Commercial Space Available
Are you seeking to expand your business?
The Monk’s Suite may be the ideal solution for you.
Additionally, there is a fully equipped large training room.
Please contact us to view or for more information.
Last Thursday Brave Futures hosted a heartfelt Afternoon Tea at Carrow House to celebrate new milestones in Norfolk as we approach 10 years of supporting children and young people in our community. It was an inspiring event, filled with a wonderful blend of community supporters, corporate partners, and service professionals.
This gathering gave us the opportunity to reflect on the incredible outcomes children can achieve after experiencing trauma. Despite the hardships they’ve faced, they go on to achieve greatness, thanks to the incredible support they receive and their own bravery. But there’s still work to be done.
Brave Futures must continue to be here for all the children who will one day need us.
Events like this are a step closer to a world where our services may not be needed, where we can work together to raise awareness and safeguard children, ensuring they never face such trauma.
We were honoured to be joined by our ambassador, Chris Sargisson, who offered a valuable insight into the life-changing impact our charity can have on a child who has suffered sexual abuse.
It was truly wonderful to come together to discuss this important issue and ways forward, with such enthusiasm and support from everyone involved. All of us at Brave Futures feel incredibly grateful for the positive energy and commitment shown by those who joined us.
Together, we are taking meaningful steps toward fighting child sexual abuse and supporting those who need us most.
If you can help to support as a volunteer or as a corporate sponsor, or get involved in the forthcoming Dragon Boat Race 🐉 please do get in touch with rachael@bravefutures.org – let’s stand together to make a difference!
Campaign is the world’s leading business media brand serving the marketing, advertising and media communities and each year it releases its School Reports, which analyses the top agencies in the UK and ranks them based on billings attributed to their client accounts. It features the top 100 media agencies, the top 100 creative agencies and the top 30 regional agencies among other listings.
Norfolk Chamber member JMS Group Ltd, based in Hethersett, just outside Norwich, flies the flag for Norfolk by attaining a Top 10 position in the Top 30 Regional agency rankings (agencies based outside M25), and coming in at an incredible 65th in the Top 100 Creative Agencies in the whole of the UK.
JMS produce TV, Radio and Online content for many brands both large and national (Foodhub delivery app) and smaller and local (Aldiss department stores in Norfolk).
Up until 2024 JMS had never been in the Top 100. This sees the agency now ranking in the same list as huge names such as Saatchi & Saatchi, VCCP, McCann UK and Leo Burnett.
Managing Director, Francesca de Lacey said ‘I’m so proud of the whole team and our growth, particularly in the TV advertising sector. Although the business is over 40 years old, it’s really been in the last decade that we’ve grown our TV offering significantly and are a recognised production partner for brands all across the UK wanting to use TV to grow their business.’
Hello from The Space Norwich!
We are a dynamic conferencing and performance venue, and we’re excited to share some fantastic upcoming events with you that we are hosting.
🎭 Upcoming Events:
📅 West Norwich and Dereham SSP Dance Show – 28th March
📅 City Academy Norwich Performance – 3rd April
📅 YMCA Annual Celebration – 24th April
📅 2Bros Bodybuilding Competition – 17th May
📅 Gin & Rum Festival – 5th July
At The Space, we host a wide range of events and pride ourselves on our flexible venue and versatile team. Got a unique idea? We’d love to bring it to life—contact us with any inquiries!
📍 Where to Find Us:
The Space, Roundtree Way, NR7 8SQ, Norwich
Easily accessible by bus, car, or taxi.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
We’re heading over to Anglia Business Exhibition on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, at Trinity Park Event Centre in Ipswich. Now in its 29th year, this valuable event brings people together from across the region for a day of networking and opportunities – so it’s definitely worth crossing the border for!
Come and chat with our friendly experts about your website and app needs.
We’ll also be advising on all aspects of email marketing and our Smart Messenger platform.
Don’t forget to try your luck in our fun instant win competition while you’re at our stand.
See you there – no passport required!
iBoxit, a company based at Norwich Research Park, has been named as the winner of the Business Innovation Award at the Broadland and South Norfolk Business Awards 2025. iBoxit is a collaboration between entrepreneur John Farley and the University of East Anglia (UEA) under the tutelage of Prof Sheng Qi.
iBoxit is leading the charge to tackle the environmental impact of expanded polystyrene. Through its innovative development of a new, environmentally-sustainable packaging that uses an intricate mixture of existing plastic and plant-based composite to replace the expanded polystyrene boxes that are currently used to transport fish, it’s paving the way for a future where polystyrene could be eliminated entirely.
Its solution not only helps reduce landfill waste and ocean pollution but also supports the food industry and benefits the global food chain.
It is estimated that 9.5bn expanded polystyrene boxes were used in 2020 and this is expected to grow to 13.5bn by 2025. The majority of boxes are single-use and not recyclable. The fishing industry worldwide discards almost half the total consumption into the oceans, with the remainder finding their way to landfill.
The new transportation box, which importantly, can be integrated into existing worldwide transportation systems, has the same thermal properties as expanded polystyrene boxes and stacks safely. It is fully recyclable and reusable, with a shelf life of 10 years, offering a more sustainable long-term solution for packaging and distribution.
The Broadland and South Norfolk Business Awards 2025 celebrate the exceptional vision, innovation and leadership of local businesses. The winners were selected by the judging panel because they have truly set new benchmarks for excellence.
John said, “We are really pleased to have had our work recognised with this award. Norfolk really has got a reputation for innovative thinking and with Norwich Research Park and the UEA on our doorstep it is vital that we work together with the brilliant minds there to come up with sustainable solutions that will improve the lives of many on our planet both now and in the future. With iBoxit we aim to change the way a huge industry approaches the transportation of fish and ultimately other foodstuffs.”
Did you know that the weight of debt can not only strain your wallet but also your mental peace and overall health? Whether it’s concerns over debt, housing, or job security, these pressures can overshadow your daily life. But there’s a way out.
💡 This Debt Awareness Week, make a promise to your future self:
✔️ Reach out for debt advice and start your journey toward financial stability.
✔️ Explore your rights and options for a healthier work and life balance.
✔️ Grab the lifeline of support waiting for you.
💚 Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford & District is by your side—empowering you towards a balanced life, both financially and emotionally.
📍 Need guidance? We’re here to help: www.cadat.org.uk
Peerless Plastics & Coatings, a leader in protective hard coating solutions, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Bowles & Walker Ltd, a specialist in precision injection moulding. This collaboration enhances the injection moulding services already offered by Peerless, delivering a comprehensive, end-to-end solution for customers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and security.
With over 50 years of experience, Bowles & Walker has built a strong reputation for high-quality, bespoke injection moulding. Their expertise in design, tooling, and production complements Peerless Plastics & Coatings’ advanced protective coatings, which improve the durability, scratch resistance, anti-microbial, anti-glare, anti-static, and anti-fog properties of plastic components. Additionally, Peerless boasts a full CNC machine shop and fabrication services, enabling the production of high-precision, custom plastic components that can be coated for enhanced performance. Peerless also operates a state-of-the-art in-house print department, featuring large-format flatbed printers. This allows for custom designs on plastic panels, signage, and feature walls, which are then hard coated for added protection. By working together, the two companies provide an integrated manufacturing solution that ensures enhanced product performance and faster lead times.
STRENGTHENING UK MANUFACTURING WITH A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH
The partnership is also a significant step towards reducing carbon footprints and supporting sustainable UK manufacturing. Both companies operate within 30 minutes of each other, meaning projects can be managed efficiently with reduced transportation emissions and lower overall environmental impact.
A COMPLETE, HIGH-PERFORMANCE SOLUTION
Through this collaboration, clients will benefit from:
· Seamless production – From design and tooling to moulding, finishing, protective coatings, and printing, ensuring a faster, streamlined process.
· Enhanced durability – Protective coatings improve wear resistance, chemical protection, and impact resistance.
· Antimicrobial protection – Ideal for medical, hygiene-critical, and food-safe environments.
· Anti-Fog Coating – A vital solution for medical applications, visors, goggles, aerospace instrumentation, and refrigeration displays.
· Precision Injection Moulding Capabilities – Bowles & Walker can produce precise plastic parts from 0.1g to 2000g using moulding machines ranging from 25T to 400T.
· CNC Machining & Fabrication Services – Peerless’ CNC machining capabilities allow for highly accurate, custom-manufactured plastic components, ensuring an optimal fit for a wide range of applications.
· Large-Format Printing & Protective Coating – Custom printed plastic panels and displays with eco-friendly inks can be enhanced with hard coatings for increased durability and hygiene protection.
· Sustainability & cost-efficiency – Reduced transport emissions and optimised production processes help businesses meet eco-friendly goals.
Peter Llewellyn-Stamp, Managing Director of Peerless Plastics & Coatings, said:
“This partnership represents a significant step forward in offering a truly integrated solution for our customers. With Bowles & Walker’s exceptional injection moulding capabilities and our advanced coatings, along with our CNC machining, fabrication services, and in-house print department, we are now able to deliver high-performance plastic components with unmatched durability and protection.”
Dr Michael Barwood, Technical and Quality Manager of Bowles & Walker Ltd, added:
“Our collaboration with Peerless Plastics & Coatings allows us to extend our services and offer even greater value to our clients. This is a natural fit for both companies, providing a unique combination of expertise that enhances product performance while also supporting sustainable manufacturing.”
ABOUT PEERLESS PLASTICS & COATINGS
Peerless Plastics & Coatings is a UK-based specialist in bespoke hard coating solutions for plastics, offering protection against scratches, chemicals, and microbial growth. With an in-house print department, a full CNC machine shop, fabrication services, and expertise in precision surface protection, Peerless delivers high-quality solutions across industries.
ABOUT BOWLES & WALKER LTD
Established in 1969, Bowles & Walker Ltd is a leading injection moulding company, providing precision-moulded components for industries including automotive, medical, fire & safety and consumer goods. Their expertise in toolmaking and production ensures high-performance solutions tailored to client needs.
Let’s not sugarcoat it, the urgency of the phishing scam issue is increasing. They are getting harder to spot, and more are getting through, a lot more.
CLICKING THE WRONG LINK? IT’S HAPPENING A LOT.
Last year, the number of employees clicking on phishing links tripled. That’s not a typo.
Employees are falling for 3x more phishing scams.
We’re talking about dodgy emails that appear to be from trusted sources, fake Microsoft login pages that mimic the real ones, scam ads in Google searches that lead to malicious websites… the lot.
And when someone falls for one? The damage isn’t just digital. We’ve seen businesses lose access to critical files, deal with data breaches, and spend hours (if not days) untangling the mess.
SO WHAT’S GOING ON?
For starters, phishing is no longer just happening in email inboxes. Scammers are slipping links into search results, social media ads, comment sections, and even text messages, basically anywhere someone might click without thinking.
They’re also getting better at it. Some of these fake login pages? They’d fool even the most switched-on employee.
And with platforms like Microsoft 365 holding a goldmine of business data, it’s no wonder attackers are zeroing in.
HERE’S THE REAL ISSUE: FATIGUE.
When your team is seeing constant attempts, it’s easy to tune out. Click the link, log in, and move on.
Until it’s too late.
That’s why phishing is working. Not because people are careless, but because they’re overwhelmed.
WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT IT?
Well, training’s a solid start. And we don’t just mean a one-off reminder like an email to the team or PowerPoint at your next team meeting, but proper, regular cyber security awareness that keeps the threat at the top of your mind.
Then, back that up with tools that do some of the heavy lifting, like multi-factor authentication, password managers, and automatic patching.
Basically, make it harder for scammers to win and easier for your team to spot red flags.
The best time to secure your business was yesterday. The second-best? Right now.
We help businesses across Norfolk and beyond tighten their security and stay one step ahead of the bad guys. It’s all part of the support and service we offer.
Drop us a message, and let’s talk.
If you are a company paying a Levy into the Government Apprenticeships fund you are probably aware that you need to spend it all before the end of the financial year otherwise you lose it!
Don’t let that happen. If you need help to setup any of your staff on an apprenticeship before the time runs out, just give us a call and we can help you.
Team members don’t need to be new starters to do an apprenticeship, use the scheme to upskill existing staff and enhance their knowledge and practical abilities for your business.
If you are a non-Levy paying business you can do the same! It costs either £0 or 5% of the cost depending on your exact circumstances, and we can help you find that out. The 5% will still only equate to a few £100 spread across 15 months so it is really affordable training and development for your team.
For further reading on this, take a look at our blog:
https://www.swarmtraining.org.uk/news/apprentice-levy-allowance
You can Call us on: 0800 086 8199 for 1-2-1 support or Email us on: enquiries@swarmgroup.org.uk
To welcome in the Spring Equinox, an occasion that symbolises balance, growth and fresh beginnings – I felt it was the perfect day to announce the launch of Equinoxed Accounting Ltd!
For us both, this new venture is not only a huge milestone of our own – but it’s a reflection of our passion for supporting businesses and individuals as they navigate their own financial and growth milestones.
Combining both our experience and values, our approach is to provide each client with modern, transparent and supportive tailored accountancy and business services that align with their evolving needs.
If you’d like to learn more about the services we offer, feel free to get in touch!
www.equinoxed.co.uk
info@equinoxed.co.uk
01603 324224
Earlier this month, our Managing Director, Will Bridgman and Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman headed to the MTC (Manufacturing Technologies Centre) in Coventry for a major industry event. The trip followed a late night in Cambridge, entertaining potential clients with exciting project opportunities for Warren. The previous day had also been packed with activity, as Will followed up on defence sector contacts in Norwich, culminating in a meeting with the Defence Minister – a key step in Warren’s growing involvement in the sector.
What is the MTC?
The MTC provides transformative manufacturing advice to businesses across the UK, helping to drive innovation, efficiency and sustainability in the industry. The event brought together manufacturers from across the country, providing valuable networking opportunities and discussions on the future of UK manufacturing.
Will Bridgman on the Sustainability Panel
Will was invited to take part in a panel discussion in the auditorium, covering sustainability in manufacturing—a subject that is becoming increasingly critical to businesses and policymakers alike. The panel featured Henrik Von Scheel, a highly respected thought leader in the field, as the keynote speaker.
A heated debate on renewable energy
One of the memorable moments of the day came when Will and Henrik clashed on the topic of solar panels and wind energy. The debate became quite intense, with strong words exchanged as both defended their perspectives. However, after a lively discussion Henrik ultimately conceded to Will’s points – a testament to Will’s deep knowledge and passion for the topic.
The discussions continued into the evening at the event’s formal dinner. Richard found himself seated next to Henrik and despite the earlier debate, they managed to get along well. Will wisely, was seated at another table – probably for the best after such an energetic exchange!
The MTC event was a fantastic opportunity for Warren to engage with industry leaders, explore new ideas and strengthen our presence in the manufacturing and defence sectors. Events like these are essential in helping us stay at the forefront of innovation and sustainability – and of course, in ensuring that our voice is heard in the wider industry conversations.
We’re looking forward to turning these connections into opportunities and continuing to push boundaries in sustainable and high-tech manufacturing.