Hollands Associates - Member Case Study

What do you do? 

I’m a PR and communications consultant with over 20 years' experience. I work with corporate and charity clients, helping them build and maintain a good reputation and a high profile among their audiences. I do this through effective media relations, stakeholder communications and raising their profile – such as by helping them win awards, secure speaking opportunities and get mentioned in the press.
As a crisis specialist, I also help my clients ensure they’re saying and doing the right things when times get challenging.

Why did you join the Chamber? 

To make business and community connections, to meet fellow business owners and to tap into the learning resources the Chamber offers. I also wanted to give my clients assurance that I am a trusted practitioner who takes the running of my business seriously and I thought that being associated with the Chamber was a good way to do that. Since becoming a member, I’ve joined Peer Mentoring, which is a monthly highlight, and delivered two sessions to help others better understand PR and how their businesses can benefit from it

What’s your favourite thing about being a member?

The camaraderie and opportunity to be involved in networking and events which are always either free or very reasonably priced. I've met some wonderful people through the Chamber, whom I wouldn't have known otherwise. Being a Chamber member makes owning and running a business feel a lot less lonely and gives you the feeling that you’re all in it together, experiencing the same highs, lows and challenges.

Bozboz Web Design - Member Case Study

What do you do?

Bozboz is a web design and development agency based in Brighton that specialises in creating, supporting and optimising B2B and eCommerce experiences for brands and consumers. Our mission is simple - to make websites work harder for everyone.

Our services incorporate website design and development, proactive support and maintenance, brand development and Hubspot CRM implementation.

From the first spark of inspiration to the final launch, we're by your side. We collaborate to understand your unique challenges, and create user-first websites that enhance your credibility and drive results.

Beyond launch, our proactive approach to support means we've always got your brand in mind. From continuous website improvements, to practical eCommerce and SEO consultancy, we use research and data to help you reach your objectives, faster.

Whether it’s helping you ditch your out-of-date tech, boosting sales, or building a CMS that your team can actually use, our services are tailored to solve your digital problems, whatever they may be.

Why did you join the chamber?

We joined the chamber after being introduced by another member and attending a monthly chamber hub event, which was a fantastic opportunity to meet the diverse member base and the supportive Worthing team. Our initial experience was overwhelmingly positive, enjoying a well-organised and well-attended event. The chamber's broad mix of brands, from solopreneurs to enterprise clients, offers excellent networking opportunities. The Worthing Chamber team’s support during our initial discussions reinforced our decision to join. Overall, the chamber provides us with a platform to connect with local businesses and offer digital support and advice to fellow members on their digital journeys.

What’s your favourite thing about being a member?

Our favourite aspect of being a chamber member is the regular community events, particularly the speed networking sessions we recently enjoyed. Worthing Chamber offers ample opportunities to promote our brand through social posts, thought leadership content in their digital magazine, and speaking engagements. Their willingness to facilitate introductions and their regular updates are invaluable. The diverse mix of brands also makes it a fantastic chapter to be part of. We especially appreciate the monthly chamber events, which are perfect for reconnecting with the businesses and friends we've made along the way.

Expert VA Services - Member Case Study

What do you do? 

At Expert Virtual Assistant Services, we provide office administration and business support to small businesses and consultants who just want to concentrate on their fee-earning work.

We take on all of those tasks that are always on your to-do list but never seem to get done. This relieves stress, saves you time and ultimately money as you only pay for the work that we do.

We are highly organised, accurate and reliable, so are the perfect solution to help your business run more smoothly. Our team work with a variety of industries and have a wide-range of skills so we can hit the ground running while you can feel confident that things are being taken care of.

Here are just a few of the tasks we can take on for you: administration, diary management, email inbox management, data entry, proofreading, research, credit control, minute taking, presentation creation. 

Why did you join the Chamber?

 I joined the Chamber after attending a few of their networking events when I first started my business nearly 7 years ago. The events were really accessible and friendly and the members welcoming and informative. As I was a solo business owner at the time, the opportunity to feel part of the local business community was a no-brainer as it enabled me to meet people on a regular basis and discuss any issues I was having. It’s fantastic value for money for the number of events, training and support that is available. I’m proud to be an ambassador of the Chamber.

What’s your favourite thing about being a member?

My favourite thing about being a member (and ambassador) of the Chamber is the invaluable support it has provided for me as my business has grown. I have taken part in the Peer-to-Peer Mentoring programme, have attended several training events and also both taken part in and presented workshops. I’ve also benefited from the many networking opportunities being a member has provided. I’ve not only found clients through its members but have also sourced suppliers and made some good friends. I have learned so much about business in general as well as the whole local business community.

Constructive Marketing - Member Case Study

What do you do? 

Constructive Marketing is a positive force for your business! From strategic advice, through to implementation, we help clients discover (and then take care of) the things they really need to make their marketing activity work for their bottom line. We love working with clients from all walks of life and have particular specialisms in Construction and Care. 

If you don't get marketing, get Constructive!

Why did you join the Chamber? 

We joined the Chamber after hearing about the business support and networking opportunities it offered to members and we haven't looked back! Being part of the Chamber has helped in so many ways, it's become a first port of call for almost any business query we have. 

What’s your favourite thing about being a member? 

1. Getting to know so many people and build really valuable and long lasting relationships with some of them too.  

2. Always feeling like I matter as a member. Emails are answered, queries looked into, suggestions appreciated. You can't ask for more than that.

Mayo Wynne Baxter sees significant growth and strengthens position in legal sector

Sussex-based law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter (MWB) has announced a 7% increase in revenue for the past financial year, taking the firm’s turnover to more than £13.5 million for the first time, thanks to organic growth and team expansion.

In September 2023, the firm merged with Pure Employment Law in Chichester, bolstering its employment team.

MWB has also made significant investments in its family and private client teams with the appointment of partners Marie Stock and Marwa Hadi-Barnes.

Dean Orgill, chief executive partner at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our continued growth is a testament to the strength and dedication of our teams, as well as our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional legal services to our clients.”

Steeped in history, the firm has been part of the Sussex community for more than 150 years – supporting local people, their families and their businesses.

Dean continued: “While we are proud of these results, we remain focused on ensuring that our growth is both sustainable and aligned with our values.

“It is important to us that we maintain our close ties to the communities we serve, continue to offer a rewarding environment for our people, and keep delivering the high-quality legal services that have become the hallmark of Mayo Wynne Baxter.”

In addition to this revenue growth, Mayo Wynne Baxter has further strengthened its footprint across Sussex, adding Chichester to its geographical reach as well as investing in new premises in Eastbourne.

The firm also remains committed to career development and training, particularly promoting social mobility. The firm made four promotions in the past financial year.

The firm, which became part of legal and professional services group Ampa May 2022, now sits firmly in the Lawyer’s Top 100 Law Firms, with the group ranking at number 47.

Dean added: “The integration into the Ampa group has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in enabling us to accelerate this growth, providing us with enhanced resources, strategic support, and opportunities for cross-collaboration.

“We look forward to continued success and are open to hearing from like-minded talent who share our values of being both purposeful and profitable.”

For more information please visit: https://www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk/

FluidOne appoints Graham Dickie as new CFO to spearhead strategic growth initiatives

FluidOne Ltd, a leading provider of secure Connected Cloud Solutions, today announced the appointment of Graham Dickie as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective 6^th January 2025. Graham brings over 20 years of financial leadership experience to FluidOne, poised to enhance the company’s strategic financial planning and operations.

Graham has accumulated vast exposure through varied industries in his capacity as a CFO since 2006. Working in multinational businesses with revenues of upwards of £100m, he has successfully led projects centred on raising finance, improving profitability, and commercially supporting sales teams with pricing strategies. He brings comprehensive leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills and a wealth knowledge in working through large-scale restructuring and refinancing projects. His extensive experience in driving change and creating value in both private equity backed and multi-billion dollar listed global organisations will be pivotal in supporting FluidOne’s next steps in scaling up.

Since a management buyout led by CEO Russell Horton and backed by Livingbridge six years ago, the business has undergone substantial transformation. It has quadrupled in size to revenues of £113m and gone from a company specialising in communications and connectivity services, into an IT and Cyber Security-led managed service provider, with over 50% IT and cyber revenue mix and recurring revenues of over 70%.

FluidOne consults with its 2,400 customers to design solutions that complement their in-house IT structures; making complex hybrid multi-site environments and business applications accessible from anywhere, simply and securely. The Best Companies award-winning culture and customer-first values blends being a great place to work with providing world-class service to its customers. Unlike other players in this space, FluidOne consistently upholds one of the highest Net Promoter Scores (NPS) in the industry, securing 82 for November 2024.

Despite boasting nine acquisitions in recent years, the company is accelerating into a new phase of strategic expansion through organic growth and additional purchases, aiming to achieve a turnover of £300m by 2030 whilst maintaining its high standards of quality.

Russell Horton, FluidOne CEO, commented: “I am delighted to welcome Graham to FluidOne and am very much looking forward to collaborating with him in realising our 2030 vision. Our already talented team is considerably stronger with Graham on board. He brings unparalleled financial experience in buy and build strategies, combined with an immediate cultural fit, making him the ideal person to take us to the next level.”

Graham Dickie said: “It’s exciting to be joining FluidOne at such a transformative time in their journey; I’m looking forward to further establishing the business as an industry leader within IT, cyber and communications solutions.”

In becoming CFO, Graham joins the group board alongside CEO Russell Horton and CIO Chris Rogers to support them in developing and actioning FluidOne’s ambitious growth strategy.

Adur Local Plan ‘Key Issues’ Consultation

Adur District Council has started work on preparing an updated Adur Local Plan, which will provide a long term vision for the area over a period of 15 years.  This consultation provides an opportunity for people to help shape the future of the area to meet their needs to create a better place to live, work and play.  The new plan will provide the strategy for the growth of the local plan area, setting out what development will take place and where.  

It will set out a vision for the area that helps to establish the long term aims and aspirations.  The vision will be turned into objectives and policies which will deal with issues such as housing, the economy, the environment and infrastructure.  Once adopted, the new plan will replace the existing Adur Local Plan which was adopted in 2017 and will be an important consideration in deciding planning applications.

The Adur Local Plan ‘Key Issues’ consultation is the first stage in preparing the plan. We are seeking your views and suggestions on the issues and challenges facing the  area, and will take your feedback into account.

How to comment

You can read the Key Issues Consultation Document and have your say by visiting the council’s consultation page:
https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/alp-key-issues-consultation/

The consultation runs until midnight on Sunday 5th January 2025.

An Evening with Paul Johnson

Join Ropetackle for a fascinating and engaging evening with Paul Johnson, Director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), where he discusses the financial state of the nation. 

Date: Saturday 11th January 
Time: 7:30pm 

Originally from Shoreham-by-Sea, Paul has been director of the IFS since 2011. He is a columnist for The Times, and is a regular contributor to other broadcast and print media. He is a visiting professor in the UCL Policy Lab and at the UCL department of economics.

For 10 years, Paul was a member of the UK Climate Change Committee, and has served on the council of the ESRC and of the Royal Economic Society. Paul led reviews of pension auto-enrolment and of inflation measurement for the UK government, and of fiscal devolution for the Northern Ireland executive.

Previous roles have included time as chief economist at the Department for Education and as director of public spending at HM Treasury, where he also served as deputy head of the government economic service.

Paul published the Sunday Times bestseller “Follow the Money” in 2023. He was appointed CBE in the 2018 birthday honours.

Book your ticket here

Cosy Christmas at All Saints Church thanks to Pilbeam Construction

Visitors to All Saints Church in Lindfield, West Sussex, will have an even warmer welcome this festive season, thanks to state-of-the-art underfloor heating installed by Pilbeam Construction.

The Sussex-based construction company, known for its expertise in historic buildings, has successfully completed the installation of a modern underfloor heating system at Church House, part of the Grade II-listed All Saints Church complex which dates back to 1098.

It’s a significant upgrade for Church House, known locally as The Tiger, one of the oldest buildings in the village, which was originally an open hall house built around 1400.

Alan Corbett, managing director at Pilbeam, said: “It really is an honour to contribute to the legacy of such a historic and vital community building.

“The new heating system will ensure that The Tiger continues to bring people together in warmth and comfort for years to come.

“Underfloor heating is a fantastic option for churches because it’s sympathetic to the historic nature of the building, it heats up big spaces quickly and it’s much more efficient than radiators.”

Pilbeam’s work guarantees a comfortable environment for the congregation, community groups and other visitors who use the space regularly.

While the project ran smoothly, Pilbeam faced a few challenges, including inconsistencies in the original joist layout drawings.

Despite this, the team adapted quickly by installing acoustic and thermal insulation and revising the underfloor heating design and supplier.

The work was completed in just six weeks, one week ahead of the planned seven-week schedule, and came in under budget.

Pilbeam even unearthed some unexpected finds – when removing the original floor coverings and cleaning between the joists, workers discovered old cigarette packets, hinting at the building’s rich past.

Church House, formerly the Tiger Inn, may once have been the parish guest and alehouse. It was also the home of the Michelbourne family, who were a family of merchant adventurers with a tiger on their crest.

Ashley Bence, facilities manager at All Saints, said: “The Tiger has always been a beloved part of Lindfield’s heritage, and now, thanks to Pilbeam’s expertise, it’s also a cosy hub for the whole community. We’re thrilled with the result as winter sets in – and it’s even better that the project came in below budget despite the challenges.”

The underfloor heating will benefit a wide range of groups, including the Ukrainian Friendship Group, Tiger Cubs village nursery and other local community organisations.

For further information visit: www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk 

Bluecrest introduces two new female hormone tests

Female health tests launch for women suspecting menopause

Health assessments provider, Bluecrest, has expanded its offering to include a Menopause Hormone Test – and Advanced Menopause Profile – to help women understand if they are menopausal.

Broadening female health support for women, the tests are designed to support women over- 40 with suspected menopausal symptoms, and those looking to check menopausal status.

"Traditionally a menopause diagnosis is based on symptoms alone. However, we know many women want to know what is happening during this time – so our tests offer further insight.  We have included a GP consultation as part of our Advanced Menopause Profile, offering women a chance to discuss their results and symptoms – to establish the right path forward,” comments Martin Thornton, Chief Medical Officer at Bluecrest.

Bluecrest’s Menopause Hormone Test looks at follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, which play a crucial role in promoting egg growth and triggering the production of Oestrogen. An FSH blood test provides insights into the health of the pituitary gland – a key regulator of reproductive hormones – and can help to assess whether women may be entering menopause. The Advanced Menopause Profile looks at FSH levels, as well as oestradiol, sex hormone binding globulin, testosterone, and thyroid stimulating hormone.

More than 90% of postmenopausal women were never taught about the menopause at school, and over 60% only started looking for information about the menopause once their symptoms had started, according to a study conducted by the University College London.¹

Thornton explains: “There’s still a lot of misunderstanding and misinformation out there, and many women report feeling alone when trying to cope with difficult symptoms. Being able to take a dedicated Menopause Hormone Test could transform someone’s menopause experience.”

Dominque Kent, Bluecrest’s Chief Executive, comments: “We are so excited to launch the new Advanced Menopause Profile, which, along with a GP consultation to discuss symptoms, can tell women where they are on their menopause journey. So many women confuse perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms for burnout or other lifestyle pressures and vice versa. Our Menopause Hormone Tests give women the information they need to understand what is going on for them and take action.”

Menopause isn’t just something that impacts women in isolation. It also impacts their families – and their workplaces.

The British Menopause Society has revealed that 45% of women felt that menopausal symptoms had a negative impact on their work, and 47% who needed to take a day off work due to menopause symptoms say they wouldn’t tell their employer the real reason.²

“We know menopausal women are the fastest growing demographic in the workplace,” says Kent, “and we know that it hits just as women are reaching senior positions. That’s talent British businesses can’t afford to lose.”

Martin added: “Menopause is protected under the Equality Act of 2010, but many businesses are still grappling with how to support women effectively. Periods are still a taboo subject in the workplace, and we need to cut through that stigma by talking about menstruation, by talking about menopause, in offices, on factory floors, and in boardrooms. If you’re an organisation that cares about wellbeing, you should care about menopause, and you should be looking for ways to support your workforce. Bluecrest health assessments, especially with this new Menopause Hormone Test, could be an important part of that picture.”

Bluecrest’s Advanced Menopause Profile supports the understanding of specific hormone levels, and can help women in their decisions around HRT, so that they can better manage the impact of menopause on their daily lives.

Kent continues: “This launch is particularly personal to me, given my own experience as a senior woman in the workplace and that of many women around me. Menopausal symptoms can be scary when you don’t know what is going on for you. We want to be able to empower and provide data about something that happens to 50% of the population, helping women manage menopause in the best way that they can.”

With NHS waiting lists for menopause specialist guidance rising to several months,² the tests will allow women to have informed conversations with a GP about where they are on their menopause journey and understand the treatment options available to them.

·         The Menopause Hormone Test is priced at £49 and includes FSH testing, offering initial insights for women seeking to identify menopause.

·         The Advanced Menopause Profile is priced at £169 and includes tests for FSH, oestradiol, sex hormone binding globulin, testosterone, and thyroid stimulating hormone, plus a GP consultation.

For more information about the new menopause tests, go to Bluecrestwellness.com

https://www.bluecrestwellness.com/packages/advanced-menopause-profile

References

• 1.      UCL News. 2023. Nine in ten women were never educated about the menopause. Available at: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2023/apr/nine-ten-women-were-never-educated-about-menopause. Accessed: December 2024

• 2.      iNews. Menopause care crisis revealed as women face waiting until 2025 for NHS appointments. Available at: https://inews.co.uk/news/women-menopause-appointments-2025-2275134?srsltid=AfmBOooPb2zEiuUj238GtZCmO3pHfkaJBa5SbpBGDZYMJe1zhCL_gP6s. Accessed: December 2024

• 3.      NHS Inform. Menopause and the workplace. Available at: https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/womens-health/later-years-around-50-years-and-over/menopause-and-post-menopause-health/menopause-and-the-workplace/#:~:text=It%27s%20important%20to%20remember%20that,talk%20about%20menopause%20at%20work. Accessed: December 2024

About Bluecrest:

Bluecrest is the health intelligence company. Their mission is to help everyone live healthier for longer by making personal health monitoring easy and affordable.

Its thorough assessments help people understand what is going on inside their bodies – the good and the could be better – giving them the information they need to make healthier choices and seek support if needed.

Its network of over 14,000 in-person clinics across the UK and Ireland is conveniently designed so that a Bluecrest hub is located within 20 minutes of most locations.

Bluecrest’s clinical strategy is driven by its in-house expert, Dr Martin Thornton, who is dedicated to improving health outcomes through patient-centred prevention. A clinical advisory board made up of GPs and specialist consultants shapes its approach to achieving clinical excellence.

Bluecrest is registered with the Care Quality Commission in England, with test results processed by a market-leading accredited laboratory.

For over a decade, Bluecrest has been ensuring people can live health-confident lives, completing over 2,000+ appointments every week.

Bluecrest's assessments cater for everyone by offering personalised packages that are right for the individual. Packages start from as little as £109, which includes access to a 24/7 GP service, the MyWellness App and mental health support for a year.