Sara’s Blog: Join us at our Big Economic Conference and news of a national framework for business
I am delighted to announce that we will be holding our first Big Economic Conference on 22nd November.
I am hoping that you will join us will join us at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Festival Park to hear from a panel of guest speakers about the latest economic developments and a valuable forecast of what businesses can expect in 2024.
This is a unique event that will give your business the knowledge needed to thrive in today’s ever-changing economy, while forging new partnerships and collaborations that can open up new avenues for growth and expansion.
We have lined up two brilliant guest speakers will be joining us on the day:
Vicky Pryce is Chief Economic Adviser at CEBR and former Director General for Economics at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, bringing extensive experience from senior economic roles in various sectors including banking and oil. Vicky is an influential author with a diverse range of publications, including her latest co-authored book, “How to be a Successful Economist,” published by Oxford University Press.
Thomas Pugh is RSM’s UK economist analysing key economic events and assessing the effect that they have on middle-market businesses in an accessible way. Regularly quoted and interviewed by the UK’s financial media, Thomas presents his thoughts and insights on the UK economy to businesses and conferences around the country and internationally.
Gain fresh perspectives from renowned speakers and experts, offering you a broader outlook on economic opportunities and challenges.
Book your space here: Staffordshire Chambers launch Big Economic Conference 2023 with Vicky Pryce & Thomas Pugh – Staffordshire Chambers
A business framework for the future
The economy thrives when business and politicians work in partnership and this week the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) have set out how to unlock the power of British business and get the economic growth which benefits everyone.
The BCC is calling for urgent action from politicians to stimulate economic growth across the UK.
Among the key asks are:
- Better planning for business so that firms are not squeezed out of towns and cities.
- Introduction of flexibility in the apprenticeship levy to support everyone in the workplace.
- Strengthened UK-EU co-operation to increase bi-lateral investment levels.
- Dramatic energy grid upgrades to ensure there is sufficient network capacity to meet modern needs.
The action plan is published in a new report to MPs of all parties ‘The Power Of British Business: A Framework For The Future’. It outlines 16 of the BCC’s key policy asks on economic growth, skills and employment, trade and net-zero.
Following three years of economic shocks, latest BCC research shows that more than three quarters of businesses are not increasing investment. Fact that has been borne out in our own quarterly economic survey. Companies are also telling the BCC that inflation and interest rates continue to exert pressure.
The plan outlines a framework for collaborative working between business and politicians. It stresses that public sector projects must not crowd out private investment. Instead, the BCC is calling for pragmatism from politicians so that business can grow.
A better planning system, a flexible apprenticeship levy, strengthened UK-EU co-operation and a dramatic grid upgrade – are all needed urgently.
All too often businesses are squeezed out of towns and cities, as good land is given over to housing. Local communities thrive when businesses are at their heart. Those businesses need skilled workers, and a flexible apprenticeship levy will make sure employers can give staff the training they need.
The European Union remains our closest trading partner. We need to see UK-EU relations strengthened to benefit the tens of thousands of exporters here.
The transition to net-zero presents businesses with opportunities to grow. But access to the national grid is a huge headache for trailblazing companies. We need to make sure there is sufficient network capacity and flexibility for modern energy needs.
Action on these key issues will make a dramatic difference for the tens of thousands of businesses we represent. Businesses need action, certainty and clarity from politicians – now more than ever.
Read the full report ‘The Power of British Business’ The Power of British Business (britishchambers.org.uk)
There is also an opportunity to meet three of our local MPs and raise issues in the coming weeks as our Meet the MP events feature Jonathan Gullis, MP for Stoke-on-Trent Central on 15th September, Jack Brereton, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South on 29th September and Jo Gideon, MP for Stoke-on-Trent North on 10th November. Details on our events page: Events from Tue 21st November – Wed 17th April, 2024 – Staffordshire Chambers
And if you have any issues relating from any of the above, please let us know by emailing our policy advisor, Declan Riddell declan.riddell@staffordshirechambers.co.uk .
Or why not join in the debate by attending our forums which cover every aspect of business including finance, planning and infrastructure, transport, digital and energy, environment and sustainability.
For a full list of forums visit: Chambers Forums – Staffordshire Chambers
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
Sara’s Blog: Maximise your membership with Quest and last call for Let’s do Business stands
For many of our members the biggest advantage of membership is access to the four services offered by our partner, Quest, namely HR, health & safety, tax and legal.
Quest is a national provider of HR and health & safety services, training solutions, and consultancy with over 30 years of expertise, supporting over 80,000 member companies through the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).
If you are a member and not accessing these free services, then the quieter time of the last week of the summer holidays might be a good time to check out what you are missing out on. You may even be paying for similar services and could make huge cost savings for your business by switching to Quest.
And even if you have an in-house resource Quest can be used to support this function and you are guaranteed that all your documentation and legal requirements are right up to date.
Here is a quick reminder of what you get free with your membership.
Quest HR
From hiring to onboarding, the Quest Document Library can support you from start to finish with contracts of employment, induction documents, employee manuals and more to download, edit and use right away.
Your membership gives you free access to support from Quest to help with all aspects of managing your duties to your employees through the Quest Document Library, 24-hour HR helpline and a free HR health check. Quest is an industry leader in human resource and health and safety solutions, with their experience, advice and support available to you.
Quest Health and Safety
Keeping your employees safe at work is one of the most important aspects of running a business; the cost of getting health and safety wrong can be life-altering. You can access over 100 free health and safety documents, covering safe working practices, risk assessments, fire safety, insurance and more through the Quest Document Library.
Quest Documentation
Keeping your paperwork correct is key to protecting your business and complying with employment law. Whether its contracts for new starters, policies and procedures for the employee handbook, grievance and redundancy procedures and more, you have access to free documents to download, edit and use now through the Quest Document Library.
Mediation Services
Disputes can be incredibly stressful, time-consuming, and costly if taken to court. Mediation involves an independent third party, called a mediator, who helps both sides to reach an agreement meaning that you won’t need to go to court. Because of this mediation is considerably cheaper and faster.
Mediation helps businesses resolve their commercial disputes quickly and cheaply. The cost of the mediation will be about the same as filing a claim and when successful, saves the businesses the cost of instructing a solicitor. Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce is partnering with law firms across the region to deliver this scheme.
You can book a one-to-one meeting with a Quest advisor to go through all the benefits of all aspects of their services or call our membership team who will be happy to meet you to outline the package.
If you have an urgent or specific recruitment query, call the 24-Hour HR Hotline now on 01455 852037 or www.chamberhr.co.uk or contact membership@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
Last few remaining stands at Let’s do Business
Its not long until Let’s do Business, Staffordshire’s biggest Business Expo at Uttoxeter Racecourse. And there is still time to reserve one of the last few exhibition spaces.
With over 1000 visitors an exciting speaker programme about AI and the data revolution and unrivalled networking opportunities, there is only one place to be on 12th October.
Everything you need to know including stand reservations, speakers and free delegate registration can be found here: Let’s Do Business – Staffordshire Chambers
And finally, I hope you have a great Bank Holiday weekend and take time to recharge.
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News
Ukrainian community in Staffordshire mark country’s Independence Day by completing Snowdon summit hike
A group of Ukrainians who have found a new home in Staffordshire following Russia’s invasion of their homeland marked Ukraine’s Independence Day by completing a remarkable ascent to the summit of Snowdon – raising money to assist grassroot humanitarian organisations operating in areas of conflict.
Approximately 50 walkers conquered the Miners Path to reach the peak of Snowdon on Ukraine Independence Day, 24 August.
The Independence Day of Ukraine is an annual commemoration of their Declaration of Independence in 1991. This year’s celebration held a special significance as it showcased the indomitable spirit and unity of the Ukrainian community in Staffordshire.
Olga Soloviova, a Ukrainian expatriate residing in Staffordshire since 2014, was the driving force behind the hike. Olga has been actively involved in fundraising efforts for the residents of Dnipro and Kherson, which have been on the front lines of the conflict since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
“I am from Dnipro and arrived in the UK in 2014. When the war started last year, we immediately became sponsors for my husband’s two sisters and their four children”, explained Olga.
“Since then, I have become a liaison person between British and Ukrainians, helped refugees with adjusting to UK life and helped in leading a refugee group for the Stafford area for more than 140 refugees, organising or helping to organise several events for refugees in Stafford.”
In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Olga became involved in the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Positive Pathways programme, cordinated by Julie Priestnall.
Positive Pathways is a business start-up and employability skills program that supports refugees across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Participants receive business start-up advice and employability skills such as CV writing and interview techniques.
Julie said: “The walk was long and challenging at times, especially on the way down but the group was united throughout the whole day. We were overwhelmed by the constant support both up and down the mountain and we have raised so far a total of £,1282 which will go to an amazing frontline charity Tarilka- Kherson.
“The group consisted of different ages and abilities from age 7 years to 69 years and everyone had different fitness levels but even for the fittest, it was still a challenge.
“It was a great experience for everyone and the whole group are really proud of their achievements.”
Olga added: “I got involved with Positive Pathways and the Chambers as they were the most responsive and encouraging organisation following to my appeal for help with support for Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire.
“Julie Priestnall from Positive Pathways has been very supportive, especially with the Independence Day walk. This was invaluable for me as it is my first experience organising this kind event – a hiking trip and a fundraiser all in one!
“We walked to the summit to encourage each other that the dream of independence, peace and united families is achievable no matter how Herculian the task ahead is.
“It was also an opportunity to reflect on the many thousands who have lost their lives or been injured, and on the millions of people in Ukraine and around the world whose lives have been shattered by Russia’s act of war.
“The view to the horizon was magnificent.”
Julie Priestnall added: “Olga and the people she works with have been incredibly supportive of Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire as well as people back in her homeland since the outbreak of war. It has been a real pleasure to work with Olga in organising this special event to highlight the plight of millions of Ukrainians and I am looking forward to reaching the peak with this wonderful group of people.”
You can learn more about this event and support Ukrainian refugees’ fundraiser at the event’s Facebook group, Walking up Snowdon for Ukraine.
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Staffordshire Chambers to raise flag to support anniversary of SDG formation
On 25 September 2023, Staffordshire Chambers will join hundreds of UK organisations when we raise an SDG flag to show support for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This September will mark eight years since the world embraced the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, reflect a shared objective and ambition across all countries to end poverty and hunger everywhere, to combat inequalities within and among countries, to build peaceful, just, and inclusive societies, to protect human rights and promote gender equality of women and girls, and to ensure the lasting protection of the planet and its natural resources by 2030.
The 17 Goals are supported by 169 targets and 232 indicators, enabling progress to be prioritised and tracked.
On 25 September Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is joining hundreds of businesses, government departments, and civil society organisations in a global movement to fly an SDG flag to spread awareness of the SDGs and mobilise stakeholders for the 2030 agenda.
In the UK, there have been some significant milestones towards the SDGs. In 2022, the UN Global Compact Network UK released Measuring Up 2.0, a multi-stakeholder report assessing the UK’s performance against the SDGs and their Targets to understand how and where businesses, government, and other organisations should focus efforts for the remainder of this decade of action.
The report found of the 132 Targets relevant to the domestic delivery of the SDGs, the UK is only performing well on 17% of them. It highlighted how persistent inequalities within and between communities in the UK mean that we continue to leave people and places behind. It is because of this. that the 2030 Agenda is more important than ever, and worldwide collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society organisations essential.
With only 1 in 10 people in Britain familiar with the SDGs, raising the SDG flag this September is key to raising awareness and mobilising stakeholders for action. Join the global movement in championing the SDGs so together the 2030 Agenda can be achieved
- Published in News
Group’s poignant Snowdon walk to highlight Ukraine’s Independence Day
A group of Ukrainians who have settled in Staffordshire following Russia’s invasion of their homeland have decided to mark their country’s Independence Day by climbing Snowdon.
24th August marks the day in 1991 when Ukraine became a sovereign nation following the breakup of the Soviet Union. And on that day a group of around 50 walkers will climb walk to the summit of Snowdon on the Miners Path.
The organiser of thew walk is Olga Soloviova a Ukrainian who has been living in Staffordshire since 2014. Olga is actively involved in fundraising for residents of Dnipro and Kherson which have been at the frontline of the war since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Olga said: “I am from Dnipro and arrived in the UK in 2014. When the war started last year, we immediately became sponsors for my husband’s two sisters and their four children.
“Since then, I have become a liaison person between British and Ukrainians, helped refugees with adjusting to UK life and helped in leading a refugee group for the Stafford area for more than 140 refugees, organising or helping to organise several events for refugees in Stafford.”
Olga also became involved with the Positive Pathways project run by Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce headed up by Julie Preistnall.
Julie Priestnall and Volya Soloviova holding a t-shirt designed by Yevgenia Sheplelova – one of the group’s participants
Positive Pathways is a business start-up and employability skills programme based at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, specifically designed to support refugees across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Participants can access training in employability skills such as CV writing and interview skills ready to be matched to local employers.
Olga said: “I got involved with Positive Pathways and the Chambers as they were the most responsive and encouraging organisation following to my appeal for help with support for Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire.
“Julie Priestnall from Positive Pathways has been very supportive, especially with the Independence Day walk. This was invaluable for me as it is my first experience organising this kind event – a hiking trip and a fundraiser all in one!
“We will be walking to the summit to encourage each other that the dream of independence, peace and united families is achievable no matter how Herculian the task ahead is.
“It is also an opportunity to reflect on the many thousands who have lost their lives or been injured, and on the millions of people in Ukraine and around the world whose lives have been shattered by Russia’s act of war.
“With good company, some perseverance and each other’s support it can be tackled. And at the summit the view to the horizon all around us will be magnificent!”
Julie Priestnall added: “Olga and the people she works with have been incredibly supportive of Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire as well as people back in her homeland since the outbreak of war. It has been a real pleasure to work with Olga in organising this special event to highlight the plight of millions of Ukrainians and I am looking forward to reaching the peak with this wonderful group of people.”
You can learn more about this event and support Ukrainian refugees’ fundraiser at the event’s Facebook group, Walking up Snowdon for Ukraine.
Timings confirmed for Let’s Do Business expo
Staffordshire Chambers is delighted to reveal the timings for our 2023 Let’s Do Business expo.
Four AI experts will be joining us at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 12 October to deliver the following talks:
Theocharis Kyriacou
10:00 – 10:45
Leveraging Big Data for AI Success: Real-Life Business Case Studies Revealed
Katie King
11:00 – 12:00
Keynote speech on AI, Digital Transformation & the Future of Marketing
Sandra Woolley
13:15 – 14:00
The Challenges and Opportunities of AI for Business Applications
Samir Dani
14:15 – 15:00
Ask the Experts: Your Business Challenges Answered
This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the power of AI, including how it can transform and support your business. Find out more about each individual speaker by clicking here.
To book your free delegate place please click here. To showcase your business to over 1,000 new clients and customers, click here.
- Published in News
Have Your Say: Q3 2023 Quarterly Economic Survey welcomes business input
Business owners and leaders are being urged to complete the new Quarterly Economic Survey for Q3 2023 to help inform policymakers on the challenges facing businesses in our local area.
This is one of the most important times for businesses across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to complete the QES following a period of price hikes that has heaped pressure on organisations of all sizes.
The information you provide will help to shape policy thinking as the data is shared with the British Chambers of Commerce, Government departments including HM Treasury and the Cabinet Office as well as the Bank of England.
We are keen to hear from firms of all shapes and sizes as it will help create an accurate picture of the current business landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned director or relatively new to your company, please spare just a few minutes to fill in the anonymous survey.
We understand your time is precious, even more so now, so thank you to all those who complete the survey. Click here.
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Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan launched after receiving Secretary of State approval
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is thrilled to announce the launch of the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire – a groundbreaking initiative aimed at elevating the region’s workforce skills and bolstering economic growth.
This comprehensive plan has received official approval from the Secretary of State and is set to pave the way for significant advancements in the local business landscape.
Created in collaboration with businesses, training providers and local authorities, the LSIP underscores a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a competitive edge for businesses in the region.
The LSIP is tailored to address the unique needs of Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, with a primary focus on key sectors including engineering and manufacturing, construction, advanced logistics, health and social care, decarbonisation and energy distribution. It also explores cross-cutting themes such as green and digital skills, acknowledging the evolving demands of the modern workforce.
Building upon the foundation of this groundbreaking LSIP, a Roadmap for Change has been unveiled. This roadmap charts a strategic course of action designed to tackle the skills challenges head-on and stimulate skills development within the region. The key areas of focus within the Roadmap include:
- Strengthening coordination and collaboration between businesses and training providers.
- Creating a simplified and flexible skills system to enhance accessibility.
- Addressing recruitment challenges and enhancing educational offerings.
- Developing Skills Growth Maps that delve into cross-cutting themes.
- Unlocking additional opportunities in apprenticeships.
- Promoting and fostering best practices in the business community.
- Supporting career transitions.
- Advocating for changes at the national level to address structural barriers within the skills system.
The LSIP is a long-term commitment, with plans to extend its impact at least until early 2025. It will undergo annual reviews to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness in shaping the local skills landscape.
Sara Williams OBE, Staffordshire Chambers CEO, said: “We believe that investing in skills is an investment in our region’s future prosperity.
“The Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Local Skills Improvement Plan, in partnership with businesses and the community, is a testament to our commitment to unlocking the true potential of our workforce. Together, we’re building a brighter, more skilled tomorrow for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.”
For those interested in learning more about the Local Skills Improvement Plan for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire and getting involved in the Roadmap for Change, detailed information can be found here.
This collaborative effort promises to be a game-changer for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, positioning the region as a hub of innovation and skill excellence.
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce invites businesses, organisations, and individuals to join hands in this transformative journey towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
- Published in News
Sara’s Blog: Digital businesses, inflation figures and Let’s Do Business
I was intrigued by an article in Daily Focus last week that discussed the growing number of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that now utilise social media as their main sales channel.
Recent research by BT found that 28% of businesses survey stated that their key sources of revenue are Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok.
This news came as no shock, in fact I would have thought 28% was on the low side!
The adoption of digital technologies is as significant as the industrial revolution and we are only at the beginning with artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse already here and influencing business trends massively.
The BT research found a disparity between digital marketing and skills to implement them. It is a consequence of the speed of technological advancement that we have a situation where many business owners simply do not have the time or the skills to move with the times.
And I can say this; there are those of us of a certain age who just feel overwhelmed at times with the rate of advancement of digital technology.
Thankfully, we have much younger and tech-savvy people in the Chamber team who ensure we keep up and embrace the technology, not just for ourselves but for the benefit of every business in Staffordshire.
There is a great opportunity to get up to speed with the digital world if you visit our annual business expo, Let’s do Business at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 12th October.
The keynote speaker is AI expert Katie King who will be offering an exclusive insight into AI, digital transformation, and the future of marketing.
Katie, who was recently voted a ‘Top 10 AI influencer’ will explain how businesses of all sizes and across all sectors can harness AI ethically for competitive advantage by exploiting new tools and processes across their marketing, sales, the customer experience and HR, and provide insights into how they can get started, cost-effectively, using her ‘Scorecard for Success’.
Plus there will be lots of companies exhibiting or attending as delegates who are experts in all things digital.
You can book your free delegate here: Let’s Do Business – Staffordshire Chambers
You might also want to attend a meeting of our Digital Forum which meets quarterly.
It exists to drive the growing digital sector in Staffordshire, enabling businesses to freely exchange information, share best practice and discuss digital innovation, information communication technology and AI.
You can book on the next meeting here: Digital Forum – Staffordshire Chambers
Latest inflation figures
Inflation in the UK dropped to 6.8% in the year to July from 7.9% in June, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
Helping the fall in inflation was a fall in the energy price cap on 1st July and a slowing of the rate at which food prices were rising – although those are still almost 15% higher than a year ago.
While some ingredients have got cheaper, retailers still faced higher bills for the likes of wages and transport – it’s often customers who pay the prices.
However, the underlying trends are still causing concern because if you take out food and energy so-called ‘core inflation’ remains close to a 30-year high.
That category includes many non-essentials, suggesting some households still had the means to treat themselves to these – and it’s that discretionary spending that the Bank of England is aiming at when it raises interest rates.
With inflation still way higher than its 2% target, most analysts expect a further rate rise come September. And it remains uncertain whether the government can fulfil its pledge to see inflation halve over this year.
The news that consumer price inflation continued to ease in July is encouraging. However, this comes off the back of months of high prices which have hit business hard. Many firms have yet to see the cost of raw materials fall.
Businesses tell us that confidence is improving slightly as inflationary pressures ease. However, our latest quarterly economic survey showed most companies reported no improvement to sales, cash flow, or investment.
High interest rates are now of real concern to firms. Investment across all sectors is suffering because of the cost-of-borrowing. Businesses need to be confident that interest rates have reached their peak – we shall soon find out!
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222, call the Business Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
- Published in News, Uncategorized
Insight into new Biodiversity Net Gain legislation to be shared at next Energy, Environment & Sustainability Forum
Staffordshire Chambers is pleased to announce that our upcoming Energy, Environment, and Sustainability Forum will feature an insightful presentation from Gigi Hennessy of the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.
Set to take place on Tuesday, September 12, via Zoom, the forum will focus on new Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) legislation that is intended to ensure that nature does not lose out when land is developed.
Commencing in November 2023, developers will be mandated to leave the environment in a superior condition compared to its pre-development state.
Members of Staffordshire Chambers can learn more about this legislation while connecting with like-minded professionals by booking a free space on the forum, here.
This forum serves as a crucial platform for local businesses operating within the energy and sustainability sectors. It provides a unique networking opportunity, fostering discussions on industry advancements and the exchange of best practices.
Tom Hammersley, Staffordshire Chambers’ EES Forum Administrator, said: “This forum represents an exceptional occasion for Chamber members to gain a deeper insight into Biodiversity Net Gain and its implications for our region’s sustainable development.
“We are honoured to have Gigi join us to share her expertise and shed light on the critical importance of preserving our natural heritage as we progress.”
- Published in News
