to ensure a smooth transition with no disruption to our vital services.

At a time when charities are under increasing pressure to do more with less, this investment in smarter communications helps us stay effective, agile, and focused on what matters most -supporting older people in Norwich to live well, age well, and enjoy a better quality of later life.

If you would like to speak with one of our advisors or find out about the services we offer, please contact our customer service team on 01603 496 333. Or email on enquiries@ageuknorwich.org.uk 

Age UK Norwich has been awarded a £3,000 grant from The Clan Trust to support its emergency hardship fund – providing urgent, life-saving support for older people facing financial crisis in the city. From emergency food vouchers to help with heating costs, this funding will allow Age UK Norwich to step in quickly when people over 50 need it most.

This funding will enable Age UK Norwich to continue providing urgent support such as food vouchers, help with energy bills, and essential household items to older people facing acute financial hardship. The grant follows the success of previous Clan Trust support in 2023 and recognises the charity’s proven ability to deliver life-changing interventions for vulnerable individuals.

With rising costs and ongoing delays in statutory support, many older people in Norwich – particularly those in Reducing Inequalities Target Areas (RITA) – are struggling with poverty, isolation, and the challenges of declining health. The Client Support Fund bridges the gap, ensuring that no older person is left waiting weeks for the help they desperately need.

“Time and time again, we see how same-day, tailored support can prevent a crisis from becoming a catastrophe,” said Jamie Price, Head of Service Delivery at Age UK Norwich. “This generous grant from The Clan Trust means we can step in quickly to help older people with the essentials – food, warmth, safety – and support them in rebuilding their confidence and independence.”

The fund’s value is best illustrated through the words of a recent client, who wrote:

“Thank you for your incredible support during what has been the lowest point in my life. I’ve been dealing with memory loss, physical health issues, and mental health struggles, all while grieving the recent loss of both my parents. As if that wasn’t enough, I also suffered a stroke. It’s been overwhelming – but your help made a real difference when I needed it most.”

This client, now recovering from a stroke and living alone, was supported through the hardship fund at a critical time. He has since received assistance applying for Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit and is now being helped to access a discretionary housing payment to avoid further hardship. Without fast, compassionate intervention, he might have fallen through the cracks.

Age UK Norwich’s accredited advisers deliver holistic support in partnership with local health services, outreach teams, and statutory agencies. Monitoring data shows:

• 100% of clients report knowing where to access help after receiving support
• 90% feel better equipped to manage their situation
• 80% report improved financial confidence

Crucially, every penny of this £3,000 Clan Trust grant will be used for direct client support.

While this funding will make a significant difference to the independent charity, demand continues to grow. Age UK Norwich is actively seeking additional support from charitable trusts, the local community, and public sector partners to sustain and expand the Client Support Fund.

A innovative service by Age UK Norwich has helped hundreds of older people access the financial support they’re entitled to, identifying more than £2 million in unclaimed benefits.

Launched in 2024, the two-year service is designed to tackle the widespread issue of older people missing out on financial help, especially Pension Credit, by offering dedicated support to identify and secure these vital entitlements.

Since its launch, the project has:

• Supported 376 older people
• Identified 282 as eligible for additional benefits
• Unlocked £2,027,478.20 in total benefits
• Achieved an average of £5,743.56 per person, per year

Delivered by Age UK Norwich’s experienced advice team, Entitled To More combines traditional benefits advice with innovative outreach strategies. A key element of the service includes developing and testing a “benefits heat map” to target households most at risk of missing out on Pension Credit. Using this data-driven approach alongside trusted local relationships, the team is identifying those most in need, and often the most overlooked.

“Too many older people are going without simply because they don’t know help is there” said Rio Topley, Advice Specialist of Age UK Norwich. “This is about fairness. Everyone deserves to live with dignity in later life, and that means accessing the financial support they’re entitled to. ‘Entitled To More’ is helping us close that gap and make a real difference.”

With the cost of living still high and older people among the hardest hit, this support comes at a crucial time. Norwich is in the bottom 20% nationally for health inequalities, and Age UK Norwich’s outreach work, particularly in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, is making essential connections.

One local resident shared their story “I had no idea I could claim anything – I was just getting by. The support from Age UK Norwich has been a lifeline. I now feel more secure and less anxious about the future.”

The service is part of a wider mission to ensure no older person in Norwich is left behind. From sheltered housing visits to Cuppa Care outreach and advice hubs in community centres, the charity is reaching people wherever they are. Many of those helped are referred by trusted partners, including Norfolk County Council, NHS services, and housing support teams.

Alongside benefits advice, Age UK Norwich also offers emergency assistance through its client hardship fund, providing essentials like food, heating, or white goods to bridge the gap while longer-term support is put in place.

We’ve now entered the second year of the Entitled To More service, and our commitment remains as strong as ever. We will continue to reach those in need, uncover hidden entitlements, and change lives across Norwich. As the service grows, so too does our determination to make sure every older person gets the financial support they deserve.

“Being new to the world of Entitled to More service, it’s been great to see the team’s focus, care, and commitment to supporting those most at risk. Their impact is clear, and I’m looking forward to working alongside them as we build on that progress.” – Charlotte Govier, Age UK Norwich Service Delivery Lead.

If you or someone you know could benefit from a free benefits check, don’t delay:

• Call Age UK Norwich on 01603 496333
• Email enquiries@ageuknorwich.org.uk
• Visit www.ageuknorwich.org.uk

At Warren, it’s great to be part of projects that contribute meaningfully to the communities around us. We are delighted to have played a key role in the creation of Thetford’s striking new train-themed planter – an installation that celebrates 200 years of railway heritage.

Commissioned by Thetford Town Council, the train planter is a centrepiece of the town’s entry into Anglia in Bloom 2025. Located outside Thetford’s Carnegie building and complementing the newly created Boudicca Pocket Park, this imaginative installation has been designed to brighten the town centre and provide a lasting feature for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The concept originated with Thetford Town Council, who envisioned a standout tribute to the region’s railway history as part of this year’s Anglia in Bloom campaign. The Council approached Warren to transform this idea into reality – and we were delighted to help.

Working from designs developed in partnership with talented students from Thetford Academy’s Gardening Club and refined by local designer David Bradley using detailed CAD drawings, our team fabricated and manufactured the planter here at Warren.

Once fabrication was complete, local volunteer El’s Painting & Decorating joined forces with Town Council members to hand-paint the planter. The project came full circle when the students from the Gardening Club returned to work alongside the Town Team to plant a colourful display, supported by flowers purchased through the Thetford in Bloom fund.

Councillor Leuan Evans, Chair of Thetford Town Council’s Community and Environmental Services Committee, captured the spirit of the project perfectly:

“By partnering with local manufacturers, school children, and volunteers from the community, we have created something that not only brightens our town but also reflects the pride we share in our community. As part of our entry for Anglia in Bloom 2025, this project showcases our collective commitment to supporting the town, highlighting local talent, and highlighting the civic pride that exists within the Town. We are aiming for nothing less than gold at this year’s awards. Everyone involved in the project has worked hard together to make this happen, and the result is a testament to this.”

We look forward to seeing the train planter become a much-loved fixture in Thetford for many years to come.

In a city renowned for its community spirit, resilience, and innovation, Age UK Norwich is inviting residents to both look back and step forward with “80 Years in the Making”. A landmark exhibition and events programme celebrating eight decades of supporting older people in Norwich. 

At a time when the UK is grappling with urgent challenges around social care, loneliness, and the cost-of-living crisis, Norwich offers something rare: a thriving local model that truly works. Hosted in central Norwich, the exhibition shines a spotlight on the people, services, and stories that have quietly shaped one of the UK’s most age-friendly communities, and how that enduring legacy continues to evolve today. 

A Community Journey with Purpose 

This exhibition is not just a nostalgic glance at the past. It is a powerful call to action. 

From archive photos and wartime news clippings to cutting-edge mobility technology and digital safety workshops, 80 Years in the Making captures both the rich history and the promising future of ageing in Norwich. 

Visitors can immerse themselves in the Befriending Corner, where real stories of connection and companionship are shared. They can leave their names on the interactive Family Tree, helping to build a living record of the city’s network of support. Visitors are also encouraged to reflect on what it truly means to live in an age-friendly city. 

The exhibition features a timeline of transformation shaped by volunteers, community leaders, carers, and neighbours who have all contributed to Norwich’s pioneering approach. Practical talks are on offer throughout the programme, covering essential topics such as care planning, online fraud protection, walking and mobility, and legal advice for later life. 

Paul Farmer, CEO of Age UK, will headline the Monday speaker series with a compelling session entitled “How to Change How We Age.” Other notable speakers include former Norwich Lord Mayor Brenda Horner, representatives from Konectbus discussing transport access, and Dr. Diana Hodgins MBE of GaitSmart, who will explore the latest advances in mobility technology and ageing. 

Legacy Built by Local People 

The programme highlights Age UK Norwich’s unique model of ageing well, deeply rooted in grassroots services such as lunch clubs, health coaching, and long-established befriending schemes. From Age UK Norwich’s post-war beginnings to today’s digital frontiers, the exhibition captures the evolving face of ageing across generations. 

Artistic Director Callan Durrant of Reflex Theatre brings excerpts of Call Me John to life, a moving intergenerational story about legacy, memory, and the profound importance of being heard. 

Take Part, Get Involved, Make a Difference 

Whether you’re an older resident, a family member, a professional, or simply a member of the Norwich community, 80 Years in the Making is an open invitation to reflect, connect, and take action. 

Find out more about the exhibition

Get the date in your diary to attend this free event, bringing generations together across the city.

Find out more Book onto one of our talks

Completely free for over 50s and £3 to everyone else, these talks have something for everyone! From transport and health to insightful national CEOs and theatre! Book your place to avoid disappointment

Book now Donate today

Help us continue our 80 years of support and heritage by donating today, there are lots of ways you can support us, from direct donations, to monthly support and legacy gifting!

Donate today

New Member Spotlight: Meet Budease!

Hi everyone! I’m Charles, founder of Budease, and I’m excited to join the Norfolk Chambers community!

Budease exists to help small businesses simplify what’s slowing them down, build what’s missing, and scale what’s working. I work directly with founders and business owners to take the pressure off day-to-day operations, get clear on growth strategy and put better systems in place so you can run a business that’s actually built to grow.

Whether it’s clarifying your offer, streamlining how things run behind the scenes, or finally sorting that CRM that’s been on your to-do list for months, I roll up my sleeves and get stuck in. No fluff. No jargon. Just practical, business-first support designed to get results.

I’ve recently moved to Norwich and joined the Chambers to connect with like-minded businesses, support others where I can and build something meaningful locally. If you’re ever feeling stuck in the weeds of your business or want a fresh perspective on how to grow, I’d love to chat, even just over a coffee.

You can learn more at budease.co.uk or drop me a message directly on 07795184328. Always happy to hear from fellow members.

Looking forward to meeting many of you soon!

The team from Gascoynes were delighted to be able to volunteer for Wymondham in Bloom.  Unfortunately the weather didn’t go in our favour, nevertheless we were able to help with cleaning the bins and with the litter picking.  It’s a privilege to be able to give something back to the community and we’d like to thank Kim and her team for making us so welcome.  We hope our small contribution helps the town to achieve an award in 2025!

Norwich Samaritans, the official organisers of the Baton of Hope Tour’s Norwich leg, are proud to announce a unique sponsorship opportunity to take a leading role in the UK’s largest-ever suicide prevention initiative. The organisation is currently seeking a Closing Ceremony Sponsor to join forces in delivering a powerful message of hope, awareness, and change.On 17 September 2025, the Baton of Hope arrives in Norwich as part of its national tour — a landmark initiative born from personal tragedy and driven by the shared mission to prevent suicide and support those affected by it. As the Baton travels across the UK, it unites communities to raise awareness, inspire conversation, and ignite action.The Norwich event culminates in a high-profile Closing Ceremony, held in partnership with Norwich City Football Club (NCFC). Organisers are offering a premium sponsorship package for one organisation to stand at the forefront of this critical cause alongside NCFC.Benefits for the Closing Ceremony Sponsor include:

• Co-branding with Norwich City Football Club as headline sponsor of the Closing Ceremony
• Tailored in-house suicide prevention workshop for your team
• Prominent logo placement on website, official merchandise, and event materials
• Extensive social media promotion, including 5+ shoutouts and a dedicated feature/interview
• Inclusion in press releases and potential media coverage
• 5-minute speaking opportunity at the ceremony
• 4 complimentary tickets to the Closing Ceremony
• Digital sponsor badge for your company’s website
• Opportunity to include promotional items in Baton Bearer and Volunteer goodie bags (100+)

“This isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a statement,” said Anna McNeil, Baton of Hope Norwich Project Lead from Norwich Samaritans. “By aligning with the Baton of Hope, your organisation has the opportunity to demonstrate true leadership in mental health advocacy and help us save lives.”Get InvolvedTo express your interest in becoming the Closing Ceremony Sponsor, contact bohnorwich@norwichsams.org.uk There are also additional sponsorship packages available — Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Community tiers. For full details, visit:

👉 www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk/sponsorship or donate at https://gofund.me/42d87575

Support Hope. Raise Voices. Save Lives.#PASSITON

Any queries please call Anna McNeil at anna@norwichsams.org.uk or call 01603 558 298

Further details visit the Baton of Hope Norwich website https://www.batonofhopenorwich.co.uk/ & follow Baton of Hope Norwich on Facebook and Instagram for updates on events taking place on the day

Monday 21st August 2025: Norwich-based Cyber Security Consultancy, CyberScale, has launched its Executive Cyber Coaching service to help strengthen business leaders knowledge, capabilities and decision making for individuals who may have a limited or rudimentary understanding of cyber risk and security principles but are increasingly expected to make decisions and demonstrate leadership on cyber issues.

As cyber threats continue to rise in frequency and sophistication, the pressure on business leaders to make informed security decisions has never been greater. Yet many executives — from CEOs and managing directors to CFOs and HR leaders — feel unprepared or overwhelmed by technical jargon and vendor complexity.

According to the Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2025, many businesses rely on external cyber security consultants, IT consultants or cyber security providers for information and guidance on matters relating to cyber security. This was most common in small (37%) and medium (43%) organisations which reflects the need for cyber security expertise but without the internal experts to provide the guidance.

Cyberscale’s Executive Cybersecurity Coaching provides a bespoke, one-on-one program that translates complex cybersecurity concepts into clear, business-focused insights. Delivered through weekly coaching sessions, the programme covers key areas such as cyber risk, cloud security, regulatory obligations (including GDPR and NIS2), working with IT providers, and building a security-conscious culture. It also addresses the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the threat landscape — a concern now facing many UK organisations.

Darren Chapman, Founder and Chairman at CyberScale said:

It’s become increasingly apparent to us that the ultimate business responsibility for cyber risk is often assigned to business leaders with little knowledge or background in this important subject.

Leaders need just enough knowledge to be able to understand how attacks might threaten their business, where to look for help and to be able to prioritise investment optimally. They also need to understand the threats, as well as the opportunities of new technologies and take advantage of these whilst managing risk.

This unique programme aims to provide that assurance that responsible business leaders need.

If you would like to learn more about Executive Cyber Coaching, you can do so here: https://www.cyberscale.co.uk/executive-coaching/