Cumbria Chamber of Commerce Podcast: Recent Episodes
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce
This is the podcast feed for Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, with business news and updates and information that is relevant to all Cumbrian businesses, whatever their size.
In this episode, we're talking all things Conference Cumbria 2026. We explore what's in store for this year's event, from the theme "Be Bold. Be Courageous." and our keynote speaker Sir Clive Woodward, to the inspiring speakers, panel discussions and opportunities to connect with businesses from across Cumbria. Find out why Conference Cumbria is an event not to be missed and what delegates can expect on the day.
In this episode, Dominic Doig from Solomon Europe joins us to discuss MatchMaker—a new procurement model designed to help SMEs source the products and services they need more effectively. We explore how the idea for MatchMaker came about, the impact it's already having for businesses, and so much more.
In this episode, Jade Clifford from iCan Wellbeing Group joins us to discuss ADHD in the workplace and how employers can create environments where neurodivergent employees can thrive. We explore Jade's personal experiences of living and working with ADHD, the challenges and strengths that can come with it, and practical ways organisations can provide meaningful support.
In this episode, Laura Wellington from Inspira joins us to discuss Connect to Work — a new programme helping people across Cumbria overcome barriers to employment and connect with meaningful, sustainable careers. We explore how the initiative supports both individuals and employers, why inclusive recruitment matters, and hear a powerful real-life success story showing the difference the right support can make.
Big changes are on the way with new recycling legislation, and getting it wrong could cost your business more than you think.
We're joined by Cumbria Waste Group to break down what "Simpler Recycling" really means, what's changing, and why now is the time to act.
But it's not just about staying compliant, done right, these changes could actually reduce costs and improve how your business operates.
If you run a business in Cumbria, this is essential listening.
Big changes are on the way with new recycling legislation, and getting it wrong could cost your business more than you think.
We're joined by Cumbria Waste Group to break down what "Simpler Recycling" really means, what's changing, and why now is the time to act.
But it's not just about staying compliant, done right, these changes could actually reduce costs and improve how your business operates.
If you run a business in Cumbria, this is essential listening.
What does leadership look like in 2026 when pressure is high, burnout is common and people are craving better workplace culture? In this episode, Laura Cadman and Ben Hickman join the Growth Hub podcast to talk about this year's Leadership Conference, exploring vulnerability, failure, listening, burnout and the behaviours that shape stronger leaders and healthier organisations.
High street banks are disappearing and many businesses are being pushed towards fast, expensive online lending without real advice. In this episode, we speak with James Todhunter from Enterprise Answers about the growing finance advice gap in Cumbria, the risks of "quick fix" funding, and where business owners can turn for trusted, face-to-face support before making big financial decisions.
Behind the highlights and beyond the hype. Join a group of young business owners as they talk candidly about the freedom, pressure and purpose that come with building a business early in life. An honest conversation about belief, balance and what success actually feels like.
This month we are joined by one of our advisers Ian Wilson, Managing Director of IW Process Solutions. To celebrate International Manufacturing Day we talk about Ian's Manufacuring experiences and his vision for the future.
Ian Wilson is a Lean expert with over twenty years’ experience of implementing continuous improvement methodologies across a wide variety of industrial sectors with a proven track record of achieving results.
Click here to visit his website - Lean Consultancy | IWPS | IW Process Solutions Ltd
This month we are joined by Matt Ryder the Principal Lecturer at the University of Cumbria. The topic of our conversation is the opening of the new university campus in Barrow. We discuss the different courses that the university will be running and how the campus community will affect Barrow's local economy.
Click here to learn more about the Barrow Campus - https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/student-life/locations/barrow-in-furness/.
This month we are joined by the Directors of Thomas Jardine and Co. Keith and Jaqui Jackson, who are here to talk about their new leadership programme LEAD iT. A 10-month leadership programme built specifically for founders and family business leaders of independent UK businesses.
To learn more about the programme click here
Businesses in Carlisle will have received information in recent weeks about the Great Border City and plans to establish a Carlisle Business Improvement District (BID). We’ve invited Adrian Lochhead and Kevin Beaty, who are part of the team working on the Great Border City, onto the podcast to discuss what prompted the BID proposal; how establishing a BID will impact Carlisle; lessons from other cities and how businesses can get involved and share their views.
For more information and to sign up for email updates from the Great Border City team, visit the website here: https://greatborder.city/
This month on the podcast, we’re joined by Martyn Staveley, Director of Three Peaks Consulting, to discuss all things international trade and to breakdown our new Export Consultancy service. We discuss:
- Challenges and opportunities for Cumbrian exporters
- The impact of global events on international trade
- Businesses Martyn has helped succeed in exporting
- Our new Export Consultancy Service including the different levels of support given to new and well-established exporters
- How the service will work
- How to get involved
Whether you're a seasoned exporter or thinking about getting started, we can provide you with a holistic service tailored to help you reach your goals!
Learn here: Export Consultancy service | Cumbria Growth Hub
This month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub Podcast, we’re joined by leadership coach Alec Pearson to explore our new Leadership Mentoring Programme. We discuss...
- Current trends within leadership and leadership challenges facing the UK economy
- The 'accidental manager'
- Specific areas leaders are struggling with
- How the programme will work and expected outcomes for delegates
Delivered by Alec Pearson, Cumbria Business Growth Hub's new leadership mentoring programme will provide practical guidance to help leaders make confident decisions, build resilient teams and drive their business forward. Learn more here: Mentoring Programme | Cumbria Growth Hub
This month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast, we welcome Tracy Eyres, Senior Innovation and Growth Specialist at Innovate UK. In this episode, we explore how Innovate UK helps businesses drive innovation, the financial support available for Cumbrian businesses, real-world case studies of successful innovation projects, and opportunities for local businesses to expand into international markets. Tune in to discover how your business can benefit!
Learn more: https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/
This month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast we're joined by Gemma Procter Sustainable Tourism Officer at Cumbria Tourism. We discuss food waste, its impact on the environment and steps businesses can take to reduce it. Learn about the national scheme 'Guardians of Grub' and the tools available to help your business reduce its food waste.
Go to the Guardians of Grub website by clicking the link below
It’s time to rise up and tackle food waste • Guardians of Grub
This month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast we're joined by Claire Louise Chapman of the Shared Value Business. The topic of our conversation is Social Value. We discuss: definitions and differences between Social Value and Corporate Social Responsibility; the benefits of embedding social value into a business strategy; top tips for small businesses getting started; and how Social Value looks to evolve in the coming years.
Keep an eye on our website for upcoming Social Value training: https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/grow-your-business/train-your-team?st=trainYourTeam
Learn more about the Shared Value Business here: https://tsvb.co.uk/
In this episode, we sit down with Claire Aindow, the Pro Vice Chancellor for Growth and Development at the University of Cumbria. Claire discusses her new role and the university's new campus in Barrow-in-Furness opening in 2025. She also shares how the university is working closely with local businesses to create educational opportunities that meet the needs of the community and economy.
Click here to learn more about the Barrow Campus - https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/student-life/locations/barrow-in-furness/.
As part of our activity for Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024, we're sharing an interview with Denise Gosney - founder of Razzamataz - which was previously shown at our 'How To Slay the Dragons' event held in partnership with North and West Lancs Chamber of Commerce in November 2024.
Hear Denise's inspiring story all about how she started her Razzamataz and what happened after she appeared on Dragons' Den. For the first time in the Den, a Dragon offered all the money without haggling!
We're joined on the podcast by Martha Wood, founder of Chamber member Martha Wood Marketing. We discuss the role of social media in the marketing industry and how a marketing strategy can help you take advantage of the platforms available.
To learn more about Martha's freelance marketing services visit her website:
https://marthawoodmarketing.com/
We catch up with Head of Debt John Gray and Investment Manager Jonathan Nelson following River Capital's recent expansion into Cumbria after securing the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II Smaller Loans Fund. We discuss investment solutions currently available to Cumbrian businesses; getting investment ready; common challenges and how River Capital can support; sectors in Cumbria with growth potential over the next five years and some of the transformative work businesses have done with funding from River Capital.
Cumbrian businesses looking to learn more should do so via River Capital's website here: https://rivercapitaluk.com/
We're joined on the podcast by Clare Atkinson, Founder and Director of R&D at NuGreen, a sustainability consultancy researching the use of plastic in the health care sector and how resources from medical waste can be recovered and recycled. We discuss NuGreen's work to date, the challenges and opportunities when it comes to using plastic in the health care sector, and a new project funded through the Cumbria Action for Sustainability's W&F Green Enterprise hub looking at reducing plastic waste from medical equipment.
Links:
Home - NuGreen (nu-green.co.uk)
Westmorland and Furness Green Enterprise Hub (cafs.org.uk)
This month on the podcast we discuss the Brighter Futures programme with Deborah Naylor (Inspira) and Claire Sands (Cumbria Youth alliance).
Brighter Futures aims to support young people in Cumbria who are leaving care, through a range of activity inlcluding mentoring, work experience placements and life skills development.
Click below to learn more about the different ways employers can get involved...
Cumbria Community Foundation - Connecting People Who Care With Causes That Matter (cumbriafoundation.org)
We're joined by Sue Reeve of Chamber member and bookkeeping and training services provider, Windmill BTS. Our conversation centres around self assessment and expenses with lots of useful tips and advice for sole traders when doing self assessment and other ways to save money!
Chamber members can access a 10% discount on Windmill BTS's Business Finance Academy. Learn more here: https://windmillbookkeepingandtrainingservices.com/business-finance-academy/
Click here to download Windmill BTS's free guide on how to retain more of your earnings: https://my.windmillbts.co.uk/landing/how-to-retain-more-of-your-earnings
We discuss Cumbria Business Growth Hub’s Mentoring Programme with business mentors, Jacqui Jackson and Keith Jackson.
Join us to hear about the mentoring process and the powerful effect it can have, supporting business owners to achieve their goals and deliver the business they want.
We also discuss some of the success stories of mentoring clients who took part in the pilot mentoring programme last year, the challenges they faced and the progress they made.
We’re currently recruiting mentees for this year’s programme, starting in September. To find out more and get involved click below…
https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/business-support/pilot-mentoring-programme
A conversation with Tim Bloomer, co-founder of Fell Brewery, about the business's project aimed at bringing down carbon emissions at their brewery in Flookburgh. We cover:
- How the business started from two friends brewing beer into a well-known brand with over 40 employees
- Tim's thoughts on carbon offsetting
- Carbon accounting - identifying which parts of the business produce the most carbon
- Steps to reduce emissions including solar PV
- Support from Cumbria Action for Sustainability's Westmorland & Furness Green Enterprise Hub
- Electric vans
- Donating to South Cumbria Rivers Trust
- Tim's advice to other small businesses looking to become more environmentally sustainable
Find out more about Fell Brewing here: https://fellbrewery.co.uk/about-2/
Our guest on the podcast is Veronica Waller of the Farmer Network, who joins us to discuss financial business support available to farms and other land-based businesses in the form of £500 vouchers to work with a consultant of their choice. We discuss recent changes to agricultural policy and subsidies and how farmers can use the vouchers to pay for consultancy to help them navigate these changes. Click here for more information and to apply for a voucher - https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/repf-advice-vouchers
We're joined by Mark Bowman, CEO of careers advice and guidance organisation, Inspira, for a conversation on how the orgaisation supports people into the workforce and key insights on the current Cumbrian labour market in 2024. We cover...
- Current challenges faced by clients and what this says about the wider labour market
- Changing application processes
- Inspira's work supporting young people
- Inspira's work supporting older people back into work
- Inspira's work with employers
- Designing the ideal work experience placement
To find out more and get involved, visit Inspira's website here: https://www.inspira.org.uk/ or follow them on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspira-inspiration-for-life/.
We're joined by Kate Fraser of Chamber member Hutton John Estate. The family-owned estate is home to a range of luxury holiday lets which are busy throughout the year. The topic of conversation is on the business’s innovative approach to becoming more environmentally friendly. We also discuss the green business support Kate has received from the Westmorland & Furness Green Enterprise Hub. We cover:
- The estate’s new environmentally friendly holiday cabins
- Balancing guest experience with conserving energy
- Using local suppliers
- Electric Vehicle consultancy support received through the WF Green Enterprise Hub
- Biomass heating
- Advice for businesses looking to become more sustainable
Find out more about support on offer through the Westmorland & Furness Green Enterprise Hub here: https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/wf-green-enterprise-hub
We're joined on the Cumbria Chamber podcast this month by Mel Kinsella, Director of Chamber member Kinsella HR Solutions. Our conversation is on theme of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), delving into definitions, combatting stereotypes, creating positive work environments for all employees, and the benefits to decision making of diverse thinking.
Find out more and contact Kinsella HR here: https://www.kinsellahr.co.uk/
We talk to Chamber members Julie Doherty and Helen Vanroose-Brydon from the Plastic Bottles Company about their work advising small businesses on the packaging they need; some of the unusual requests they've had over the years; the environmental impact of plastic packaging and how the industry is working to become more sustainable.
Check out their website here: www.theplasticbottlescompany.com
Launching our Supply Chain Programme with Martyn Staveley
This month we’re joined by Martyn Staveley of 3 Peaks Consulting. Martyn is leading on our new Supply Chain Pilot Programme, which will offer 1-2-1 support to twelve businesses in Cumbria who are looking to enter new supply chains.
In our conversation we discuss…
Martyn’s background working in national and international supply chains and supporting businesses to access new opportunities; what businesses on the programme can expect (including a meet the buyer event); the need for a supply chain programme in Cumbria; demystifying procurement processes; and the importance of having strong presentation skills to progress through interviews with potential clients.
Anyone looking to get involved in the programme and work with Martyn should get in touch by emailing lesleyr@cumbriachamber.co.uk
More information on the programme can be found here: https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/business-support/supply-chain-pilot-programme
We're joined on the podcast this month by Greg Johnston, Founder and CEO of Chamber member Team Evie.
Our conversation delves into Team Evie's new Peer Support Service. A newly-launched service pairing the families of sick children with Peer Supporters, trained volunteers who have also experienced time in hospital with their baby or child.
Team Evie are currently looking to recruit Peer Supporters and are asking businesses to spread the word among employees should anyone be interested in getting involved.
For more information businesses should get in touch with Greg by emailing - info@teamevie.org
In our conversation on the podcast, we also discuss opportunities for businesses to participate in Team Evie's One Million Steps challenge. Businesses can get involved and raise money by employees walking 10,000 steps per day for 100 days, totalling a million steps. For more information contact Greg on - info@teamevie.org
Find out more about Team Evie here.
We're joined this month on the podcast by Steve Curl, Chair of the Strategic Oversight Board for Zero Carbon Cumbria, an initiative which brings together efforts to reduce carbon emissions across Cumbria. We discuss:
- What is Zero Carbon Cumbria and what are its aims?
- How are we going to reach net zero by 2037?
- What does this mean for businesses in Cumbria? How can they get involved?
- So why should businesses and industry decarbonise, what’s in it for them?
- How big a challenge is this?
- Do we really think we can achieve net zero in Cumbria by 2037?
Find out more about Zero Carbon Cumbria here: https://zerocarboncumbria.co.uk/
In this episode of the Directors Forum podcast we’re joined by Danny Sawrij, Owner of Leo Group, one of our Cumbria Chamber Patrons.
We discuss Danny’s career from selling chocolate bars in the playground as a boy and then leaving school at 14 to buy and sell cattle, to owning and operating one of the UK’s leading specialists and animal by-products and renewable energy.
We cover the twists and turns of Danny’s career; his outlook on hard work and working relationships; his thoughts on farming and the UK food industry and some amusing anecdotes and lessons learned along they way. Enjoy listening!
Find out more about Leo Group - https://leogroupltd.co.uk/
Find out more about Directors Forum - https://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/member-services/directors-forum
Our Directors Forum is sponsored by Muckle LLP
We talk to Judith Smale of Chamber member Cumbria CVS about the benefits of volunteering for individuals and businesses. Our talk also covers CVS's new volunteering database where individuals can register and search for opportunities (volunteering.cumbriacvs.org.uk); employer supported volunteering (ESV); support for businesses; and the ESV subgroup.
In the latest episode of the Cumbria Chamber podcast we discuss investment opportunities for Cumbrian businesses through Regionally, an investment service designed to connect private investors with established businesses based in the UK outside of London.
In part two of the podcast we talk to Chamber members RfM Accountants who work with Regionally to provide their service, ‘the Regionally Way’, which helps businesses get investment ready.
Guests: Jim Odell (CEO of Regionally), Paul Newsham (Senior Director of RfM) and Tony Backhouse (MD of RfM Transform)
If you’re interested in learning more then get in touch with either:
- Paul Newsham - pnewsham@rfm-more.co.uk
- Tony Backhouse - tbackhouse@rfm-more.co.uk
Cumbria's Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is an employer-led and locally owned initiative which aims to set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy.
August 2023 saw the release of this year's LSIP report for Cumbria. Find out more.
To discuss the findings of the report we're joined by Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Engagement Manager, Kevin Warman, and Chamber member and Certified Career & Leadership Executive Coach Alec Pearson.
Our conversation is spilt into two parts:
- Part 1 looks at employability skills, emotional intelligence, and recruitment and retainment.
- Part 2 looks at challenges surrounding leadership and management, coaching, skills of the future and AI, and what’s next for the LSIP.
Get involved
- To take part in a focus group to discuss skills challenges in your business contact Kevin on kevin@cumbriachamber.co.uk
- Follow our LSIP LinkedIn page
- Follow Kev on LinkedIn
- Follow Alec on LinkedIn
Suggested reflective questions for business leaders provided by Alec Pearson
Planning for 2024:
- What is your successful outcome for 2024?
- What issues or possibly own self-limiting beliefs might impact this?
- What lessons can you learn from the last 12-24 months to help you shape a successful strategy?
-
As a result, what are the feasible steps you should take?
-
Does the level of available skills in your organisation support your successful outcome aim? If not, what skills are required?
- What additional support do you need required?
Cumbria's Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is an employer-led and locally owned initiative which aims to set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy.
August 2023 saw the release of this year's LSIP report for Cumbria. Find out more.
To discuss the findings of the report we're joined by Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Engagement Manager, Kevin Warman, and Chamber member and Certified Career & Leadership Executive Coach Alec Pearson.
Our conversation is spilt into two parts:
- Part 1 looks at employability skills, emotional intelligence, and recruitment and retainment.
- Part 2 looks at challenges surrounding leadership and management, coaching, skills of the future and AI, and what’s next for the LSIP.
Get involved
- To take part in a focus group to discuss skills challenges in your business contact Kevin on kevin@cumbriachamber.co.uk
- Follow our LSIP LinkedIn page
- Follow Kev on LinkedIn
- Follow Alec on LinkedIn
Suggested reflective questions for business leaders provided by Alec Pearson
- What is the culture and value of your organisation and how does this align with current and prospective employees?
- How are your employees/teams really feeling, i.e., how engaged and motivated are they?
- What are your employees real desires in their role and development?
- Is there a great level of trust evident between employees and management?
- What are the actual/potential technical and professional skills and strengths available in your business?
- How beneficial would it be for you to develop a skills matrix to understand the skills you need in your organisation v the skills available to you and help with allocating the right role to the right employee?
- Who is the undiscovered talent in your business?
- What is the culture, the foundations and processes for your teams, goals?
Welcome back for season 2 of the Directors Forum Podcast, we've had a break, a little bit of a brand refresh but we're back.
In this episode Eve talks to Barrie Roberts of Ennerdale Brewery about beer, socialising, the passion that keeps driving him and how he did it all because 'he only wanted a pint'
If you do want to look at any of the beers we talk about they can be found here: https://www.ennerdalebrewery.co.uk/
Or if you would like to visit the Made in Cumbria site click here: https://madeincumbria.co.uk/
We’re joined by DC Jon Hill of Cumbria Police’s Cyber and Digital Crime Unit to discuss recent updates in cybercrime which businesses need to be on the lookout for. Our conversation also covers the range of current free resources available for businesses to protect against cybercrime. Useful links discussed in the episode can be found below:
- Police Cyber Alarm: https://www.cyberalarm.police.uk/
- North West Cyber Resilience Centre: https://www.nwcrc.co.uk/
- NCSC Early Warning system: https://www.earlywarning.service.ncsc.gov.uk/
- Cumbria Chamber of Commerce cybercrime advice page: https://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/business-support/cybercrime-protecting-your-business-and-staff
On this episode of the Cumbria Chamber podcast we discuss personal brand with CEO and founder of Chamber member Natterjack Marketing, Lindsay Gray. Our conversion covers:
- The importance of personal brand
- How to create your own personal brand
- How Lindsday's own personal brand has helped shape her career
- LinkedIn and the personal brand pros
Disability Connect's mission is: "to enable organisations to harness and maximise the powerful use of disability awareness to create and sustain an inclusive and supportive working environment." They do this by pairing business leaders with talented disabled mentors, as well as offering diversity mentoring training and speaking events.
In our talk with Steven Jones we cover: Steven's background and how he founded Disability Connect, stigma surrounding disabled people at work, common barriers to work for disabled people, and how businesses can work to become more inclusive.
Checkout Disability Connect's website: https://disabilityconnect.org.uk/
With this Saturday 22nd April being Earth Day, we invited member Eco Group onto the podcast to discuss their work on LOOP technology, which decarbonises methane-rich gas into hydrogen and graphene on site. The technology is soon to be deployed by Eco for the first time in UK. Find out more here.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Caroline Langham, owner at Cote How Lake District Weddings - https://www.cotehow.co.uk/ . 'Following the path of knowledge' 'takes us through Caroline's career and how she ended up in Cumbria hosting elopement weddings at the beautiful Cote How on Rydal water in the lake district.
In this episode of the Cumbria Chamber podcast, Joe is joined by Caroline Adams from Cumbria Community Foundation and Spencer Hannah director and co-founder of Herdy.
The conversation centres on the many ways that local businesses can donate through Cumbria Community Foundation and how Herdy does this as a fund holder, supporting rural communities and upland fell farmers through the herdy fund.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to James Stephens, Managing Director of English Lakes Ice cream lakesicecream.com/. 'Do a little bit of everything' follows James' life from ice cream wholesale, through rebranding and the importance of doing a bit of everything in the business.
Joe interviews Head of Business Engagement & Professional Studies at Kendal College, Sinéad Kay, about apprenticeships. Their conversation covers:
- The definition of an apprenticeship
- How apprenticeships are funded
- The benefits of employing apprentices
- Top tips for businesses looking to employ apprentices
- The growing role of apprenticeships in the UK and the future of education and training
Find out more about apprenticeships through Kendal College here.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Johanne Miller, Managing Director of Twoey Toys. 'Hands on Learning' follows Johannes life from cooking Sunday dinner for 60 people to how she treats her staff like family and the importance of getting stuck in.
Lieutenant Colonel Edward Fraser is the Commanding Officer of the 4th Battalion, the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, in the British Army.
In our talk we cover: Ed's career so far; the Army Reserve; employing army reservists; and the professional and personal development opportunities offered by reserve service.
Ed's social media accounts:
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ed_Fraser
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-fraser-29097a67/
The 4th Batallion's Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/4lancs/?hl=en-gb
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Denise Gosney, owner and founder of Razzamataz theatre schools. 'All for the love of cheese' follows Denise's story from shy schoolgirl to franchise owner and all of the adventures along the way.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Laura Cadman, owner and founder or Laura Cadman Ltd. 'The liberation of realisation' takes us through Laura's story of realising she wasn't OK in her CEO role and why that's one of the most liberating things that's ever happened to her.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber as she speaks to Martin Norris and Claire McLean of Realise HR about their upcoming workshops.
To book your space click here https://www.trybooking.co.uk/BSKR
Remember the HR tech webinar is free to all!
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Alison Welton, Partner and Practice Manager at David Allen accountants. 'A little self belief gets you a long way' shows us just how Alison believed in herself and never took no for an answer to get where she is now.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Rachael Bell, founder of Rachael Bell wealth Management and a Directors Club sponsor. 'Finding strength in vulnerability' takes us through Rachael's career to date, some of the trials she's faced and how being vulnerable has such huge advantages.
Join Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Rachael Bell, founder of Rachael Bell wealth Management and a Directors Club sponsor. 'Finding strength in vulnerability' takes us through Rachael's career to date, some of the trials she's faced and how being vulnerable has such huge advantages.
Join Eve Halliday and guests, Deputy Lieutenant, Clark Door and Lakes Free Range Eggs to learn hear about how and why applying and potentially winning a Queens Award for Enterprise is something you want to think about.
Join Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Edmund Wood, founder and creator of Belgrove Rum. 'Physics and the Science of Rum' covers Edmund's journey through his career to date and why science, detail and dedication are so important.
Join Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Eddie Black, CEO of The Eco Group. 'Never stop asking questions' covers Eddies's journey through his career to date and why he'll never stop asking questions!
Join Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond.
In this Episode Eve speaks to Andrew Burrell, Managing Director of Enable success. 'Divine Data' covers Andrew's journey through his career to date and why he loves data so much!
Dodd & Co's Client Manager Stu Bell joins our Business Engagement & Policy Manager, Richard Miller to discuss the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Spring Statement.
McMenon's Business Director, Scott Castlehow, joins our Business Engagement and Policy Manager, Richard Miller, to discuss the company's history and growth, as well as providing insight into their recent success with Sellafield.
We analyse Rishi Sunak's Budget. With Chamber MD Suzanne Caldwell and Amy Johnston and Sue Jeffrey of accountant David Allen.
What every business needs to know about Coronavirus.
In this podcast, lawyers Frances Cameron and Luke Donockley, of Muckle LLP, set out the obligations and risks facing employers and outline steps to take to minimise damage to your business.
Keep up to date with the latest information with the Chamber’s Coronavirus Toolkit, which is updated regularly. Click here.
Chamber members also get access to a free HR helpline. For more information about Chamber membership, click here.
This podcast replaces our Budget Breakfast with RSM, which we cancelled because of the Coronavirus outbreak.
RSM tax partners Stephen Hunter and Anthony Cox talk through Budget tax changes and provide valuable pointers as to how your business should respond.
Click here to download RSM's Budget 2020 checklist.
Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston and Armstrong Watson tax partner Graham Poles discuss the Budget.
Understand what it means for your business.
Find out how Lancaster University Management School can help your business develop and prosper.
Pete Cornwall from LUMS discusses programmes specifically for SMEs in Cumbria covering leadership, productivity, digital technologies for manufacturers, innovation and – new for 2020 – family businesses.
Many of these programmes are available to qualifying businesses free or at reduced cost through Cumbria Business Growth Hub.
For information on Cumbria Forum click here, for the Made Smarter Leadership Programme here, for the Innovation Development Programme here, for Productivity Through People here, for the Family Business Excellence Programme here and for information on undergraduate placements here.
For details of an upcoming Cumbria Forum Masterclass event with Shaun Wane click here.
We look at the prospects for 2020 and beyond with Councillor Robin Ashcroft, the economy, culture and leisure portfolio holder at South Lakeland District Council.
The conversation covers recruitment difficulties, boosting productivity, greening the economy, revitalising town centres, proposals for a Morecambe Bay barrage and a possible Morecambe Bay Growth Deal.
What SMEs need to know about working with ENGIE, which has won significant contracts to build extra care housing in Cumbria.
Operations Manager Paul Young discusses the opportunities, ENGIE’s procurement criteria and what it looks for in suppliers and sub-contractors.
To find out about how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help SMEs get work with ENGIE and other large businesses, click here.
The Labour candidate for Workington defends her party’s plans for spending and taxation and set out plans for a £400bn National Transformation Fund.
We challenge her on Labour’s nationalisation proposals and ask if its Inclusive Ownership Funds will deter business investment.
The Conservative candidate for Carlisle on trade and immigration after Brexit, tackling skills shortages and escalating costs for business.
We ask him if the North is getting a raw deal on infrastructure and why the Conservative manifesto makes no mention of nuclear new build.
The Lib Dem candidate for Westmorland & Lonsdale predicts the outcome of the General Election and takes questions on Brexit, business rates, lifelong learning and other policies.
We ask him why nuclear power doesn’t get a mention in the Lib Dem manifesto and why the party wants to axe one of the submarines being built by BAE Systems in Barrow.
Employment lawyer Nigel Crebbin, of Burnetts Solicitors, looks at what businesses can do when winter strikes.
Are you required to pay staff who can’t get to work? Can you insist that they work from home? What if your premises have to close because of flooding?
This podcast covers all these issues and more.
Lawyer Luke Donockley explores why businesses should prepare for no deal and outlines a seven-step process to put in place. He also touches on the impact Brexit might have on commercial contracts.
Understand what Brexit will mean for data handling and intellectual property rights including copyright, designs, trade marks and patents.
Lawyer Alex Craig, of Muckle, outlines the changes and the likely impacts for UK businesses.
Mark Rowbotham, a consultant in international trade, explores what a no-deal Brexit would mean for exporters and importers.
Understand what you need to put in place to ensure that trade continues to flow smoothly.
The implications of Brexit for EU nationals already in the UK, those looking to work here and for UK nationals who need to work in the EU.
Lee Petts, of Seekly Recruitment, sets out what employers need to be doing to ensure they can retain and recruit the people they need.
Simon Hart and Richard Arnott from accountancy specialist RSM explore last-minute Brexit preparations and the likely impact of Brexit on Cumbria and the wider economy.
Simon is RSM's national lead Brexit partner, who spends his days analysing Brexit risks and advising clients how to manage them, while Richard is a consulting director based in Cumbria.
Luke Christian of Lakeland Mues tells the story behind the business and how persistence earned them a listing at Booths supermarkets – with help from our Supply Chain Opportunity Club.
Lakeland Mues’ luxury muesli blends are now available in Booths’ stores in Windermere, Penwortham, Ulverston, Penrith, Ilkley, Longton, Keswick, Lytham, Garstang, Ripon and St Annes.
To find out how the Growth Hub can help your business target new markets, click here or call 0844 257 84 50.
One of the UK’s top economists outlines the prospects for the UK economy as the October 31 Brexit deadline approaches.
Suren Thiru is Head of Economics and Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce. We recorded this podcast when he visited Cumbria to speak at a joint event with the Bank of England.
He considers the implications of a no-deal Brexit and the outlook for growth, interest rates, recruitment and investment.
Click here for the Chamber’s Brexit Insight guide to Brexit planning.
One-in-five businesses are affected by cyber crime in any one year. Don’t be the next victim.
In this podcast Jon Hill, a detective with Cumbria Constabulary’s new Cyber and Digital Crime Unit, and Peter McCall, the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, look at how businesses can protect themselves.
Click here for a training video, links, tools and advice on the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce website.
Hear how Cumbria Community Foundation helps businesses in the county to make a difference to disadvantaged people.
The charity, set up in 1999, has made grants totalling £44m so far.
In this podcast, Chief Executive Andy Beeforth sets out how the Foundation channels donations from businesses and enables them achieve their corporate social responsibility objectives.
For more information, click here.
In this podcast, organisational development specialist Hazel Lowndes and Suzanne Caldwell, of Cumbria Business Growth Hub, explore ways to boost productivity.
UK productivity – measured in output per worker – lags behind that of Germany, France, the US and most other developed economies.
This podcast asks why that is the case and looks at what we can do about it. Contrary to popular myth, boosting productivity isn’t just about investing in high-tech equipment. Working on people and processes is just as effective.
Click here to find out Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your business improve its productivity or call us on 0844 257 84 50.
Kirsty Mahoney of the charity Imagine Independence explains how she works with businesses to find employment for people with disabilities.
Low unemployment and a shrinking working-age population are making it harder and harder for Cumbrian companies to recruit.
In this podcast, Kirsty urges employers to embrace the talents and potential of disabled staff who, very often, can be accommodated in the workplace with minimal disruption simply by adopting a flexible approach.
There is more information for businesses on the Imagine Independence website here or email Kirsty at kmahoney@imagineindependence.org.uk
How businesses can deal with sexual harassment in the workplace and avoid harassment claims from employees.
In this podcast Michael Bauer, of Cumbria Employment Solicitors, explains the legal definition of sexual harassment and the responsibilities that employers have, then sets out measures businesses can take to eliminate harassment and reduce the likelihood of claims from employees.
We’ve relaunched Made in Cumbria, the Chamber’s initiative to help the county’s food, drink and craft businesses find new routes to market.
In this podcast, Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston talks about the new Made in Cumbria website, featuring stunning photography and telling the stories behind member businesses.
He also outlines big plans for the Made in Cumbria retail outlet in Kendal, our social media campaign and the Made in Cumbria hampers.
Made in Cumbria is open to food, drink and craft businesses whose products are wholly produced or substantially manufactured and finished in Cumbria.
To find out more about membership email Michelle Wiggins at michelle@cumbriachamber.co.uk or call her on 0845 226 00 40.
Find out how Oxley Developments of Ulverston became one of Cumbria’s most successful exporters.
Oxley’s Marketing Manager Jayne Moorby talks about trade missions, using overseas agents, how the company overcomes language and cultural barriers, and the help it receives from the Department for International Trade.
Oxley began exporting in the 1970s and now sells its LED lighting and high-specification components in 34 countries across five continents.
Click here for information on how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your business to export or call us on 0844 257 84 50.
Amy Johnston of accountant David Allen explains how Making Tax Digital works and what businesses should do to comply.
The new system launches on April 1st, 2019, initially for VAT.
But according to recent research by the British Chambers of Commerce, thousands of businesses aren’t ready.
Those that fall foul of the new rules will face penalties.
David Allen has produced a handy guide to Making Tax Digital. Click here.
It is also running a series of sector-specific workshops on Making Tax Digital. For information on these click here.
Click here for information on Making Tax Digital on the gov.uk website.
And click here to find out how to subscribe to Chamber podcasts.
Steve Wilkinson, of Cumbria Manufacturing Service, sets out the help and advice available to SME manufacturers including grants of up to £5,400.
Steve has recently been appointed as an adviser with Cumbria Manufacturing Service.
In this podcast, he explains his how he can help qualifying manufacturer SMEs to streamline their processes, drive up production capacity, innovate, improve business systems and access new markets.
To find out more about Cumbria Manufacturing Service, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
This is the Brexit podcast businesses have been waiting for.
Luke Donockley, a solicitor and Brexit expert with law firm Muckle LLP, explores what businesses can do to prepare for Brexit and what the ramifications are likely to be.
He covers how to go about a Brexit risk assessment, imports and exports, tariffs, obstacles for hauliers, excise duty and VAT, business travel in the EU, trademarks, IP and data protection.
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Muckle are running a Brexit Breakfast Briefing at Carlisle Racecourse on Thursday February 28th, from 8am to 10am.
This is an opportunity to hear from the experts and put your Brexit-related questions. It’s a free event, to register click here.
When the Lib Dem leader addressed a Chamber event in Kendal, we asked him about Brexit and other hot topics affecting business.
In this podcast, Sir Vince looks at where Brexit is going, including the prospects for 'no deal' and a second referendum.
He predicts that some Labour and Conservative MPs will quit their parties this year to sit as independents.
And we hear his take on energy policy, including nuclear new build, productivity, the future of the high street and HS2.
Find out how food and drink businesses can get their products onto the shelves of regional supermarket chain Booths.
Cumbria Business Growth Hub's Supply Chain Opportunity Club recently hosted an event with Booths where food and drink businesses were able to meet the supermarket's buying team.
In this podcast, recorded at the event, Matt Bruno, Innovation Manager at Booths, explains Booths' procurement process while Eva Chua, Supply Chain Development Manager at the Growth Hub, sets out how the Growth Hub can help businesses to meet Booths' criteria.
For more information on selling to Booths click here.
To see how the Growth Hub can help businesses looking to sell to Booths, and other large businesses, click here.
John Scott, of Cumbria Trading Standards, looks at sensible measures businesses can take to be ready for Brexit.
Click here to complete our Brexit preparedness survey.
Here to access the Government’s ‘Prepare for EU Exit’ website.
Here for a tool to help you prepare for EU Exit.
Here for official advice on ‘no deal’ planning.
Here for the British Chambers of Commerce’s Brexit Hub.
And here for advice from the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
We explore how businesses can cater for the 13m people in the UK who have a disability. They represent a market worth £249bn a year.
In this podcast Julia Walker, of Lake District Mobility, talks about practical steps that businesses can take to make themselves more attractive to disabled customers and their families.
Chamber Business Solutions is running a training day, ‘Collecting the Purple Pound’ at Newton Rigg, Penrith, on February 21st, 2019, when Alice Loader, of Alice Associates, will set out how to harness the spending power of disabled customers. Places cost £95 plus VAT for Chamber members or £145 plus VAT for non-members. Email catherynn@cumbriachamber.co.uk
Web resources:
Visit England guide to making your business accessible
Access for All accessibility training for staff
Changing Places disabled toilets
Disability Confident scheme
Shaw Trust website accessibility audit
Building/grounds access audits
Recite Me software for people with accessibility needs
Tiffany Solender is a successful entrepreneur who uses her knowledge and expertise to help other Cumbrian businesses sell overseas.
Her company, Pogu, based at Staveley near Kendal, supplies road safety products for children to customers all over the world.
In this podcast, she talks about her new role as an International Trade Adviser with the Department for International Trade and outlines the range of help available from workshops to export finance and trade missions.
To find out more about the help available to exporters, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
To subscribe to Cumbria Chamber of Commerce podcasts click here.
Detective Superintendent Vicki Ellis of Cumbria Police explains how businesses can help to stamp out the scourge of domestic violence.
Domestic abuse is endemic. Cumbria Police respond to 7,500 incidents every year, of which 4,500 are logged as crimes.
In this podcast, Detective Superintendent Vicki Ellis sets out how employers can spot warning signs, which may indicate that an employee is suffering domestic abuse, and how they can support staff who are victims of abuse.
For more information from Cumbria Police click here and for details of the training events for employers in Barrow, Workington and Carlisle click here.
For information on the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse, click here.
David Leadbetter of Inspira explains how employers can get involved in a programme to raise the aspirations of young Cumbrians.
Inspira’s Employer Mentoring Programme is designed to raise the aspirations of young people at secondary school.
It is currently running in North and West Cumbria.
In this podcast David Leadbetter, Contract Manager with Inspira, explains why the programme was set up, the benefits to employers who take part, how youngsters are selected for mentoring and how you can get involved.
Click here to find out more about the programme.
700,000 people in the UK have autism. Sheila Gregory of Carlisle Mencap sets out how and why businesses should cater for them.
Approximately 1% of the UK population have autism, around 700,000 people.
That’s a large potential market for businesses to target as customers and a big pool of labour from which to recruit.
Indeed, people with autism can sometimes have exceptional skills that make them very valuable employees.
In this podcast, Sheila Gregory, Chief Executive of Carlisle Mencap, explains the condition and sets out simple, cost-effective measures that businesses can take to better cater for those on spectrum.
Click here for information on managing an autistic employee.
Click here for more on the Too Much Information campaign.
The man driving plans for a nuclear power station in West Cumbria explains his strategy to save the project.
NuGen’s £15bn plan for a nuclear power station at Moorside, next to Sellafield, would be the biggest private-sector investment Cumbria has ever seen.
But the project is in trouble. NuGen’s owner Toshiba wants out while the Korean company that had been poised to replace Toshiba is having second thoughts. Currently, NuGen is shedding two-thirds of its workforce.
In this podcast, NuGen’s Chief Executive Tom Samson sets out his strategy to save the Moorside project against a tight deadline.
He explains why Kepco of Korea might still invest and why the Government’s proposed ‘regulated asset base’ funding model – which has been blamed for deterring Kepco – could yet be Moorside’s salvation.
He makes a compelling case for a rolling programme of nuclear new build and sets out the lasting benefits that Moorside would deliver for Cumbria.
A third of SME owners face difficulties in growing their businesses. Growth Hub adviser Adrian Luckham offers practical help.
Polling commissioned by the British Business Bank suggests that one-in-three business owners want to grow their businesses but are unsure how to do it.
In this podcast, Adrian Luckham, one of the most experienced advisers with Cumbria Business Growth Hub, identifies the barriers that are holding businesses back and explores ways to overcome them.
To find out how the Growth Hub can help your business, go to our website www.cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk or call us on 0844 257 84 50.
Click here for information on financing your business, here for help on skills and training, here for advice on innovation, here for help for exporters, here for the Supply Chain Gateway and here for the Subsidy Scheme.
Many businesses use WordPress to create and manage their websites. But big changes are coming. Our digital expert Paul Teague explains.
More than a quarter of all websites are created by and managed using WordPress, the most popular online publishing platform on the web.
But big changes are coming. The entire interface that's used to create posts and pages is getting an overhaul.
It could mean that some websites break and many users who were once confident with the platform no longer know how to use it.
The Chamber’s Digital Development Manager, Paul Teague, has road tested the new interface. In this podcast he explains what is changing, what the new platform is like and what businesses can do to be ready.
Paul is leading a WordPress webinar on Tuesday 2nd October from 7-8pm. To register, click here.
If you're unable to attend live, don't worry. Register for the webinar anyway and we'll send out the replay video the day after.
Paul will also be delivering training on the WordPress changes, at dates to be confirmed, starting in the second half of October. To find out more email Catherynn Dunstan Catherynn@cumbriachamber.co.uk
Also email Catherynn if you’re interest in the WordPress training event, ‘Build a WordPress website in a day’ at the Castle Green Hotel, Kendal, on October 5th from 10am to 4pm.
Lawyer Michael Bauer explains how businesses should respond to employment tribunal claims or, better still, avoid them altogether.
The number of employment tribunal claims has doubled since fees for bringing claims were abolished last year.
In this podcast employment lawyer Michael Bauer, of Cumbria Employment Solicitors, explains how businesses should deal with claims, how they can minimise costs and – best of all – how to avoid claims altogether.
Chamber members receive £1m worth of FREE legal expenses insurance for employment disputes as part of our Chamber Protect package. More here.
Plans to develop the former armaments depot at Broughton Moor are taking off. We meet the man behind it all, Nigel Catterson.
Derwent Forest is set to become a model for sustainable living.
The Derwent Forest Development Consortium has unveiled a masterplan to make the former RN armaments depot at Broughton Moor into a national exemplar for sustainable living with up to 2,000 new homes, a hotel, treehouses and lodges, tree-top skywalks, an innovation centre and more.
In this podcast, Nigel Catterson, the businessman whose vision of ‘utropia’ led to the formation of the consortium, explains the thinking behind the project.
Playdale Playgrounds only began exporting in 2009 and now sells to 49 countries. MD Barry Leahey explains how they did it.
The company manufactures outdoor playground equipment at Haverthwaite, near Ulverston, and sells its products across the globe.
It has been so successful at exporting that it was selected as one of the Department for International Trade’s ‘Export Champions’ while Managing Director Barry Leahey received the MBE last year for ‘Services to UK trade and investment and exports’.
In this podcast, Barry outlines why Playdale started exporting, how they selected target markets and overcame obstacles, and who they turned to for help.
He also offers tips and advice for first-time exporters.
The Chamber’s Cumbria Business Growth Hub provides a wealth of assistance to new and existing exporters, whatever their size or sector.
To find out more click here or call 0844 257 84 50.
City Council leader Colin Glover on plans for 10,000 new homes, Borderlands, Carlisle Airport, the Enterprise Zone and boosting the city centre.
Carlisle stands on the cusp of unprecedented growth.
The proposed St Cuthbert’s Garden Village would add up to 10,000 homes, potentially increasing the population of urban Carlisle by a third.
In this podcast Councillor Colin Glover, the leader of Carlisle City Council, looks at the opportunities and challenges for businesses in the years ahead.
As well as the Garden Village he discusses the proposed Southern Link Road, the Enterprise Zone at Kingmoor Park, the prospects for scheduled flights from Carlisle Airport and the issues facing the city centre.
He also provides an update on progress towards a Borderlands Growth Deal.
Maria Ramsdale of FW Capital explains how the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund helps SMEs in Cumbria.
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund provides loan and equity finance to SMEs that have been turned down by the banks.
In this podcast, Maria Ramsdale of FW Capital, who is responsible for delivering the debt finance element in Cumbria, explains how the scheme works, who is eligible, what they can borrow and what they can use it for.
To find out more about the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, email maria.ramsdale@fwcapital.co.uk or call her on 01768 213074.
Click here to read how NC Training in Barrow benefited from a loan from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.
Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston explains how businesses can hang on to older workers and bring the best out of them.
By 2030, half of all adults in the UK will be aged over 50. In parts of Cumbria the proportion will be higher still.
Our ‘super-ageing’ population means that the working-age population is projected to shrink by 20,000 over the next two decades, making it progressively harder for employers to recruit staff.
One solution is to retain older workers for longer by persuading them to put retirement plans on hold.
In this podcast Rob looks at how employers can recruit, retain and retrain older workers, and harness their skills and experience to promote business growth.
The British Chambers of Commerce has worked with the Department for Work and Pensions, Aviva UK and the charity Business in the Community on materials to help employers accommodate the needs of older workers.
A toolkit looks at the policies and procedures employers can put in place. There are is also a video and toolkits on specific issues, for example on incentivising older workers through means other than a pay, plus factsheets, research and case studies.
Chartered financial planner David Finan looks at strategies to achieve a comfortable retirement if you’re self-employed.
There are 4.8m self-employed people in the UK but fewer than a third of them are actively paying into a pension scheme.
Some have other strategies to provide retirement income – perhaps selling their business to live off the proceeds or building up a portfolio of buy-to-let property – others have nothing to fall back on but the state pension.
In this podcast David Finan, a chartered financial planner and managing director of the financial advice firm Jardine Finan, examines the options open to self-employed business people looking to achieve a comfortable retirement.
Click here for the Unbiased website listing independent financial advisers and here for VouchedFor where users rate their adviser.
Allerdale is a great place to start a business.
Some 71% of new businesses in Allerdale are still trading three years after launch, well above the national average of 61%.
The high survival rate is in part explained by the pro-business stance of Allerdale Borough Council, which actively funds business support initiatives.
In this podcast, Council Leader Alan Smith talks about plans for new starter workshops, the regeneration of Maryport, selling Allerdale to a wider audience, flood protection, reviving town centres and bringing the Rugby League World Cup to Workington in 2021.
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is urging the Bank of England to think carefully before raising interest rates.
We delivered that message in person when Sir Jon Cunliffe, the Bank’s Deputy Governor for financial stability, spoke at a Chamber lunch in Kendal last week.
Sir Jon is a member of the Monetary Policy Committee, which voted by 6-3 in June to leave rates unchanged at 0.5%. It meets again on August 2, when many commentators expect an increase to 0.75%.
Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston said: “We told him that a rate rise in August could damage businesses by making borrowing more expensive at a time when many are already struggling to cope with rising costs.
“I’m pleased to report that we were pushing at an open door. Sir Jon shares our concerns and is cautious about an early rate increase.”
In this podcast, Sir Jon explains the Bank’s stance on interest rates and ponders why pay inflation and business investment have been sluggish despite growth in the economy and falling unemployment.
Click here to read more about Sir Jon’s visit to Cumbria and click here to read his speech to Cumbria Chamber in full.
Renewed efforts are underway to help more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Cumbrian win work in the nuclear sector.
Almost 50 businesses attended an ‘SME awareness day’ in Workington last week to showcase the opportunities available in the sector.
In this podcast, Eva Chua of Cumbria Business Growth Hub, Steve Dixon of Morgan Sindall, and Mark Turner, representing the Supply Chain Sustainability School, examine how SMEs can break into this potentially lucrative market.
Businesses looking to explore opportunities in nuclear can find out more here.
Sign-up here for a free ‘Fit to Tender’ workshop in Penrith on July 20.
Local Enterprise Partnerships - LEPs for short - were the Coalition Government's 'big idea' to drive economic growth in the regions.
But Cumbria LEP has come under fire for poor performance.
In this podcast its new chairman, Lord Inglewood, sets out his vision.
He explains more about the LEP’s role, and looks at the challenges and opportunities for Cumbria arising from Brexit, the Borderlands Growth Deal, and a shrinking working-age population.
Cumbria LEP is drawing up a Local Industrial Strategy, which it hopes will make a “compelling case” to Government and business for investment in the county.
To help shape the document it is hosting consultation events next week in Carlisle, Kendal, Workington and Barrow, and is keen that businesses attend.
The half-day sessions will offer an overview of Cumbria’s economy, the strengths, opportunities and challenges we face, and invite suggestions to address them. To register to attend, click here.
The World Cup is in full swing and Wimbledon fortnight begins on Monday.
Major sporting events like these can cause a headache for employers as staff request time off to watch or, worse still, pretend to be ill and take a sickie.
In this podcast Tom Scaife, a partner and employment specialist with the commercial law firm Baines Wilson, looks at how employers should deal with these issues and how to avoid related discrimination claims.
Research commissioned by Barclays Bank reveals that almost half of SMEs have been targeted by fraudsters, and one-in-four of these has fallen victim.
Where businesses are caught out, the average cost is £35,000.
To mark Scams Awareness Month, Will Hayhurst of Cumbria Trading Standards looks at what businesses can do to protect themselves against the fraudsters.
Eden Council will unveil its Penrith Vision Masterplan this summer.
It will set out how the town will develop through to 2050 including plans for new homes, schools, open space, a new business park and a relief road linking the A66 east of Penrith with M6 junction 41.
In this podcast, Eden Council’s Leader Kevin Beaty explains why the Masterplan is necessary if Penrith is to continue to grow and prosper.
The Government has decided that all businesses - including buy-to-let landlords - will have to use computer software for their accounts, sending quarterly updates online to HM Revenue
Making Tax Digital is being phased in, starting with VAT next April.
In this podcast, Claire Phillips and Simon Kirkbride, of accountant Dodd & Co, look at the new system and what businesses should do to be prepared.
It's getting harder for businesses to recover overdue debts, according to research from the invoice financing firm Liberis.
A survey carried out in March found that small UK businesses are owed £14.9bn in late payments, up from £13.9bn only six months ago.
A quarter are owed more than £20,000 and half say that aged debts have hindered investment in their business.
They spend, on average, £5,000 a year in time trying to recover these funds.
In this podcast Rob Winder, head of the debt and property recovery team at Burnetts Solicitors, looks at what businesses can do to improve debt recovery and how to identify potential defaulters before they run up big debts.
We're increasingly optimistic that the tidal energy scheme incorporating road crossings of Morecambe Bay and the Duddon is viable.
Things have moved on apace since Chamber Insight first reported on the £10bn project last year.
Rob Johnston, Chief Executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’ve asked Transport for North to consider including the scheme in its strategic plan because we think the economic benefits could be enormous.
“It would slash journey times to Furness and Millom, provide another access to West Cumbria, generate green electricity, potentially alleviate flooding and cut the costs of connecting Moorside to the National Grid.
“It’s the sort of transformational scheme you see in other European countries but all too rarely in the UK.
"There's a danger that we concentrate on small, incremental improvements rather than schemes of this scale that will make an impact on Cumbria for 100 years or more."
In this podcast Alan Torevell, of Northern Tidal Power Gateways, provides an update on progress and reveals that the scheme could provide green energy that is cheaper than nuclear or offshore wind.
The railway from Penrith to Keswick closed in 1972 but rail engineer Cedric Martindale is campaigning to reopen the 18-mile link.
He has formed CKP Railways to take the project forward, sold bonds to raise £400,000 and produced a business case.
In this podcast, he outlines the benefits that reinstating the line would bring and looks at the obstacles that must be overcome.
Find out more about the project here.
Despite the austerity cuts of recent years, the public sector is still a major player in Cumbria.
We have seven local authorities, the Lake District National Park, a major Defra presence, the University of Cumbria and the NHS.
That’s a big potential market.
In this podcast Kevin Thistlethwaite, an adviser with Cumbria Business Growth Hub, explains how SMEs can bid for contracts with local authorities, government departments and other public sector organisations.
Speaking at a recent Chamber event, the Lancaster University academic Andrew Atherton speculated that Cumbria will benefit as the high cost of operating in London prompts businesses to move out of the capital.
He explores the theme further in this podcast and considers what more Cumbria can do to attract inward investment, where future growth will come from and how we can encourage the businesses we have to scale up.
Andrew Atherton is Professor of Enterprise and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University, and an expert in SME policy.
Click here to find out how to subscribe to Chamber podcasts.
Around half of businesses in Cumbria that try to recruit staff struggle to do so.
With the unemployment benefit claimant count rate as low as 0.7% in parts of the county, and thousands of workers due to retire over the next 10 years, it’s a problem that is expected to get worse.
In this podcast Shane Byrne, Partnership Manager at JobCentre Plus in Cumbria, explains how they can help employers to recruit staff, and how the new Universal Credit is making it easier for claimants to get back into work.
Click here to find out how to subscribe to Chamber podcasts.
The UK’s £85,000 VAT threshold is the highest in the EU and the OECD.
It has been frozen until 2020 when, in all likelihood, it will be reduced.
Ministers believe that having a high threshold discourages small businesses from growing and fuels the black economy. Are they right?
In this podcast Pauline Jackson, a tax partner at chartered accountant Saint & Co, examines the arguments for and against cutting the registration threshold and looks at other VAT measures the Government might introduce.
To respond to the Government’s call for evidence on VAT, click here. The deadline for responses is June 5.
Click here to find out how to subscribe to Chamber podcasts.
South Lakeland is the fastest-growing economy in Cumbria and North Lancashire and has the lowest unemployment rate in the North West.
In this podcast Councillor Graham Vincent, the Economy and Assets Portfolio Holder at South Lakeland District Council, looks at why its economy is so successful and examines the challenges that success brings.
He also explains the thinking behind the council’s revamped business website – www.investinsouthlakeland.co.uk – and discusses the impact of Brexit, the prospects for finding a buyer for GSK at Ulverston, and how South Lakeland is working with other local authorities to boost the economy of Morecambe Bay.
This is English Tourism Week (March 17-25), which aims to celebrate the industry and raise its profile.
In this podcast, Nigel Wilkinson looks at the challenges and opportunities for the sector, which is worth £2.72bn a year to Cumbria.
Nigel is Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, one of the top 10 paid-for visitor attractions in England, and is a director of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership where he leads on tourism issues.
Chancellor Philip Hammond delivered his first Spring Statement on Tuesday.
He was upbeat about the economy, predicting stronger growth, falling government borrowing and falling inflation.
In this podcast, Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston looks beyond the spin to assess the impact of the Chancellor’s statement in Cumbria.
And he examines Donald Trump’s proposed steel and aluminium tariffs, which could provoke a damaging trade war.
The last scheduled passenger flight from Carlisle Lake District Airport was in 1993. Twenty-five years later they are about to resume.
In this podcast, Kate Willard of Stobart Group outlines plans to begin daily services to London Southend, Belfast and Dublin from June 4, and looks at the prospects for new routes.
Click here to register for updates about Carlisle Airport.
Click here to find out how to subscribe to Chamber podcasts.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) comes into force on May 25, replacing the Data Protection Act.
All businesses that handle personal data must comply – those that fail to do so face potentially crippling fines of up to four times’ annual turnover.
In this podcast Tom Scaife, a partner in the commercial and corporate law firm Baines Wilson, explains the responsibilities and obligations that businesses have, and what they should do to stay compliant.
Malcolm Laidlaw, of ML3 Technical Services, is an expert in food safety and labelling.
In this podcast, he discusses the quality systems and accreditations that food and drink businesses need to supply national regional players such as Booths and industry giants such as Tesco and McDonald’s.
Most of us realise that it's sensible and prudent to make a will, yet only three-in-10 people have made one by the time they die.
In this podcast, Rachael Stephenson, a senior associate at Burnetts Solicitors who heads the firm’s wills, probate and trusts team, explains why it is particularly important for business owners to have a will and sets out what might happen to your assets if you don’t have one.
Obtaining finance is a perennial issue for businesses.
But there are more options than ever before, with specialist and peer-to-peer lenders offering alternatives to the high street banks.
In this podcast Mike Robinson, an asset finance broker and partner in Mulberry Asset Finance in Burton-in-Kendal, explains what’s available.
And we introduce the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, which offers loan and equity finance to Cumbrian SMEs.
There’s more in the ‘Financing Your Business’ section of the Cumbria Business Growth Hub website, or call the Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund is supported by the European Regional Development Fund, the European Investment Bank, the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and British Business Finance Limited, a British Business Bank group company.
The NPIF covers the following LEP areas: Tees Valley Combined Authority, Greater Manchester, Cheshire and Warrington, Cumbria, Liverpool City Region, Lancashire, Humber, Leeds City Region, Sheffield City Region, York, North Yorkshire and East Riding.
The project is receiving up to £140,359,192 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020. The Department for Communities and Local Government is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information click here.
The funds in which Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund invests are open to businesses with material operations, or planning to open material operations, in, Yorkshire and the Humber, the North West and Tees Valley.
The British Business Bank has published the Business Finance Guide (in partnership with the ICAEW, and a further 21 business and finance organisations). The guide, which impartially sets out the range finance options available to businesses and provides links to support available at a regional level, is available here.
Justine Douglas is one of 60 advisers working with the Chamber’s Cumbria Business Growth Hub.
She specialises in providing one-to-one advice to new business on our Business Start-Up Support (BSUS) and New Enterprise Allowance programmes.
In this podcast, she imparts some sound advice for start-ups, and outlines some of the most common pitfalls.
To find out more about BSUS, click here and to find out more about New Enterprise Allowance click here.
The BSUS project is receiving £1,112,686 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020, with a £2,225,372 project total. The Department for Communities and Local Government (and in London the intermediate body Greater London Authority) is the Managing Authority for European Regional Development Fund. Established by the European Union, the European Regional Development Fund helps local areas stimulate their economic development by investing in projects which will support innovation, businesses, create jobs and local community regenerations. For more information click here.
Other funding is provided by Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, University of Cumbria, Allerdale Borough Council/Sellafield Ltd’s Social Impact Investment Fund, Barrow Borough Council/Furness Economic Development Forum’s Coastal Communities Project, Eden District Council, Carlisle City Council and South Lakeland District Council.
Mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and unmanageable stress affect one-in-six British workers.
Work-related mental ill health costs the UK economy between £33bn and £42bn a year through lost working days, staff turnover and lower productivity.
Yet mental health is still a taboo subject with employers and employees unsure of how to confront the issue.
In this podcast Caroline Robinson, of the mental health charity Mind, explains what employers can do to minimise the impact.
To download a copy of Taking Care of Business, Mind’s guide for employers to mentally healthy workplaces, click here.
To download Mind’s Guide to Wellness action plans for line managers or employees, click here.
For information about how Mind can work with individual businesses, contact your local branch: Carlisle Eden; Furness; South Lakeland; West Cumbria.
Cumbria Business Growth Hub has been a phenomenal success story.
Since launch in 2012, it has delivered intensive support to 2,000 businesses, creating or safeguarding 6,824 jobs and generating £280m additional GVA for Cumbria.
In this podcast, the Chamber's Deputy Chief Executive Suzanne Caldwell explains what the Growth Hub is, what it does, and how businesses can benefit.
The taxation of company cars can be in a minefield.
In this podcast, Kathryn Brown, corporation tax manager with Dodd & Co, explains the basics in conversation with the Chamber’s Julian Whittle.
Topics covered include the difference between company cars and pool cars, the hidden cost of providing second-hand company cars, and forthcoming tax changes affecting diesels, electric cars and the car fuel benefit charge.
A Borderlands Growth Deal could be hugely significant for Cumbria, unlocking major infrastructure schemes such as dualling the A69 and extending the new Borders Railway from Edinburgh to Tweedbank through to Carlisle.
In this podcast, Colin Glover, leader of Carlisle City Council and one of the architects of the Borderlands project, explains the thinking behind the Growth Deal in conversation with Rob Johnston and Julian Whittle from the Chamber.
Food and drink remains the biggest spending category in the UK.
National survey data suggests a fall in number of smokers and a rise in the culture of eating out and recreational activities.
Cumbria is home to some of the best food and drinks producers in the world.
Cumbrian producers and suppliers are in a good position to benefit from some of the growing markets for food and drinks associated with this social trends.
Consumer pressure for locally sourced products also gives huge opportunities for local producers and suppliers to be part of the local food and drinks supply chain.
In this presentation Malcolm Laidlaw from ML3 Technical shares some hints and tips about what you need to get your business ready to win those contracts, drawing on his extensive experience in the food and drinks sector.
This is the fourth in our new webinar series about growing your business, how to get your business supply chain ready in different business sectors and the business support available to you.
Presenters: Malcolm Laidlaw from ML3 Technical and Eva Chua, Supply Chain Development Manager for Cumbria Chamber of Commerce
More information available at: https://www.cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/supply-chain-gateway/supply-chain-gateway/webinars
SMEs are sometimes reluctant to bid for contracts with large companies and public sector organisations such as the NHS. They needn't be.
In this short podcast, Eva Chua, Cumbria Chamber's Supply Chain Development Manager, talks about the opportunities for SMEs in Cumbria and the help we can offer through our Supply Chain Gateway to steer them through the procurement process.
To access the Supply Chain Gateway, click here.
To listen to supply chain webinars, click here.
Do you have specialist engineering skills that can be adapted to fit the nuclear industry?
It's not just about engineering. Don't forget there are also requirements for food & drink, commercial services and more - the list goes on!In this webinar replay, Alan Smithson, will share some hints and tips about what you need to get your business ready to win those contracts, drawing on his extensive experience in both the nuclear and manufacturing sectors. More info at: https://www.cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/supply-chain-gateway/supply-chain-gateway/webinars
Chancellor Philip Hammond threw the spotlight on research and devleopment tax credits in the November Budget, when he raised the R&D expenditure credit from 11% to 12%.
But what are R&D tax reliefs, how do they work, and how can businesses benefit?
In this five-minute podcast, the Chamber’s finance manager Richard Condron explains all in conversation with Julian Whittle.
£365 billion is spent in the UK's manufacturing sector annually - are you getting your share?
The sector covers the range from advanced manufacturing to food & drink to nuclear - with some of the country's largest manufacturers based here in Cumbria.
In this audio-only version of our webinar presentation, Alan Smithson, shares some hints and tips about what you need to get your business ready to win those contracts, drawing on his extensive experience.
You can also take advantage of free practical support - one-to-one expert advice and a great range of workshops, as well as consultancy subsidy of up to £2,000*.
To find our more or if you have any queries, contact Eva Foran, Supply Chain Development Manager at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, eva@cumbriachamber.co.uk.
Presenters: Alan Smithson, from A S Business & Technical Solutions and Eva Chua, Supply Chain Development Manager for Cumbria Chamber of Commerce
- Eligibility criteria apply
Christmas parties can throw up a number of issues for employers.
Office parties are a particularly big hazardous for HR professionals, with many having to decide how to ensure employees behave appropriately and how to deal with worse-for-wear workers who turn up late the morning after the big event.
There are also issues around different religions, holiday requests and post-party hangovers.
One thing is for sure, organisations will need to make sure they are ready for the holiday season.
Julian Whittle, the Chamber's Business Engagement Manager has been speaking to Joanne Holborn, head of employment and employment training at Baines Wilson LLP about how to avoid these seasonal hazards.
There’s never been a better time for start-ups and SMEs to bid for public sector work.
Red tape has been slashed and thousands of firms just like yours are winning contracts worth £millions each and every month. Even the most well-prepared SME may find it difficult to secure contracts from large organisations. In this exclusive webinar from Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Thistlethwaite, Director of A7 Advisory Services will share his 15 years of experience in successfully bidding for public sector contracts. We also share with you what support is available from Cumbria Business Growth Hub. During the 1-hour, information-packed presentation, Kevin will reveal: • Why you should be interested in writing bids • What the barriers are and how you can overcome them • Why it's no a complex process WHEN you know what you're doing • Top tips of winning work ... and much more If you have any queries or questions, please email Eva at eva@cumbriachamber.co.uk
You have to feel sorry for the Business Secretary Greg Clark. The long-awaited launch of his Industrial Strategy White Paper on Monday was upstaged by the announcement of Prince Harry’s wedding.
That hasn’t stopped us poring over the 255-page document.
Cumbria Chamber carried out a major consultation on the Industrial Strategy Green Paper, published in January, and subsequently tabled a 34-page response reflecting what Cumbrian businesses told us.
Rob Johnston, Chief Executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “It’s pleasing to see that the Government has listened, particularly to what we said around training, the skills agenda and access to finance.
In this interview Rob discusses the Budget with business journalist Julian Whittle, the Chamber’s Business Engagement Manager.
Suzanne Caldwell, the Chamber's Deputy Chief Executive, discussing Profiting through Skills with presenter Adam Powell and fellow guests Philip Cranston (Cranstons) and Jennie Riding (Artlegarth Country Lodges).
An £8.5m fund has been set up to help smaller Cumbrian businesses avoid what's described as a "looming skills shortage", but the grants are only available until next July.
The county's chamber of commerce says about 80,000 new workers will have to be recruited by 2021 to replace staff who leave or fill new jobs.
Currently only 28% of workers in the county have a level four qualification such as an HNC, but 40% of the new jobs will need people trained to this level.
Find out more about the project at http://www.profitingthroughskills.co.uk/
This interview was broadcast on Mike Zeller's show on BBC Radio Cumbria on Monday 4th September, 2017.
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce CEO, Rob Johnston joined BBC Radio Cumbria's Mike Zeller to discuss Cumbrian MPs' call for lift in the public sector pay cap.
Also speaking in the debate were:
Trudy Harrison, the Conservative MP for Copeland
Clem Coady, the headteacher at Stoneraise School, Durdar, Carlisle
With the election now over, BBC Radio Cumbria's Mike Zeller asked Chamber CEO Rob Johnston what impact the result will have on the Brexit negotiations.
Join the Chamber's Digital Development Manager, Paul Teague and Business Engagement Manager, Julian Whittle as they share their best strategies for getting press coverage.
In their former careers, Julian spent 25 years with CN Group and Paul spent 18 years working in BBC local radio.
This session was first broadcast as a webinar but it's packed with practical tips and advice.
If you'd like to access the slides from the original webinar you can do so at http://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/Images/upload/2017/05/MIC-Web-Press.pdf
April brings a new tax year and a raft of tax changes.
One of these will have a big impact in Cumbria, affecting contractors who operate through personal service companies to limit their tax bill.
Here Chamber chief executive Rob Johnston discusses what’s happening with business journalist Julian Whittle, who joined the Chamber earlier this year as business engagement manager.
Julian Whittle, Business Engagement Manager at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, chats to the Chamber CEO, Rob Johnston about the March 2017 budget announcements.
See the Chamber's budget press release at http://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/news/article/chamber-budget-response-2017
'At-a-glance' BBC Budget summary: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-39203784
Welcome to the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce podcast.
In this short introduction, Chamber CEO Rob Johnston explains what we'll be sharing via this podcast feed.
You can find out more via the Chamber of Commerce website at http://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/podcasts