Member News

Freebridge makes community investment in North Lynn

Freebridge Community Housing has purchased the Discovery Centre in King’s Lynn after agreeing on a sale with the board of trustees.

The Discovery Centre on Columbia Way has provided a range of services for children and young people and has helped thousands of families in a variety of ways since it first opened its doors back in 2002.

As part of the preliminary work ahead of refurbishing the site, Freebridge will be holding two drop-­ in consultation events to give the local community a chance to provide vital input in how the site is developed.

Robert Clarke, Director of Housing said: “We are really very pleased to have taken over ownership of the Discovery Centre, our focus is now on engaging with the local community to understand what people need and want from the Centre, whilst carrying out some much needed improvement works.

“We were keen to buy the centre given its location in an area where many of our homes are located, and over the years has provided an accessible base for many much-­needed services, in particular for the young people of West Norfolk.”

The purchase has come with the full support of the Centre’s former trustees, the King’s Lynn & West Norfolk Borough Council and a number of other involved partners.

Cllr Graham Middleton, Trustee, added: “This sale is great news for the Discovery Centre and for the local community. Freebridge has an excellent understanding of the role the centre has played in the past and wants to ensure the centre continues to play a vital role in the community in future. I’d like to personally thank everyone that has been involved in getting to this stage and I hope that many local people will participate in the consultation events so that they can put forward any ideas they have for the site.”

The consultation events are being scheduled to take place in May at the Discovery Centre on Columbia Way in North Lynn, details will be confirmed nearer the time.

The Brown&Co Partnership was created in 1993 and is celebrating its 25-year anniversary in April 2018.

The business was bought from Royal Life by twelve adventurous Partners with the philosophy of “making and taking opportunity”. Nothing has changed apart from the size of the business; now there are 30 Partners, some 250 employees and 15 offices in the UK and overseas.

The Firm’s first year of trading involved offering and selling three or four decent farms to a rising market, which very neatly helped to defray the outlay made for the business. Coincidently, 1993 was the first year of form-filling for IACS and agents and farmers were deflected from normal market purpose for two to three months, but when the market started it was confident and robust.

Nice 15-20 acre fields of Wisbech silt sold for up to £3,000 per acre, whereas a 3,600 acre estate in West Norfolk with thirty houses sold for only a little over £2,000 per acre! The early partnership had a positive age mix of thirty to forty year olds, with five main Partners leading and guiding and was based around an immediate sense of acceptable risk, entrepreneurship and initiative, which remains at the heart of the Firm.

Partnership philosophy and trust bound the Firm then and still does, with a common interest, which is to serve clients, make money, give honest, real and professional advice outside the confines of a corporate framework and “to be as good as we can be at what we do”.

https://www.brown-co.com/articles/brownandco-turns-25

Norfolk to develop their own developers.

With the recent growth here at Netmatters we have found it increasingly difficult to recruit software developers and were quick to ascertain that there is a shortage in the region.

To help bridge the skill gap and offer a way to bring fresh minds into the industry and give them an opportunity to develop both themselves and new technologies, Netmatters introduced the Scion Programme back in early 2017.

The programme has now been running for 14 months and has proven to be a great success, completely resolving the need for development resource.

And now we’re looking to take this even further!

How Will the Coalition Work?

Since the programme has been such a success here at Netmatters, we are planning to offer this training as a free intensive course to would be developers giving them the opportunity to prove themselves; with the knowledge that it’s sponsored by a multitude of agencies and that there is an almost guaranteed job offer at the end of it as a result.

How Many Scions Will There Be?

The initial plan is to have 10 Scions, with more added throughout the year. This is a manageable number and should result in the creation of 15 developers per year at varying levels.

How Long Does the Training Take?

It does completely depend on the individual, but three months is usually enough time for them to get their heads around the basics and to perform entry level coding tasks. From this point onwards, they continue to develop at differing rates, depending on their ability, with an estimate of reaching junior developer within six to nine months.

It may appear very quick to turn these skills around, but with this programme a candidate will have completed upwards of 850 hours after six months training; which completely dwarfs the entire time someone at university would have been immersed in development for their three-year degree.

How Is the Training Structured?

We have devised a training project which delivers tasks to the Scion in a logic order for them to work through. This method allows them to work autonomously for most of their day, limiting the intervention time required from senior skilled personnel. The training is a rolling programme which means that at any given time we will have Scions at varying levels that allow them to help one another explain coding and collaboration.

Why Do They Have to Train Like This?

This intensive training very quickly helps us, and the Scion, know if this is right for them and gets them set for a real position where they will be expected to do a full week’s work.

How Many Hours a Week Is the Programme?

The programme is 40 hours per week under strict commercial conditions. Each Scion must log every minute of their time and adhere to all company rules and regulations as if they were an employee of Netmatters.

What Happens If They Don’t Like It?

If the candidate doesn’t like coding for 8 hours a day, they are not developers. When we say coding, we mean all aspects of development and not specifically 8 hours of code crunching.  

What Do You Need from the Sponsors?

Ultimately, we need you to show a keen interest in getting involved with the coalition of companies that sponsor the programme.

Where Is the Sponsorship Money Spent?

The money is used to pay our training developers and any admin time associated with the programme.

Why Would I Choose to Do This as a Coalition?

We believe you need a minimum of three Scions for the programme to work effectively for a couple of reasons. 

First – Working collaboratively, the Scions will be able to help enhance each other’s learning, understanding “real world” requirements in the workplace.

Second – You need to have a few in your arsenal because if you only have one candidate, the chances of receiving a developer at the end of the Programme on your first or second try are slim.

How Much Input Is Required from the Sponsors?

Our plan is to train the Scions in all aspects of development work and introduce them to all the languages within the first three months. Once we reach the three-month milestone, we would then like the sponsors to start having their input on what the Scions are training towards. This might be a specific coding language, testing method, versions control etc. The head of our training programme will ensure to incorporate the sponsors needs into each of the Scions training plans.

How Will You Allocate Scions to Sponsorships?

If the Scion has a personal preference towards a type of development, then this will determine the types of rolls they are offered. As the programme develops so will new methods of being able to allocate Scions to specific Sponsorships.

Can the Sponsorships Make a Job Offer After Three Months?

Yes of course! In fact, by three months the Scions don’t require as much intervention and may well be able to deliver billable time for the sponsoring company.

You Have Proved This Works for Netmatters, How Can You Be Sure It Will Work as a Collaboration?

It has worked for Netmatters, thank you for noticing! There is no way we can be sure it will work as a collaboration but our only alternative is to keep doing the same thing (fishing in an empty pond) and expecting different results. The actual costs over a year for a Scion are similar to that of a single recruitment fee, so the risk is very minimal comparatively.

Will Candidates Be Willing to Do This Training Programme Without Pay?

Yes. This initiative is already backed by the Norfolk Chamber, and has been proven to ensure those who successfully complete the programme are regarded as an experienced developer – no matter on the Scions previous educational background.

Why Are Netmatters Spearheading This?

We have a proven model that works and nothing can come of there being more technical people in this area, other than more opportunities.

What Is Stopping the Scions Taking the Training and Being Lured Away?

We can write this into a contract, but we will be very clear during the recruitment process that they have an obligation to work for a sponsoring company; if they are given the opportunity.

So, What Is the Plan?

If we can get enough tentative nods we will kick this off at the beginning of April. We would then hope to have at least five Scions training by the end of April and seats filled by the middle of May. As the programme continues to develop so too will the management plan to maximise the effectiveness we provide to both the Scions, and Sponsorships.

You’ve Convinced Me, How Can I get Involved?

If you would like to get involved, please get in touch using the link below with the name of your business and the message “I am interested!”.

Thank you. 

Get In Touch 

Originally posted by Netmatters Ltd.

The UK’s largest network of small business accountants has started advertising across a number of terrestrial and digital TV channels.

TaxAssist Accountants has invested in a TV advertising campaign to raise brand awareness as part of the national marketing package offered to its 200-stong franchise network. This is complemented by a newly designed website and new online and offline marketing materials.

Celebrated as a forward thinking and digital-ready network, TaxAssist Accountants is known for breaking with tradition in an industry that has not experienced this before in its drive to become the one-stop shop for small businesses.

James Mattam, Group Business Development Director, said: “Our ‘Get All Relaxed About Tax’ campaign highlights the different types of clients who deal with us on a regular basis and shows the experience they receive when they leave the accounts and tax to the experts and focus on what they love doing – running and growing their own business.

“We are a people-based business but we also recognise people want to use technology to be able to access useful data about their business. We offer a best of both worlds approach for those who enjoy using tech and those who prefer just to come in and talk to us. With more than 290 TaxAssist Accountants offices across the UK, our accountancy network is ideally placed to service the increased demand from small businesses who will need extra advice and support to deal with changes such as HMRC’s Making Tax Digital initiative.”

The TaxAssist Accountants franchise has been operating successfully for more than 23 years and has helped hundreds of people to establish their own accounting practice. 

There are many benefits to joining a franchise rather than operating independently, but arguably the biggest benefit is the marketing and buying power of a well-known brand giving each individual franchisee a massive advantage over the competition.

If you are interested in find out more about operating a practice under the TaxAssist Accountants brand name please visit www.taxassistfranchise.co.uk or call 0800 0188297. We look forward to hearing from you.

March 2018

Aston Shaw, a fast-growing East Anglian accountancy firm has announced the acquisition of the Norwich-based practice, Tax Solutions.

Tax Solutions was created in Norwich by two partners in 2000, who having both experienced running companies in different business areas, pooled their knowledge and specialisms to create Tax Solutions, which was incorporated in 2003.

The small-scale accountancy practice is comprised of a team of four and has been servicing a wide-range of clients across East Anglia for almost 20 years. Tax Solutions has built a significant reputation for service excellence since then.

Mark Noakes, Director of Aston Shaw said: “We’re excited to begin working with the Tax Solutions team and we look forward to welcoming a new range of clients to our firm.”  Adam Holloway, Accountant at Tax Solutions added: “My colleagues and I are very excited to begin working with Aston Shaw, I think that the fact we share such a similar ethos will make the transition process a smooth one for everyone involved”.

Tax Solutions are set to move from their current premises on Rackheath Industrial Estate to Aston Shaw’s head office in Norwich during early April.

www.astonshaw.co.uk

Professional recruitment specialists Pure is looking for ambitious and driven graduates to join its Graduate Training Programme at one of its four offices in Norwich, Ipswich, Cambridge or Chelmsford.

The programme, which Pure has run since 2015, provides the opportunity for a self-motivated and confident graduate to develop a career in specialist recruitment as a Graduate Recruitment Consultant.

Gill Buchanan, Chief Operating Officer at Pure, said: “This challenging yet exciting role involves handling the career aspirations of people at all levels, something which not many people get to do. We are looking for a graduate with excellent interpersonal skills and a natural drive to deliver great customer service. Just as importantly, we want to find someone who is excited by the idea of being able to make a difference to people’s lives and supporting Pure in its purpose of helping businesses and candidates to flourish and ultimately contributing to the economic growth of our region.”

Pure has already supported four graduates to begin their career in recruitment through its comprehensive training programme, which offers a competitive salary and numerous benefits.

Previous graduate trainee Ellie Steinfeldt, progressed her career at Pure to become a recruitment consultant specialising in HR roles. She now works within the learning and development team and is involved in delivering training to all the team at Pure. Ellie described her time as a recruitment consultant as extremely diverse, with no two days being the same. She said: “It’s a very busy, fast paced and exciting job. You get to meet and talk to a huge range of people every day and it is really rewarding to help people find jobs and to match employers with suitable candidates. You have to be prepared to work hard and put in the effort, but I promise it is worth it.” 

Gill Buchanan added: “Pure’s culture is vibrant and flexible, and we stick to sensible hours, but everyone works hard. Not only is Pure a fantastic place to start a career in recruitment, but we are committed to supporting our trainees to achieve their goals and build long-term careers with us. Their enthusiasm and talent will be supported by our resources, training and a flexibility that encourages them to develop and succeed.”

Click to find out more about Pure’s Graduate Training Programme.

BiOrb, who produce aquariums developed by design, engineering and testing, were looking to produce a short film that highlighted the complete creative process behind their hand sculpted ornaments. As a premium product it was vital that the film produced would reinforce the premium nature synonymous with the Biorb brand, telling the story of Samuel Baker, the creator of BiOrb’s ornaments and the man who inspired Unseen. Throughout the film, we follow Samuel’s personal journey from inspiration to creation, exploring the landscapes that inspire him and capturing the finer, often missed details of the natural world that perform as integral elements of Samuel’s true-to-life final designs. Unseen highlights the link between nature in its sublime entirety and the beauty in the details on a smaller scale, as well as how BiOrb and Samuel work together to break the confines of the domestic home environment by bringing these outside features in.

Here is the trailer, the full film will be available when it is launched in a few weeks time.

In support of the firm’s continual expansion throughout Norfolk, Spire Solicitors LLP is delighted to announce the promotion of three key members of staff.

Craig Ward has been promoted to Senior Associate. He joined GHP (the forerunner to Spire Solicitors LLP) in 2006 as a Trainee Solicitor and qualified in 2007. Craig is based in the Dereham office and specialises in all areas of property including residential, commercial and business related property activities. He has formed a solid reputation in the local area and is able to provide excellent advice to clients.

Emma Trick has been promoted to Associate level. She joined Spire Solicitors LLP in 2015 and now plays a key role within the Private Client team. Emma divides her time between the firms Diss and Long Stratton offices and specialises in Wills, Estates, Powers of Attorney and Trusts. She is a full member of STEP and the Law Society Private Client Section.

Rebecca Johnstone has been promoted to Associate level. She started as a paralegal in child care and domestic violence and started her training contract with Spire Solicitors LLP in 2014. Rebecca now specialises in Private Client and Property matters and works in the Attleborough office.

James Knight, CEO of Spire Solicitors LLP said:

‘I am delighted to congratulate Craig, Emma and Rebecca on their well-deserved promotions, all three team members are loyal and committed and they are thoroughly deserving of these promotions. This is a very exciting time for the firm which is experiencing strong growth across all areas and it is vital to recognise and reward our members of staff for their hard work.’

What did the trowel say to the spade?

No – it’s not a joke. It’s actually our latest set of 24 sponsorship bumpers for trustatrader.com now broadcasting throughout programmes during afternoons on ITV3.

This was one shoot where our crew was frequently caught lying about! That’s because our concept involved using tools as puppets, and so it was a case of getting down on the floor and waving those arms about!

Across two long days we filmed a series of scenes featuring talking spades, paintbrushes, hammers, chainsaws and …well the whole tool cupboard really!

It was then up to our talented post-production team to bring the characters to life. Our Senior Motion Graphics Designer Hugh South gave each tool a pair of expressive, animated eyes and our Senior Sound Producer Keith Lindsay gave the tools character voices.

This project demanded a complex but enormously enjoyable crossover of live action and animation – and was proof once again that whatever visual style your TV commercial calls for, the JMS team has all the tools to make it happen!

A founding director of Norfolk-based The Recruit Venture Group has expressed relief after choosing MIGSOLV’s The Gatehouse data centre in Norwich to house and protect their crucial IT and data.

“With responsibility for over 7,000 UK workers and 300 staff, our IT is critical. Downtime could cost millions.” says Danny Parr, Business Launch and IT Director for the £140 million turnover group. “It’s such a relief migrating our computer systems to MIGSOLV. Now we can sleep at night knowing the physical protection we’re receiving is second to none.”

Established in 1996, the group has become a hugely successful name in UK recruitment. In 2016, The Recruit Ventures Group underwent a significant restructure to focus on establishing new joint ventures with budding recruitment entrepreneurs. It has now launched and supported over 43 partner recruitment businesses all over the UK.

“Our IT is critical to thousands of people. Our partners need to know they can get on with finding the right employees for their clients whilst we take care of the rest” adds Danny. “With GDPR looming, it was great to discover MIGSOLV’s world-class data centre right here on our doorstep. They made the move simple and are on hand 24/7 to help with anything our team needs.”

MIGSOLV own The Gatehouse in Norwich, the region’s only purpose-built data centre. It houses business’s computer servers and IT equipment, protecting data from threats including theft, extreme weather, power cuts and terrorism.

“The Recruit Venture Group is an amazing success,” says David Manning, MIGSOLV’s Managing Director. “It’s been fantastic helping Danny and his fellow directors relax knowing we’re keeping their IT secure. With GDPR legislation taking effect in May, we’re keen to be part of the solution for the East’s best and brightest businesses.”

Inside The Gatehouse data centre, The Recruit Venture Group’s IT equipment is now housed within air-conditioned and humidity control racks. Access is heavily guarded, whilst 8 days power generation and some of the fastest connectivity in the region, keep their IT online and accessible whatever happens.

“Like so many companies, The Recruit Venture Group are heavily dependent on IT despite it not being what they do” concludes David. “We’re always delighted when we can help businesses large and small to make their data security one less thing to worry about.”

More information on The Recruit Ventures Group can be found at www.recruitventures.com. For more details of the data centre services MIGSOLV provide, visit www.migsolv.com.

Local Businessman wins top national award.

Peter Lawrence from Human Capital Department was awarded Enterprise Nation’s Top HR Advisor Award at a Ceremony in the City of London on Monday night.

The top 50 advisors across ten business categories were invited to the ceremony.     Peter picked up the award as Enterprise Nation’s Best HR advisor from a field of over 500. 

Emma Jones from Enterprise Nation and Ian Graham of sponsor, Experian, presented the certificate.   

“Larger organisations and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development have been telling people for years that “people make the difference” and “people are our organisations greatest asset” – it’s great to work with smaller businesses and help them translate this sentiment – helping them put the right HR Policies, Procedures, and Processes – to recruit and retain the best talent – and to get the best from their people”. 

“I’d like to thank everyone who vote for me and Human Capital Department which is very gratifying and humbling – and yes with the prize money I will be buying a tie!”         

In a first for the housing association, Flagship Group is working together with Norfolk Community College and Norwich City Football Club to help its customers to gain new skills and find employment.

The Norfolk Community College Project is funded by the European Social Fund and National Lottery, through the Big Lottery Fund, to help unemployed adults in Norfolk back into training and employment.

The partnership kicks off this Wednesday (14 March), when Norwich City Footballer Matt Jarvis will be visiting Bowthorpe Main Centre on the College’s Information Bus. Between 10am and 3pm the Norfolk Community College team will be offering advice on building self-esteem, preparing for interviews, and accessing courses, training, volunteering and work experience.

Matt Jarvis will be visiting from 11am to 11.30am to meet football fans. People wanting access to specialist support overcoming barriers to employment, including housing problems, debt and mental health are also invited to come along and find out more about the project.

Flagship Group Estates Officer Anthony Yallop and Flagship Corporate Social Responsibility Manager Callum James will be at the event to answer questions.

Callum said: “With over 450 residents in the Norwich area, it seemed like a really good place to hold our first partnership event of this kind.

“We are passionate about giving back to the community, so we thought this would be a great way of doing that. We hope lots of people will come along to seek advice or just have a general chat.”

Stuart Jennings, Norfolk Community College’s Project Lead, said: “The Norfolk Community College project is delighted to have joined forces with Flagship Group and Norwich City Football club for this event. By bringing the mobile training bus to Bowthorpe, we are really pleased to help more adults in our community access advice and develop the skills they need to find employment.”

Norwich City’s Head of Partnership Activation Sam Jeffery said: “As an official partner of the Football Club we are delighted to support Flagship’s community initiative and be represented at their Bowthorpe event, which we wish every success.”

You can find the College’s Information Bus at Bowthorpe Main Centre this Wednesday (14 March) from 10am until 3pm.