Contract Personnel are delighted to announce a renewal of our long-standing regional partnership with Norwich City Football Club for a further three seasons. Contract Personnel are one of East Anglia’s leading independent recruitment agencies – established for over 30 years. They offer temporary and permanent roles and specialise in driving, industrial, commercial and engineering roles. Sarah Hooper, Managing Director at Contract Personnel, said: “We are honoured to be continuing our partnership with Norwich City for the next three seasons. We are fully behind the players, management, staff and everyone associated with the club as we push for, and aim to retain, Premier League status. “If any NCFC fans are looking for work, or if their company needs help finding staff, we will always be on here to help with any recruitment needs.” With offices in Norwich and Thetford, new and exciting jobs are always being added to their website. They also have a hugely popular Job Interview Bus, which is busy travelling across East Anglia to register candidates and reach people who may not be based in central locations. They are also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Jonathan Casbon, head of partnerships at Norwich City, added: “After many years as an official partner of the club, I’m delighted that the team at Contract Personnel have agreed to extend our relationship together. “Long-term partnerships, especially those with such a local connection, are at the centre of our ambitions at the club and this is another fantastic example. We look forward to seeing them all back at Carrow Road for another three seasons.”
Team HODL have completed the world’s toughest row and achieved a world record doing it! In just 38 days, the team rowed more than 2,800 miles from California to Hawaii. They secured a world record and finished first in the trios. This is the most incredible set of achievements by the three superstars, two of which are Langley alumni! Huge congratulations to Luca, Cutu and Matt, who set out on a journey across the pacific to raise as much money as possible forThe Ocean Cleanupalong with a collective of people supporting them from afar. Their team name stands for ‘Hold On for Dear Life,’ which they certainly did throughout all the challenges they faced and they now have a world record to show for it. You are an inspiration Luca, Cutu and Matt! Photos from @team_hodl
While the pace may be a bit slower than usual throughout August, it’s a golden opportunity to review and bolster your cyber security defences. A proactive approach now can help you avoid unwanted surprises down the line. 3B Data Security are a specialist cyber security organisation with extensive experience in Cyber Incident Response, ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials & PCI DSS Compliance, Security Training, Penetration Testing, Forensic Investigations, Data Breach Management and much more. To ensure your business is protected during this season and beyond, they are excited to offer new customers 10% off services that are booked and completed in August. All 3B Data Security’s solutions are tailored to suit your organisation’s unique needs and requirements and have been accredited with multiple best practice industry certifications. Availability for this offer is limited so don’t miss out! Book in your free consultation today. https://3bdatasecurity.com/contact.php +44 (0)1223 298 333 Info@3BDataSecurity.com Terms and conditions apply. Contact the 3B Data Security team for more details.
In the current work environment of remote working and flexible office schedules, it’s crucial to create opportunities for team members to come together. Team-building activities and company away days provide the much-needed chance for relationship building and socialisation, fostering a positive company culture and boosting morale. This break can help employees rejuvenate and refocus, returning to work with increased productivity and a fresh outlook. Investing in team activities and away days can also help increase employee happiness and job satisfaction, showing that employers care for their personal and professional development. Such initiatives can help employees better understand their roles within the company, leading to increased confidence in their work and improved job satisfaction. Develop New Skills Additionally, team activities and away days can help employees develop new skills and work together more effectively (especially if you can get them out of the office), leading to increased productivity and collaboration in the workplace. By getting to know each other on a more personal level, team members can improve communication and build stronger relationships, creating a stronger sense of community (I’m sure we’ve all made connections on a different level being out of the office in a different environment!) Participating in team activities and away days can help employees see the big picture of the company’s goals and mission, leading to increased investment in the company’s success and, hence, improved productivity. Events and activities can also help build trust among team members, essential for effective teamwork and improved work efficiency. Incorporating team activities and away days into a companies calendar of events can provide so many benefits… For both employees and employers, improving morale, productivity, and teamwork, among others. At Huxley, our team activities are challenging, enjoyable, and tailored to meet our clients’ objectives and solve their problems, making them unforgettable experiences. We want everyone to have an amazing time, whilst proving be great value for businesses. Don’t settle for cheesy raft-building; invest in unique team activities and make a long-lasting impact on your team’s success and outlook. Team taking part in the Killing Crime Scene Investigation ExperienceOur most popular team experiences for away days at the moment are:
The Killing Crime Scene Investigation Experience– your chance to solve a murder investigation! Designed by Ex-Scotland Yard Detectives this is completely immersive, get hands-on with fingerprinting, case files, police statements and creating photofits to name just a few of the activities.
Shorter on time? Cracked It!– A “tabletop” style Prison themed Escape Room! In this fast-paced prison-themed escape room-style activity, you and your team will be given 45 minutes on the clock to solve all the puzzles, break into the governor’s office, and escape over the wall.
The Ultimate GPS Treasure Hunt – Get out the office and into the city for our high-tech, fun GPS treasure hunts! Head to our hotspots to unlock challenges you’ll complete as a team to win points. From trivia questions to photo challenges, it’s anyone’s game!
Our round-up of top reasons to organise a company social event! There are so many reasons why companies will be, and should be organising social events for their employees this spring and summer season. We’re finding June and July 2023 are booking up far more quickly than 2022 did, with several key dates now fully booked for events with us! Below are just a few reasons why companies should organise events for their employees…1. Boosting employee morale: With the COVID-19 pandemic, many employees have been working from home and may feel isolated or disconnected from the team or organisation. Organising social events can provide a sense of community and improve employee well-being. 2. Increasing team collaboration with a company summer social event: Social events can encourage employees to work together in a more relaxed setting, building relationships and improving communication skills. 3. Recognising employee achievements: Companies can use social events to celebrate employee accomplishments and show appreciation for their hard work! It’s much easier to express this in person than virtually. 4. Improving company culture: Social events can create a positive company culture where employees feel valued and connected to their workplace. 5. Attracting and retaining top talent: A company that values its employees is more likely to attract and retain top talent in a competitive job market. Many people these days are looking for more than just a “job”. When was the last time your team or organisation planned a company social event? We’d love to help if you’re looking to organise a team day or away day! With hundreds of activity options including indoor or outdoor team activities, support with venue finding and all the fun extras that come with events! Let us help with just the activity, or organise the whole event. Get in touch with the Huxley Events team for support with your next event. Home – Huxley Events Images provided by Huxley Events
Don’t miss this! Everyone is “feeling the pinch” at present, so here at the Black Swan, we thought we would help spread some festive cheer! We are introducing an offer to help small businesses enjoy their 2023 Christmas parties that you will not want to miss! It’s a simple deal. As of the 1st of August, come and dine with us before December, spend more than £20 a head and receive an entry ticket into our free prize draw. Once a month from now until December, a lucky ticket from the previous month will be drawn “from the hat” and the winner will walk away with a £500 voucher to spend with us in 2023. That’s a cool £500 towards your Christmas meal for you and your workforce! All we ask for in return is a copy of your receipt and your contact details. Terms and conditions apply. Each qualifying ticket will be placed in a closed box. The winning ticket will be drawn in the lounge bar on the first Tuesday of the following month at 18:00, and the lucky winner will be notified by telephone or email. Each winning voucher can then be exchanged for goods and services of your choice here at the Black Swan, including food, drinks, accommodation and use of the function room. Any remaining balances will be returned in the form of gift vouchers. The Black Swan is a sixteenth-century, individually owned free house inn situated on the lovely village green at Horsham St. Faith – not far (but not too close!) to Norwich Airport. We are a country pub, but with a full service, family-friendly, à la carte restaurant Along with a cosy, spacious lounge bar, serving a selection of ‘Cask Marque’ real ales, and an outside seating area (including our newly finished, purpose-built gazebo area which is perfect for alfresco drinking and dining), the Black Swan also has eleven, individually appointed en-suite bedrooms which have recently been refurbished. Our large business conference/social event/function room can seat up to fifty. We have plenty of off-street parking. Our aim is simple – to look after our guests so they will want to return again and again. To make a reservation or enquire about our hospitality packages, please call us on 01603 897787 or email info@blackswaninn.co.uk for further details or head over to our website for further details at https://www.blackswaninn.co.uk/win-a-voucher-worth-500/‘
GRIDSERVE has announced the largest debt raise to-date globally for a privately-owned chargepoint operator, demonstrating the market’s confidence in both the transition to electric mobility and GRIDSERVE’s mission to help deliver net zero transport at speed and scale. Comprising £326 million in committed loan facilities, with a further £200 million uncommitted accordion facility for future assets – a total of £526 million – the green infrastructure financing facility covers the company’s full Sun-to-Wheel ecosystem. The refinancing of its existing and future electric vehicle charging Super Hubs and Electric Forecourts®, as well as related infrastructure including operational solar and battery projects, will allow GRIDSERVE to accelerate the upgrade and expansion of its UK network. Projected to include the installation of more than 500 new Electric Super Hubs nationwide, the growth will deliver more than 3,000 new High Power chargepoints with class-leading speeds of up to 350kW, capable of providing 100 miles of charge in only 5 minutes. The £326 million facility consists of a £300 million term loan, a £10 million working capital facility and a £16 million VAT facility. The financing will be undertaken under GRIDSERVE’s Green Finance Framework which has been certified “Dark Green” by S&P Global’s Shades of Green (formerly CICERO), making it the first officially designated green loan for EV charging infrastructure in the UK. Toddington Harper, Founder and CEO of GRIDSERVE, said: “To secure the largest debt raise globally for a privately-owned charge point operator is a remarkable endorsement of GRIDSERVE’s electric vehicle charging network, our Sun-to-Wheel strategy, our fantastic team and our future expansion plans. This financing – which was a hugely popular transaction amongst banks, attracting overwhelming market demand – will accelerate our delivery, providing customers further confidence to go electric, and fully charge GRIDSERVE’s mission to move the needle on climate change, precisely at the time when urgent action is so critically required.” The bank club behind the debt raise consists of: CIBC, KfW Ipex, Lloyds Bank, MUFG, Natixis, NatWest, Santander and UK Infrastructure Bank, with Santander also acting as the Green Structuring Bank and GRIDSERVE being advised by Santander Corporate & Investment Banking. Other advisers and due diligence providers included Clifford Chance (legal), Arup (commercial), PwC (tax and financial), Aon (insurance) and Mazars (model audit), while lenders were advised by Latham & Watkins (legal). Lloyds is the Facility Agent and Security Bank, with Natixis as Hedging Coordinator. Image provided by Gridserve.
Why You Need Them for Your Next Event! Organising events can be a time-consuming and daunting task, especially if you have limited experience in event planning. There are so many details to consider, from finding the right venue to sourcing catering and entertainment. Not to mention managing the logistics of coordinating the event and ensuring it runs smoothly. With so much to do, it’s no wonder that many people feel overwhelmed and stressed when taking on the responsibility of organising an event….especially when they often have to do it along their day job. That is where professional event management support comes in! As a result, many companies and teams hire professional event organisers like us, to help deliver exceptional events. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of working with professional event organisers and how we can help you achieve your goals! First and foremost, as professional event organisers we have significant experience and a deep understanding of what it takes to execute exceptional events. We fully understand the design, planning, and logistics required for successful events (from checking the power amp’s for plug sockets to ensuring all dietary requirements are catered for) and we have the expertise to guide our clients through the planning processes, ensuring that nothing is missed. Huxley Events | On Site Event Management Team We understand that each element of an event impacts the overall experience of attendees, and we work to ensure everything is perfect. People always remember how they feel more than what actually happened, and we keep this at the core when planning events for our clients. We want everyone involved in the event to be completely happy, the organisers, the attendees, the suppliers and the venue, and everyone else who is part of it! Save Money We can also help you save money (and who doesn’t love getting the most for their money). In many locations we have strategic partnerships with suppliers, allowing us to negotiate better rates for our clients. We can also prevent common mistakes that often lead to additional costs, such as ordering too much or not enough of something, or last minute ordering. Full Support During Your Event From A Professional Event Management Team During your event itself, the event managers (and event management team) we have at the event are responsible for handling any issues that may arise. In other words, you won’t have to panic when something goes wrong. Instead, you can trust that we would quickly resolve any issues without disturbing you or your delegates. The key with this is having the experience to predict, and then ‘design –out’ any unwanted scenarios. Here at Huxley, we are masters in handling potential scenarios, so working with us significantly reduces stress before, during, and after your event. Finally, working with professional event organisers like us means you can really bring your vision to life – we have planned literally thousands of events, from large scale conferences for 1000 + guests, to intimate, high end away days for senior teams or a whole company party. We can take your ideas and transform them into unique, unforgettable experiences for your attendees. We use our creativity and innovation to tailor the event to meet your company and team objectives and can infuse new ideas, models, and concepts to reshape your planning models, make them one of a kind and help you have the very best event possible. Whatever you are planning, partnering with an event management company can help ensure that your event is a success. So why not take the stress out of event planning and focus on what you do best – growing your business. Contact the team today to talk about your next event >
In today’s world, sustainability has become a pressing concern for businesses of all sizes. With growing awareness about the impact of our actions on the environment, companies are seeking ways to adopt eco-friendly practices in their operations. One such environmentally-conscious choice that has gained popularity is the use of seeded paper for business cards. Seed paper business cards offer a unique blend of professionalism and environmental responsibility, making them an ideal choice for any forward-thinking business. What are Seed Paper Business Cards? Seed paper business cards are a creative and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cardstock. Made from PCW recycled paper, these unique cards incorporate seeds with the fibres. Once the card is no longer needed, it can be planted by covering with a thin layer of soil. Through the natural process of degradation, the paper disintegrates, providing nutrients to the soil, and the embedded seeds germinate, giving life to beautiful wild flowers. This innovative approach not only reduces paper waste but also contributes positively to the environment. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable The primary advantage of seed paper business cards lies in their eco-friendliness and sustainability. Traditional paper production often leads to deforestation, increased carbon emissions, and excessive water consumption. In contrast, seeded paper cards are manufactured from post-consumer recycled paper, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing the strain on forests. Additionally, sustainable printing processes further lower the environmental impact by employing non-toxic, soy-based inks that do not harm the ecosystem. A Memorable and Unique Experience Seed paper business cards provide a memorable experience for recipients. When someone receives a seeded paper card, they are not just handed a piece of information; they are also given the opportunity to participate in an eco-conscious act. Planting the card and watching it grow reinforces the memory of the interaction and the company it represents. This personal touch can foster stronger connections with potential clients or partners, making seed paper business cards an excellent marketing tool for businesses looking to leave a lasting impression. Demonstrating Corporate Social Responsibility In today’s socially aware landscape, consumers prefer to engage with companies that actively demonstrate corporate social responsibility (CSR). Using seed paper business cards showcases your commitment to sustainable practices and environmental preservation. By aligning your brand with environmentallyconscious initiatives, you can attract like-minded clients who appreciate your efforts in making a positive impact on the planet. Not only does this reinforce your company’s values, but it also helps you stand out in a competitive market Promoting Biodiversity and Wildlife Beyond the environmental benefits of using seeded paper, it also contributes to promoting biodiversity and supporting wildlife. The seeds embedded in the paper consist of native wild flowers which are crucial for sustaining local ecosystems. As the plants grow, they attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, playing a part in conserving endangered species and strengthening the overall ecosystem. In conclusion, opting for seed paper business cards offers numerous advantages for environmentally-conscious businesses. The use of sustainable materials and printing processes reduces the carbon footprint while promoting responsible consumption of resources. These unique cards provide recipients with a memorable experience and demonstrate your commitment to corporate social responsibility. Moreover, by supporting biodiversity and wildlife, you actively contribute to the conservation of our precious environment. So, the next time you need business cards, consider making the eco-friendly choice and embrace the benefits of seed paper. Embody your commitment to sustainability while leaving a lasting impression on your clients, partners, and the world. With seed paper business cards, you’re not just handing out contact information – you’re sowing the seeds of a greener future. If you’re interested in discussing this amazing product for your next print project please don’t hesitate to get in touch for a chat. We’re on hand to help. E: hello@joelsharpcreative.co.uk T: +44 7901 141117
Bookworms have the chance to combine their love of literature with helping a leading children’s charity. East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) is on the lookout for volunteers to help support its fast-growing online Book Shop. The busy store has become a vital income stream and helps the charity continue its work supporting families and caring for children and young people with life-threatening conditions. EACH Book Shop Deputy Manager Sue Nettleingham said: “This is a role anyone who loves reading will thoroughly enjoy. “We sell all genres, both fiction and non-fiction, and it’s fascinating what gets donated. “They range from classics and children’s favourites to others that are rare and niche. “There’s so much variety and, alongside the books, we’re now introducing mixed media in the form of CDs, DVDs and Console games. “It’s great fun and we’d love to hear from anyone willing to get involved, even just for a morning or afternoon a week. “As well as being fun, volunteering is also hugely rewarding and this is an opportunity to help our wonderful charity. “Selling books and media is a key income stream and the money we generate makes such a difference. “However, we can only do it with the help and support of volunteers and the community.” The Book Shop is run from EACH’s Retail Distribution Centre (RDC), in Brunel Way, Thetford. Volunteers would be asked to unpack and organise boxes of donated books, including sorting them and checking their suggested price online. Profitable books are then listed for sale and sent to customers. Others might be sold in the charity’s many book rooms and even those worth little can be pulped and generate recycling income – at the same time saving them being sent to landfill. In an average week, EACH sells around 170 books, with an average selling price of just over £8. The scheme usually generates more than £1,000 a week and, typically, there are around 2500 books on the EACH account. “I’m in desperate need of extra volunteers and poster campaigns have drawn a blank,” added Sue. “Two of my three regulars are leaving for full-time work and I’d be delighted to hear from anyone willing to join me and get involved. “It would be ideal for anyone of any age, including students fresh out of school or university. “It’s a chance to pick up new skills, make friends and get a taste for doing something completely different. Others have described it as a brilliant experience.” To find out more about volunteering, contact Sue via susan.nettleingham@each.org.uk or contact her at RDC on 01842 821620. Meanwhile, more volunteers are needed to help in the main warehouse at RDC with the sorting and storing of donated goods. The team sort and process all donations and then distribute them to EACH’s 47 shops across East Anglia. One of the roles includes being a ‘driver’s mate’, with duties including loading and unloading vans. To find out more about volunteering opportunities at RDC, email Warehouse Operations and Supply Chain Manager Stephen Ball via Stephen.Ball@each.org.uk Image provided by EACH
An adventurous pair of caped crusaders tackled a fundraising mission with a difference – driving from Norwich to Barcelona via a host of European hotspots and clocking up 1,800 miles in a banger-turned-Batmobile. Pals Tim Boucher and Paul Sayles completed the four-day Wacky Rally to show their support for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The duo’s monster journey took in the Swiss Alps, rolling hills of Italy, French Riviera and Spanish Catalan capital and, in the process, they raised more than £1,500. The Wacky Rally, an annual event, featured a host of bangers and drivers – all supporting charities of their choice – and participants got underway from Lille, in northern France. They followed a set route via seven countries, staying in designated locations along the way, before converging in Barcelona. “It’s the second time we’ve done it but, once again, such an adventure with so many highlights,” said Tim, who is chairman of Poringland Parish Council. “It’s definitely something we’ll look back on with fondness and I’m so glad we did it. “It was great fun but hard going at times, with lots of hours behind the wheel. “Most days we drove for around 11 hours and on the first alone, we clocked up 550 miles. “Some of the bangers were amazing and we were very pleased with our converted Batmobile. “We painted it black, put logos on both sides and it looked as close to the real thing as possible. “We saw some great reactions when people saw us coming. There were a lot of double-takes and it must have been a very odd sight. “To the eye, it looked amazing but, from a driving perspective, it was a rusty old heap. “It was a 19-year-old Audi TT with 176,000 miles on the clock, more dents than a steel drum and had been used as a dog bed for the previous four years! “Lots of things either didn’t work or went wrong along the way.” To get in the spirit, Tim, 45, and Paul, 44, who are old schoolfriends, spent much of the trip dressed as Batman and Robin. The first day of their challenge took in five countries – starting in Lille before driving through Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany and Switzerland – in time for an overnight stay in Thun, nestled in the heart of the Alps. Day two included the Gran St Bernard pass, where The Italian Job was filmed, and finished in the Italian ski town of Salze D’Oulx. Tim and Paul then travelled from the heart of the mountains to the French Riviera, passing Monte Carlo, before arriving in the historic city of Arles. The challenge then ended with a short drive to Barcelona, including a detour to the Costa Brava, before finishing with a party and award ceremony on the iconic Las Ramblas. The Wacky Rally took place from 30th June to 3rd July and Tim recently visited The Nook to present a cheque to Community Fundraiser Ellie Miller. In his professional capacity as a surveyor, he was involved with the design and delivery of the hospice during the early stages its development. “I live less than half a mile away, have been there several times and have a young family of my own, so it felt like the right charity to support,” said Tim, who has also visited The Treehouse, in Ipswich. “EACH makes such an enormous difference to the children, young people and families needing care and support. The thought of what they go through is unbearable. “It’s an amazing charity and the fact it’s almost entirely run by fundraising and income from its retail shops, with so little help from statutory sources, means it’s such an important cause to support.” Tim and Paul’s fundraising page is still live. To show your support, head here.