Wellbeing day for Off The Fence charity

Chamber member 'Inspire You' are running a Wellbeing Day on the 19th September with all proceeds going to Off The Fence Homeless Charity in Brighton.

Earthship Shape: Mind & Body Connect

Unleash the power of mind-body connection at Earthship Shape. Transform, rejuvenate, and discover a new level of wellbeing. #earthshipshape

Join us for a rejuvenating Wellbeing Day at the Earthship in Stanmer Park, Brighton—an event designed to empower you to enhance your overall wellbeing. If you often find yourself struggling with work-life balance, experiencing stress, fatigue, or lacking self-discipline, this day is tailored just for you. Whether you're a business owner, working in a high-pressure job, or seeking wellness opportunities for your team or organization, this unique experience is perfect for you.

This isn't your typical retreat or wellness day—it's a transformative journey into the world of well-being. Delve deep into the enchanting woods of Stanmer Park, surrounded by natural beauty, and discover your vulnerabilities while equipping yourself with the tools you need for self-improvement.

Throughout the day, we have curated an array of insightful workshops, each focusing on a different pillar of well-being. These workshops will provide you with valuable insights into your own wellbeing and offer practical techniques and strategies that you can implement in your daily life.

Workshops 

• Habits
• Nutrition
• Posture
• Breathwork (with optional ice-bath)

19/09/2023 10am - 5pm at The Earthship, Stanmer BN1 9PZ

Tickets: Earlybird £135 (until 5th September) - general £150

Carpenter Box Supports £multi-million EOT of RJ Power Group of Companies

Carpenter Box’s corporate finance and tax teams have supported the Sevenoaks-based RJ Power Group of companies in a multi-million pound transaction that transfers ownership of 70% of the business to employees.

Carpenter Box, a leading provider of accounting and advisory services across Sussex and the South East, provided tax advice both to create a group structure for RJ Power in readiness for the employee ownership trust (EOT), and to complete the transaction in the most tax-efficient manner. The firm also supported the Group in determining an appropriate market valuation of the business for the sale to the EOT

“We are delighted to have supported the RJ Power Group of companies in their transition to employee ownership,” said Alistair Aird, Corporate Finance Director at Carpenter Box. “Employee ownership, enabled through EOTs, is a proven way of motivating people to drive the long-term success of a business and we look forward to the RJ Power Group of companies thriving under this new ownership model.”

RJ Power Group provides integrated design and engineering solutions to the power sector across the UK, with four complementary businesses covering rail, private networks and connections covering design, installation testing and commissioning applications for customers in the UK. “We are excited about this new chapter in the development of RJ Power.” said Peter White, Group Chief Executive Officer. “The Management are committed to the long-term success of the Group and are confident that this transaction will make a positive impact on our business, our employees and our clients. The knowledge and expertise of Carpenter Box made the whole process quick and smooth and we look forward to working with them in the future.”

The EOT is a significant milestone for RJ Power Group and its employees. Employee ownership is a proven model for success as evidence shows it leads to more motivated and productive employees, who are able to earn income tax-free bonuses up to £3,600. At the same time, any disposals of a controlling interest in the company transferring to an EOT are also free from Capital Gains Tax.

The EOT model is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with the RJ Power Group of companies joining over 1,300 employee-owned businesses in the United Kingdom, which account for total combined sales of over £20bn.

www.carpenterbox.com

Why making a will becomes even more important from 26 July 2023

This month the government is changing the ‘statutory legacy’ sum from £270,000 to £322,000, which means if a person dies without a will, in addition to being entitled to their personal effects, their spouse or civil partner will automatically receive up to £322,000 worth of assets from the deceased’s estate, with the remaining sum split 50/50 between the surviving spouse/civil partner and any children.

If there are no children then the surviving spouse/civil partner will automatically inherit everything. But this is only applicable to those who are married or in a civil partnership, and doesn’t include cohabiting couples.

Rebecca Louis, private client partner at law firm Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Unfortunately, there are many people who still believe a common law spouse exists, and think that they will automatically inherit everything if their partner dies. This is absolutely not the case – those who are married or in a civil partnership and don’t have a will, will only inherit up to £322,000, plus 50% of whatever remains of their partner’s estate, whereas unmarried couples who don’t have wills in place risk ending up with nothing.

“Getting married is not for everyone, but getting a will should be. Without one, you and your loved ones are unprotected and instead of following your wishes, the distribution of your estate will be determined by fixed rules under UK law.”

For estates worth less than £322,000, the surviving spouse/civil partner will inherit it all. For estates over the new threshold, a split in inheritance could lead to issues for those left behind.

Rebecca added: “If the deceased owned the family home in their sole name, subject to the value, this new statutory legacy threshold could lead to surviving spouses or civil partners being forced to sell the property to release sums due to their children, or including children on the deeds, potentially limiting what the surviving partner can do with the property down the line.

“It’s worth considering that the rules of intestacy use an arbitrary system to prioritise distribution of assets, which is limited to: spouse/civil partner, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts/uncles, and therefore doesn’t take into consideration stepchildren, or other dependents you may have. The only way to guarantee they are included in your estate is to prepare a will.”

With the cost-of-living crisis and an increasing number of second marriages, blended families and unmarried couples, an estate that is distributed under intestacy (without a will) is more vulnerable to costly challenges and claims from dependents, or those who were given promises of inheritance.

Nick Stockley, contentious probate expert at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “We’re seeing more and more disputes based on broken promises and involving second marriages. Children often feel aggrieved if the home they grew up in is left solely to their step-parent. We also see situations where surviving cohabiting partners can be forced to effectively challenge these intestacy rules by bringing a claim against their late partner’s estate, if the alternative is losing half of their home to their deceased partner’s children”.

“With all this in mind, it is critical for families both to understand the legal position and have an open and honest discussion with their loved ones while still alive to avoid any confusion and financial misunderstanding when they eventually die. All too often the cases we deal with arise from either a lack of communication, a general misunderstanding or incorrect understanding of the law any of which can leave people without money they were depending on.”

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

Worthing Ukrainian Friends Support

There are abut 130 Ukrainian women and children refugees from the war,  staying with hosts in Worthing under Governments Homes for Ukraine Scheme . some having experienced severe trauma and many having  lost their jobs and  careers

The Ukrainian Friends Network was established last year to help their integration and wellbeing while they are with us by providing  English Tuition, social activities, occasional group visits and a Job Club

Worthing Ukrainian Friends Support are now  seeking:

1.  Mentors to help Ukrainians practice English and find work -needing about 2 hours face to face per week for a limited time

2. Young women to help with befriending Ukrainian women, with social and possible sport and fitness activities

For more information please visit www.ukrainianfriends.net 

Studio Hummingbird Transforms Outdoor Spaces into Breathtaking Gardens

Studio Hummingbird, a garden design studio based in Worthing, is capturing the hearts and imaginations of homeowners with their exceptional ability to transform outdoor spaces into captivating and functional gardens.

Led by the creative mind of Victoria Rumens, Studio Hummingbird is redefining the concept of garden design, offering a unique blend of creativity, innovation, and meticulous attention to detail.

At Studio Hummingbird, the focus is on creating gardens that not only reflect the individual style and preferences of their clients but also evoke a sense of tranquility, harmony, and natural beauty. Drawing inspiration from the West Sussex coast and understanding the unique characteristics of each space, Victoria brings forth designs that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment, resulting in stunning and functional outdoor spaces.

What sets Studio Hummingbird apart is their expertise in utilising cutting-edge 3D visualisation technology. Through these immersive visualisations, clients can witness their dream gardens come to life before a single plant is even planted. This innovative approach ensures that every aspect of the design is precisely tailored to the client's vision, while also allowing for informed decision-making and avoiding costly mistakes.

Studio Hummingbird offers a comprehensive range of services, including garden design, landscape planning, plant selection, and project coordination. Whenever possible Studio Hummingbird recommends sustainable materials and promotes the use of native plants, water conservation techniques, and organic gardening principles.

For those interested in experiencing the Studio Hummingbird difference, consultations are available to discuss design ideas, explore possibilities, and provide personalized recommendations. Whether it's a small urban courtyard or an expansive rural estate, Studio Hummingbird’s team will bring creativity, expertise, and passion to every project.

Studio Hummingbird | Designing Gardens to Inspire | Worthing | www.studiohummingbird.com | info@studiohummingbird.com

Enhancing Your Brand with Garment Embroidery, Heat Transfer, and Promotional Products

In today's competitive market, building a strong brand identity is essential for businesses to stand out. One effective way to do so is through the use of garment embroidery, heat transfer, and promotional products. These versatile techniques offer unique opportunities to showcase your brand, create a lasting impact, and engage with your target audience. In this blog, we will explore the benefits and applications of garment embroidery, heat transfer, and promotional products in enhancing your brand image.

1. Garment Embroidery:

Garment embroidery is a timeless art form that adds elegance and sophistication to apparel. Whether it's a corporate logo on a polo shirt or intricate designs on a jacket, embroidery adds a professional touch. Here are some advantages of garment embroidery:

a. Durability: Embroidered designs are long-lasting, even after multiple washes, ensuring that your brand remains visible for a significant period.

b. Customization: From font styles to thread colors, garment embroidery allows for endless customization options, enabling you to create a unique and memorable representation of your brand.

c. Perceived Value: Embroidered apparel exudes a sense of quality and attention to detail, making it highly desirable among customers and employees alike.

2. Heat Transfer:

Heat transfer is a versatile technique that involves applying custom designs onto various materials using heat and pressure. It offers numerous benefits for brand promotion:

a. Vibrant and Detailed Designs: Heat transfer allows for intricate, full-color designs, ensuring that your brand logo or message stands out vividly.

b. Versatility: With heat transfer, you can apply designs to a wide range of products, including t-shirts, bags, hats, and more, offering flexibility in promotional campaigns.

c. Quick Turnaround: Heat transfer is a fast and efficient method, making it ideal for projects that require a quick production turnaround.

3. Promotional Products:

Promotional products play a crucial role in establishing brand recognition and fostering customer loyalty. By offering useful and branded items, you can keep your brand at the forefront of customers' minds. Here's why promotional products are effective:

a. Increased Brand Exposure: Promotional products act as walking advertisements, extending your brand's reach beyond traditional marketing channels.

b. Tangible and Useful: Items like pens, mugs, and USB drives serve practical purposes, ensuring that your brand remains visible and useful in customers' daily lives.

c. Cost-Effective Marketing: Compared to other advertising methods, promotional products offer a cost-effective way to generate brand awareness and customer engagement.

Garment embroidery, heat transfer, and promotional products are valuable tools for enhancing your brand image. Whether you choose the elegance of embroidery, the versatility of heat transfer, or the lasting impact of promotional products, these techniques allow you to create a tangible and memorable representation of your brand. By investing in these promotional strategies, you can effectively engage your target audience, increase brand recognition, and ultimately drive business success. If you would like more information please contact  sales@workwearvillage.com

Safe in Sussex - New Training Offering for 2023/24

Safe In Sussex are a charity who provides help and support to people affected by Domestic Abuse within West Sussex.  

Through Refuge accommodation and outreach programmes, we work hard to support victims of abuse in their recovery and empowerment once free from an abusive relationship. 

We’re committed to preventing domestic abuse by providing education and training on how to spot the signs of domestic abuse, and by promoting healthy relationships. 

From September 2023 onwards, we will have a brand-new training offer for organisations, businesses and the wider community, which we will be rolling out over the next year. 

The following training will enhance current knowledge but also provide new informative understanding for those who have not had any form of training before. 

The following will be on offer from September 2023 

Understanding Domestic Abuse 

A dynamic Approach to Domestic Abuse 

The following courses will additionally be rolled out from January 2024 

 ACE – Adverse Childhood Experiences 

How Heavy is your backpack? 

 Understanding Coercive and controlling behavior 

The invisible pain 

These 3-hour training courses are flexible to meet the needs of the audience and will enhance the understanding of Domestic Abuse, includes Coercive Control and increases knowledge about the impact this has and equips you with knowledge of how best to support someone within the workplace experiencing/witnessing Domestic Abuse.

These courses will be available Face to Face from the above dates. 

I would be happy to answer any further questions you have about our new training offer and if these courses would be of interest to yourselves or if they would benefit any of the businesses you support.

Two Faced Twins win Best Art Gallery in Sussex!

The twin artists known as the Two Faced Twins have won an award for Best Art Gallery in Sussex. The award, conferred by Muddy Stilettos, celebrates originality, creativity, and quality amongst independent businesses.

The Two Faced Twins are Stella and Gemma, identical twin artists who create striking colourful artwork for contemporary homes. The Twins co-create each and every piece of artwork. Stella is the ‘Ink Genius’ and hand-illustrates captivating scenes. Gemma is the ‘Colour Queen’ and is responsible for crafting their characteristic colour-scapes . With each of their talents complementing the other, they create unique, vibrant artworks that leave viewers transfixed.

The Two Faced Twins started out in 2017 and quicky built a following on social media as they experimented with ways in which they could co-produce art. This experimentation eventually led them to develop their modus operandi – the division of artwork into the two halves of lines and colours – and from this their unique style evolved.

Their work typically involves everyday scenes reimagined in characterful lines and stunning colours, though their offerings also include stylised portraits of animals and icons such as Blondie and David Bowie. Many of their pieces feature recognisable landmarks in and around Worthing, such as Cissbury Ring, the Dome Cinema and, of course, Worthing Pier. Their portfolio has since expanded to other locations, including Littlehampton Harbour, Hastings Old Town, and Tower Bridge in London.

Since the early days the Twins have gone from strength to strength. In July 2020 they opened their very own gallery on Worthing seafront. Centrally located on the promenade opposite Steyne Gardens, the Two Faced Twins Gallery has become a well-known and beloved feature of the local community. In this beachside setting, the Twins showcase and sell their artwork and homeware range, which includes cushions, clocks, and umbrellas featuring their signature artworks. Walking into the Gallery, visitors are met with a sea of colour that grabs attention and lifts spirits (for those living further afield, the Two Faced Twins website offers just as colourful an experience and features all the artwork and homeware available in the Gallery).

In June 2023, their rise to prominence was recognised when they received the Muddy Stilettos Award for Best Art Gallery in Sussex. Facing stiff competition from other reputable galleries across Sussex, the Two Faced Twins won a decisive 50% of the vote. The award celebrates small independent businesses across the country, as voted for by the public. As winners of the Sussex regional award, the Two Faced Twins have now been entered into the National Muddy Awards alongside the other 27 regional winners in the Best Art Gallery category.  

To mark the third anniversary of the opening of the Two Faced Twins Gallery, the Twins are hosting a free Summer Event at the Gallery on the 28^th July 2023. The event will feature live saxophone music and refreshments. It will, of course, feature the twins’ characteristic artwork, including the unveiling of new artworks and homeware designs. The event starts at 7pm, and places can be reserved here.

Worthing Community Chest - Trustee and volunteering opportunities

Worthing Community Chest is a registered, local, independent charity that enables local groups and charities to achieve community enrichment. Their Vision is to be the “go-to” funder and partner of new and developing community groups in Worthing. Together they improve, transform and enrich lives.

They are looking to recruit skilled volunteers, trustees, and friends who help them to achieve their vision. By joining them, you know that your time and commitment will make an immediate impact on the Worthing Community.

Take a look at their groups to get a feel for who they have funded in the past. The skills they are looking for are listed below

Fundraising Innovation Meister:  You may see yourself on Dragons’ Den with your blockbusting ideas, but could you answer the Dragon’s finance questions? I promise that our trustees are kind. However, people have changed, and so has the way they donate to charity. We need an injection of Fundraising innovation (and implementation) that excites corporates and charity givers, so we can continue to enrich the Worthing Community. The beauty of giving your time to Worthing Community Chest is that all funds raised for grant giving, stay in Worthing. Time commitment: Minimum 1 hour per week as a volunteer, or as a trustee, one board meeting every six weeks, 6.30-8.30pm. Plus up to 6 hours commitment per month.

Money Motivator (Treasurer’s Assistant):  Do numbers excite you? Does money motivate you? Do accounts activate you? If you are training to be an accountant, or looking for a career upgrade in finance, then Worthing Community Chest is the perfect platform for you to achieve this. The bonus is that you will be enriching the Worthing Community at the same time. Time commitment: We see this as a minimum commitment of one year. Board meeting every six weeks, 6.30-8.30pm. Plus up to 6 hours in working groups per month.

Legal Legend: Does policy wording excite you? We are renowned for our simple and accessible grant process. However, as equal opportunities laws and other laws evolve, it is important we keep on top of things.  Therefore, we are in the process of updating all of our policies to be in line with current legislation. If you consider legality to be a life of luxury, then this could be the perfect role for you. Time commitment: We see this as a minimum commitment of one year. Board meeting every six weeks, 6.30-8.30pm. Plus up to 6 hours in working groups per month.

Superpower Grant Teleporter (grants portal coder): We are looking to create an online grants portal system to teleport our grant applicants from application to successful awarding of grants, including the payment of their grants. The portal will ping our glorious groups with updates, or additional questions. We require help with this. Are you our Superpower Grant Teleporter? Time commitment: We see this as a voluntary role, however, if you would like to join our team of trustees as an IT expert, and be part of our board meetings, then we are open to this.

Super Secretary: Although we tend to share the minute and agenda preparation, there are other administrative responsibilities, including DBS checks for our vista of volunteers, that require co-ordinating. Therefore, if you are excited by organising people and would like to join us in this role, please contact us.

Networker or Toastmaster Extraordinaire:  Are you a social soul? In order to enrich our community, we need to share the news of our grand grants. This can be achieved by public speaking or representing us at events. Also, our when our groups have completed their community enriching events, we need help promoting this amazing work. 

Please contact vicky@worthingcommunitychest.org for further information.

Brighton enterprise wins Gamechanger Award

A small enterprise owner based in Rottingdean Brighton has been voted the Entrepreneur of the Year at the Sussex Chamber of Commerce annual awards event held at the Crown Plaza Hotel. The awards recognise businesses across Sussex for being best in class, with adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle attending this year.

Award Judges included Dee Mathieson MD and Tim Rose Vice President of Elekta, international leaders in medical innovations. Their detailed reviews explored online evidence and a personal interview assessment. They visited Clive Bonny at Strategic Management Partners in Rottingdean.

The judges commented “Clive covered a wide breadth and depth of skills and expertise and a passion for ideas. Highly adaptable, he continually develops what he needs in order to serve his clients when he sees an opportunity to fill a gap. He can quantify success through objective data provided to us at the interview and multiple testimonials from satisfied clients. Clive has an impressive track record of inspiring and giving confidence to those setting up new businesses and his energy and generosity to share his wealth of expertise was what put him ahead of the others in this category”

Clive, who has been providing business support services since 1990, says “this recognition deserves to go to my collaboration partners Mark Riminton, Lorraine Davies and Judith Badger at the University of Brighton, and to Matthew Pullinger and Richard Hall at the University of Portsmouth. They have referred startups and high growth innovators to me for many years, helping to protect and create hundreds of new jobs with new products and services. My advice to others is to create partnerships with business support organisations such as Universities and Chambers of Commerce. These collaborations leverage knowledge and skill sharing across the whole community, especially for low carbon innovations with high environmental and social value.”

For more information

https://www.sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/

https://www.clean-growth.uk/

www.consult-smp.com   

Clive Bonny 07973 799153