FREE stands available at the DWP Job Fair / Cost of Living Event on Thursday 27th June!

We are delighted to announce the collaboration between Adur & Worthing Council and Worthing Jobcentre, to bring you a unique opportunity to join us at the DWP upcoming Cost of Living / Job Fair event, to support our local communities across Worthing - Shoreham, job seekers, DWP customers and college leavers.  

There will be the opportunity to help local people to access a range of support available in response to cost-of-living pressures, while also supporting employers to find suitable local candidates to fill their vacancies.

Location: Worthing Leisure Centre, Shaftesbury Avenue, Worthing BN12 4ET  

Date: Thursday 27^th June 2024

Time: 10:30 -12:30 (We ask that employers/providers arrive by 10:00 to be set up ready for doors opening at 10:30)

We are looking to attract over 250 attendees to this event.

To take advantage of this offer and book one of our free limited stands, please complete this booking sheet and return it to worthing.employerinbox@dwp.gov.uk as soon as possible.

GWCA announce charity of the year!

GWCA are delighted to announce that we have chosen The Sussex Snowdrop Trust to be our charity of the year! Throughout the year with the help and support of our staff we will be raising much needed funds for this charity.

The Sussex Snowdrop Trust is a remarkable charity that provides “Nursing Care at Home” for local children facing life-threatening or terminal illnesses.

The Sussex Snowdrop Trust provides:

• Children’s Community Nurses
• Health Care Assistants
• The Snowdrop Counsellors
• Financial Assistance

On Thursday 20th June, GWCA Partner, Jon Rogers will be walking the length of Hadrian’s Wall, a whopping 135km! Jon will set off on the Thursday and plans to complete the walk in four days! He hopes to raise over £5,000 for The Sussex Snowdrop Trust – please dig deep and make a donation via his JustGiving page.

Thank you to Carpenter Box, Fuller Architects, Fuller Surveyors, James & James Estate Agents, Lucraft Hodgson & Dawes LLP and Coast & Country Real Estate for their generous donations!

The Sussex Snowdrop Trust do not receive any government funding, solely relying on public donations and support. If you’d like to contribute, consider making a donation to support their dedicated team of Community Nurses who work tirelessly to assist Snowdrop families every day. Your generosity can make a significant impact!

For over 100 years GWCA have prided themselves by being the largest local solicitor firm in Sussex and the South coast, providing legal services for individuals and businesses. Our offices are located in local towns in and around Worthing and across the South coast. We strive to keep strong ties with the local communities and organisations where each office is located.

Emma Chatwell, GWCA Senior Partner said, “We are thrilled to be supporting The Sussex Snowdrop Trust. This is an opportunity for GWCA to unite our staff for an inspiring cause and demonstrate our commitment to making a difference. We are looking forward to working with the charity to raise awareness and funds.”

For more information about The Sussex Snowdrop Trust and some exciting fund-raising events coming up, visit their website 

Upper Shoreham Active Travel Improvements consultation launch

The Active Transport Team at West Sussex County Council are asking for your opinion.......

We are working to introduce walking and cycling improvements to Upper Shoreham Road, Buckingham Road and Middle Road areas in Shoreham and would like to hear your views on our proposals. These improvements support active travel within the community and to schools, leisure, work facilities and to Shoreham Railway Station.

The proposed improvements are along routes identified in Adur District Council’s Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP)

• The area where the controlled crossing point is proposed, on Upper Shoreham Road, has been identified as a site where pedestrians and cyclists frequently seek to cross the carriageway. The work we are proposing to carry out will make this a safer and more convenient crossing point. 
• The Buckingham Road school access proposal has been identified through the school street trial project and seeks to support the safe journey to school and focuses on where pupils cross to access to Buckingham Park Primary School.  This directly joins to the Upper Shoreham Road scheme.
• Middle Road has also been identified as a site which is heavily trafficked by cyclists. The installation of cycle bypasses through the buildouts will improve safety and connectivity for network users.

These proposals have come from previous engagement and consultation from the local communities and key stakeholders, and the scheme aims to improve safety, continuity and usability for pedestrians and cyclists, by:

• Installation of parallel crossing, on Upper Shoreham Road, just east of its junction with The Drive.
• Installation of associated shared cycle/pedestrian footway route at the junction of The Drive and Upper Shoreham Road, and at the junction of Buckingham Road and Upper Shoreham Road. 
• Installation of a segregated cycle lane on the west side of The Triangle at the junction of Upper Shoreham Road and Buckingham Road. 
• Improvements to pedestrian crossing points on the approach to Buckingham Park Primary School.
• Installation of cycle ‘bypasses’ at the two buildouts on Middle Road.

Plans and further information including our consultation survey can be found online at https://yourvoice.westsussex.gov.uk/upper-shoreham-active-travel-improvements

Hard copies of the plans and survey can be viewed at Shoreham Library for the duration of the online consultation, and hard copies of the survey are available to the public by request.

Please could you initially indicate if you SUPPORT or OBJECT to the proposals and any supporting reasons by FRIDAY 7^th June 2024, and complete the online survey where possible, or If you would like any further information please do contact us at activetravel.team@westsussex.gov.uk   The online consultation will remain open until Friday 21^st June 2024.

Active Travel & Local Transport Improvements Programme
Highways, Transport and Planning
West Sussex County Council

West Sussex Sustainable Business Showcase

Join Let’s Go! Net Zero at the stunning Aldingbourne Country Centre on 25 June for a celebration of sustainable business and to hear how it’s done. This event is for any West Sussex business that is interested in sustainability.

A successful business and doing your bit for the planet don’t have to be two competing goals.

In fact, they can easily go hand-in-hand.

From solar panels paying for themselves and turning a profit to winning new clients and contracts because of solid green credentials, West Sussex has countless stories of businesses making sustainability work for their bottom line.

There'll be a panel of groundbreaking speakers, a delicious, locally-sourced lunch and refreshments, and plenty of opportunity for networking with fellow businesses.

Brought to you by Let's Go! Net Zero, the event will feature a selection of West Sussex’s Green Business Champions, all of whom will share how they’ve cracked the win-win of combining a commitment to sustainability with successful business.

Booking Link 

West Sussex Sustainable Business Showcase is part of the ‘Let’s Go! Net Zero’ West Sussex initiative, brought to you by West Sussex County Council and the West Sussex District & Borough Councils.

Mayo Wynne Baxter boosts firm’s profile with strategic new hires and promotions

Mayo Wynne Baxter has expanded its private client team with new hires and several internal promotions, augmenting its position as the South East’s leading law firm.

The Lewes office has welcomed three new recruits, including solicitor Sara Bashir who will now specialise in all matters relating to trusts, and taxation whilst also advising on estate administration and planning, wills and powers of attorney.

Chartered legal executive Angie Dodsworth bolsters the growing general team with her wide area of expertise, including estate planning, administration of estates, drafting wills and lasting powers of attorney.

Robin Webb, who achieved an LLB from Sussex University in May 2023, joins as a paralegal just six months into his career.

And at the Storrington office, solicitor Charlotte Brunning adds her expertise in wills, probate and powers of attorney to the already strong team.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our recent recruitment drive demonstrates that we’re attracting some of the best talent in the industry, as well as encouraging the bright young stars of tomorrow.”

The law firm is also celebrating three promotions in the private client team.

Megan Child, who works out of East Grinstead, has moved from her position as a paralegal to legal advisor.

Alisha Croft from the Lewes office changes from a junior paralegal into the legal team supporting two legal advisers and Jess Forde of the Storrington office, leaves her position as an administrative legal support assistant to become a legal paralegal.

Orgill added: “When you’ve got great talent you want to hold onto it – which is why we invest so much time in progressing everyone’s careers and opening up pathways to success.”

For more information, please visit: www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

Celebrating 35 Years of Loyal Service

Keen gardener Karen Capelin has seen her career with Carpenter Box blossom since joining the Sussex and South East accountants in May 1989.

Karen, from Worthing, joined the firm’s computer department straight from college aged 17 with a BTEC HND qualification in computer programming. Now, 35 years on, she is a Senior Manager and one of the firm’s longest serving members of staff.

Karen works in the firm’s Business Services Group, having swapped IT to become a trainee accountant, before progressing to qualified status and becoming a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

“I can’t believe how quickly the years have passed,” says Karen. “I’ve enjoyed plenty of variety in my work since the early days and received lots of support for my career along the way. I’ve seen many changes as the firm has grown, but what hasn’t changed is the very friendly working environment.”

In her current role, Karen looks after the statutory accounting requirements of many small businesses, including those involved in farming and viticulture. She particularly enjoys working with companies in the burgeoning vineyards sector.

Alan Edwards, Managing Partner at Carpenter Box, added: “Congratulations to Karen on reaching this milestone. Her professionalism, dedication and hard work underpins the first-class service she provides to our clients and makes her an invaluable member of the team.”

When not at work, Karen enjoys spending time with her family and can often be found working in her garden.  

www.carpenterbox.com

Transport for the South East want to hear from you

News from Transport Planning and Policy Team at West Sussex County Council...

"Our partners at Transport for the South East (TfSE) are undertaking a refresh of their Transport Strategy for the South East.

TfSE brings together a partnership of 16 local authorities and 8.3 million residents in our region with the aim of speaking with one voice to central government about our transport priorities.

As part of this refresh, they want to hear from you as they develop their priorities for the future, ensuring funding and strategy decisions are led by local knowledge.

They are engaging with the public through their online Your Voices survey to ensure the new strategy is fully co-designed, and as representative of the residents of the south east as possible.

As one of TfSE’s key partners, we want West Sussex residents, organisations and businesses to be involved in this process.

You can respond to the survey here until June 2.

If you want to know more about TfSE and their strategic role for the region you can visit their website at tfse.org.uk or get in touch by email at tfse@eastsussex.gov.uk

Thank you"

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing Achieves Community Interest Company Status, Aiming to Transform Communities Through Holistic Support

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing proudly announces its recent achievement in receiving Community Interest Company (CIC) status, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to serving communities with holistic wellness solutions. Founded by Debbie Stevens, a dedicated advocate for mental and physical health, the organisation aims to revolutionise community support systems and foster resilience in individuals.

Receiving the Community Interest Company status signifies a pivotal moment for Debbie Stevens, whose passion for enhancing community well-being has been the driving force behind her endeavour’s. Debbie remarks, "I am truly honoured and thrilled to achieve CIC status for Debbie Stevens Wellbeing. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities, empowering them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives."

At the heart of Debbie Stevens Wellbeing's mission is its unique holistic model, designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by modern society. Through a comprehensive approach that encompasses mental, emotional, and physical well-being, Debbie Stevens and her team are committed to supporting overwhelmed communities and equipping individuals with the tools for self-awareness and self-help management.

“Our holistic approach is centred around the belief that true wellness encompasses mind, body, and spirit," explains Debbie Stevens. "We understand the pressures and stresses of today's world, which is why we're dedicated to providing support that goes beyond traditional measures. By addressing stress conditions, anxiety, pain, and more, we aim to foster resilience and empower individuals to thrive."

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing will focus on collaborating with schools, organisations, community groups, and healthcare professionals to deliver tailored wellness programs. These programs will not only alleviate immediate stressors but also lay the foundation for a healthier, happier, and more resilient community, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

As Debbie Stevens Wellbeing embarks on this new chapter as a Community Interest Company, it invites individuals and organisations from the community to join hands in creating positive change and building a brighter future for all. Contact us to discuss your needs, resources, and funding opportunities. 01903 690627.

Hybrid working a hit with Carpenter Box staff

Hybrid working is good for people and good for business, according to a staff survey carried out by South East accountancy firm, Carpenter Box.

The practice, which employs 250 staff across its network of six offices, asked for feedback on the work environment and found that more flexible working introduced post-COVID contributed to nine in 10 staff happy with their current working environments. The hybrid options, together with staff resourcing and other key workplace metrics, contributed to a year-on-year 40% increase in the firm’s Employee Net Promoter Score - which measures employee satisfaction.

Managing Partner, Alan Edwards, commented: “The results of our annual staff survey illustrate the value of an organisation like ours adopting a flexible working environment both from an employee and business perspective.  We can see improving sentiment in work-life balance and positive outcomes linked to day-to-day support and how individuals feel they contribute to our overall success.

“There are still some areas where there is room for improvement, but overall I’m very pleased with the results, with three quarters saying they believe they can reach their full potential here and nearly nine in 10 feeling proud to work at Carpenter Box. This is particularly satisfying because over the past year we have driven a strong corporate expansion programme, including bigger premises in Brighton and new offices established in Hampshire.”

www.carpenterbox.com

George Square Financial Management Latest Economic Update

In conjunction with Albemarle Street Partners

Good Problems and Data Dependence

As the global economy continues to improve, it's becoming clear that many of the challenges we face are a result of our own success. 

The strength of labour markets across the developed world underpins household resilience and broader economic growth. The manufacturing sector appears to be exiting a drawn-out period of retrenchment and even housing activity has started to level out. While the pessimists will point to the lingering risks from higher interest rates, investors will take solace from an improvement in economic data. 

Central banks face a delicate balancing act as they argue for monetary prudence in the face of sticky inflation and robust job markets. The Federal Reserve has maintained data dependence and removed promises of rate cuts in 2024, while the Bank of England and European Central Bank are likely to cut rates gradually. 

Corporate Earnings in Focus

Continued economic strength is a good problem for risk assets as we approach a turn in corporate profits. Exposure to risky assets, such as equities and high yield debt, is warranted given the backdrop of improving profits and financial conditions.

At the midpoint of the US reporting season, 77% of companies have reported a positive EPS surprise, with earnings growth for the first quarter standing at 3.5% and revenue growth at 4.0%. Analysts project earnings growth of 11% and revenue growth of 4.9% for 2024. The strong performance is led by Communication Services, Utilities, and Information Technology companies, highlighting the resilience of these sectors in the face of economic challenges.

Elevated expected returns 

Investors must carefully select which regions and sectors to include in their portfolios while remaining vigilant and prepared to adjust holdings as global economic and market conditions evolve. 

Fixed income assets have experienced a setback over the last month as economic growth has remained strong and progress on inflation has stalled. As government bond yields have moved higher, high yield and corporate bond funds have experienced setbacks. The good news is that yields across fixed income now provide attractive risk adjusted returns to investors. Patient investors are being paid to wait in fixed income assets and multi-asset investors benefit from the diversification these holdings provide. Monetary policy should allow an orderly decline in inflation, even if it takes slightly longer than anticipated.

Equity markets were down 3% over the month. US, European and Japanese equities fell as investors reassessed the risk to corporate profits from higher interest rates. UK large and mid-cap equities were notable gainers over the month as investors sought the safety of higher dividend yields and cheaper valuations. Asian equities also rallied as better economic data buoyed the case for the region. 

Conclusion

We started 2024 with a focus on expected returns and a need to broaden our equity market exposure to include smaller companies. Our first step in this direction was in February and we envisage an additional step later this month. We will continue to monitor corporate earnings and incoming economic data to assess portfolio risks and will make changes if required. 

Parry Leggett Dip PFS EFA