Member News

Domestic Abuse Training FAQs

Over the past couple of weeks, we have been highlighting why we believe businesses and organisations should be playing an active role in tackling domestic abuse.

This has covered the benefits of having training around domestic abuse, the importance of policy and procedures, as well as looking at the physical and financial costs that domestic abuse can have.

We know that this may be an issue that many businesses have not considered before, which is why we have produced a list of some of the Frequently Asked Questions around our training.

My business is interested in booking training, which staff members should attend?

Our training is perfect for Human Resources team members, Equality and Diversity teams, as well as line managers and managers. Whilst it is not limited to these roles, these roles will support many members of staff and need to be able to identify issues relating to domestic abuse. Awareness of domestic abuse benefits everyone in the organisation.

Is the training online or in-person?

Both! We have adapted our sessions to deliver these either online or in-person, allowing us to be flexible to fit around your needs.

Do you offer bespoke training sessions?

Yes, we are always happy to work with businesses and organisations to deliver sessions that are specifically tailored to best meet your needs. This can include specific areas of focus most relevant to your business, short awareness briefings, or comprehensive training covering issues such as workplace harassment.

What makes Leeway’s training unique?

Our training is practical, locally relevant, and designed to be engaging. We don’t just deliver theory – we provide tools your team can use immediately, supported by real-world scenarios.

Can Leeway support our organisation with policies and procedures around domestic abuse?

Yes, we are happy to support businesses to draft policies and procedures around domestic abuse. We believe that this will help to provide a solid foundation for your business to work from when it comes to responding to domestic abuse.

Do you offer taster sessions of your training?

We do sometimes hold taster sessions, which briefly cover some key topics and give a flavour of what our full training packages entail. Our next free taster session is on Tuesday 30^th September, exclusively for Norfolk Chambers of Commerce members!

I’ve already received domestic abuse awareness training a while ago; do you offer refresher courses?

We are happy to work with businesses again to refresh their training around domestic abuse. Just like many over training courses, such as first aid training, data protection, and health and safety, refreshing your knowledge is beneficial.

Do you offer any discounts?

We currently offer a 20% discount for charitable organisations.

For more information about our training and how Leeway can support your organisation, email training@leewaynwa.org.uk or visit our website www.leewaysupport.org/training.

To book your place at our free training taster event, visit our event page here: https://wp-stage.norfolkchambers.co.uk/member-events/how-can-leeway-support-your-organisation/

When a business begins to experience financial pressure, directors often hold back from seeking advice. It’s an understandable reaction – many hope that a temporary dip in cash flow will correct itself, or that the next big order will solve the problem.

However, delaying action can quickly turn manageable challenges into critical threats. At Leading Business Services, we see first-hand how early intervention can make the difference between recovery and closure.

Why businesses wait

·        Concern about the stigma of insolvency

·        Fear of losing control to an external adviser

·        Hope that “things will improve next month”

·        Uncertainty about available options

Unfortunately, by the time many directors pick up the phone, the position has worsened: arrears have built up, creditors are threatening action, and cash flow is severely restricted.

The benefits of acting early

·        More options available – from informal creditor negotiations to restructuring or turnaround strategies.

·        Lower costs – early solutions are usually less expensive than crisis-driven processes.

·        Protection of jobs and reputation – stakeholders are reassured when directors act responsibly.

·        Better outcomes for creditors – preserving trust and long-term relationships.

Our Message to Directors

Financial distress is not a sign of failure. It’s a sign that expert guidance is needed. Seeking professional advice early shows responsibility, protects value, and often saves businesses significant sums in the long run.

We’re Here When You’re Ready

At Leading, an experienced insolvency and business restructuring firm, we believe in having early, honest conversations — because the sooner we talk, the more options we can explore together.

If your business is experiencing financial stress, or you’re supporting a client who is, we’re here to help. We offer confidential, no-obligation guidance tailored to each situation.

We’re happy to speak directly with business owners, or work in partnership with accountants, HR professionals, or other advisers.

Let’s take the first step together — while there are still options on the table.

You can contact our friendly and experienced team on 01603 552028 or email us at mail@leading.uk.com.

With every tax penny under scrutiny at the moment, finding good value is paramount, particularly when it comes to health and care, one of the largest costs to the government. Anyone who has been supported by a local charity will know the invaluable human value they provide, often at times of significant personal trauma or crisis. What is often overlooked is the significant economic return they provide the city and county. An independent study by the University of East Anglia’s School of Economics has revealed just that, with local charity, Age UK Norwich.

Reviewing four areas of the charity’s work, researchers found returns of £18 for every £1 invested. These are significant returns on finances alone, but through in addition to transforming lives, its saving the NHS, Social Care and local employers millions of pounds every year through preventing ill-health, absenteeism, and crisis services at significantly higher costs.

The report, Investing in Later Life: Value of Age UK Norwich Services was produced by Economic graduates as part of their final-year dissertations. Each examined a core area of Age UK Norwich’s work: Health Coaching, Loneliness & Social Connection, Age Friendly Norwich, and Information & Advice.

Their research applied thorough economic analysis to real-world data, uncovering the true financial and social value of these services. Together, their findings present an overwhelming case for sustained investment in later life support, not only to improve wellbeing but to deliver measurable savings across public services.

Health Coaching

David Bunzl’s study found that Age UK Norwich’s personalised health coaching service, delivered by qualified instructors, generates £18 of social value for every £1 invested. The service helps older people improve mobility, balance, diet, and confidence, while preventing falls, boosting mental health, and reducing GP and hospital visits. At full capacity, the service has the potential to deliver over £5.6 million in social value, while also costing up to 30% less than equivalent NHS physiotherapy.

Tackling Loneliness

Loneliness costs Norwich’s NHS an estimated £99.1 million each year, with 28% of over-50s (12,416 people) classified as lonely. Age UK Norwich combats this through more than 30 clubs and nearly 800 sessions annually, offering activities from lunch clubs to walking football and dementia-friendly groups. Joseph Israel’s report found that these services save the NHS £2.38 million a year in reduced hospital admissions, with every £1 spent returning £14.60 in value. One client described the service saying “I don’t think I would be alive anymore if you didn’t come into my life when you did.”

Age Friendly Norwich

As part of its mission to make Norwich an Age Friendly City, Age UK Norwich champions accessibility, social inclusion, and opportunities for older people to live well. Zhyrrina Caballero’s research highlights how transport, housing, and neighbourhood design directly impact health and wellbeing. Older people using buses 10+ times a year reported 40% fewer symptoms of loneliness compared to those who did not travel at all. These findings underline the importance of local investment in infrastructure and services that keep older people active, connected, and visible in their communities.

Accredited Advice

Age UK Norwich’s accredited advice service delivers one of the clearest returns. In 2023–24 alone, it helped secure £2.87 million in successful benefit applications for older residents, supporting long-term financial resilience during the cost-of-living crisis. For every £1 invested, advice services deliver £7.05 of social value, rising to £12.62 over five years when including NHS savings of more than £4 million. Beyond money, clients report reduced stress, improved mental health, and greater overall life satisfaction. One client put it simply: “Absolutely wonderful… I didn’t know you could get so many benefits… We now get Attendance Allowance for me, pension credit, underlying benefit for Carer’s Allowance, Council Tax reduction to nil, half price water bill. Free TV licence.”

Why Invest in Later Life?

The findings come at a crucial time, as the government seeks to reform public services and reduce NHS pressures. Age UK Norwich’s model demonstrates that investing locally in later life is not a cost, but a return: stronger communities, healthier ageing, and huge public savings.

Dan Skipper, Chief Executive of Age UK Norwich, said:

“This report confirms what we’ve always known: when you invest in older people, the whole community benefits. Every pound spent on Age UK Norwich creates exceptional value, in healthier lives, reduced NHS demand, and stronger communities.”

Professor Matthew Aldrich, UEA School of Economics, added:

“The results of the evaluation are clear; Age UK Norwich generates significant value through their work directly for the individuals they support, and for our communities and wider society. Further investment would generate a significant return, and I am proud that our students have helped make clear for all to see the social and economic impact of their work.”

David Bunzl, one of the four researchers said: 

“My time with Age UK Norwich has given me a huge appreciation for the whole team and the amount of effort that they put into supporting their clients. Now that this project is over, I hope to carry some of the skills and the mindset that the team has into my career as an economist in the civil service.”

Age UK Norwich, in collaboration with Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) and Creative Sponge, has been awarded Highly Commended at the HSJ Patient Safety Awards 2025 for their innovative falls prevention training video.

The resource was developed with patients who had directly experienced a fall and received care in hospital. Their lived experiences shaped the content, ensuring it is both authentic and impactful. The video is now being used as a training tool for staff as well as an awareness resource for the wider community, helping to highlight the importance of preventing falls and supporting people to remain safe and independent.

The HSJ Patient Safety Awards celebrate outstanding contributions to patient safety across the UK, recognising projects that make a measurable difference to healthcare outcomes.

Megan Durrant, Communications and Marketing Lead at Age UK Norwich, said:
“We are absolutely delighted to receive this recognition. This project really demonstrates the power of collaboration — bringing together patient voices, hospital expertise, and creative storytelling to create something that has a real and lasting impact. To be acknowledged on a national stage is testament to the strength of partnership working and the importance of putting lived experience at the heart of training and awareness.”

The NNUH team expressed their excitement and pride at receiving the accolade on the night, highlighting how the award reflects the dedication of staff and patients who contributed to the project.

The collaboration between Age UK Norwich, NNUH, and Creative Sponge showcases how community organisations, healthcare providers, and creative partners can come together to produce innovative resources that improve understanding and ultimately support better patient safety.

“We’re incredibly proud the video has received a Highly Commended award at the HSJ Patient Safety Awards. This recognition is a testament to great creative, excellent storytelling, and a real collaborative partnership between Age UK Norwich, NNUH and ourselves that we hope will help to drive real, positive change,” Martin Betts, Client Services Director, Creative Sponge.

Importantly, this project also highlights the role of innovation in falls prevention. By testing new ways to reach and support people, we can find more effective solutions, spread awareness more widely, and ensure that older people and those at risk feel empowered to stay active, safe, and independent. 

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/a0iHqjhO_fQ

Your days are already packed.

Client calls. Staff meetings. Operations. Everything else.

And somewhere in there… you’re meant to plan content, post on social, write email campaigns, your website, and track ad performance?

Let’s be real, marketing often gets pushed to “tomorrow.”

But tomorrow turns into weeks… and your visibility (and leads) slip away.

We handle your digital marketing end-to-end so you can focus on running your business.

From SEO and Google Ads to social media, content creation, and email campaigns, we’ll create and manage a strategy that works without adding to your to-do list.

We don’t just “do the marketing.”

We make it work, strategically, consistently, and with results you can actually measure.

Get in touch and let’s talk about getting your marketing moving, without you lifting a finger.

We’ve got some exciting news to share… Barkers Photo Fun has been named as finalists in not one, but two national wedding awards – The Quirky Wedding Awards and The Wedding Industry Awards (TWIA).

For us, this recognition means the world. Every wedding we attend is unique, and our mission is always the same: to bring fun, creativity, and those unforgettable moments to couples and their guests. From our elegant Magic Mirror and Classic Booth to our roaming robot “Phoebe” and even our AI-enhanced experiences, we love helping people make memories that last a lifetime.

The Quirky Wedding Awards shine a spotlight on suppliers who bring something a little different to the table – which is right up our street! And TWIA is extra special because it’s judged in part by feedback from the couples themselves. That means the people who’ve laughed, posed, and made memories in our booths get to have their say.

We’re so proud to be recognised nationally, but we’re even prouder of the amazing couples who’ve invited us to be part of their big day. Their trust and support have brought us this far – and with their votes in TWIA, we might just go all the way.

So here’s to fun, laughter, and creating magical wedding memories – and to Norfolk being represented on the national stage. Wish us luck!

King’s Lynn-based gentleman’s grooming company Captain Fawcett Ltd is celebrating a double national honour after being named a finalist in two prestigious UK awards, celebrating export success and creative excellence.

The brand has been shortlisted in the Exporter of the Year category at the Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards 2025, and the Perfume, Cosmetics & Personal Care category at the London Packaging Week Innovation Awards 2025.

Founded in 2015 at a kitchen stove in Terrington St Clement, when founder Richard Finney MBE first mixed Moustache Wax in a baked bean tin, Captain Fawcett has grown into a global enterprise. Today, close to 80% of sales come from export, with products now sold in 45 countries across 6 continents, most recently launching into Vietnam and Peru. A dedicated international platform in the USA further supports Captain Fawcett’s growing overseas presence.

Exports not only drive the Captain Fawcett’s growth but also feed directly back into the British economy, supporting jobs and wider supply chains here at home. In recognition of commitment to helping other businesses pursue international trade, Captain Fawcett has five times been appointed a Department for Business and Trade (DBT) Export Champion, advising and inspiring fellow UK exporters and in 2025 was awarded the MBE in recognition of services to Internationl Trade and Charity. 

Captain Fawcett Founder Richard Finney MBE said:
“As an island nation, trade has always been in our blood. Britain has much to be proud of – from our reputation for excellence and craftsmanship to somewhat madcap humour that travels so well overseas. From humble beginnings in Norfolk, it is a huge honour to share Captain Fawcett with customers worldwide, whilst supporting the UK economy and encouraging others on their export journeys. Captain Fawcett’s story is not simply about commodities, but about people and celebrating a bold, outward-looking spirit in the very finest traditions of enterprise. Exporting is ever a mutually beneficial exchange and the Captain is delighted to do his bit.”

Captain Fawcett’s distinctive packaging for the award-winning hair stying Pomades, created by Creative Director Iain Crockart, has also been shortlisted at the London Packaging Awards. Both handsome and practical, the design is grounded in heritage and utility, inspired by traditional fired clay pots once used for apothecary’s ointments and reflecting Captain Fawcett’s philosophy that packaging is the handshake before the conversation. 

The London Packaging Innovation Awards will be announced at ExCeL London on 15–16 October 2025, where Captain Fawcett will appear on the Luxury Stage. The Lloyds Bank British Business Excellence Awards ceremony follows on 11 November 2025 in London.

For further information or images please contact: cate@captainfawcett.com

In August 2025, Grade (UK) Limited, trading as Vision Plus, entered administration following several years of challenging trading conditions. Vision Plus is a well-established manufacturer and distributor of television antennas and related products for the caravan, motorhome, and marine markets.

Despite investment in innovative new Wi-Fi-enabled antenna technology, the company struggled with:

·       A 25% drop in sales in 2024, followed by a further 25% decline in the first quarter of 2025

·       Shifting consumer demand and increasing competitive pressures

·       Long-term declining market conditions in the recreational vehicle sector since 2018

With the business unable to achieve the turnaround required, Leading Business Services were appointed as joint administrators.

The Solution: A Pre-Pack Sale

Our team secured a pre-packaged sale of the business and its assets to an unconnected buyer. This approach allowed us to:

·       Preserve the ongoing value of the business

·       Secure employment where possible

·       Maximise returns for creditors

What is a Pre-Pack Administration?

A pre-pack administration is a restructuring process where a sale of the company’s business and assets is arranged before administrators are formally appointed. Once appointed, the administrators complete the sale immediately.

This strategy offers several advantages:

·       Continuity of operations, reducing disruption to customers and suppliers

·       Safeguarding jobs wherever possible

·       Achieving better returns for creditors than if the business were broken up and sold piece by piece

Why This Matters for Local Businesses

This case highlights how rapidly market conditions can change, particularly in niche industries. For directors, taking early advice when challenges arise can create space for solutions that protect jobs and maintain value.

At Leading Business Services, we work closely with directors, stakeholders, and professional partners to explore all available restructuring and insolvency options. In cases like Vision Plus, a pre-pack deal can provide the best possible outcome for both employees and creditors, while allowing the business to continue under new ownership.

If your business is facing financial pressures, early professional advice can make all the difference.

Jan McLean has joined Larking Gowen as a Director in the specialist medical team.

She will be working from the Ipswich and Norwich offices, supporting the teams in both locations and further strengthening the firm’s offering across East Anglia.

Jan has more than 30 years’ accountancy experience. She qualified as a chartered accountant in 1997, and 2010, she started specialising in the healthcare and medical sector. During this time, her clients were GP practices, hospital consultants, locums, pharmacies, limited companies and other healthcare related clients. Within the medical sector, she has a specialisation in NHS pensions.

Jan said: “I joined Larking Gowen because I wanted to stay in medical specialisation and use the skills I’ve acquired to continue supporting NHS staff and those in private practice. Apart from understanding the intricacies of GP finance, I particularly have a wealth of knowledge in the NHS pension scheme and the associated tax implications, which is a complicated area.

“I knew many of the Larking Gowen healthcare partners from the AISMA annual conferences. Their business is highly respected in the medical sector which was a huge positive for me. The whole team have been friendly and supportive in welcoming me to the firm.”

Andrew Burwood, Partner and head of the medical team at Larking Gowen, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jan to our team. She brings a wealth of experience having looked after many clients within the NHS and private healthcare sectors over several years, and we look forward to her sharing her knowledge and expert guidance with both our clients and our team. 

“Jan is a perfect fit for Larking Gowen and our clients, and she strengthens our commitment to remaining an independent firm with a real focus on the community we are so proud to be a part of.”

Norwich, UK – Bauer Media, through Greatest Hits Radio Norfolk and Hits Radio, is offering businesses across Norwich and Norfolk the opportunity to grow their brand with audio sponsorships. 

Norfolk is powered by agriculture, tourism, retail, and a growing creative and tech economy. With businesses competing across both rural and urban markets, sponsorship provides a powerful way to stay top of mind – whether through traffic updates on the A47 and A11, weather forecasts for farming and coastal communities, or the radio shows that bring people together across the county. 

Bauer Media research demonstrates: 

• Sponsorships drive +23% uplift in consideration 

• 48% of listeners take action after hearing a sponsorship 

• Sponsorships are up to 2x more effective than traditional advertising. 

“Norfolk businesses thrive on loyalty and reputation,” said Nathalie Marshall, Bauer Media. “Radio sponsorship offers them the chance to strengthen that connection and be part of people’s everyday listening.” 

There are sponsorship opportunities available right now in Norwich and across Norfolk, giving businesses the chance to align with Bauer’s trusted stations. 

👉 Find out more: https://hitsradioadvertising.co.uk/sponsorship/ 

About Bauer Media 
Bauer Media Audio UK is the country’s leading commercial radio broadcaster, reaching over 20 million listeners every week across stations including Hits Radio, Greatest Hits Radio, Absolute Radio, Magic Radio, KISS, Jazz FM, Kerrang! and Planet Rock. Our sponsorships and creative partnerships help local and national businesses connect with audiences in trusted, everyday moments, delivering measurable results across the marketing funnel. 

Contact us: 
https://hitsradioadvertising.co.uk/sponsorship/ 

For energy recovery and gasification plants, annual shutdowns are more than just a scheduled pause in operations; they’re an essential opportunity to maintain, repair, and upgrade critical systems. But with so much activity compressed into a short timeframe, shutdowns can also present significant risks if not carefully managed.

The key to success? Planning. Done properly, it ensures safety, compliance, and efficiency, helping you minimise downtime and maximise performance once operations resume.

Why Planning Matters

A shutdown brings together multiple teams, contractors, and vendors, often all working on-site at the same time. Without a clear plan, there’s potential for confusion, delays, and safety hazards. Proper preparation ensures:

• Worker safety – Hazards are identified and controlled before work begins.

• Regulatory compliance – All activities align with HSE requirements.

• Efficiency – Work packages are coordinated to reduce downtime.

• Cost control – Unexpected delays and incidents are avoided.

Key Elements of a Safe & Successful Shutdown1. Pre-Construction Planning

The groundwork for a successful turnaround starts months in advance. This includes defining scope, scheduling, and resource requirements, as well as identifying potential hazards and mitigation measures.

2. Vendor Package Reviews

Contractors and vendors play a major role during shutdowns. Reviewing vendor packages ensures that all third-party partners understand safety protocols, project timelines, and compliance requirements.

3. Induction Development

Every worker on-site needs to understand the safety rules and procedures. A robust induction programme sets the tone, making sure everyone knows the risks, controls, and expectations before work begins.

4. Health and Safety Management During the Shutdown

Even the best plans need active monitoring. Dedicated health and safety management during the shutdown period helps spot issues early, enforce compliance, and keep safety front of mind throughout the project.

The Value of Expert Support

Shutdowns are complex, and even small oversights can lead to costly consequences. By partnering with experienced safety professionals, businesses can:

• Reduce downtime through streamlined processes

• Ensure compliance goes beyond the minimum standard

• Protect workers and contractors with proactive safety measures

Annual shutdowns are a vital part of maintaining the reliability and efficiency of energy recovery and gasification plants. But without proper planning, they can create more risks than rewards.

By investing in thorough preparation, from pre-construction to health and safety management, you can deliver a safe, compliant, and efficient turnaround that sets your operations up for long-term success.

Get in touch if you need health and safety support for your annual shutdown.

After a wild summer of roaming the streets of Norwich and Norfolk the GoGoSafari sculptures will be getting ready to find their forever homes at a one-night-only charity art auction. To be held at Saxon Air, Norwich on Thursday 2 October, and hosted by ITV’s Becky Jago and Chris Page, alongside celebrity auctioneer Natasha Raskin Sharp, from TV’s Bargain Hunt, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance for fans, collectors and art lovers to own a unique piece of art from the popular trail.

With over 50 lots, from lions, elephants, gorillas, giraffes and rhinos to the exquisitely designed MINI Collection, and a couple of surprise Mini Gs, these sculptures are show-stopping statement pieces that will look spectacular in homes, gardens, offices, hotels and restaurants. Each one is a one-of-a-kind creation by some of the UK’s most talented artists, and now they’re ready for new adventures with all proceeds going to the charity behind the trail, Break, supporting their work with young people in, around and leaving care across East Anglia.

Auction guests can expect an enjoyable evening surrounded by the 56 sculptures up for grabs, with a sparkling reception, food served by local catering firm Norfolk’s Edge and drinks throughout the evening. And for bidders unable to attend there is the option to take part via the online auction portal or over the phone.

“It’s been wonderful to see so many people enjoy the GoGoSafari trail this summer and we can’t wait to see what’s next for our sculptures!” comments Ellie Edge, Break Partnerships Manager. “So many people have fallen in love with them and have their favourites. Our incredible artists have created some amazing designs making something completely unique. This auction is the perfect opportunity to be able to take home an original piece of art and a memento of another fantastic trail all whilst supporting Break and the work we do with young people in care.”

The evening starts at 6pm with the auction commencing at 7pm with tickets at £35 per person. available on the Break website break-charity.org/auction.

For fans and trailgoers who want to see how much their favourite goes for, it will be streamed live on our GoGoSafari Facebook page, along with updates posted throughout the evening on the trail’s socials.