Join Carpenter Box for a Post-Budget Breakfast Briefing on 4 December

Businesses leaders and individuals are invited by accountancy firm Carpenter Box, part of the Sumer Group, to an Autumn Budget debrief breakfast event from 8am on Thursday 4 December at the Sussex Cricket Ground in Hove.

At the event, tax and financial planning experts will give a clear, concise overview of the key updates announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves on 26 November. Carpenter Box Partner and Head of Tax Stuart Noakes, and Roy Thompson, Head of Financial Services at CB Financial Advisers, will break down the headline measures, assess their implications for individuals and businesses, and analyse the impact on their finances.

Stuart Noakes said: “The Chancellor’s scene setter speech on 4 November has given strong indications that there will be hard-hitting changes announced on 26 November. In last year’s Budget, there were some significant changes to capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and pension schemes, affecting business owners and individuals, and it is highly possible that we will see further material changes.

“This event will give attendees the insight and clarity they need to make confident, informed financial decisions in light of any announcements made in the Autumn Budget, while also offering the chance to connect with other local businesses.”

Business wins innovation grant to make sustainability reporting affordable for SMEs

Brace For Impact has been awarded funding from Innovate UK, the UK’s national innovation agency, to solve the problem of how small businesses can talk about their sustainability activities in a way that wins business.

The funding will be used to develop ImpactIO: an AI-powered tool that simplifies sustainability reporting for small and medium-sized businesses. ImpactIO uses artificial intelligence to streamline and automate the time-consuming process of gathering sustainability data, significantly cutting the cost of creating professional reports. Brace For Impact specialises in producing commercially useful sustainability communications, such as Sustainability Reports, Carbon Reduction Plans, and grant and tender responses, all compliant with relevant anti-greenwashing guidance and legislation. These can be used to spotlight a company’s projects and products alongside their  sustainability progress, to attract new clients, investors and employees.

The six-month development project, part of the DCMS Create Growth Programme, will see Brace For Impact collaborate with Brighton software developers DabApps to build the platform locally.

Brace for Impact is calling for local businesses to join the project. No sustainability knowledge is required to be involved, as the project is designed to help SMEs that want to talk more about sustainability or are feeling under pressure to demonstrate sustainability commitment. More details can be found here: www.braceforimpactgroup.com.

The innovation will initially support organisations in the Culture, Heritage and Tourism sectors, which often need to show sustainability credentials to access public funding. Brace for Impact aims to pilot the tool with local creative businesses in 2026 before expanding nationally.

Brace for Impact Co-founder, Susi Weaser, comments: “Pressure is growing from clients and regulators for businesses to make green commitments, so we know smaller businesses need our support in confidently communicating their sustainability credentials. SMEs account for up to 60% of global business emissions, yet they’re woefully under-resourced when it comes to reducing their environmental impact. We want to help businesses work out where they are, communicate confidently, and then move forward. It’s all about progress, not perfection.

“We like to think of ImpactIO as “documents in/magic out”. A client uploads a range of everyday business documents, and our tool will gather everything we need to know. Using ImpactIO we can draw out information from a range of materials like energy bills, employee policies, supplier communications or social media posts. We then turn that into content that wins our clients more work.”

Ed Hickey, Commercial Lead at DabApps, comments: “We’re really excited to be working with Brace For Impact on such an inspiring project. ImpactIO is a brilliant example of how AI can be used for good – helping small businesses tell their sustainability story in a credible, practical way. As a Brighton-based team, we’re proud to be contributing our technical expertise to an innovation that supports local SMEs and drives positive environmental change.”

Brace for Impact Co-founder, Richard Trenholm, continues: “Based on the South Coast, we see the effects of climate change first-hand. This project will help us to drive down the cost of our services, so effective sustainability communication is accessible to those that need it most. AI helps to make the process more efficient so we can use our years of human expertise to make sustainability reporting more accessible and commercially useful to smaller businesses.”

This project is supported by Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), through the DCMS Create Growth Programme – Competition 4 (Small Projects). The programme supports creative businesses across England to develop innovative ideas that drive economic growth, job creation and sustainability within the UK’s creative industries.

About Brace For Impact

Brace For Impact is a Worthing-based sustainability communications business helping UK SMEs communicate their sustainability through creating credible, affordable communications. Founded by husband and wife team, Susi Weaser and Richard Trenholm, the company turns real actions into clear evidence that wins work, through Sustainability Reports, bid-ready tender responses and SEO-friendly web copy that buyers trust.

About DabApps

DabApps is a Brighton-based software development company that designs and builds high-quality web and mobile applications. With over 15 years’ experience helping ambitious startups, scale-ups and research organisations turn ideas into impactful digital products, DabApps combines technical know-how with strategic insight. The team is passionate about using technology to create meaningful change – from supporting sustainability initiatives to unlocking the potential of AI for good.

About Innovate UK

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is creating a better future by inspiring, involving and investing in businesses developing life-changing innovations.

We provide targeted sectors with expertise, facilities and funding to test, demonstrate and evolve their ideas, driving UK productivity and economic growth. Join our network and communities of innovators to realise the potential of your ideas and accelerate business growth. Innovate UK: inspiring business innovation.

Take on the Three Forts Challenge!

The Three Forts Challenge has been a much loved Sussex tradition since 1977, offering one of the most scenic and rewarding running experiences in the South.

Set across the breathtaking South Downs, runners can choose from a full marathon, half marathon or 5-mile trail run and you can even run with your canine friend, each packed with rolling hills, coastal views, and a friendly, community spirit.  Every entry supports Ferring Country Centre and local Sussex charities, making every mile truly meaningful.  Unlike crowded seafront runs, the Three Forts Challenge offers space, challenge and purpose.

Run with heart. Run the hills. Run for charity. Run with the Three Forts.

What makes the Three Forts Challenge so special....

Since 1977, the Three Forts Challenge has stood proudly as one of Sussex’s most loved and enduring running events — known affectionately as The Tough One. More than just a race, it’s a celebration of community, countryside, and camaraderie. Set across the magnificent South Downs and the home at Lancing Manor Leisure Centre runners experience sweeping views, rolling hills, and a genuine sense of achievement that only trail running can deliver.

From the marathon and half marathon to the 5-mile trail run, every route is designed to inspire. What makes it truly special is its heart: every penny of profit supports Ferring Country Centre and local Sussex charities. Run alongside friends, families, and even your four legged companion...because here, it is about more than miles. It is about tradition, teamwork, and giving back.

This is running at its most authentic — this is the Three Forts Challenge.

Enter Now!

Worthing launches festive parking offer to help shoppers save big this Christmas

Shoppers heading into Worthing town centre this festive season can enjoy a huge 40% saving on all-day parking every Friday and Saturday right up until Christmas, thanks to a special collaboration between Worthing Borough Council, Worthing BID, and Worthing Small Traders.

Starting Friday 28th November, visitors simply need to use the MiPermit app and select the all-day parking option to take advantage of the exclusive 40% discounted £7.70 rate at High Street and Buckingham Road multi-storey car parks – making it easier (and cheaper!) to park, shop, and soak up the Christmas spirit in Worthing.

Hemiko, the developers of the Worthing Heat Network, have also agreed to help cover some of the costs to help spread the 'shop local' message over the Christmas period.

“This offer is all about supporting our local businesses and making it easier for people to enjoy everything Worthing has to offer during the festive season, whilst not having to worry about rushing your day,” said Paul O'Brien, owner of I love candy sweetshop. “From our fantastic independent businesses to the brilliant Christmas events, we want everyone to feel welcome in the town centre.”

Hannah Manzaroli, Worthing BID manager, said: "Worthing has so much to offer, especially at Christmas. The all-day parking offer gives people the chance to slow down, explore, and really appreciate everything our town has to offer rather than feeling they have to rush back.”

With the lights twinkling, markets bustling, and seasonal events planned throughout December's days and nights, there’s never been a better time to explore Worthing. You can shop local with our huge range of independents and multi-national high street shops, take in a Christmas wreath making class or yuletide pub quiz ,  enjoy our award-winning cinemas for a festive film or panto at the theatres, visit Santas grotto , head to the Steyne Gardens ice rink, or dine at one of our many exceptional town centre eateries... all while you make the most of this special all-day parking offer.

"The Worthing & Adur Chamber of Commerce fully supports this fantastic initiative", said a representative. "Making parking more affordable over the festive period is a great way to encourage more people to spend time in our town centre - shopping local, enjoying our hospitality venues and supporting the many brilliant businesses that make Worthing so special at Christmas."

Key Details:

Offer starts: Friday 28th November 
When: Every Friday and Saturday until December 20th. 
How: Use the MiPermit app and select “All Day Parking”, allowing you to park up to 10pm on the day. ( If you're staying late to enjoy our evening businesses there's no need to rush back to your car as parking is free from 10pm until 6am the next morning ! )
Cost: £7.70 (A 40% saving from the normal all day fee £13.00 fee!)
Where: Worthing town centre High Street and Buckingham Road multi-storey car parks . 

Phil Ducket Owner of Worthing Gin and Rum shop "As the first shop when you come into the Guildbourne Centre from the High St car park Worthing Gin and Rum look forward to seeing new and old customers during the run up to xmas this year  with a great selection of gifts to choose from "

Princess Marnie owner of Flux Piercing Studio  ‘It’s been a wild year, and as a small independent we’ve dodged obstacles like Indiana Jones in the Temple of Doom! But with WBC and our small traders saving Christmas through brilliant parking fees, it’s time to come into town - eat, shop, enjoy the shows, and soak up Worthing’s festive spirit! We are looking forward to seeing you!”

Olympic legend Sally Gunnell OBE returns to start Mental Elf Festive Fun Run on 30 November

Worthing-based mental health charity, West Sussex Mind, will hold Mental Elf, its annual 5km run and walk on Sunday 30 November – and this year there’s a new 2km option in the afternoon, suitable for all abilities. 

Runners and walkers dressed as elves will take over Worthing seafront – and Sally Gunnell OBE will start the 5km race with her personal trainer son, Luca Bigg, leading a fun warm-up.

The charity is delighted to bring Mental Elf back to Worthing, as the event had to be cancelled last year due to health and safety concerns around Storm Bert, and is very excited to welcome back Sally Gunnell! 

West Sussex Mind hopes that this year’s event will attract 220 runners and walkers for its biggest fundraiser of the year at a time when the demand for the charity’s support continues to soar.  

During 2024-25, West Sussex Mind supported 7,766 people with their mental health (22.8% more than the previous year) and answered 9,547 calls to its Help Point. The independent charity, which is experiencing a significant increase in demand for its services, relies on fundraising for the majority of its services, and large community events, such as Mental Elf, are paramount to help it continue its work. 

Fundraising and communications manager, Sue Smith, said: “Mental Elf is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about our services, come together with our community and generate funds so that we can support anyone who needs our help. We hope that our community will rally again and help us reach our target of 220 participants.”   

Sign up now 

Shoreham Pantomime Programme ad - reach 1000's of local families this December

The Ropetackle Arts Centre are looking for advertisers (prices from £25 plus VAT) to help fill their free to use digital annual pantomime programme - and help support local professional theatre

The Ropetackle Arts Centre panto programme is a free, purely digital, and easy to download - a must-see for the thousands of local and loyal people who come and watch the fabulous Shoreham Panto every year. It will be available to view from the 19th of December (when they open) and into the New Year.

Your ad would not only include an optional "do follow" hyperlink on your advert (to wherever you want people directing to), but also social media posts from them on all their usual outlets thanking you for your support and you can also visit the venue for photo promos so your customers can see your kind support for the venture.

There is also an option to fully sponsor the pantomime next year.

https://ropetacklecentre.co.uk/panto/

https://www.facebook.com/ShorehamPanto/

Please find the info pack with further details here as well as a price list and the QR code that takes you to the programme where you will find corresponding numbered spaces for the ads that are on a first come, first served basis!

The latest Market Commentary George Square Financial Management In Conjunction With Albemarle Street Partners  

Markets hit record highs as trade deal and strong earnings fuel optimism 

Stocks reached new heights in October, boosted by a breakthrough US-China trade agreement and exceptional corporate earnings. President Trump and President Xi Jinping reached a comprehensive agreement in Busan, South Korea, that reduced tariffs and suspended export controls. The agreement halved American tariffs on Chinese goods related to fentanyl supplies. It prompted Beijing to suspend retaliatory duties on US agricultural products while pausing its rare earth export restrictions for one year. The deal also commits China to purchasing at least 12 million metric tons of American soybeans before year's end, providing relief to farmers who had lost access to their largest foreign market. 

Corporate America delivered one of its strongest earnings performances in years, providing fundamental support for the rally beyond trade optimism alone. An impressive 83% of large-cap companies beat profit expectations during the third quarter reporting season, the highest proportion since mid-2021. Earnings grew 10.7% from a year earlier, marking the fourth consecutive quarter of double-digit growth. Technology giants led the charge, with Microsoft, Apple, Amazon and Alphabet all exceeding analyst estimates. The information technology sector posted earnings growth of 25%, driven by demand for AI-related products. 

The Federal Reserve delivered an expected 25 basis point cut in October, but Chair Jerome Powell suggested it might be the last cut of the year. The rally in global equities is underpinned by the strength in corporate earnings and a limited impact from tariff-related uncertainty. Analysts expect earnings to grow 11% in 2025 and 14% in 2026. The Federal Reserve appears to be committed to cutting interest rates gradually, which further supports risk sentiment. We remain vigilant against building valuation concerns and will continue to seek appropriate sources of diversification to enhance risk-adjusted returns. 

The continuing US government shutdown is making the macro picture harder to determine. This is something we are monitoring as the lack of information is introducing some risk and we stand ready to adjust portfolios if US economic fundamentals are deteriorating. 

Digesting the data 

US large caps climbed 4.87% during the month, notching multiple record closes as investors celebrated an end to escalating trade tensions between the world's two largest economies. The breakthrough lifted stocks across the board. World equities jumped 4.54% for the month, with Asian markets surging 7.10% on hopes the truce would stick.  

Japanese equities rose 4.35% on policy optimism after Sanae Takaichi was sworn in as Japan’s first female prime minister.  

European markets posted more modest gains of 2.75% and UK equities rose 4.09% on better economic data and waning budgetary concerns. 

Fixed income assets were roughly flat over the month after stronger returns in the prior month. In the UK, Chancellor Rachel Reeves signalled a willingness to consider spending cuts alongside tax increases, which helped UK government bonds rally 2.7%. 

Asset Class Performance: Equities & Alternatives 

Asset Class Performance: Bonds & Cash  

The content of this material is a marketing communication, and not independent investment research. As such, the legal and regulatory requirements in relation to independent investment research do not apply to this material and it is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of its dissemination. The material is for general information purposes only (whether or not it states any opinions). It does not consider your personal circumstances or objectives. Nothing in this material is (or should be considered to be) legal, financial, investment or other advice on which reliance should be placed. No opinion given in the material constitutes a recommendation by George Square Financial Management that any particular investment, security, transaction, or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. Although the information set out in this marketing communication is obtained from sources believed to be reliable George Square Financial Management make any guarantee as to its accuracy or completeness. George Square Financial Management shall not be responsible for any loss that you may incur, either directly or indirectly, arising from any investment based on any information contained herein.. George Square Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 

For Professional Investor Use only. The value of investments can go down and you may get back less than invested. This material may include charts displaying financial instruments' past performance as well as estimates and forecasts. Past performance does not predict future returns.  

Lightning Fibre Partners with CityFibre to Launch Business Broadband Services

Award-winning full fibre provider Lightning Fibre has partnered with CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full fibre platform, to deliver premium business broadband services nationwide.

This strategic agreement allows Lightning Fibre to expand beyond the South East, via CityFibre’s growing network.

CityFibre’s digital infrastructure is purpose-built for performance, with a fully independent, carrier-grade fibre network now reaching over 4.6 million premises, with plans to reach more than 8 million across the UK.

Businesses benefit from:

●       Gigabit and multi-gigabit speeds

●       10Gb XGS-PON technology, enabling ultra-fast symmetrical connections

●       Low latency and high reliability—ideal for VoIP, hybrid working, cloud apps, and data-heavy operations

●       Open access infrastructure, allowing providers like Lightning Fibre to offer tailored business-grade services at competitive rates

“CityFibre’s reach and technology are a perfect match for our mission to connect more businesses with high-performance broadband and award-winning customer service,” said Rob Reaks, chief commercial officer at Lightning Fibre. “This partnership allows us to scale beyond our own physical network regionally, and indeed nationally, while maintaining our commitment to quality and service.”

“Lightning Fibre brings a strong regional brand and customer-first mindset to our partner ecosystem,” added Andy Wilson, Sales Director at CityFibre. “Together, we’re delivering future-proof connectivity to businesses of all sizes across the UK.”

Lightning Fibre works with managed IT service partners to provide business full fibre broadband as well as serving small and large businesses customers directly. Businesses can learn more or request a quote atwww.lightningfibre.co.uk or contact Joe Brownell at joe.brownell@lightningfibre.co.uk.

Cut through the AI noise: What’s really working for UK businesses

AI is everywhere right now, but most businesses are still trying to figure out what actually works. With headlines promising revolutionary change and a constant stream of new tools, it’s easy for business leaders to feel overwhelmed.

Yet, beneath all the noise, AI is already delivering real, measurable benefits for organisations across the UK. From saving time on routine tasks to unlocking new insights and improving decision-making, AI is no longer just a future concept – it’s a practical tool that’s reshaping the way businesses operate today.

What’s holding businesses back from AI?

Many organisations are eager to embrace AI but encounter common challenges:

• Uncertainty about where to begin:
  With so many AI solutions and use cases available, it can be difficult to identify which approach will deliver the most value. Leaders are looking for a clear, practical starting point.
• Concerns about data security and compliance:
  Protecting sensitive information and meeting regulatory requirements are essential. Businesses want reassurance that adopting AI won’t compromise their security posture.
• Perceptions of complexity and cost:
  AI is often seen as a solution for large enterprises with big budgets and technical teams. This misconception can prevent smaller businesses from exploring accessible, cost-effective tools.
• Fear of disruption:
  Introducing new technology can feel daunting, especially if there are concerns about how it will affect existing workflows or team adoption.

Practical steps to get started with AI:

If you're exploring how AI could fit into your organisation, here are four practical steps to help you move forward with confidence:

• Start with a clear business need:
  Focus on a specific challenge – like reducing manual admin or improving customer response times – where AI could deliver measurable impact.
• Use what you already have:
  Many AI features are built into tools like Microsoft 365, meaning you can begin experimenting without major investment or disruption.
• Keep it simple and achievable:
  Choose a small, low-risk project to pilot. Quick wins help build internal support and demonstrate the value of AI in a real-world context.
• Get expert advice:
  Learning from those who’ve already implemented AI can help you avoid common mistakes and accelerate your progress. The on-demand webinar is a great place to start.

In our webinar, experts from Microsoft and FluidOne came together to share what they’ve learned from putting AI into practice. The session, featuring Microsoft’s Apay Obang-Oyway, FluidOne CEO Russ Horton, and Microsoft Solutions Consultant Adam Blackwell, focuses on cutting through the confusion to show how AI is making a tangible difference for UK businesses heading into 2026.

Full details and access: https://info.fluidone.com/lp/microsoft-fluidone-ai-in-2026-webinar

You can call 01273 384 100 or email brighton@fluidone.com to get in touch with our experts today.

Electric Storm Youth Celebrates Youth Work Week 2025: Building Brighter Futures

Lancing based charity, Electric Storm Youth (ESY), are proudly highlighting the difference they make in young people’s lives as part of Youth Work Week 2025, a national campaign running from 3rd to 9th November.

Led by the National Youth Agency (NYA), Youth Work Week is a powerful moment to recognise and celebrate the life-changing impact of youth work across the UK with the theme ‘Building Brighter Futures: Safe places, trusted support, and opportunities to thrive’.

ESY exists to support and inspire young people aged 10–18 to thrive emotionally and socially. They provide a consistent, welcoming presence for young people, especially those facing disadvantage, isolation, or personal challenges. This is achieved through open-access youth sessions, mentoring, mobile street based youth work and targeted support programmes, all aimed at building confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.

The dedication of their Youth Team provides vital support and helps young people achieve meaningful goals. The true impact of this work is demonstrated by the young people themselves.

"I would never have been able to speak in public and present without ESY’s help in building my confidence. I still feel scared but love that they encourage me and I was so pleased with myself once I’ve done it."

"The ESY team are so friendly and supportive. I’d love to give back as they have given to me and become a youth worker one day."

Karen Jefford, CEO of Electric Storm Youth, shared her thoughts "This Youth Work Week I want to highlight the dedication of every youth worker in our team and across the sector. They bring real care, patience, and understanding into young people's lives every single day”. Talking about the ongoing mission of Electric Storm Youth she said “We are committed to keeping youth work real, relevant and full of human heart for every young person we serve."

National Youth Agency Chief Executive Leigh Middleton OBE said: “Youth Work Week is a powerful opportunity to celebrate the dedication, passion and expertise of youth workers who make a lasting difference in young people’s lives often quietly and without fanfare. It’s also a moment to recognise youth work as a vital investment not only in individual futures, but in the strength, wellbeing and resilience of our communities.”

Join the conversation online using #YouthWorkWeek and #YWW25 to show your support for youth workers and the young people they empower.

To learn more about ESY visit www.electricstormyouth.co.uk

To learn more about Youth Work Week and how youth work is making a difference across the country, visit https://nya.org.uk/yww25.