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

Bird & Blend Tea Co have been featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024, powered by WorkL! Here's what they had to say!

The article is celebrating companies that are doing a great job of engaging & supporting people of all ages with work that’s meaningful, purposeful and inspiring - which speaks directly to what we are all about, so we really couldn’t be more chuffed. "

The list highlights the UK’s top-ranking employers in six key areas: reward and recognition, information sharing, empowerment, well-being, instilling pride, and job satisfaction. To make the list, each company must achieve a minimum response rate (based on its size) and be ranked above 70 per cent by its own workforce. Although the final listing is determined by an engagement score average, a highly engaged workplace must perform well in all six areas.

Our founding mission statement (written on the back of a napkin over 10 years ago) was to: ‘Prove you could build a successful business that based its decisions on people & planet, not just profit’.

Fast forward to today, and our core strategic purpose is to be known and loved as a great place to work, and so to receive this kind of recognition is something we’re hugely proud of.

Check out all of the companies that made this year's Times Best Places To Work list. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/static/best-places-to-work-2024-introfeature/

Needless to say, we are thrilled to be celebrated for our ‘refreshing approach’ by The Sunday Times: ‘At Worthing-based Bird & Blend Tea, for instance, co-founders Krisi Smith and Mike Turner know all 164 employees by name and initiatives including paid volunteering days and a monthly tea allowance make life at work feel sweet.’

Huge shout out to our incredible, magical & trailblazing TEAm whose passion, dedication & creativity make Bird & Blend what it is!

New Chair and Trustees for Worthing Theatres & Museum 

Worthing Theatres & Museum (WTM) is an arts and heritage charity on the South Coast looking to recruit a new Chair and Trustees to join our Board. We are looking for committed, enthusiastic individuals who share our values and vision. We are keen to hear from applicants from a range of backgrounds and experience, both locally and further afield, who could bring expertise that benefits the Charity. In particular we are interested in those with experience in one or more of the following areas:

● Theatre and Arts Finances

● Fundraising

● Subsidised and Commercial Theatre Producing

● Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

● Strategic Business Planning

● Digital

We particularly encourage applications from candidates who have previously been underrepresented at WTM and in the industry. Why join us?

Trusteeship at WTM provides an opportunity to participate in, oversee and lead a diverse, vibrant and growing charity. It is a chance to be impactful and have a voice in the local community, influence strategy, finance, operations and future plans for the Charity and collaborate with experienced individuals who share a passion for arts and heritage.

Most importantly we look forward to meeting people who are committed to driving WTM forward in achieving Our Vision of a community in which everyone’s lives are enriched through vibrant, exceptional arts and heritage.

How To Apply

The HR team will be accepting applications on behalf of the Board, to apply please send a covering letter outlining why you are interested along with a CV to hradmin@wtm.uk

Deadline to apply: 13th June 2024

If you would like an informal chat with one of our Trustees, have any questions or want to know more about becoming a Trustee please email hradmin@wtm.uk

Could you be an Industry Mentor at Shoreham Academy?

The Careers Team at Shoreham Academy are seeking employers to participate in their Thinking Futures programme for Year 12 students, which will take place from Monday 8^th to Thursday 11^th July. 

"You/your organisation would act as a mentor for a group of students for whom you set a project. ( The school will support you in this)  (The students choose a brief from those on offer that will enable them to develop skills relevant to their career aspirations.)

At the beginning of the week the mentor meets with the team of students to set the project. They then check in with them halfway through the week to discuss their progress. At the end of the week the students present their work to the industry mentor and receive feedback. Meetings can be in-person or virtual. Students are supported in school to produce high-quality work."

You can read this booklet for all the information  

Sussex Charity Turning Tides and National Charity StreetVet Forge Partnership with the Support of Hercule Van Wolfwinkle

In a significant development for community support services, Turning Tides and StreetVet have announced a new partnership, with Roffey Place becoming a StreetVet Accredited Hostel. This initiative has been made possible through the remarkable efforts of fundraiser Hercule Van Wolfwinkle, whose creative contributions have brought these two charities together. This marks a significant advancement in the support provided to the homeless community in West Sussex and their beloved pets.

Hercule Van Wolfwinkle, known for his unique and endearing pet portraits, has been a long-time supporter of both charities, Turning Tides and StreetVet. Van Wolfwinkle’s ‘rubbish’ portraits, as he humorously deems them, have garnered widespread attention, raising significant funds and uniting pet lovers in support of both Turning Tides and StreetVet. His recent joined fundraising efforts brings the overall fundraising to over £321,000!

“I’ve been fundraising for Turning Tides and StreetVet for the last three years, so it feels like two friends from different circles have eventually met. Roffey Place becoming aSteetVet Accredited Hostel is so much more than that though, this link between the charities means that, with the support of StreetVet, Turning Tides can now provide even greater care to the people and animals they are assisting at Roffey”. - Hercule Van Wolfwinkle.

Turning Tides, a leading charity in West Sussex, has dedicated itself to addressing homelessness with a comprehensive array of services, including outreach, advice, and accommodation. Since 1991, it has become the largest provider of homeless services for adults in the region, fostering community connections and transforming lives.

“I first moved to Roffey Place and then the [Turning Tides ‘Move On’ accommodation] farmhouse in West Sussex when I was made homeless due to my wife passing away, and then the home I was living for 15 years, was repossessed. In this time StreetVet has been Winston’s veterinary carers. This combination of great care, in my view prolonged Winton’s life. I was told that Winstons care, and the care they give to dogs like mine, is at the heart of what they do. StreetVet care is excellent, and I could not want better. Thank you for your expertise and knowledge for keeping him on the right track.” – Micky, a Turning Tides resident.

StreetVet, an award-winning national charity, provides free veterinary care to the pets of individuals experiencing homelessness. With a team of compassionate vets and vet nurse volunteers, StreetVet believes in maintaining the bond between owners and their pets, offering support through initiatives like the Accredited Hostel Scheme. Many people experiencing homelessness face the impossible choice between a roof over their heads or giving up their best friend, a choice nobody should have to make.

“Turning Tides is a fantastic charity that StreetVet is delighted to work alongside. Roffey Place has become the first StreetVet Accredited Hostel with Turning Tides and we have formed a strong partnership with staff to support their residents with pets on their journey to independent living accommodation. We look forward to our collaboration flourishing and seeing what we can achieve together.” Laura Sayer, Manager of the StreetVet Accredited Hostel Scheme

The inclusion of Roffey Place in the StreetVet Accredited Hostel Scheme marks a milestone in inclusive support for people that have experienced homelessness and their pets. This partnership ensures that residents at Roffey Place do not have to part with their pets, acknowledging the therapeutic importance of these companionships.

The collaboration between Turning Tides and StreetVet, championed by Hercule Van Wolfwinkle, exemplifies the power of community and the arts in driving social change. It is a testament to collective effort in forming collaborations to benefit those in need, including those who find comfort in the company of their pets.

Business Support Programme (2024/25)

Adur & Worthing Councils are pleased to be launching a Business Support Programme to assist our local businesses within the areas of innovation, sustainability and leadership & management. Additionally there will be support available for pre-start up and start up enterprises.

This support programme is funded with money from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund awarded by central government, Section 106 contributions from developers and pooled business rates as part of a national retention scheme.

The Business Support Programme has available a very small amount of funding, available to specific, eligible businesses in the form of a grant. Businesses will be identified as eligible to apply, following engagement through one of the support strands. Grants are not guaranteed and will be reviewed by a separate grants panel in order to ascertain best use of the funds and secure the biggest impact for the amount of funding available.

The councils are pleased to be working with Freedom Works, Clean Growth UK and the University of Brighton to bring specialised support to this programme.

To celebrate the launch of the programme we will be holding two events on Monday 20th May 2024 to enable businesses and individuals to find out more about the support available including workshops and mentoring across the four areas of focus.

Please register on Eventbrite to join us on one of the following events:

• Worthing: Monday 20th May 2024 - 8:30am to 10:30am at Freedom Works
• Adur: Monday 20th May 2024 - 5:30pm to 7:30pm at Ropetackle Arts Centre, Shoreham-by-Sea

Places will be limited so please book early to avoid disappointment!

Alternatively to be notified when this programme goes live please complete your details through the link below:

• Business support programme (2024/25) - register your interest

Could you be a Volunteer Enterprise Advisor?

Young people need to engage with employers and experience workplaces to raise their aspirations and broaden their post-16/18 horizons. We need your help to inspire young people, educate them on current pathways to work and advise them on what to expect in your sector.

West Sussex, Brighton and Hove Careers Hub are looking for a Volunteer Enterprise Advisor for Bohunt School in Worthing

If you can commit to at least one year to support a school or college, you can work with a Careers Leader in a school or college to review and develop their careers programme. Enterprise Advisers are an invaluable mix of business consultant, critical friend and mentor. This is a hugely rewarding opportunity to make a clear difference to the lives of young people in your community. 

If you are interested and would like to know more email penny.daly@westsussex.gov.uk