Member News

Accountancy training firm First Intuition recently surveyed its students to find out what young adults want when it comes to looking for, choosing, and staying in a role. This is as employers report they are finding it difficult to recruit high-quality candidates in the accountancy sector. Particularly those entering the workplace for the first time. Below are some of the key findings from the survey in the hope that they can help employers better understand what young adults look for in the recruitment and retention process. Finding a role

• 39% of respondents found their current role through using a recruiter so employers are likely to get in front of more candidates if they use them too
• 50% of Graduates found their current role through TikTok so the platform offers new opportunities for employers to get in front of potential candidates
• 35% of respondents who had found a new role in the past year found it through LinkedIn, whilst 29% of those who started a role in the past 1-2 years found it through internal vacancies
• 38% of apprentices use vacancies pages on company websites so employers should utilise them

Choosing a role

• Candidates are not just driven by salary when looking for a new role. Employers can be competitive with their recruitment without necessarily having to pay more if they pay attention to other areas effectively. For example, 42% of respondents consider a pleasant and comfortable working environment the most important factor when considering a role
• Employers should therefore consider prioritising this, as well as other important factors to young adults including competitive salary/ bonus, work-life balance, and number of holidays in their latest cohort of recruits
• Apprentices value charity work or social/ environmental projects the company is involved in most when considering a role (44%), whilst commercial students value work-life balance most (56%)

Motivation in a role

• The biggest reason for dissatisfaction in a role is due to pay, followed by lack of support. Employers may need to look that their pay is competitive/ increases on a regular basis to ensure their staff stay satisfied within a role
• For respondents satisfied in a role, support from colleagues and management and support whenever you need it was the key motivator. Although pay is important and not something employers should ignore, employers can focus on other factors such as ensuring they have effective support in place to keep staff motivated
• Key motivators to candidates in a role change with job level, likely in line with how priorities in life change. Employers should be aware of how their staff’s wants and needs change over time and adjust their benefits accordingly
• Young adults, and so lower-level staff, are motivated in a role by employers that take measures to lower their carbon footprint

Moving roles

• Those in Industry are experiencing the biggest movement of staff and lowest retention rates across the accountancy sector. These businesses might need to pay more attention to what their staff want and need to help increase retention rates, as well as be more appealing during the recruitment process
• Of those that had moved roles in the past 12 months, 50% said a factor that influenced their decision to leave was lack of career progression
• The most popular influences that impact commercial students’ decision to move roles in the past 12 months were lack of career progression and not feeling valued (33%), whilst, for apprentices, it was due to being offered more pay elsewhere and lack of career progression (64%)

Benefits

• Most respondents (52%) value being able to work flexible hours in their role, followed by the flexibility to work both at home and in the office (42%). The least respondents value discounts as a work benefit (4%)
• A higher pension rate is notably more important to commercial students (32%) than apprentices (13%). Equally, an employee referral bonus is considerably more important to apprentices (35%) than commercial students (18%)
• The benefits that staff value most change with job level and length of time in a role, likely in line with how their priorities in life change. Employers should be aware of how their staff’s wants and needs change over time and adjust their benefits accordingly

Personal factors

• Social poverty and income inequality came out as the most important issue to respondents with 63% choosing this topic, followed by mental health and wellness (49%), and climate change and environmental issues (44%)
• Racial equality (23%), inclusion and equal access to education and services (19%), and gender inequality (18%) were chosen as the least important social issues or causes to respondents
• Graduates (within the first year of training) consider climate change and environmental issues as the most important causes
• Job level impacts the social issues or causes that respondents consider most important, employers should think about what the staff at the job level they are targeting consider most important
• Snapchat is the social media platform most used by respondents with 46% saying they use it at least once a day. Followed by Facebook (44%) and Instagram (43%)

Employers can benefit from using this information to better understand what young trainee accountants want from their roles and the recruitment process. This will help them to recruit high-quality staff, increase retention rates, help young adults into the workplace and increase staff satisfaction and productivity. Below are some quotes from employers who have used the Accountancy Student Recruitment Report with the results. “The report is very insightful and brings some real key drivers that all businesses should consider during the hiring process and just as importantly consider in retaining top talent. These insights are things we hear day to day in the recruitment market and the key point every candidate mentions is hybrid/flexible working to enable a work/life balance which stands out in this report. The other stand out findings for me would be the importance of good benefits and working environment and culture which are vital for any business when looking to hire as well as offering career progression which is the main reason we find for people looking.” Mark Wishart – Pure Executive “One of the most useful survey reports that I have seen this year. Employers need to tune into what their current and future people value the most and how they respond to different types of communication. This report support so much of what we hear from our candidate network from how they apply for jobs, attitudes to flexibility and the growing importance of business purpose. As the UK continues to experience high wage inflation and high competition for candidates, the quick solution for many employers is to just increase salaries. This report highlights that this not the only solution and is not always the best one.” Nik Pratap – Pratap Partnership You can download the full report here.

Fearless fundraisers soared to new heights after completing a daredevil skydive for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The adrenaline-filled challenge took place at Beccles Skydive and raised nearly £30,000. Among the 29 people taking part were four colleagues from the charity’s Care team and family members who receive support from EACH. “It was an incredibly successful day and our sincere thanks – not to mention complete respect – goes to those who took on this challenge,” said Senior Community Fundraiser Ali Butler. “A skydive is a tough thing to do and certainly not for the faint-hearted. “However, it was lovely to see the looks on people’s faces when they were back on the ground. They clearly enjoyed a very special and exhilarating experience. “Every person with us on the day – both those who jumped and everyone who came to support them – was just brilliant. “They brought such energy, enthusiasm and positivity and I can’t thank them enough. “To have raised as much as we did was amazing and will make such a difference to our vital work across the region.” Among those to take part in the tandem skydive event was Norfolk councillor Roger Atterwill, who raised £2,645. He said: “The skydive was an amazing experience and one I’ll never forget. It was exhilarating and lots of fun. “I wanted to do this challenge because EACH has provided incredible care and support to my family since my baby granddaughter, Bonnie, passed away in February 2022. “I can’t fully repay their kindness but doing this skydive seemed a perfect way to raise money and give something back, so it can go on providing invaluable support to other families both now and in the future.” Others families to have received support also signed up for the jump, which involved freefalling at 120mph from 13,000ft. Among them were Stuart Delf and son Stuie, who raised £1,345. Stuart and wife Carla’s youngest son, Fraser, died when he was nine and received end-of-life care at Milton, near Cambridge. The Princess of Wales, then The Duchess of Cambridge, planted a sunflower in his memory during a visit to The Nook, near Norwich, in June 2020. Stuie said: “I was nervous beforehand, although that didn’t last long as I loved every moment of the skydive and wanted to go straight back up and do it again.” Another family with a close connection to EACH were Dan Oswald and partner Emma Wood, Shân Oswald and Jason Oswald, who raised nearly £3,500. Dan and Emma’s son, Reggie, died when he was nine months old in August 2022. “It was incredible,” said Dan. “I can’t even begin to describe it but absolutely loved the experience and am already planning the next one.” Shân, Reggie’s grandmother, added: “‘I found it petrifying. “Even watching the videos makes me feel sick inside but it was for Reggie and EACH. Hopefully the next challenge is on the ground!” Emma said: “I found it amazing, too, and it was one of the craziest things I’ve done. “I stepped in at the last minute so didn’t have time to think about it. All I knew was that I was doing for Reggie, Ralph (Emma and Dan’s other son) and EACH.” It was also a big day for four members of the EACH Care team, based at Milton. Jan Stanbury-Jones, a Child and Family Practitioner, Becky Burlinson, an Art Therapist, Fay Wilde, a Family Support Practitioner, and Anna Pinner, a Care Assistant, took on the challenge with Jan’s 18-year-old son, Jacob. Between them, they raised nearly £4,400. “The skydive was fantastic and I didn’t realise freefalling at 120mph, from 13,000ft, could be so much fun,” said Jan. “It was an awesome experience and the whole day was made extra special by our group of supporters cheering us on. “Jacob and I would like to thank everyone who donated and those who encouraged us to fulfil this adrenaline-fuelled challenge for EACH.” Also among those taking part were six colleagues from The New Homes Group – corporate supporters of EACH and the headline sponsor of this year’s Happy Christmas Ipswich 4 show, at the Ipswich Regent, in December. Between them they raised £10,000. Judith Harris, a much-valued volunteer at EACH’s Dovercourt shop, also took part and raised nearly £1,700. “It was an amazing experience and definitely something I’d do again,” she said. The skydive took place on Saturday, 9^th September. Image credits EACH

Photo: Kevin Keable, Executive Chair, EEEGR Credit: Kevin Keable Energy Industry membership organisation, the East of England Energy Group (EEEGR), are pleased to announce the appointment of Kevin Keable as their new Executive Chair. With an illustrious career spanning over 30 years in the energy industry, Mr Keable brings a wealth of experience and a global perspective to the role having worked in countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Australia and Norway where he honed his skills in the industry. A former Director / Owner of Oilennium, an online learning company, Kevin has seen major success reaching an impressive milestone of delivering courses to over 100,000 people worldwide in multiple languages. Having built and grown the company for over ten years, Kevin sold the company to Petrofac in 2012, demonstrating his ability to create and grow successful ventures within the energy sector. As the newly appointed Executive Chair, Kevin will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisations future. With his extensive industry knowledge, global network and track record of innovation, he is well-positioned to lead EEEGR in advancing the East of England’s energy sector and pushing the boundaries of possibility. Speaking about his appointment Kevin said: “I’m fully invested in shaping the future of EEEGR. As one of the original members, I know the value the organisation can bring to the supply chain. Alongside championing the region’s industry, as an ex ECITB and East Coast College apprentice, I will focus on skills development as an absolute priority.” Robert Bush, EEEGR’s General Manager, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Kevin as the new Executive Chair of EEEGR. Not only does he bring a wealth of experience to the role, but also a deep understanding of the positive impact EEEGR can have on businesses, the supply chain and the region as a whole. I’m looking forward to working with him to drive EEEGR into its next era.” Victoria Mant, Commercial Director at RenewableUK, said: “I’m Thrilled to have Kevin Keable become the new Exec Chair of EEEGR – with his history in the region and expertise in the sector he will bring a new energy and different perspective to the role, which I look forward to working with him on, and the rest of the team, for the remainder of 2023 and 2024. Exciting times for the East of England ahead!”

Charlotte Dunne(left) is Chair of RIBA Norfolk and Jerene Irwin(right) Past Chair Festival of Architecture Norwich & Norfolk Returns for 2023 A festival celebrating the architectural past, present and future of Norwich and Norfolk that has been on hold since the pandemic, is back for 2023. The Festival of Architecture Norwich and Norfolk (FANN) returns for its seventh year this Autumn since its last event in 2019, with a theme of reflection. FANN is organised by volunteers from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Norfolk and celebrates Norfolk’s unique history, architecture, and culture. This year, the Festival will host a range of events including talks, walking tours, exhibitions and a photography competition for professional architects, historians, design enthusiasts, students and families alike. Charlotte Dunne, Chair of RIBA Norfolk, said: “It’s so great to be shouting about Norfolk’s architectural scene again after nearly four years of being away. We normally host the festival every two years, but because of Covid, we have had to wait until this year to get it back on the map. “We hope to stimulate interest, raise awareness and start conversations. We want to say a huge thank you to all our supporters and volunteers who make this festival possible.” Charlotte Dunne, Chair of RIBA Norfolk The festival is generously supported by RIBA East and will host an architectural exhibition showing up-and-coming projects taking place across the county at The Forum in Norwich from the 10^th to 19^th October. Talks will cover 2023 Norwich Lecture by Niall McLaughlin – this year at the Norwich University of the Arts, Common Ground; A Shared Future in Norfolk and the East by Saul Humphrey and Hudson Architects, and Collaborative Placemaking by Meredith Bowles from Mole Architects. The festival includes tours such as Boardman and Skipper walking tours in Norwich and Cromer and the Great Yarmouth Medieval Town Wall and Towers walking tour will also be taking place. Jerene added: “As well as the tours and exhibitions there will be a hard hat tour of Great Yarmouth’s Winter Gardens, Design and Craftmanship Awards to be held at The Assembly House, and an update on the work at Norwich Castle, plus many more events to be announced. It is set to be a vibrant celebration of all things Norfolk architecture and we hope people of all ages will come along to see what the festival has to offer.” RIBA Norfolk is also launching a photographic competition asking people to submit a photograph of their favourite contemporary building in Norfolk. The winner will receive £200. Julia Rickman (left) winner of the FANN photographic competition at the 2019 festival All events, and details of the photographic competition, can be found here www.FANN2023.org.uk ENDS For more information about this press release, please contact Amy Patterson amy@nurturemarketing.co.uk.

Looking to improve your marketing skills? Then join our practical half-day Email Marketing Workshop in Norwich. As a member of the Norfolk Chambers of Commerce, you can take advantage of a helpful 10% discount when you book. If your campaigns aren’t meeting your expectations and you’re feeling adrift in the ever-changing world of digital marketing, our Smart Messenger Email Marketing team at 101 is here to help. We’ve designed our half-day email marketing course to provide you with the skills and knowledge needed for outstanding success in your email marketing efforts, whichever platform you use. Why Choose Smart Messenger’s Email Marketing Course?

1. Practical Insights: This workshop delivers practical insights that you can immediately implement to enhance your email marketing strategies.
2. Expert Guidance: Learn from experienced professionals with a proven track record of successful email marketing campaigns.
3. Tailored for Your Needs: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your existing skills, this course caters to all skill levels and platforms.

  Feedback from Recent Delegates Join a growing list of satisfied marketers and business owners who have transformed their email marketing after attending Smart Messenger’s courses. Recent feedback includes:

• “Informative, friendly, well-delivered – thank you!” – Rachel at St Giles Gin
• “Very informative and practical” – Anna at R A Brown Heating Services
• “I really learned a lot – thank you” – Angela at Zak’s Diners

Course Overview Email marketing remains one of the most powerful and cost-effective marketing channels. The Smart Messenger Email Marketing team at 101 have constructed a course that equips you with the knowledge and tools to plan and deliver successful campaigns that align with your organisation’s objectives. The course covers legal obligations, campaign planning, improving open rates, driving action, automation, growing your marketing database, mobile-friendly emails, performance evaluation, and a practical review of a previous campaign. Who Should Attend? This course is ideal for marketers and small to medium-sized business owners, whether you’re new to email marketing or want to enhance your campaign performance. The workshop is non-technical, offering practical advice and strategic direction to transform your email marketing activities. Learning Outcomes By attending this training course, you will:

• Learn how to improve open rates and drive action
• Learn your legal obligations around email marketing
• Develop a strategic approach to your campaigns
• Discover strategies to grow your marketing database
• Explore automation to enhance your campaigns
• Ensure mobile-friendly emails
• Master performance evaluation

Meet Your Course Leader – Holly Stibbon Your course leader, Holly Stibbon, is a highly experienced digital marketer and email marketing specialist with 25 years of industry expertise. As the Managing Director of 101 Websites, Apps & Email Marketing, Holly is passionate about advising businesses on online marketing and delivering impressive results. Her friendly and approachable manner extends to her training courses, where she warmly welcomes questions and addresses them during the session. Book Now Ready to unlock the full potential of your email marketing? Secure your spot now, and prepare to drive greater success for your business. Email Marketing Workshop – Details And Booking Remember, if you’re a Norfolk Chambers of Commerce member, quote Norfolk10 to apply your 10% discount at checkout.

Caseworker Hours: Monday to Friday Full time Locations: Based in Norwich or Kings Lynn but travel across Norfolk is required.  Car and driving licence essential reimbursed at 0.45p per mile Salary: £24,977 per annum Annual Leave: 20 days plus bank holidays Pension: 4.5% contribution Norfolk Citizens Advice is working with the Probation Service and is seeking a dedicated Caseworker to join our team. Are you a compassionate individual who wants to help make a positive difference in people’s lives? We invite talented individuals who share our visions and values to apply for this rewarding opportunity. Role Overview: As a Caseworker, your primary purpose is to empower clients by providing comprehensive guidance in managing their financial well-being. You will enhance the financial stability and independence of the clients you serve by offering practical advice, resources, and emotional support. Responsibilities:

• Conduct benefits checks and offer advice on benefit application processes.
• Provide financial guidance on money advice including welfare, debt, and tax-related matters.
• Engage in discussions about effective debt management strategies and refer clients to relevant specialist resources when necessary.
• Coach clients on banking processes and online tools, assisting in setting up Universal Credit on clients’ phones, and addressing any challenges.
• Identify additional client needs, such as disability or dependent support, and guide them to access services like PIP and Carer’s Allowance.
• Assist clients in tracking income and expenses, and help them plan for expenditures and debt repayments.
• Collaborate with specialist partner organizations/projects to develop and deliver debt management and repayment plans.
• Facilitate referrals to support programs for addressing cost-of-living crises.
• Assist clients in obtaining necessary identification and setting up bank accounts as needed.
• Represent clients in Welfare Benefit appeals tribunals.
• Facilitate in pursuing Debt Relief Orders using partner organizations and projects
• Facilitate in pursuing Breathing Space for clients in financial distress using partner organizations and projects.

Satisfactory clearance of an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) and the Probation Service vetting process is required. Essential Skills: Good time management skills. Strong IT skills. Access to a car and a valid driving license is essential. Good telephone manner. We are a strong supporter of equality, diversity and inclusive practices. The closing date for applications will be the end of business on Friday 6^th October 2023. (We reserve the right to close this early should we need to) Please APPLY HERE    

First Intuition is the first accountancy training provider to become a signatory of Access Accountancy. Access Accountancy is a charity that collaborates with accountancy firms, professional bodies and organisations dedicated to improving access to, and progression within, the accountancy profession for applicants from lower socio-economic backgrounds in the UK. Established in 2014, Access Accountancy works towards everyone having an equal chance of accessing and progressing within the accountancy profession based on merit, not background. The vision of Access Accountancy is to ensure that the accountancy profession is representative, at all levels, of the socio-economic demographic of wider society. First Intuition Cambridge Limited will be working with Access Accountancy towards three milestones: Adopting, Contributing, and Influencing to increase the volume, scope and quality of activity to improve access to, and progression within, the accountancy profession for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. One of the ways First Intuition will achieve this is through its Accountancy Academy programme, a free virtual event created to invite students from across the country to find out more about the accountancy and finance industry and the careers available within it. Including sessions on routes into the industry, how to find roles, and tips on making a good impression with CV’s and at interviews. Amy Forrest, Managing Director of First Intuition Cambridge Limited comments: “I am really pleased that we have become a signatory for Access Accountancy! “Our mission is to train accountants, and that’s all accountants.  We want to make the accounting career more accessible to all, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Working with Access Accountancy and contributing to their important work is a big step towards this. “We have a fantastic network of employers, students and alumni, and fantastic relationships with professional bodies, local groups, recruitment agents, think tanks, and many more. We will be looking at how we can do our part in this community to further promote accounting as a career to a more diverse group of people.”

One Man. Two Wheels. Over 10,000 miles across 27 countries… British Gentleman’s Grooming company Captain Fawcett Ltd, is on the road again for the third and final part of the GREAT EXPEDITION 2023. Richie Finney, founder of the multi-award-winning Norfolk-based lifestyle brand, has embarked on the last leg of a three part solo motorcycle adventure. Beginning in May, during spring and summer Richie completed two action-packed tours through Spain, central Europe and the Nordic and Baltic states. The finale, Part Three, sees him continue his odyssey through the heart of Europe, culminating with a photo finish in Paris in mid-October. Covering 16,000km across 27 countries, the remarkable ride has proved hugely successful. As well as cementing relationships by sharing great moments in the European barbershop community, it has created the occasion to meet new acquaintances – barbers, customers and distributors alike. The Great Expedition is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the brand’s multi-award winning Gentleman’s Grooming products to existing and prospective buyers on their home territory. Raising public awareness of the brand through barbershop events, the epic road trip is generating a wealth of shared social media content and enthusiastic coverage in the European press. Richie Finney (aka Captain Fawcett’s ‘Right Hand Man’) says: “Why Europe? Of course after Brexit we are no longer dealing with a single state (the EU) but 27 individual countries, each with their own nuances and customs requirements, plus others not part of the European Union. Some 78% of our orders go overseas and, furthermore, Captain Fawcett is hugely proud to be named a Department for Business and Trade Export Champion for 4 years running. I’m taking to the highway because, as tis said ‘the road goes forever on’, but inevitably our time on it is short. The barbershop experience is hands-on. It can’t be replicated through wires and algorithms. The chatter, the laughter, the drinks, the scent of perfume, a massage, a luxurious close shave. Those tangible moments are the antidote to solitude, a tribute to our togetherness. They’re the essence of life itself! So, dear chums, by all means come along and say how do! It’s going to be wild, it’s going to be weird, and it’s going to be one hell of a ride!” IMAGES, NOTES and FURTHER INFORMATION For additional information or further high res images please contact Jenna Leake at the Captain Fawcett Press Office.  

Norfolk Citizens Advice – Foodbank and Crisis Adviser Hours: Monday to Friday Full time Locations: Norwich- Office Based Role Responsible to: Crisis and Energy Department Lead Salary: £23,144 per annum Annual Leave: 20 days plus bank holidays   Norfolk Citizens advice is seeking a dedicated Foodbank and Crisis Adviser to join our team. Are you a compassionate individual who wants to help and make a difference in people’s lives? Do you want to make a positive impact on the community? We invite talented individuals who share our visions and values to apply for this rewarding opportunity. The Role: You will collaborate with the Norwich foodbanks, Yorkshire Building Society and other teams to tackle underlying causes of poverty and hardships by providing advice on a range of issues based on the individual needs of each client. This may also include some limited casework which will ensure the client receives the most appropriate support over a period of time. We aim to reduce their need for foodbank support in the future and enable them to develop resilience and self-confidence in their lives.  The Food Bank and Crisis Adviser will also support volunteers to identify issues and provide appropriate information, signposting’s and referral routes. By leading with empathy and respect you will support our clients in delivering high quality advice.  This is rewarding opportunity to help others. Main Responsibilities:

• Ensure that all advice conforms to the organisations Quality Standards, policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, confidentiality and GDPR
• Maintain records on Casebook (our case recording and customer relationship management system) to ensure consistency and continuity.
• Ensure feedback is obtained from users of the service
• Produce reports, case studies and feedback for key stakeholders including funders and partner agencies
• Working with other colleagues in NCA, Trussell Trust, and partner agencies to ensure the service is available to all those who need it.

What we’re looking for:

• Excellent IT and telephone skills
• Ability to work independently as part of a team
• Ability to prioritise own work and meet deadlines
• Ability to work flexibly to meet the needs of people using the service
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build and maintain positive relationships with clients and colleagues
• Drivers Licence and car is essential

We are a strong supporter of equality, diversity and inclusive practices. The closing date for applications will be the end of business Tuesday 20^th September 2023. (we reserve the right to close this early should we need too)   Please APPLY HERE    

We will be taking a trip to the Wild Wild West this winter with our themed Christmas party nights for 2023. Think saloon bars and cowboy hats as you saddle up for an unforgettable night here at Carrow Road. Tickets are £45 per person and include an arrival drink, table nibbles, 2-course buffet and evening entertainment. These events are over 18’s only. Find out more here

Hatch Brenner Solicitors are proud to announce a 3-year partnership with Age UK Norwich, a local and independent charity dedicated to making Norwich an Age Friendly City. This new non-exclusive partnership aims to combine Hatch Brenner’s legal expertise with Age UK Norwich’s mission to improve the quality of later life, ensuring that people aged 50+ have access to the highest quality legal services tailored to their unique needs.

Caroline Billings, Partner at Hatch Brenner, commented: “We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with Age UK Norwich.  Their dedication to the well-being of older people resonates with our commitment to providing exceptional legal services to every member of our community.  This partnership will further enhance our ability to serve and support the senior members of our community.”

Jeremy Goss, Corporate Relationship Manager at Age UK Norwich, added: “Age UK Norwich are delighted to be partnering with such a well-known and highly respected Norwich based law firm such as Hatch Brenner. We look forward to building on an already close working relationship with an aim of developing mutual long-term initiatives that have a meaningful and sustainable impact on our clients and the local community.”

As part of the agreement, Hatch Brenner will be offering special legal clinics and workshops in collaboration with Age UK Norwich, focusing on areas such as wills, estate planning, and elderly care rights. Hatch Brenner Solicitors is a full-service law firm based in Norwich, offering a range of legal services to both businesses and individuals.  The firm has built a reputation for its client-centric approach and community involvement. Age UK Norwich is an independent charity in Norwich.  Their mission is to improve the quality of later life by working with residents to create an age-friendly and inclusive city where they can thrive, supported by opportunities and services that enhance and protect their health and wellbeing.

This Business Safety Week, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) wants to make sure all businesses in the county are aware of important changes which start next month. Business Safety Week takes place from 11-17 September and is run by the National Fire Chief’s Council (NFCC). From 1 October, new government fire safety legislation comes into effect throughout England and Wales. It means all businesses will need to record a fire risk assessment and fire safety arrangements in full, regardless of the number of employees and size or type of business. There are also more requirements for cooperation and coordination between ‘Responsible Persons’ in multi-occupied buildings or those where the occupier and the owner are not the same person. Business owners and those responsible for buildings affected by the changes can access a range of information online to help and advise them:

• A five-step checklist for fire safety risk assessments from the Government website Fire safety risk assessment: 5-step checklist – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
• A Government guides on how to carry out a fire risk assessment, targeted at different types of business https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/fire-safety-legislation-guidance-for-those-with-legal-duties
• Advice on NFRS’s web pages about fire safety risk assessments Fire safety risk assessment guidance for businesses – Norfolk County Council

Councillor Margaret Dewsbury, cabinet member for Communities and Partnerships, said: “We know business owners have a large number of responsibilities, which is why we’d like to make sure they are ready and prepared for these changes in fire legislation. “Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service would like to support the county’s businesses in these changes, which have come in from Government and are designed to help keep everyone safe.” NFRS is also running a series of social media posts this week to help business owners with the new legislation. You can find them on Facebook, X and LinkedIn. Gavin Tomlinson, NFCC’s Protection and Business Safety Committee Chair, said: “Fire and rescue services are committed to helping all types of businesses reduce the risk of fire in the workplace and be compliant with fire safety law. “We don’t expect businesses to be experts that’s’ why we are here to provide help and advice. “We encourage any business to work with their fire service to help prevent fires to help them remain productive, safe and legal.”