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As we step into 2025, the landscape of cyber security continues to evolve at a rapid pace. With the increasing sophistication of cyber threats and the growing reliance on digital infrastructure, it is crucial for businesses and individuals to stay ahead of the curve. Here are some of the top cyber security trends to watch out for in 2025.

AI-Driven Cyber Attacks

Cybercriminals are leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to orchestrate more advanced and targeted attacks. AI enables the creation of highly personalised phishing campaigns and realistic deepfake content, making it harder than ever to distinguish between legitimate and malicious communications. 

To counter this, organisations should invest in advanced threat detection systems and provide ongoing training to help users recognise and mitigate AI-driven threats.

AI in Cyber Defence

AI and machine learning are revolutionising cybersecurity by enhancing threat detection and response. These technologies analyse vast data to identify anomalies and predict incidents, allowing proactive measures against threats. 

AI-driven systems can detect unusual network behaviour and respond in real-time, while automating routine tasks to improve efficiency. AI is also used for continuous monitoring, adaptive security, and user behaviour analytics, which helps detect insider threats and prevent breaches. 

Overall, integrating AI and machine learning significantly advances the fight against cyber threats, ensuring the security of digital infrastructures worldwide.

Cloud Security Challenges

As the world continues to migrate to cloud environments, securing these platforms is becoming increasingly critical. Misconfigurations, inadequate access controls, and lack of visibility can lead to data breaches and unauthorised access. Adopting comprehensive cloud security strategies, including continuous monitoring, encryption, and adherence to best practices, is essential to safeguard data in the cloud.

Zero Trust Cyber Security in 2025

As we move further into 2025, the concept of Zero Trust Cyber Security continues to gain traction as a fundamental approach to safeguarding digital environments. The Zero Trust model operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” meaning that no user or device, whether inside or outside the network, is trusted by default. This model focuses on identity verification and continuous monitoring to ensure security. 

This approach is crucial as cyber threats become more sophisticated and widespread. By adopting a zero-trust framework, you can enhance your security measures and significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access.

Internet of Things (IoT) Vulnerabilities

The proliferation of IoT devices expands the attack surface for cyber threats. Many IoT devices lack robust security features, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities. 

Ensuring the security of IoT ecosystems requires implementing strong authentication mechanisms, regular firmware updates, and network segmentation to prevent unauthorised access. 

Cybersecurity and Resilience Bill

In July 2024, the UK government announced plans to introduce the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, aiming to strengthen the nation’s defences against escalating cyber threats. This legislation seeks to the existing Network and Information Security (NIS) Regulations 2018, enhancing the security and resilience of critical national infrastructure and essential digital services.

The key objectives of the bill are to:

·       existing regulations to ensure that UK infrastructure and economy is not comparably more vulnerable.

·      Enhance cyber defences by aligning with evolving international cybersecurity standards.

·      Empower regulators to enforce cybersecurity measures and compliance across various sectors.

·      Mandate incident reporting of significant cyber incidents.

The Cybersecurity and Resilience Bill will apply UK-wide and be introduced to Parliament in 2025.

Quantum Computing Threats

Quantum computing is an emerging technology that, in the future, could impact how businesses secure their data. Whilst it is not an immediate concern for SMEs in 2025, its ability to break traditional encryption methods may become relevant in the coming years. Larger organisations are already exploring quantum-resistant encryption, but for SMEs this is something to be aware of rather than a top security priority right now.

Keeping up to date with developments in post-quantum cryptography and ensuring strong cybersecurity fundamentals – such as MFA and secure cloud storage solutions – will help SMEs stay prepared as the technology evolves.

Ransomware and Multifaceted Extortion

Ransomware attacks have been an ongoing issue for a number of years, and they are anticipated to keep evolving in 2025. Cybercriminals are likely to use multiple extortion techniques, combining data encryption with threats to disclose sensitive information. This method raises the urgency for victims to pay ransoms, complicating efforts to address these attacks.

Compromised Identities in Hybrid Environments

With the shift towards hybrid work environments, the risk of compromised identities has increased. Cybercriminals will exploit vulnerabilities in remote work setups to gain unauthorised access to sensitive information. To mitigate this threat, it is essential to implement robust identity and access management solutions to safeguard your data.

Conclusion

The cyber security landscape in 2025 will be shaped by advancements in technology and the evolving tactics of cybercriminals. By staying informed about these trends and adopting proactive security measures, businesses and individuals can better protect themselves against emerging threats. As always, vigilance and continuous improvement in cyber security practices will be key to staying ahead in this ever-changing digital world.

For any of your cyber security business needs, don’t hesitate to get in touch with CyberScale. Our team of experts is ready to help you navigate the complexities of cyber security and ensure your organisation’s safety in 2025!

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Commuter emissions reduction specialist Mobilityways has been presented with a King’s Award for Enterprise, for Sustainable Development, by the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk.  

At the event, the Lord Lieutenant Lady Dannatt, MBE, handed Mobilityways Managing Director Julie Furnell a Kings Award crystal, while Deputy Lieutenant Carol Bundock read The Grant of Appointment. The Sheriff of Norwich, Sirajul Islam, was also in attendance to celebrate this significant honour. 

Mobilityways is one of only 252 organisations nationally, and four in Norfolk, to be recognised with a prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in the latest accolade. The company has been celebrated for its excellence in sustainable development, due to its commitment to zero-carbon commuting. Mobilityways’ climate tech enables employers to provide full visibility of commuting challenges and solutions, and is the only software solution dedicated to decarbonising the commute.  

This presentation makes it the third time that Mobilityways has been handed the award, having also been recognised with the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2019 and 2008. Each win allows use of the Queen’s/King’s Award emblem for five years, meaning Mobilityways has earned the right to continue using the royal award emblem until 2029 after its win last year. 

Before presenting the award, the Lord Lieutenant announced: “To be recognised with this award three times is quite exceptional. Here I am today presenting you with the King’s Award, and there really is no higher accolade. Norfolk is fantastically proud of you all. You are a young, vibrant, exploring firm of people, very dedicated, highly qualified, and we are very grateful for what you do for the planet.” 

The event dignitaries met some of Mobilityways’ 40 staff at their Norwich office, including Chief Technical Officer Ross Hewitt, who’s worked at the company for 21 years. Mobilityways was founded as Liftshare in 1998 and has since expanded its suite of climate-tech solutions to a full portfolio that measures, reduces and reports commuting emissions for large employers. 

Julie Furnell, Managing Director of Mobilityways, said: “It is a true honour to be recognised with a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development. Winning the award is a testament to our relentless dedication to revolutionising commuting.  

“At Mobilityways, we’re not just creating innovative climate tech solutions; we’re helping influence how people can travel more sustainably. As an SME, this recognition underscores our commitment to partnering with large employers to make a tangible impact on realising the art of the possible and decarbonising the commute.” 

The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed last year to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses. The Award programme, now in its 58th year, is the most prestigious business award in the country, with successful businesses able to use the esteemed King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years.  

For more information on the King’s Award, visit https://www.gov.uk/kingsawards-for-enterprise. 

Find out more at mobilityways.com

The winners of the inaugural Commute Zero Hero Awards have been announced, celebrating outstanding achievements in sustainable commuting by workplaces across the UK. These initiatives have supported more than 53,000 individuals to make greener journeys over the last twelve months. 

Hosted by the climate tech provider Mobilityways, the awards honour organisations and individuals driving innovative commuting solutions that reduce carbon emissions and foster a culture of sustainability. 

Entries showcasing creative projects poured in from both the public and private sectors. Among the winners are Heathrow Airport, with the UK’s largest single-site Liftshare scheme; University Hospitals Dorset, whose travel team introduced the Footbus app to enhance safety for colleagues using public transport at night; and West Sussex County Council, recognised for its Active Travel Strategy prioritising school journeys. 

Commenting on the win, Cllr Joy Dennis at West Sussex County Council said: “WSCC is committed to making sustainable travel journeys a safer, more convenient and more accessible option for our residents and visitors alike. A cornerstone of this commitment is our approach to Active Travel, which is about providing our residents with the ability to choose to walk, wheel or cycle instead of using their cars for journeys to school, work and many more destinations. Our Active Travel to School programme provides site-specific footway and cycle improvements, with behaviour change interventions to build the habit of travelling actively from a young age.” 

Meanwhile, Encirc was honoured with the Best Workplace Initiative Award for its car-share solution with a reward system that’s saved 3.33 tonnes of CO2 and 16,938 miles within the first six months. Stuart Jensen, Head of Reward and Analytics said: “Sustainability is at the core of all we do at Encirc. The car-sharing initiative rewards our people for taking part in the scheme and helps us to cut back significant emissions on the commute to work. This recognition is a timely boost for our car-share solution at Encirc as we look to increase and develop further its impact across the business.” 

Mobilityways Managing Director, Julie Furnell, commented, “The Commute Zero Hero Awards recognise those leading the charge in making commuting greener, healthier, and more efficient. Our winners have developed best practices that deliver measurable impacts in the mission to make zero-carbon commuting a reality. From reducing emissions to improving the health, wealth, and happiness of their teams, these organisations demonstrate the transformative power of sustainable commuting solutions. We’re delighted to celebrate their success and inspire others to follow suit.” 

Hear more from Julie in the Commute Zero Hero Awards 2025 video. 

Often overlooked, Scope 3 commuting emissions account for 5% of the UK’s total carbon footprint, equating to 18 billion kilograms of CO2e annually. As more workplaces encourage a return to the office, reducing the environmental impact of commuting is essential for achieving ambitious net–zero targets. 

The AA 2 Rosette WinePress Restaurant at the Maids Head Hotel has two exciting announcements.

Firstly, talented Head Chef, Alastair Grand, joined the Kitchen Brigade in October. With the busy festive season now firmly behind he has lots of new ideas he wants to bring to the table.

Norwich born and bred, Ali originally thought he wanted to be a PE Teacher. But a part time job in a local kitchen at the age of 16 gave him the bug to pursue his career as a Chef. Ali trained under several well-known local chefs aspiring to his first sous chef position at the age of 22.

Ali said “My style of cooking is French classics with a modern twist. I joined the Maids Head as I relish the trust given to the Brigade to cook the food we love to produce. I am being supported to strive for a 3^rd Rosette which we all want to achieve this year”

He went on to add “The WinePress Restaurant offers a fine dining experience. Diners can choose between the a la carte menu or the tasting menu with the option of a wine flight. Menus champion seasonal ingredients sourced from the wealth of local suppliers on our doorstep.”  

When asked about his favourite dish on the new Rosette menu Ali was quick to say “ I prefer savoury over dessert so it would be the Moroccan pan seared lamb rump infused with liquorice, duchess potato, compressed butternut squash, lamb & apricot tagine, liquorice puree, Moroccan spiced jus. A dish packed full of incredible flavours and also looks exciting on the plate!”

Ali loves to travel and to experience the local cuisine. He is also passionate to get involved with the local Food community and to inspire more young people to consider a hospitality career. Since the pandemic, the industry has lost so many good chefs, Ali is keen to try and turn this around.

In a climate which has seen several fine dining restaurants close their doors for economic reasons the Hotel is committed to the WinePress. General Manager, Christine Malcolm said “As an independent hotel we are proud to offer our guests the opportunity of a Rosette dining experience. There are also very few City centre restaurants which boast a car park which diners are welcome to use”.

Joining Ali’s kitchen brigade is Pastry Chef, Rebecca Redwood. Also Norfolk born and bred, she got the kitchen bug when completing her Year 10 work experience and has never looked back.

When asked why pastry, Rebecca said “there is always something to strive for, you never stand still. I love to experiment with new ideas and the Maids Head is allowing me the opportunity to explore and develop these. I am excited to bring a new twist to the Hotel’s afternoon tea experience too.”

Afternoon tea is served every day, visit our website to find out times available. 

To book a table in the WinePress Restaurant call 01603 272010, alternatively go online. Remember to request afternoon tea and add any dietary requirements in the notes.

Anglian’s expert Scaffolding team is helping this year’s Norwich Science Festival to make a grand entrance in The Forum.

Anglian has erected a three metre by three metre scaffolding archway to welcome visitors into the Explorium – the main hub for Norwich Science Festival’s week-long programme which features more than 200 talks, shows and exhibitions.

The archway is covered in artwork designed by local agency DesignPod and printed by CIM Signs & Graphics. Anglian has also constructed three large tables using scaffolding inside the Explorium, in preparation for hands-on activities for children during the festival.

Wayne Sampson, senior scaffolding commercial manager at Anglian, said: “Scaffolding provides a more sustainable means of creating the dramatic entrance and workspaces Norwich Science Festival wanted, which is also in-keeping with the eclectic nature of this event. As a local company, we are delighted to do our bit to support for this fantastic event in the city.”

Danie Hadley, marketing and communications manager at Norwich Science Festival, said: “We are grateful for all the local companies who are supporting this year’s event, which is our ninth annual Norwich Science Festival. Huge thanks to all at Anglian for making this happen, it looks absolutely brilliant in the Atrium at The Forum – a real showstopper!”

Anglian’s Scaffolding team is highly skilled in all manner of structures for both commercial and domestic projects. Find out more at Scaffolding – Anglian Demolition & Asbestos.

Norwich Science Festival runs from 15^th – 22^nd February 2025.

Richie has been awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to International Trade and to Charity. 

After attending the ceremony on 12th February, Richie said: “It was a particular delight to meet His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, who happens to be cultivating his own truly top notch beard. As a fellow Norfolk boy, I found him a most charming, and indeed, discerning fellow. Suffice to say, beard care tips may well have been shared!”

In his acceptance of this prestigious accolade, Richie is quick to emphasise that such esteemed recognition is in fact a tribute to extraordinary team work. 

“In the guise of Captain Fawcett, I am but truly honoured to have been awarded ‘Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire’ — Huzzah! However, I am but the conductor of an orchestra of talent, proud to work with a simply remarkable collective of people who strive for excellence every day. This is their achievement as much as it is mine.

“Furthermore, I believe international trade has always been more than simply business. For centuries, traders have carried ideas as well as goods, forging friendships where there might have been conflict and creating incredible opportunity. Amicable trade is simply one of our oldest and, perchance, greatest forces for understanding. Every product shipped is a testament to the notion that prosperity grows when nations work together.

Founded in 2010 at a kitchen table in Terrington St Clement, Norfolk, Captain Fawcett has grown to become a beacon of British quality and craftsmanship in Gentleman’s Grooming and Hair Care, exporting to 45 countries and earning a reputation for its award-winning products and distinctive character. Beyond business, Richie has driven Captain Fawcett’s commitment to social responsibility, with initiatives like ‘BarbersRide’, co-founded with Xavier Berrell and Colin Petrie, becoming a flagship of the brand’s charity mission.

After this truly auspicious start to 2025, the next adventure awaits. Richard Finney MBE and the crew at HQ are currently preparing for Captain Fawcett’s ‘Great Expedition USA’, a 6 week solo motorcycle road trip through the heart of America.

Watch this space for more news very soon…

For more information on Captain Fawcett, please visitwww.captainfawcett.com

Norwich Research Park has won a prestigious industry award at the inaugural Commute Zero Hero Awards, hosted by climate tech provider Mobilityways. The awards honour organisations and individuals driving innovative commuting solutions that reduce carbon emissions and foster a culture of sustainability. 

Norwich Research Park has won the Most Innovative Commuting Solution Award which recognises organisations that develop creative, forward-thinking solutions to transform the commuting experience.

Norwich Research Park won the award for its creative and data-driven approach to fostering a cycling culture. Building on a strong green travel strategy, Anglia Innovation Partnership, the campus management organisation at Norwich Research Park, launched a successful travel survey and created engaging in-person events such as Bike Day. With initiatives like the Beryl bike sharing scheme and free on-site bike repairs, it has made cycling more accessible, even for students who do not own a bike.

Its commitment is further reflected in the strong engagement it has established, with over 20% of staff cycling to work regularly. By using data to drive decisions, Anglia Innovation Partnership has laid the groundwork for future investments and has built a collaborative, supportive community across the park campus. In summary, Mobilityways said, “This innovative, community-focused approach sets Norwich Research Park apart as a leader in sustainable commuting.”

The Commute Zero Hero Awards, which cover the whole of the UK, recognise initiatives that have supported more than 53,000 individuals to make greener journeys over the last twelve months.  Among the other winners are Heathrow Airport, West Sussex County Council and University Hospitals Dorset. 

Nick Goodwin, COO of Anglia Innovation Partnership, the campus management organisation at Norwich Research Park, said, “We are delighted that our efforts to move towards more sustainable travel across the park campus have been recognised with this award. When you consider the growth of our campus and the number of people that are here every day, it is important to offer solutions that help our community to use more sustainable modes of transport to and from work.

“The institutions and companies at Norwich Research Park have a real sense of community and desire to make the park campus accessible to our local communities. We are on a journey to deliver on our strategy and continue our collaborative effort to improve the way we travel. This award is recognition for everyone who has completed surveys, communicated to staff and chosen to share a car, get the bus, walk, run or cycle to work – well done!”

Mobilityways Managing Director, Julie Furnell, commented, “The Commute Zero Hero Awards recognise those leading the charge in making commuting greener, healthier and more efficient. Our winners have developed best practices that deliver measurable impacts in the mission to make zero-carbon commuting a reality. From reducing emissions to improving the health, wealth and happiness of their teams, these organisations demonstrate the transformative power of sustainable commuting solutions. We’re delighted to celebrate their success and inspire others to follow suit.” 

End-of-life care patients, their families, and staff at Priscilla Bacon Lodge can now access expert financial planning, thanks to a new initiative with Brancaster House Financial Planning.

The financial advisory team are offering free consultations that will provide tailored financial guidance to help alleviate financial stress during life’s most challenging moments.

By empowering individuals with personalised advice on pensions, savings, and other financial matters, this service aims to support the hospice community with greater peace of mind and financial security.

Shane Julian, Director of Brancaster House Financial Planning, said: “We understand the financial strain families face during life’s most difficult moments. I have a personal connection with the Hospice as a close relation spent her final days there this year. Through these sessions, we aim to ease that burden and empower individuals with the tools to navigate their financial futures.”

Priscilla Bacon Lodge, renowned for its compassionate care in Norfolk, welcomes this support as an opportunity to provide holistic assistance to its community. The hospice’s staff and volunteers can also benefit from advice on personal finance and retirement planning, ensuring their invaluable service is matched by financial stability.

Amy Wright, Event and Fundraising Coordinator for Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Brancaster House for offering this invaluable service to our patients and their families. Financial concerns can add significant stress during what is already a very difficult time. These free consultations will help provide clarity and reassurance, allowing people to focus on what truly matters.”

The initiative reflects our ethos of ‘financial advice for all’ and its commitment to helping people make informed financial decisions, no matter their circumstances. We are also an active part of the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity’s Business 500 Club – a community of local businesses and organisations working together to support each other, whilst pledging to raise at least £1k for Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity.

Nicholas Halls, Director of Brancaster House Financial Planning, added: “We believe everyone deserves access to expert financial information, especially during life’s most challenging moments. By partnering with Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity, we hope to ease the financial burdens faced by patients and their families, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to make informed decisions.”

To book a session or learn more, contact us by emailing info@brancasterhouse.co.uk.

On 30 January, a high-level delegation from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) visited Norwich Research Park, to see the cutting edge research and innovation in Engineering Biology that is being conducted on campus.

The team, led by Dr. Isabel Webb, Deputy Director for Technology Strategy and Security, visited Norwich Research Park’s BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council) research institutes – the Quadram Institute, Earlham Institute and John Innes Centre.

Hosted by Roz Bird, CEO of Anglia Innovation Partnership, the campus management company for Norwich Research Park, the delegation initially met with the directors of the research institutes for a strategic discussion. Roz highlighted the opportunity for the campus to participate in, and where appropriate lead, transformative programmes of work that she termed ‘bio-transitions’.

This term describes the work being undertaken by the large cluster of microbiologists, based on campus, where they are making new discoveries to tackle climate change, food security and the health of the nation. This ‘bio-transitions’ work, to create new innovations, will ultimately support the Government’s growth agenda by creating new high-value jobs and improve productivity.

The department’s team were given a detailed presentation and tour of the Earlham Institute’s technologies, where they met Director of the Earlham Institute, Neil Hall, and the Head of Plant Genomics Anthony Hall. The DSIT team was particularly interested in the use of the BioFoundry and its advanced capabilities.

A networking lunch was held where they were introduced to many of the entrepreneurs who have set up successful companies at Norwich Research Park including Colorifix, Tropic, Alora and Inspiralis.

Lunch was followed by a series of presentations from the John Innes Centre, including a progress on the Next Generation Infrastructure (NGI) project, the work of the Insectary and the work of Professor Anne Osbourn’s lab on plant natural product biosynthesis.

Next was a visit to the Quadram Institute where they were hosted by Dr Patricia Hart who explained the ground-breaking research being undertaken which included several aspects of engineering biology, from environmental applications to human health and plant biotechnology.

The DSIT visitors were introduced to PhD student Brenda Mionki who talked about her research into how gene-edited tomatoes could provide a new way of supplementing vitamin D for individuals lacking this important vitamin and Dr Rokas Juodeikis, a Quadram Institute Bioscience Fellow, who is developing novel strategies to improve health and address nutrient deficiencies using bacterial extracellular vesicle (BEV) engineering. The visit to the Quadram Institute was concluded by a discussion with Prof Mark Webber and his team around their use of functional genomics in Engineering Biology.

At the conclusion of the visit, Roz said, “This was a great opportunity to showcase the ways in which Norwich Research Park is leading the Engineering Biology scene in the UK, in terms of the critical mass of activity, the diverse range of work, the deep-tech nature of the curiosity-driven science and applied science, and the way in which the campus is supporting new spin-outs and industry partners to maximise the impact of publicly-funded research which is creating jobs and generating growth for the economy.

“With further support from our partners, in government, we will be able to create growth in the economy through ‘bio-transitions’ workstreams which involve all areas of industry and society and which will help mitigate the impact of climate change, ensure food is nutritious and that people stay healthier for longer.”

A strong start to 2025 for the Huxley Events team, announcing they are finalists for two awards. The company has been nominated for the South Norfolk & Broadland Business Awards in the category of “South Norfolk Small Business of the Year”, as well as for the Conference News Agency Awards in the “Oil, Gas & Energy Event of the Year 2025” for their standout event, the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) SNS2024 conference, exhibition, and gala dinner.

The South Norfolk & Broadland Business Awards celebrate the excellence and achievements of local businesses within the community. This year’s awards ceremony will take place in March, bringing together the brightest and most innovative organisations in South Norfolk and Broadland. Huxley Events is proud to be recognised among the best small businesses in South Norfolk, showcasing their commitment to amazing events, creativity, strong customer service and community engagement.

The nomination reflects Huxley Events’ relentless drive and dedication to delivering high-caliber events.

In addition to the local accolade, Huxley Events is also a finalist for the Conference News Agency Awards, known for highlighting excellence in the conference and events industry nationally. Their event for EEEGR, SNS2024—has been recognized as the “Oil, Gas & Energy Event of the Year 2025”. This award ceremony will take place in March, and Huxley Events is excited to finalists alongside other major events such as 2024 Shell Eco-Marathon, by Emota.

The SNS2024 event, held earlier this year at the Norfolk Showground, was a landmark celebration of energy, innovation, and collaboration. The conference brought together nearly 1,500 attendees, including industry experts, thought leaders, and stakeholders. With engaging sessions led by 68 speakers and an exhibition featuring 72 exhibitors, the event was a resounding success with Huxley Events working behind the scenes on the full logistical and operational planning for the event. The gala dinner, with more than 350 guests, accompanied the conference and was not only memorable but also showcased the exquisite culinary talents of local chef Alex Firman (Garden Kitchen Catering), earning rave reviews from attendees.

“We are delighted to be recognised for our hard work and dedication in both local and national arenas,” said Lizzy Dring, Managing Director of Huxley Events. “Our team is passionate about creating meaningful experiences that bring people together. Being shortlisted for these awards is a testament to our commitment to these events, and we can’t thank our amazing clients and partners enough for trusting us.”

As Huxley Events gears up for the awards ceremonies next month, they remain focused on their mission to elevate the event experience in the region while contributing positively to the local and national business landscape.

Law firm Birketts’ Shaping Excellence Team has appointed another dedicated lawyer trainer to meet client demand. 

Maaike Wall joins the team as a dedicated lawyer trainer specialising in employment law. Maaike, who trained and qualified at Slaughter and May, brings not only her knowledge of employment law to the training room but has also spent time teaching in a secondary school so has the valuable ability to put across complicated concepts in an accessible way. 

The Birketts’ Shaping Excellence Team trains boards, senior leadership teams, line managers and employees on all legal issues that impact an organisation ranging from health and safety, data protection, how to navigate through commercial contracts and a full suite of HR and employment law training. 

A particular area that organisations from all sectors are facing is the new duty to prevent sexual harassment and the investigation skills required to deal with complex grievance and disciplinary proceedings within the workplace. With established courses and materials on these topics, Maaike will join the team in supporting employers practically navigate through these issues. 

Sam Greenhalgh, who leads the Shaping Excellence Team and is a Partner in Birketts’ Employment Team, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Maaike has joined us to build on the capacity needed to deliver unique learning experiences to clients. We consistently receive outstanding feedback for our ability to deliver a tailored course to delegates that adds practical value to their day-to-day management of people and the organisation as a whole. With the significant changes to employment law being implemented and proposed by the Government, organisations are investing in their people to stay compliant and up to date.” 

Maaike said: “This is an exciting time to join Birketts and particularly the Shaping Excellence Team where I can combine my love of employment law and teaching into one role. Employment law can be quite complex to navigate but the way the Shaping Excellence Team structures its bespoke training adds real value to clients’ day-to-day operations. I am excited to be part of it and I look forward to supporting organisations choosing to invest in their people.” 

Jeanette Wheeler, Partner and soon to be Head of Corporate Services at Birketts, said: “It is great to see that the Shaping Excellence Team continues to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the modern-day workplace. I am thrilled that Maaike has joined us, and I have no doubt that she will be an asset to the team helping many delegates and clients with their training needs over the coming months and years.”