-
Friday, July 10, 2020News Release: 10/07/2020
We are delighted to announce that we have secured additional funding to support local people who are unemployed or currently furloughed to retrain or up-skill with our range of fully accredited qualifications. Courses are Level 2 and include Beauty Therapy, Nail Services, Hair and Media Makeup and our very popular Complementary Therapies diploma that focuses on well being, relaxation and massage techniques. No experience is needed prior to enrolment. These part time basis our courses can be flexibly
Thursday, July 09, 2020Santander contributes £94,000 to bolster Sheffield Hallam’s Covid-19 student support
Students at Sheffield Hallam University who have been affected by the Covid-19 crisis are to receive £93,784 of further support and recognition courtesy of Santander Universities. Santander, through Santander Universities, is both repurposing and providing additional funding to ensure immediate support to alleviate health and educational challenges caused by the current Covid-19 crisis. The funding has been directed towards various student initiatives – including over £40,000 to support internships for
Thursday, July 09, 2020DFS donate PPE gowns to local hospitals
DFS, the UK furniture company, has produced and donated 1,000 gowns to Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals for use on Covid-19 wards. Working with the hospital’s procurement team to make sure that the items were made to a high-end specification for use in the hospital, the gowns were manufactured by the team at DFS’ upholstery factory using materials sourced and paid for by the furniture company. Local resident Sam Foster has worked with DFS to coordinate the donation effort in a show of support
Wednesday, July 08, 2020Doncaster Chamber responds to the government’s Kickstart Scheme
Commenting on the announcement of the government’s Kickstart Scheme, which allows employers to offer government-subsidised work placements for young people aged between 16-24 who are claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment, Doncaster Chamber Chief Operating Officer Andrew Hibbitt said: “It is absolutely imperative that young people are central to our economic recovery plans. We therefore welcome the Government’s announcement today about the Kickstart Scheme, which will help
Wednesday, July 08, 2020Complete short survey - Views sought from businesses on improvement measures for Doncaster town centre
Business owners are being asked for their opinions on powers designed to help make Doncaster’s town centre a safe and attractive place to visit, shop, work and live. The council’s existing Doncaster Town Centre Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) will come to the end of its three year term in November. To ensure a potential new and revised PSPO can be launched seamlessly when the current PSPO comes to the end of its three year cycle, a public consultation has started to ask for feedback on whether
Wednesday, July 08, 2020Doncaster Chamber and BCC responds to local and national green economy announcements
Commenting on the government’s £3 billion package of green investment to decarbonise public buildings and cut emissions, BCC Co-Executive Director Claire Walker said: “This scheme is a first step toward supporting livelihoods and achieving important carbon emissions targets. “Our business communities across the UK have called for an economic recovery that prioritises jobs and supports our net-zero ambitions, as part of a coherent strategy to restart, rebuild and renew." The government’s announcement
Wednesday, July 08, 2020Doncaster Chamber responds to the Chancellor’s Summer Statement
Commenting on the Chancellor’s Summer Statement, delivered today, Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive Officer Dan Fell said: “The Chancellor’s Summer Statement will have been well received by many in Doncaster’s business community. Key interventions such as: the new Jobs Retention Bonus, the Kickstart Scheme to support young people and incentives to make housing and publicly owned buildings greener will, undoubtedly, benefit Doncaster’s economy. Critically, the leisure and hospitality sector has been well
Tuesday, July 07, 2020Emergency Funding for communities responding to Covid-19 hits £750,000 Milestone
Community groups on the front line of the Covid-19 Pandemic in South Yorkshire have received over £750,000 in funding support from local charity, South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF). 176 community groups and charities have so far benefitted from the Covid-19 Response Fund set up in response to the ongoing pandemic. This is the latest crisis fund set up by SYCF in recent months, following the South Yorkshire Flood Disaster Relief Appeal launched in November 2019 in response to the devastating
Tuesday, July 07, 2020Hospital shortlisted for national safety award
Health professionals at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) have been shortlisted for a national award, in recognition of the steps they have taken to promote and innovate around issues of safety. The Health Service Journal (HSJ) Patient Safety Awards celebrate the teams and individuals within the healthcare sector, who are striving to improve the hospital experience in a number of different ways. DBTH have been nominated for this year’s ‘Patient Safety Innovation of the Year’ accolade, in
Tuesday, July 07, 2020Sheffield Hallam launches new PhD study with FIFA
Sheffield Hallam University is launching a PhD study with FIFA to explore the dynamics of how new types of footballs behave and interact with different playing surfaces, to help improve the game and inform football governance. The manufacturing of footballs has evolved in the last decade – with thermal bonding, new panel shapes and innovative materials being seen increasingly regularly. In order to generate a better understanding of how these new footballs behave and whether test requirements may need
Monday, July 06, 2020Doncaster Sheffield Airport welcomes the Safe Travel list ready to kick-start the summer
Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA) is looking forward to getting passengers back in the air following the publication of the Depart for Transport (DfT) safe travel destinations released today and the relaxation of FCO restrictions on non-essential travel. The Government announced today that 14-day quarantine rules on inbound passenger travel will be relaxed from 10th July, and non-essential travel restrictions from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) will cease from tomorrow (Saturday 4th
Monday, July 06, 2020Lincolnshire Show Online Goes Global
FROM Australia to America, viewers from across the world came together virtually to be part of the first ever Lincolnshire Show Online, which took place last week (24 June). Held on an online platform, the virtual show has quickly become one of the most successful online agricultural shows to date, with more than 60,000 page views recorded throughout the day. The 136th show also had more than 10,000 unique visitors to the website in just one day, which would be a third of the usual visitors to the
Monday, July 06, 2020Commercial Manager of Worksop Based Warehousing Company Achieves Group Directors Post
One of the most well-respected warehousing and logistics companies in the North of England has appointed a new member to its Board of Directors. Graham White, 32, from Worksop, has been promoted to Group Commercial Director from Group Commercial Manager at Carlton Forest Group Holdings. “This is a fantastic opportunity as the business continues on its journey to expand its 3PL operations and its diversification into pyrolysis technology which will revolutionise the way the UK, and countries across the
Friday, July 03, 2020Bluebell Wood To Bring A Splash Of Colour To Homes Across The Region
Bluebell Wood will be dishing out a much-needed splash of colour to homes across the region as it launches its first ever 'at home' Colour Throw. The charity will send rainbows to people’s doors after cancelling its flagship Colour Dash event where thousands were expected to coast through clouds of colour at Thoresby Park in September. Rather than disappoint all those eager to get messy, Bluebell Wood is instead inviting people to shower family, friends and neighbours in a sea of colour – all from the
Thursday, July 02, 2020St Leger Homes Announce New Chief Executive
Local housing provider St Leger Homes have today announced that they have appointed Dave Richmond as its new Chief Executive, following an extensive recruitment process.Dave will replace current Chief Executive Paul Tanney who retires on 30th September. Dave Richmond has spent over 30 years working in local government, the last ten of which were in charge of Rotherham and then Hull’s housing departments, turning both into highly performing well regarded services. During Dave's time in Hull the housing
Thursday, July 02, 2020IT boost for pupils and students at Doncaster Deaf Trust
Pupils and students at Doncaster Deaf Trust run Doncaster School for the Deaf and Communication Specialist College Doncaster are set to get an IT boost thanks to lottery funding. The £10,000 grant from the Lottery Awards for All, Covid 19 Emergency Fund, will be used by the Trust to invest in IT equipment to help those pupils and students who are still learning from home. Alexis Johnson, executive principal at Doncaster Deaf Trust said: “We know how important home learning has been to our pupils and
Thursday, July 02, 2020Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Charity Receives £10,000 Backing
Anpario plc has donated £10,000 to Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Charity in support of an appeal to create a pair of ‘Rainbow Gardens’. The generous contribution by the international producer and distributor of natural feed additives for animal health, hygiene and nutrition, will go towards the Charity’s Rainbow Garden Appeal, which seeks to raise funds to create two memorial gardens in honour of those lost to Covid-19. The company has also made an identical donation to Nottingham Hospitals
Wednesday, July 01, 2020MechFS welcomed as latest Doncaster Chamber Patron members
Doncaster-based MechFS is the latest business in the borough to become a Patron member of Doncaster Chamber.Chamber Patrons include many of the borough’s anchor employers that play a major role in the economy as significant employers and wealth creators. Additionally, Chamber Patrons include a number of the borough’s aspirational SMEs that have excellent growth potential. Chamber Patrons are united in being civic minded organisations that want to partner with the Chamber and other Team Doncaster partners
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on results from BCC Quarterly Economic Survey
Doncaster Business Insight – the borough’s leading private sector survey of local business sentiment, closely watched by policymakers including Doncaster Council and the Sheffield City Region Local Enterprise Partnership – demonstrates the huge impact that Covid-19 has had on the borough’s economy and significant challenges ahead as the economy re-opens and recovers. The survey results starkly demonstrate the current and future impact of Covid-19 on jobs and young people. Many businesses have decreased
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Wizz Air Jetting Off from Doncaster Sheffield Airport
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is pleased to announce that following the relaxation of travel restrictions Wizz Air will be restarting operations from DSA tomorrow, 1st July, with the first flights expected to Riga, Krakow, Vilnius and Bucharest . Wizz Air is DSA’s largest airline, having operated from the airport for over a decade, with flights starting in 2006. Wizz Air serves a number of popular European cities and holiday destinations with low cost fares. It is anticipated that more of these will soon
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Annual Report published by Healthwatch Doncaster shows outcomes of local people’s views on health an
Healthwatch Doncaster is pleased to publish its Annual Report 2019-20, reflecting on a year that saw local people have their say around health and social care and which culminated in delivering virtual sessions during the Covid-19 pandemic. Over 5,400 comments were received from local people through a variety of projects which ranged from local issues such as Access to GP services and Urgent Emergency Care to responding to the NHS Long Term Plan proposals. These resulted in Healthwatch Doncaster
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park welcome a new family of unique antelopes
A new family of antelopes are settling into their new home at the award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park.The group of Kirk’s Dik Dik, one of the tiniest antelopes in the animal kingdom, are the latest addition to the park’s unique collection of rare and endangered species. The Dik Dik, who get their name from the call they make when startled, are herbivores that grow to a maximum 16 inches tall and 13lbs in weight. The dainty animals are native to East Africa, with small populations found in Southwest
Wednesday, July 01, 2020TUI Taking Off once again from Doncaster Sheffield Airport from 1st August
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is pleased to announce TUI will once again take off from 1st August. Passengers will finally be able to get away for their long-awaited summer break flying from DSA with TUI to popular destinations such as Lanzarote, Tenerife, Palma del Mallorca in Spain, Kos and Rhodes in Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. TUI has plans for as many as 50,000 customers to jet off on their summer holidays from DSA between the 1st August and late October and the airport has seen a huge uplift in
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Helping your members and their people successfully transition out of lockdown
Divided Together Report – employee insight factsheets We recently shared with you our Divided Together Report, which provides in-depth research into the rifts COVID-19 has caused and the changing expectations of employers and the workplace. Following on from this report, we’ve created 10 employee insight factsheets,that allow you to delve into a particular group or challenge. Our factsheets distil everything you need to know into one page, making them easy to digest or share with members and colleagues.
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Doncaster Coldstream Guards Association to support Deaf Trust
Doncaster Deaf Trust has been named as the chosen charity of the year for the Doncaster branch of the Coldstream Guards Association. The branch, which was formed as branch number 19 in 1937, meets at The Comrades of the Great War Social Club in Bennethorpe. Peter Dodd, secretary of Branch 19, said: “Each year we vote to raise funds for a local charity and 10 percent of any monies raised by the branch are presented to that charity at the end of the year. “We are proud to announce that this year’s
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Success for Hallam at Women in Property Student Awards
A mature student at Sheffield Hallam has been recognised for her bravery and drive to succeed by retraining as a quantity surveyor. Katie Howarth, who has just completed her second year of study at Sheffield Hallam, received the regional award for the Association of Women in Property Student Awards for the Yorkshire and North East region. Before beginning the course, Katie had previously worked as a nurse for ten years but decided that she wanted to pursue her passion for a career in the built
Wednesday, July 01, 2020Lockdown ‘unlocking’ at the Crown Hotel Bawtry
The Crown Hotel in Bawtry in ‘unlocking’ lockdown and has not stood still since the start of the pandemic lockdown in March. Original redevelopment plans for 2020 were brought forward and directors Craig Dowie and Jason Cooper saw the opportunity to do the work while the hotel was closed. The front of the hotel has been rendered and new signage installed back to the original Crown Hotel & Posting House. Inside, the bar and reception areas have been decorated to match the development of the Hogarth suite
Tuesday, June 30, 2020BCC comments ahead of Prime Minister's speech encouraging Britain to ‘Build, Build, Build’
Commenting ahead of the Prime Minister’s speech in the West Midlands, in which he will announce a ‘New Deal for Britain’, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “The infrastructure delivery plans announced by the Prime Minister are welcome, but they must take shape on the ground swiftly to give a real confidence boost to businesses and communities. “The government must go even further over the coming days to rekindle business and consumer confidence, as part of a wider roadmap to economic
Monday, June 29, 2020Doncaster Chamber responds to Sheffield City Region announcement of devolution deal
Commenting on the Sheffield City Region's announcement that the devolution deal for South Yorkshire has been secured, Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive, Dan Fell said: “Securing the devolution deal is a seismic leap forwards for South Yorkshire. The deal acts as a statement of intent to local employers, potential investors and central government alike that our region is ambitious and business friendly. “In light of Covid-19, priorities in the immediate future will necessarily change. The devolution
.jpg)
Monday, June 29, 2020HMP Hatfield residents run 345km to raise £1,000 for hospital Rainbow Gardens
Doncaster & Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals are in receipt of a very generous donation following a sponsored 12 hour run by residents and staff from HMP Hatfield in Doncaster. 51 residents and staff took part in the sponsored run covering 345 kilometres, or 690 laps around the sports field, with at least one person running at all times from 8am to 8pm. The event raised a massive £1000 which will go towards the memorial 'Rainbow Gardens' at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospital sites. The inspiration for
Sunday, June 28, 2020The Sleep Charity need your help!
The Sleep Charity need your help! We’ve teamed up with Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust and NIHR Children and Young People’s MedTech Co-operative to develop a survey around children and young people's sleep and how it has been affected by Covid-19.It takes no longer than approx. 5 minutes to complete and it will give us greater understanding around sleep issues so that we can identify ways that we can provide support. Please share too! Thanks https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/sleep-during-covid19/
Friday, June 26, 2020New free service launched to help people through redundancy
New free service launched to help people through redundancy A Doncaster-based recruitment firm has launched a new service to support people who are being made redundant. As part of its continued support to the local business community, ORB Recruitment has launched its new Redundancy Support Service which is completely free of charge and aims to work with organisations to help staff who are going through a redundancy process. From the 1 July, any business in Doncaster or the wider region who are
Friday, June 26, 2020Bluebell Wood backs calls for more detailed government guidance for seriously ill children
Bluebell Wood backs calls for more detailed government guidance for seriously ill children Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice is backing calls on the government to urgently provide detailed guidance for families of seriously ill children, after new research revealed they are feeling more isolated than ever despite the easing of lockdown.Some families caring for children with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions say they feel like a “forgotten group” according to the joint study by leading
Wednesday, June 24, 2020Sheffield City Region Mayor presses Chancellor for new deal for the North
Sheffield City Region Mayor Dan Jarvis has sent out a clarion call for a bold New Deal for the North – challenging the government to live up to its promises and tackle not just the immediate COVID-related crisis, but the fundamental problems which have long held the region back. The Mayor has written to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, demanding the government set out concrete plans to ‘level up’ the economy, at a time when billions in public investment are needed in any case to soften the economic blow from
Wednesday, June 24, 2020MechFS’ holding company, NHN Holdings Limited prepares for expansion following purchase at Avro Park
Expansion is the focus for NHN Holdings Limited, the holding company of locally based mechanical and electrical engineering company, MechFS, following its purchase of two, 1,500sq ft industrial units at the strategically placed Avro Park development at Doncaster Sheffield Airport. NHN Holdings will immediately lease one unit to MechFS for storage use as they begin construction of their new head-quarters in Bawtry. The future plans for the second unit with will be released following an announcement on the
Tuesday, June 23, 2020Doncaster duo scoop national Queen’s Nurse award
Two Doncaster nurses are the latest in the borough to scoop one of the country’s most prestigious awards for being an outstanding nurse working in primary care and the community. Katy Fenn, Clinical Team Leader, Children’s Continuing Healthcare at NHS Doncaster Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and Amybeth Jones, Practice Nurse and Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner from Oakwood surgery in Doncaster both received the award for their commitment to providing high levels of patient care and nursing
Tuesday, June 23, 2020Chamber responds to Prime Minister’s announcement on further easing of lockdown restriction
Commenting on the Prime Minister’s announcement of further easing of Coronavirus restrictions from July 4 in England, including the reopening of culture, tourism and leisure venues as well as a relaxation of the two-metre rule, Doncaster Chamber Chief Executive, Dan Fell said: “The further easing of the lockdown will be welcome news to many within Doncaster’s business community. However, this will not be a return to business as normal and in order to comply with the guidance from Government, businesses
Tuesday, June 23, 2020QTap launches FREE mobile app to support the hospitality sector re-opening safely
As pubs and restaurants in England are given green light to reopen from 4 July, Chamber member QTap has on-boarded over 250 venues for free in the last two weeks to their contactless ordering app. Getting started on QTap is easy - You can get your venue listed within 30 minutes. As a business you have full control of your menu, pricing and can even increase the waiting time when it gets busy. The app allows customers to open choose their venue (closest to them shows at the top) go through the drinks
Tuesday, June 23, 2020Bluebell Wood ‘overwhelmed’ by support of local businesses through lockdown
Bluebell Wood is sending out a heartfelt thank you to businesses for their “overwhelming” support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. The charity works closely with many local and national businesses, as well as having a dedicated ‘365 Business Club’ scheme with additional benefits for firms who choose to join. Throughout the pandemic the hospice has been inundated with offers of help and support, despite many firms facing unprecedented challenges. Rachael Dawes, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Bluebell
Monday, June 22, 2020New facilities management company appointed at Lakeside Village
Lakeside Village Shopping Outlet has appointed a new facilities management company to look after its security and cleaning services. AM Services Group, based in Morecambe, won a competitive pitch, before the lockdown, to provide services to the Doncaster based shopping outlet for the next three years. Lyndsey Parry, deputy centre manager said: “We are pleased to announce that AM Services Group have been appointed to provide all of the security and cleaning services for Lakeside Village. “The group put
Monday, June 22, 2020Inclusive Health & Safety that is seen, heard, and understood
In these uncertain times, it is vital that your health and safety messages are seen and understood by all your employees. To cut through all the noise, that means being clear, concise, and coherent in all your communications. Only then will your hygiene and social distancing procedures be followed in the way you need them to be followed. Having invested in workplace risk assessments and taken on board government guidance on Covid-19, it can be a challenge for your business to communicate effectively with
Monday, June 22, 2020Doncaster Deaf Trust appoints new Chief Finance Officer
Doncaster Deaf Trust has announced the appointment of Tina Greaves as its new chief finance officer. With more than 20 years’ experience in both senior finance and HR roles, across both public and private sector organisations, Tina will be responsible for ensuring effective financial due diligence across the Trust. The role will also see Tina join the senior executive group and leadership group, inputting into the development of the Trust’s business plan and strategic direction and reporting regularly to
Monday, June 22, 2020Local hospitals to open Governor elections
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) will soon hold elections to appoint seven public representatives to its Council of Governors and is looking for local people to nominate themselves to stand. The Trust which runs Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Bassetlaw Hospital and Montagu Hospital, is encouraging local people to continue the support shown for the NHS throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and lend their voice as a public Governor. There are two seats up for grabs in the Doncaster area, three on
Monday, June 22, 2020Twelve year old boy sets up small business in lockdown to raise money for local hospital
A 12 year-old boy from Walesby, Nottinghamshire, has been keeping himself busy during lockdown by making and selling doggy treats with all proceeds going to Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH). Rory Mellor decided he wanted to stay busy during lockdown and when he wasn’t being home-schooled wanted to come up with a business idea that could generate money which would go to his local hospital. The young entrepreneur did some research online and, with the family recently welcoming a furry
Monday, June 22, 2020Cyber Defence company moves to Doncaster
London based Cyber Defence company PocketSIEM are moving their HQ to Doncaster with the aim to create career opportunities in the town and raise Cyber awareness in the region. PocketSIEM is a tech startup that makes cyber defence capabilities accessible to businesses through unique service offerings and payment options. They’ve only been established a little over a year but they have already shaken up the market, with their cheeky advertising poking fun at the competition, and the sheer fact that they are
Friday, June 19, 2020New film highlights impacts of arts on health
A Doncaster participatory arts organisation has released a new film celebrating their pioneering approach to supporting adults experiencing mental health issues. darts, who have over 30 years’ experience in delivering creative activities in Doncaster, produced the film to show how directly involving participants in the design and direction of creative activities can make a real difference to people’s lives. This new film shows that by supporting participants to choose how sessions are run, and
Friday, June 19, 2020HM The Queen praises Chambers’ contribution to business communities during Coronavirus
Her Majesty The Queen has offered support to businesses as they reopen, and praised the contribution Chambers of Commerce across the UK and around the world are making to help firms, champion trade and rebuild communities, in a letter released today. The letter from Her Majesty, Patron of the British Chambers of Commerce, comes as businesses across the UK are reopening and adjusting to a new normal. The letter reads: “At a time of great difficulty for many, it is heart-warming to see the
Friday, June 19, 2020Utilita Live From The Drive-In
A SERIES OF LIVE DRIVE-IN CONCERTS SET TO HIT THE U.K. THIS SUMMER! U.K.’S PREMIER DRIVE-IN EXPERIENCE FOR FANS THE BIGGEST NAMES IN U.K. MUSIC PERFORM BACKED BY A FULL CONCERT PRODUCTION LIVE PERFORMANCES FROM ASH, BEVERLEY KNIGHT BJORN AGAIN BRAINIAC LIVE, BRAND NEW HEAVIES, CAMP BESTIVAL LIVE, CREAM CLASSICAL IBIZA, DIZZEE RASCAL, EMBRACE, GARY NUMAN, JACK SAVORETTI, KAISER CHIEFS, LIGHTNING SEEDS, NATHAN DAWE, REGGAE ROAST VS GENTLEMAN'S DUB CLUB, RUSSELL WATSON, SHEKU AND ISATA KANNEH-MASON, SIGALA,
Friday, June 19, 2020Doncaster’s rail college launches virtual open day
Doncaster’s National College for Advanced Transport & Infrastructure is inviting potential future learners to find out about the college and its courses by attending its virtual open day’ experience, which goes live on Tuesday 23 June. Current social distancing measures have meant the previously planned open events at the state-of-the-art campus have not been able to take place. However, starting next week, the college’s ‘self-serve’ online open day will give potential learners a real feel for studying at
Friday, June 19, 2020Questionnaire for businesses who move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Find out how you can help HMRC, and keep up to date with the changes due to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol. At the end of the transition period when the Northern Ireland Protocol comes into force there will be changes to the way goods move between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Your business may be impacted by these changes if you can answer yes to any of the questions below.Do you move goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland?Do you move goods between Great Britain and
Friday, June 19, 2020Prime Minister announces merger of Department for International Development and Foreign Office
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announces merger of Department for International Development and Foreign Office The Prime Minister has announced that DFID and the FCO will merge, uniting development and diplomacy in one new department that brings together Britain’s international effort. Work will begin immediately on the merger. The new department – the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office – will be established in early September and will be led by the Foreign Secretary. The merger is an opportunity
Thursday, June 18, 2020BCC responds to Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee
Commenting on the decision by the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee to keep interest rates on hold and expand quantitative easing, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The Bank of England’s decision to significantly expand quantitative easing reflects the unprecedented impact of coronavirus on the UK economy. It is vital that the Bank works with financial institutions to ensure that it translates into on the ground support for businesses.” “With
Thursday, June 18, 2020Pragma and Associates Ltd launch a new Occupational Hygiene / Health and Safety Consultancy service
Pragma and Associates Ltd have launched a new Occupational Hygiene Consultancy service. This builds on their industrial knowledge and experience in steel, agrochemicals, electronics, rail, aerospace, metal-working and manufacturing. Pragma provide tailored support regarding the measurement and control of exposure to chemicals, dusts, noise and vibration. They can also assist with the undertaking of risk assessments, the selection of control measures including PPE and RPE, examination and testing of LEV,
Wednesday, June 17, 2020Doncaster stars champion literacy in We’re Going on a Bear Hunt video
Local literacy campaign, Doncaster Stories, has brought Doncaster’s celebrities and role models together for a special reading of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen (Walker Books). The likes of Elliot Sprakes, who starred in the BBC’s adaptation of Billionaire Boy by David Walliams, Thomas Howes, a regular in Downton Abbey and Gentleman Jack, and children’s author and illustrator Liz Million appear alongside local teachers and community leaders in a creative storytelling video created by Doncaster
---low-res.JPG)
Wednesday, June 17, 2020Lincolnshire gets ready for largest virtual networking event as part of the Lincolnshire Show Online
Lincolnshire is to host its biggest ever networking event next week – alongside the Lincolnshire Show Online, and it is attracting huge interest and key speakers including The Black Farmer Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones. The Lincolnshire Show Digital Breakfast and Community Conference will run from 7am to 11am on 24 June and will be called Connecting Lincs: The Future. The event will be focusing on the county post COVID-19 – and beyond. Organisations and individuals across Lincolnshire are being urged to take
Tuesday, June 16, 2020Opening day at Yorkshire Wildlife Park after lockdown
A whole host of new animals met the public for the first time yesterday as the newly adapted award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park reopened. YWP, which has introduced a wide variety of safety precautions to keep visitors safe, welcomed over thirty new arrivals during lockdown. A baby boom included fifteen joeys, born in Wallaby Walkabout. They are now very visible, either peeking out of their mother’s pouch or making their first wobbly jumps outside before diving back into the pouch. Two
Tuesday, June 16, 2020Ensure your workforce is protected when returning to work with our COVID-19 secure courses
Highfield Online Training are running a series of COVID-19 short e-learning programmes to help businesses and employees manage the return to work and provide guidance on how businesses should operate after they reopen to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Highfield understand that business environments differ greatly, so have created three versions for office, retail and hospitality environments. For those working in offices, the course covers:CoronavirusRisk assessment – handwashing, surfaces, seating
Tuesday, June 16, 2020Logistics provider all set to provide ongoing support as businesses re-open
The last three months have been challenging for businesses across the country with many having to adapt their ways of working, including how they integrate their products into the supply chain. During this time, it has become particularly evident that a competent and efficient third-party logistics provider is pivotal in ensuring the movement of goods is seamless. Carlton Forest 3PL has seen demand grow even more during this period and a further warehouse acquisition has been made to facilitate the needs
Tuesday, June 16, 2020News Release: 16/06/2020 Making his Mark with charity baked bean challenge
Mark Smith who runs the training and consultancy Make Your Mark UK, is undertaking several baked bean challenges this week to mark National Small Charity Week. So far, he has plunged his bare feet into cold baked beans and poured a jug of beans over his head! He is fundraising for Make Your Mark UK's charity of the year, Rothacs which provides counselling to help survivors of sexual, physical or mental abuse and domestic violence. Mark said "I wanted to do something that raised much-needed funds for the
Tuesday, June 16, 2020Divided Together: exclusive research on the nation’s returning workforce
Westfield Health have carried out in-depth research into the rifts COVID-19 has caused and the changing expectations of employers and the workplace. Their recent in-depth, 2,000-person study looks at the physical and mental wellbeing of the country, with a focus on our changing experiences, attitudes and expectations of work. The report has identified that the UK workforce is divided by their lockdown experiences and the workplace will be one of the first places to feel the consequences of those
Monday, June 15, 2020Local NHS trusts ask patients to wear a face covering when visiting or coming for an appointment
Following Government guidance, from Monday 15 June local people must wear a suitable face covering when visiting or attending a hospital or community health service run by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) or Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH). Announced by Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care last week, all visitors and outpatients are asked to wear face coverings, and all staff will have to wear surgical masks at all times and in
Monday, June 15, 2020Answering the call for nursing
A Sheffield man has answered his calling and taken up a new career in nursing at the tender age of 57. Dellroy Blake, a former planner and designer in a kitchen and bathroom showroom, has started his first Bank Nursing Assistant role with Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust (RDaSH). Dellroy, who is in the final year of a four year Open University BSc (Honours) Mental Health Nursing Degree, said: “After being impressed with the level of nursing care in the Brambles Ward at The Woodlands during
Monday, June 15, 2020Doncaster Chamber calls for people and business to reinvest the Doncaster pound
As the high street starts to re-open, Doncaster Chamber is urging communities and businesses to shop local and support the Doncaster economy. Chamber CEO, Dan Fell said: “Covid-19 has irrefutably demonstrated just how much businesses need communities and how much communities need businesses, and I would encourage people to shop local whenever they can as a way of helping the economy recover. “Similarly, given the global impact of Covid-19 and the huge disruption it has caused to international supply
Monday, June 15, 2020Government accelerates border planning for the end of the Transition Period
Border controls for EU goods imported into Great Britain will be introduced at the end of Transition Period in stages to give businesses affected by coronavirus more time to prepareNew GB border arrangements confirmed for next year as the UK formally notifies the EU that it will neither accept nor seek any extension to the Transition Period.Border controls for EU goods imported into Great Britain (GB) will be introduced at the end of Transition Period in stages to give businesses affected by coronavirus
Friday, June 12, 2020New measures to support customs intermediaries
HMRC has unveiled a new package of measures to accelerate growth of the UK’s customs intermediary sector£50 million added to popular grant fund for customs agent recruitment, training and IT Government plan to change the rules to help agents to take on more clientsNew opportunities to be created as industry grows Today (Friday 12 June 2020), the government has announced the transition period will not be extended and controls for importing goods will now apply from July 2021. As well as giving businesses
Friday, June 12, 2020BCC responds to post-Brexit border controls
Commenting on the ongoing negotiations between the UK and the EU, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “Businesses need the two sides to knuckle down and agree a deal. Otherwise companies will have to spend cash they don’t have preparing for a ‘no deal’ scenario yet again, just as they try to cope with the impact of the worst economic crisis in living memory. “Both the UK and EU need to signal a willingness to compromise when they meet next week. Allowing the present standoff to continue
Friday, June 12, 2020Chamber responds to April GDP figures of the economy shrinking by 20.4%
Commenting on GDP statistics for April 2020, published today (12 June) by the Office for National Statistics, Doncaster Chamber CEO Dan Fell said: “Today’s figures, highlighting the collapse of the UK’s GDP in April, lay bare the sheer scale of the impact of Covid-19 on the UK’s economy and on business communities in places like Doncaster. “Government interventions so far have helped to preserve the possibility that many businesses and jobs might be saved. However, the hard work starts now and there is
Friday, June 12, 2020Doncaster’s green bin collections to resume
Green bin (garden waste) collections will soon be starting again on a temporary, monthly basis across Doncaster. Earlier this year green bin collections were suspended due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, to enable prioritisation of the collection of black and blue bins. Green bin (garden waste) collections will be starting again with a temporary, revised schedule from 23 June meaning each household will have their green bins collected once every four weeks. The first round of collections will
Friday, June 12, 2020DBTH Launch Rainbow Garden Appeal
Staff at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals Trust have launched a fundraising appeal to develop memorial ‘Rainbow Gardens’ at Doncaster Royal Infirmary (DRI) and Bassetlaw Hospital sites. Colleagues from across the Trust suggested that gardens be created in memory of all the local people who have sadly lost their life to the virus, including their beloved colleagues Kevin Smith and Dr Medhat Atalla. To date 200 people have sadly died at the Trust from Covid-19. Paul Haslam, Consultant
Friday, June 12, 2020BCC responds to reports on the relaxation of Sunday trading laws
Commenting on plans to relax Sunday trading laws to help businesses trade through the Coronavirus crisis, as reported in The Times, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “Businesses need to be given every possible opportunity to start to generate sales again. If there are rules that can be relaxed to give more companies a fighting chance to trade their way through this crisis without compromising safety, ministers should do everything in their power to make it happen.”
Friday, June 12, 2020Doncaster Arts charity awarded a team of business coaches and funding to ‘survive, adapt and thrive’
darts, Doncaster’s participatory arts charity, has had the importance of its current services and future ambitions recognised with its selection as a 2020 Weston Charity Awards winner. The award gives the charity the chance to invest in its future with a core grant of £6,500 from the Garfield Weston Foundation and a year’s strategic planning support from a team of four business leaders, thanks to the leadership charity Pilotlight. darts was one of only 19 chosen from a record field of nearly 200
Thursday, June 11, 2020It's almost showtime: tickets release for the Lincolnshire Show online
With less than two weeks to go until the Lincolnshire Show Online, organisers are getting ready for an action-packed virtual show, featuring local exhibitors, cookery demonstrations, educational and agricultural content, entertainment, virtual networking events as well as live yoga classes for both adults and children. The 136th Lincolnshire Show, which will take place on 24 June on an online platform, now has more than 40 exhibitors confirmed, from cheese makers to hot tub suppliers, to gin distillers and
Thursday, June 11, 2020Yorkshire Wildlife Park gears up to reopen as Government allows zoos to open
The award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park is delighted at news that the government has reviewed its decision on current restrictions on the reopening of zoos and safari parks ahead of today’s parliamentary debate when MP’s will discuss the crisis facing zoos and aquariums. The park had taken a severe financial hit as even with 70% of staff furloughed there are still high care and feed bills for their animals. The lockdown has cost the park around £5 million in lost revenue and is impacting its ability
Thursday, June 11, 2020Local Hospitals Celebrate Biomedical Science Day
Staff at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) have today been showing appreciation for their colleagues who work in laboratories to identify, research and monitor diseases. Those involved in the biomedical science field sit within the organisation’s pathology department, where they are responsible for the forensic analysis of patient samples. This includes everything from performing blood tests, to studying organ tissue and examining fluids for signs of infection. As such, it is a remarkably
Wednesday, June 10, 2020Doncaster to host Samoa as RLWC2021 nation training bases announced
Doncaster to host the men’s squad from Samoa. The announcement celebrates 500 days until opening fixture of RLWC2021. With 500 days to go until the opening fixture of the Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021), tournament organisers have announced that Doncaster will be the training base for Samoa’s men’s team. RLWC2021 is coming to England next year, with Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium hosting three men’s group game fixtures. Doncaster has a long-standing sporting tradition to go with its rich history and
Wednesday, June 10, 2020Behavioural science key to success of ‘test and trace’ app
With the new Covid 19 digital contact tracing app requiring people to perform at least four inter-related behaviours, experts have recommended that behavioural science is integrated within both the app itself and all associated communications if it is to be fit for purpose. The British Psychological Society (BPS) has this week published a briefing informed by leading behavioural psychologists, which highlights the importance of behavioural science in the success of the government’s new digital contact
Wednesday, June 10, 2020Doncaster Chamber launches new finance finder service to help business access the funds they need
An exciting new business funding matching tool to revolutionise access to finance for businesses in the DN postcode area is released today by Doncaster Chamber of Commerce. The new ‘Chamber Finance Finder’ will allow member businesses fast and simple access to all funding options across loans, equity and grants – simplifying, speeding up and streamlining the application process for them. Businesses are still struggling to access the finance they need, so the Doncaster Chamber is utilising financial
Monday, June 08, 2020BCC responds to TheCityUK’s recapitalisation report
Commenting on TheCityUK Recapitalisation Group’s interim report on recapitalising UK companies following Coronavirus, published today (Monday 8 June 2020), BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “This report is an extremely welcome contribution as we look to restart, rebuild and renew the UK economy. “Many businesses have taken out loans to help weather the unprecedented economic impact of Coronavirus, and bold solutions will be needed to prevent thousands of firms from falling into a spiral of
Monday, June 08, 2020Are you looking to build business relationships with India?
Why not apply to become an India Growth Champions with the Sheffield City Region in association with the UK-India Business Council (UKIBC). The Sheffield City Region is looking to find a number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which would like to develop their business links with India, and to join in a trade mission to the country in 2021. These businesses will receive 10 days of dedicated support over the coming months.Included in this support will be the development of an India business
Friday, June 05, 2020BCC and Amazon partner to help firms operate safely in ‘new normal’
The British Chambers of Commerce has launched an innovative partnership with Amazon to help businesses get back to work and kick-start the economy as lockdown restrictions ease. 1,000 UK businesses can tour Amazon fulfilment centres, where staff have been working safely throughout the crisisMajority of businesses surveyed can partially restart operations but 1 in 10 cannot, with many citing social distancing as a difficultyPartnership will provide practical guidance to help firms get back to work safely as
Thursday, June 04, 2020Doncaster College offers #VirtuallyHere experience
Doncaster College are due to announce a list of subject specific virtual open events in the coming weeks, off the back of a successful cross College online open event at the end of May. The popular College hosted online event #VirtuallyHere, which gave new applicants the opportunity to tour the campus from the comfort of their own home. Covering all curriculum areas, the College's Marketing team led on the event which saw 100s of people register for the chance to view the facilities, hear from the
Thursday, June 04, 2020Doncaster College Opens its doors to Support Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals
Doncaster College has been working with Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH), to offer large training premises to enable vital inductions to take place during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Hub is currently being used as a training centre twice a week to help DBTH induct new staff until the end of June and in a safe environment. An average induction could see numbers range from 12 to 36 people per cohort. The inductions cover statutory essential training (SET) requirements, the organisational
Thursday, June 04, 2020Fitting finale for the #ClapforCarers
Last week (28 May) at Bassetlaw Hospital, the concluding ‘Clap for Carers’ ended on a high with a very special musical performance by Worksop’s Got Talent 2019 winner, Richard Harvey, which was dedicated to NHS colleagues locally and nationally. The clap has become a weekly ritual across the country for the last 10 weeks and has seen communities come together to recognise and celebrate the health service, carers and key workers. Last Thursday, 28 May, saw the country put their hands together for the
Thursday, June 04, 2020Quadriplegic ex-rugby star delivers ‘inspiring’ lecture to Hallam students
A paralysed former England rugby union player has told his extraordinary personal story as part of an ‘inspiring’ online guest lecture delivered to physiotherapy students at Sheffield Hallam University. Ed Jackson was left quadriplegic and paralysed from the shoulders down after a swimming pool diving accident in 2017. Through rehabilitation and determination during lockdown, he has recently climbed the equivalent height of Mount Everest on his parents’ staircase, three years after being told he would
Thursday, June 04, 2020Making Caring Visible during Carers Week in Doncaster
From the 8th -14th June is Carer’s Week, a national annual campaign which is run by the Carers Trust, this year’s theme is ‘Making Caring Visible’ a great theme with added poignancy this year given the battles with Covid19. There are over 33,000 carers in Doncaster with 724 children and young people providing care and support to family members. Caring can be a source of satisfaction in people's lives, it can help deepen and strengthen relationships, developing skills you never imagined you had and can
Wednesday, June 03, 2020BCC responds to 14-day quarantine for air passengers
Responding to government confirmation of a 14-day quarantine for all air passengers and further detail on exemptions for those arriving in the UK, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “Business communities in the UK and around the world remain concerned by the Government’s decision to impose a blanket quarantine on international arrivals. “The safe re-establishment of connections to key markets and trade partners must now be a top priority for the Government. ‘Air bridges’ must be put in
Wednesday, June 03, 2020Local businesses come together to maintain relaunch momentum!
Clyde Pneumatic Conveying, established in 1974, is a leading supplier of advanced dense-phase pneumatic conveying equipment, products and systems to the international power, industrial and process industries and a leading UK service provider for the materials handling and APC aftermarket support. With exports to over 50 countries worldwide, including America, Europe, Russia, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia – Clyde is a well known and trusted brand in this space. Following recent management buy out,
Wednesday, June 03, 2020The Sleep Charity wakes up to Queens Award for Voluntary Service
Doncaster-based The Sleep Charity, has scooped a top accolade – the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK. The award-winning charity, established in 2012, helps 30,000 families with sleep issues a year, as well as providing specialist support and accredited training for professionals and commercial organisations. In order to do so, the charity relies on the support of volunteers throughout the country to carry out various roles. The Sleep Charity
Wednesday, June 03, 2020Barnsdales strengthen commercial team
Barnsdales are delighted to report they have appointed Maisie Scruton as a Graduate Surveyor. She has previously worked for PPH Commercial, the Wykeland Group and joins Barnsdales from Ryden in Leeds. She will be working with the commercial property management and agency teams and working towards completing her RICS APC. Maisie is on the organising committee for RESki, the young professionals’ equivalent to PropSki. She was also talent-spotted by Team GBR and competed at the European Championship four
Tuesday, June 02, 2020Doncaster Chamber and Business in the Community support local foodbanks
Working in partnership Doncaster Chamber and Business in the Community (BITC) has played a key role in the donation of 35 pallets full of food to Doncaster foodbanks, managed by Food Aware CIC. The free delivery weighed in at over 8 tonnes, including cereal and chocolate generously donated by Nestle. Through their network of professional links across Doncaster and beyond, the Chamber were quickly able to bring together suppliers and foodchains to get the supplies to where they were needed most. Jade
Tuesday, June 02, 2020Award-winning student Midwife joins local hospitals
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) are pleased to welcome an award-winning student midwife to their team. Charlotte Ellender was named ‘’student midwife of the year’’ at this year’s Royal College of Midwives (RCM) awards evening. Held on Tuesday 5 May, this national event recognises the fantastic achievements of those who look after women and their new-borns across the country. With categories representing areas like exceptional leadership, partnership working, contributions to research
.jpg)
Tuesday, June 02, 2020Getting retailers ready for opening their doors
Back in April Spectrum Industrial, manufacturer and supplier of safety signage and products, commissioned independent research amongst small independent retailers, who had kept their doors open during the lockdown. The aim was to truly understand how these retailers were implementing and managing social distancing and how they could help.26% of these retailers said they found it difficult to implement social distancing and signage into the store43% said they would have liked professional help or
Monday, June 01, 2020Allotts business update - May 2020
With just one issue controlling everyone’s lives, it is no surprise that it also permeates the latest Allotts newsletter, with nearly half our stories about Covid-19 and its impact on our finances and working lives. As the government continues to amend and extend its support measures for businesses and employees, Allotts cover the key measures, including the extension to the furlough scheme and the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme. Just after they went to press, the Chancellor announced yet
Monday, June 01, 2020Food for thought for regional hospitality businesses most affected by Covid-19 pandemic
Academics at Sheffield Hallam University are helping hospitality companies in the Sheffield City Region prepare for a future after Covid-19 with a series of free webinars. The sessions are being run in partnership with the ScaleUp 360 programme, a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project that supports businesses and entrepreneurs to drive innovation and create employment opportunities within the Sheffield City Region. The ScaleUp 360 programme is delivered by an partnership led by Sheffield
Monday, June 01, 2020Recover planning template set up to support business
Business Doncaster and Visit Doncaster have produced a template to support businesses during the #COVID19 recovery phase. If your visitor attraction or venue is looking to reopen soon take a look at these useful tips: Introduce your venue and provide some background from when you last communicated with your visitors. What plans did you have for 2020?Be personal in your approach and remember the statement is aimed at customers – not the company Board.Make reference to the pandemic, not just the impact to
Monday, June 01, 2020Mayor recommends schools and nurseries do not open on June 1st
Schools and nurseries in Doncaster should not reopen on June 1st, according to Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones. Following weeks of extensive discussions with school leaders and trade unions, which represent school staff, earlier this week Mayor Ros launched a parents/carers survey to ask for their input. Mayor Ros Jones, who wrote to the Prime Minister this week seeking clarity on the Government’s plan, said: “This decision is a vital one for so many families across Doncaster for a wide variety of reasons, so
Monday, June 01, 2020Chamber of Commerce backs flexible furlough but calls for support for hardest hit sectors
The adjusted ‘flexible furlough’ scheme allowing employers to bring staff back to work on a part-time basis will be welcomed by businesses and employees alike as a ‘step in the right direction’ business leaders have said. From July, employers will be able to bring furloughed staff back to work for a number of days and place them on furlough for the remainder, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced on Friday. However from August onwards, businesses must start to make a contribution to the 80 per cent salary
Friday, May 29, 2020Amazon donation helps patients keep in touch with loved ones
Inpatients at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals are keeping in touch with their loved ones ‘virtually’ following a very generous donation from Amazon Doncaster. Following the introduction of visiting restrictions, which are in place at our three hospital sites due to the Covid-19 pandemic, our ward teams noticed that patients felt isolated from their loved ones and we explored ways to keep them in touch. The Trust already had a few electronic devices available but required more to ensure no
Friday, May 29, 2020Discretionary Grants Fund opens for application *Updated information*
The application process to provide extended financial support for targeted businesses has been opened in Doncaster. Doncaster Council has been guided by the criteria provided by government to set up a user-friendly application system. The application process will ensure it is straightforward and one that will enable the Council to efficiently process applications and pay the funds to successful applicants quickly. Doncaster Council is now urging small businesses to apply for the grant, clearly
Friday, May 29, 2020The show must go on: Lincolnshire Show 2020 goes digital
Organisers of the Lincolnshire Show have announced this year’s show will be hosted online, showcasing the usual much-loved features, attractions and exhibitors on a virtual platform. Taking place on 24 June, the same date the event was originally planned for, the Lincolnshire Show Online will include educational and agricultural content, cookery demonstrations, entertainment, online shopping, exciting exhibitors and much more. The Lincolnshire Agricultural Society made the difficult decision to cancel the
Thursday, May 28, 2020Charity wheelchair rugby tournament to take place thanks to support from food engineering company
Annual wheelchair rugby tournament, The Peacock Cup is set to take place this October thanks to support from Doncaster based food engineering company, FESS Group Ltd who is sponsoring the event. The first Peacock Cup tournament launched in 2018 to raise funds for the Hope House Children’s Hospital in Oswestry following the tragic death of Thomas Jones, the 3 year old the grandson of North Wales Crusaders Wheelchair Rugby League coach Steven Jones and the son of Team manager Sophie Jones. The
Thursday, May 28, 2020Discretionary Grants Fund opens for applications
The discretionary grant fund announced earlier this month is aimed at businesses that were not eligible to claim the initial government COVID-19 grants linked to rates relief. Doncaster Council have been using the criteria provided by government to set up a user-friendly application system, which will opened 27 May 2020. The application process will ensure it is straightforward and one that will enable the Council to efficiently process applications and pay the funds to successful applicants quickly. Mayor
Thursday, May 28, 2020Active Fusion Director delighted to be able to help other charities
Director of Active Fusion, Lindsy James, has been selected by Pilotlight to participate in their unique Bursary Initiative. Chosen as one of ten charity leaders, Lindsy will be taking part in the Bursary Initiative, which is designed to help charities develop their strategic and leadership capabilities and transform their charity. Due to the success of our Bursary Initiative last year, funding was secured for a new cohort of bursaries to enable charity leaders to become ‘Pilotlighters’. Each one
Wednesday, May 27, 2020Father and Son take on running challenge for DBTH
Seven year old Corey and his dad, Andy Halliday, are taking on a mammoth 100 mile running challenge to raise funds for Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals. Corey and his dad are completing the 100 miles in small chunks during their daily exercise in lockdown. Running around five miles each session, Corey is well on the way to covering the 100 miles for the charity. Corey said: “I’m doing it to raise money for the NHS so they can buy face masks, equipment and other stuff. The NHS are doing a really
Tuesday, May 26, 2020Local firms invited to attend a reopening your business advice session
On Thursday 28 May Doncaster Chamber is hosting a unique live business webinar with representatives from Doncaster Council and Business Doncaster to advise businesses about safely reopening in line with Government guidance. Just as importantly it will also allow local businesses to raise any worries or concerns they are facing. Date: Thursday 28 May 2020Time: 11am-12noonVenue: Chamber Digital online Zoom event Paul Barrett, Director of External Affairs at Doncaster Chamber, said: “With certain sectors of
Friday, May 22, 2020Business Expansion into Asia - Part 1
Business Expansion into Asia - Part 1 Lots of business managers and owners have a desire to expand into the tantalising potentially lucrative markets in Asia. This prospect is likely to become even more popular now that we are no longer a part of the EU. Are you one of these ambitious business participants? So what holds you back? In many instances it is a fear of the unknown and a reluctance to take risks and endanger the ongoing base business at home. This is understandable. If you had some
Friday, May 22, 2020Chamber member donates £2,000 worth of PPE to care sector
Given the PPE shortage across the social care sector, two Yorkshire firms have teamed up to manufacture and donate face shields to over 30 facilities across the region. With the National Care Association claiming that prices of PPE have been inflated by up to 400%, hundreds of visors have been manufactured and donated to care homes and sheltered services by Leach and Blueberry Marketing – with deliveries already well underway. Since the onset of the UK’s COVID-19 pandemic, graphic display specialist
Thursday, May 21, 2020Mayor writes to Prime Minister on planned school reopening
Mayor Ros Jones has today written to the Prime Minister asking for further clarity on the science and data behind the planned reopening of schools and nurseries at the beginning of June. Mayor Ros has shared her concerns with Boris Johnson on not having sufficient data and evidence for Doncaster that would enable her to recommend to schools, parents and trade unions if schools and nurseries should re-open on June 1.Her concerns about the lack of robust data to help inform her’s and council senior
Thursday, May 21, 2020Highfield Group offers free online COVID-19 Infection Prevention course
To help you protect yourself and those around you from coronavirus, Highfield Qualifications are offering their COVID-19 e-learning course completely free of charge. They know that it’s a difficult time, and understanding the best course of action can be stressful. That's why they're offering this course completely free of charge. They want you to be confident in the actions you're taking to protect yourself, loved ones and colleagues. The course covers: the differences between a virus and
Thursday, May 21, 2020Doncaster School and College appeal for visors to help communication with Deaf students
Teachers and support staff at Doncaster School for the Deaf and Communication Specialist College Doncaster are appealing to businesses making visors to provide equipment to make teaching deaf children and young people possible. Staff at the Doncaster Deaf Trust run organisations are looking to ensure that any Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) they have in place for the potential expanded opening of the school and college is suitable for working with Deaf children and young people, some who rely on
Wednesday, May 20, 2020New Facebook page launched to support Doncaster families with weekly creative writing challenges
Doncaster Stories, part of the National Literacy Trust, has launched a new Facebook page www.facebook.com/doncasterstories in response to the Covid-19 crisis. Share this page for weekly creative writing challenges, specially developed for Doncaster families, as well as carefully selected resources and storytelling from local teachers, librarians and key workers. Doncaster Stories is also providing new books to children that need them most, donating to food banks, family hubs and schools. The National
Wednesday, May 20, 2020Diamond Anniversary of the first test flight of The Spirit of Great Britain
This month (May) marks the Diamond Anniversary of the first test flight of the last airworthy Vulcan bomber. XH558, famous for being the last Vulcan to fly (and the last all-British four-engined jet to fly), took her first test flight on May 25 1960, exactly 14 months after work started on her. Dr Robert Pleming, from The Vulcan to the Sky Trust, said: “This year marks two significant Diamond Anniversaries for XH558: this month we celebrate 60 years since her first test flight and in July we will
Tuesday, May 19, 2020Doncaster Chamber announces new improved membership packages to support business
Doncaster Chamber has introduced a range of new membership packages, designed to support businesses of all shapes and sizes, with even more services and benefits to help them grow, succeed and prosper. The new packages, named Ready, Bronze, Silver and Gold, follow the same successful formula as previously, but with an even wider range of additional services. There is also real clarity on showing how much a service is worth if it was to be purchased separately, highlighting just what incredible value
Monday, May 18, 2020Mental Health Awareness Week: Where Doncaster residents can get support
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week (18-24 May) and Doncaster residents in need of mental health support during the coronavirus lockdown are being assured there are many places to turn to for help. With lockdown taking its toll, anxiety about health, job security, finances, social isolation and family relationships are some of the many ways a person’s mental health can worsen during the pandemic. In his latest blog, local GP and Clinical Director for NHS Doncaster CCG, Dr David Crichton said:
Monday, May 18, 2020Research sheds new light on Sheffield City Region productivity gap
Productivity in the Sheffield City Region could be closer to the national average than previously thought, according to a new report by Sheffield Hallam University. The report, Productivity in the Sheffield City Region, found that although output per head and output per job in Sheffield City Region are both well below the UK average, the efficiency of production in the local economy is far closer to the average. Professors Christina Beatty and Steve Fothergill from the University’s Centre for Regional,
Friday, May 15, 2020Supporting mental health 'With Me In Mind'
Teams across Doncaster which support the mental wellbeing of children and young people are using Mental Health Awareness Week (May 18-24) to remind pupils and students that help is at hand if they are feeling down, anxious or stressed. The Mental Health Support Teams (MHSTs), which are part of a national trailblazer pilot launched in February this year, aims to improve the overall wellbeing of children and young people in schools and colleges in Doncaster. A key part of the trailblazer is a new website
Friday, May 15, 2020Council starts preparing Doncaster town centre for when lockdown eases
The council has started planning for when Doncaster town centre and other town centres across the borough can fully reopen for visitors, but the message remains please only visit if it’s absolutely essential to do so. With the Government now starting to relax restrictions on places people can go and further guidance expected in the coming weeks and months on what outlets can reopen, the council is to introduce new ways of using the town centre. Doncaster town centre is not fully open yet but with the
Thursday, May 14, 2020Team supports Mental Health Awareness Week
An NHS service in Doncaster is using Mental Health Awareness Week (18-24 May) to remind residents that therapy support is available if they are experiencing anxiety, low mood or stress. The Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) team at the Talking Shop in Doncaster is encouraging people to get in touch to improve their mental wellbeing. The IAPT service which is run by Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) provides a range of ‘talking’ therapy support to help
Thursday, May 14, 2020Crown Hotel Bawtry set to reopen accommodation for essential workers
From June, the Crown Hotel accommodation will be open for guests who need to stay overnight while working in the area on business in the power, manufacturing, construction, transport and food sectors, as per government guidelines. Craig Dowie, hotel director commented “It seems a lifetime ago since the doors closed, and myself and Jason Cooper my business partner have not sat still and we have continued a plan of maintenance and decorating so we were ready to go as soon as we could. Essential business is
Wednesday, May 13, 2020Polypipe completes £120m placing
Doncaster-based plastic pipes manufacturer Polypipe has completed a share placing raising gross proceeds of about £120m. About 27 million new ordinary shares in the listed company were placed by Deutsche Bank and Numis Securities, acting as joint bookrunners. The shares represent about 13.4 per cent of Polypipe's issued ordinary share capital prior to the placing. The proceeds will be used to enhance the operating strength of the Polypipe Group and enable continued organic investment in new products and
Wednesday, May 13, 2020New poll reveals one-in-three would now consider working for the NHS since Covid-19 outbreak
A new poll by YouGov and Sheffield Hallam University has revealed that around one-in-three adults would now consider working in an NHS healthcare role due to the NHS’ response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Over a third (36 per cent) of the 2,507 respondents indicated they would be willing to work for the NHS as they have been inspired by NHS workers going above and beyond in the face of the crisis – including the thousands of undergraduate healthcare students who have joined the frontline, with some 1,500
Wednesday, May 13, 2020Double baby camel arrival at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Life continues behind closed doors at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, where staff in lockdown are celebrating a double arrival - the birth of two Bactrian camel calves. The calves were born only days apart in April and are sure to be favourites with visitors when the park reopens. They have now made their debut out into the main reserve with the camel herd after spending their early days in the Camel house and in a nursery area. The Park has had previous success with breeding camels but
Wednesday, May 13, 2020Mental health support for long term conditions
A service which provides psychological therapies to Doncaster people living with long term conditions is urging residents to get in touch if they are feeling low, anxious, depressed or stressed. The Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) Long Term Conditions (LTC) team which is run by Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) is using Mental Health Awareness Week (18-24 May) to remind residents that support is available to ensure their physical and mental
Wednesday, May 13, 2020Active Fusion and Curly's Athletes join forces to impact the community
Curly’s Athletes Ltd have become the first official business partner of Active Fusion. Based in Doncaster, Curly’s Athletes are a community and charity-focussed event management team who specialise in organising running events and connecting the community. With both organisations looking at making a difference to increase physical activity opportunities, the partnership will be beneficial for both parties. Curly’s are well known for hosting organising and running the popular Doncaster half marathon
Tuesday, May 12, 2020MechFS provides NHS workers with over 8000 meals in 3 weeks at Doncaster Royal Infirmary
Doncaster head-quartered, mechanical and electrical engineering firm, MechFS, have provided over 8000 hot meals, free of charge, to the NHS staff based at Doncaster Royal Infirmary. The family-run firm, based in Beckingham, organised and fully funded a local food truck to feed frontline NHS staff based at DRI from April 20th until May 8th. Working within the strict Covid-19 health and safety guidelines, MechFS hired Yellow Bus Catering to feed the hardworking staff of DRI, aided by a rota of MechFS
Tuesday, May 12, 2020Sheffield Hallam unites international security research community to combat Covid-19
Sheffield Hallam University’s Centre of Excellence in Terrorism, Resilience, Intelligence and Organised Crime Research (CENTRIC) has collaborated with US company Secured Communications to help global businesses and organisations collaborate securely during the Covid-19 pandemic. As part of the Security Research Rapid Response Platform (Sec3R), coordinated by CENTRIC, Secured Communications offers a solution for government agencies, organisations or businesses in the UK, EU and USA for encrypted messaging,
Tuesday, May 12, 2020Home Goals: Keeping the community match fit
Club Doncaster Foundation, in partnership with Doncaster Council, have launched Home Goals, a brand new, free online campaign to provide a safe way for the community to get active at home. In the wake of current events, The Foundation have continued to support the Doncaster community wherever possible in leading a healthy lifestyle and this project will make this even easier while also connecting people through a wide range of activities during this challenging period. According to new research released
Monday, May 11, 2020Vital PPE for NHS frontline arrives at Doncaster Sheffield Airport (DSA)
Doncaster Sheffield Airport is one of many aviation organisations pivoting its core business in response to the coronavirus, delivering essential supplies such as perishables, medical supplies and providing a rapid response to deliver critical Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the NHS frontline. Ideal Medical Solutions (IMS), a UK distributor that specialises in supplying surgical equipment to medical and surgical professions used its industry base relationships to source large volumes of high-quality
Monday, May 11, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on Prime Minister’s address and next stage of Coronavirus response
Commenting on the Prime Minister’s address on Sunday 10 May in which he set out a conditional plan for the next phase of the response to Covid-19, Doncaster Chamber CEO, Dan Fell, said: “Whilst many in business will be pleased to learn that Government is aiming to re-start the economy, there will be significant consternation about how and when this is to be achieved. Businesses’ concerns will be threefold: the lack of clarity when it comes to the timetable for recovery, a lack of clarity on safety
Monday, May 11, 2020The age of distress
260,000 start-up businesses fall into financial distress by the age of seven as night-time economy vulnerability exposed.More than half (260,000) of the 509,000 UK businesses currently in distress are seven or fewer years oldHighest numbers of distress found at four years – 54,000 businesses in significant distressBusinesses aged between four and seven have an 18% chance of being in distressNight-time economy start-ups in their fourth and fifth years at greatest risk - 39% of bars and restaurants and
Thursday, May 07, 2020Household Waste Recycling Centres re-open but with strict social distancing measures
Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) across Doncaster have now reopened following temporary closures being put in place due to COVID-19 restrictions. The following sites in Doncaster are now open: Armthorpe, Balby, Carcroft. Meanwhile, sites at Conisbrough and Hatfield will reopen on Saturday 9 May. Rossington HWRC remains closed until further notice due to essential drainage works being carried out. There are significant restrictions in place to protect staff and residents from any potential risk
Thursday, May 07, 2020Doncaster residents asked to complete survey
Doncaster residents are being asked to spare a couple of minutes to complete a survey on their alcohol drinking habits during the Coronavirus lockdown. Doncaster’s Alcohol Alliance - a consortium of agencies who are all working together to tackle issues caused by drinking too much alcohol – are curious to find out how the changes to daily life have impacted on residents’ drinking habits. Dr Rupert Suckling, Director of Public Health in Doncaster, said: “We are looking to find out whether drinking habits
Wednesday, May 06, 2020Doncaster born freight firm opens new location in Derby as exports grow
Doncaster-based HD Forwarding Ltd has expanded their operations and opened an office in Derby following a rise in their levels of international trade. The company has invested heavily in an office location in the Midlands and plans to spend another £200,000 and employ another five staff members in the coming years,, according to Doncaster born, Founder and Managing Director, Kerry Whaley. Kerry started the company in Doncaster in 2019 and plans to expand further in the coming months and years, with
Tuesday, May 05, 2020We are more than just hydrogen
We believe that we have some of the best hydrogen and energy sector experience and knowledge within the Clean Power Hydrogen (CPH2) team, but it’s not just about hydrogen or sector specific experience. By looking outside, the box and valuing a wide breadth and diversity of technical knowledge, we can innovate and further improve our green hydrogen production technology. Dr. Palma Gonzalez Garcia the Innovation & Technical Insight Manager at CPH2 is our resident expert in CFD (Computational Fluid
.png)
Monday, May 04, 2020Active Fusion receives major boost
Doncaster-based sporting charity Active Fusion have been successful in their bid to receive Doncaster Council’s ‘Fighting Back funding’, vowing to support families throughout Doncaster. Active Fusion, like many other charities and businesses, have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. But thanks to the support of Doncaster Council, can continue to bring Physical Education to the masses via both digital and print resources. Since the end of March, the Active Fusion team have created a support mechanism
Monday, May 04, 2020Join in the online VE Day celebrations
Doncaster residents are encouraged to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on Friday 8 May at home and online. Doncaster Council has organised a special virtual event on the recently launched online platform www.dnconnects.com which will include lots of Second World War related content and appropriate entertainment. The event will include a mix of entertainment, celebration and commemoration. There are performances by singers and musicians carefully selected to celebrate the 75th
Monday, May 04, 2020Specialist learning resources created to support children and families during Coronavirus
Sheffield Hallam University has joined forces with an organisation that supports mental health and wellbeing in schools to create specialist resources to help parents and children deal with anxiety caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. Academics working in the Sheffield Hallam-led social mobility partnership, South Yorkshire Futures have teamed up with Trauma Informed Schools UK (TISUK) and Nifty Fox Creative to develop resources aimed at supporting parents to help children to understand and deal with the
Monday, May 04, 2020Calling people to work in Doncaster’s adult social care services
It has only been a month since Doncaster Council launched the Social Care Academy to help recruit people into various paid jobs in adult social care but in that time we have had a fantastic response from people wanting to make a difference during the Covid-19 emergency. Since the launch of the Doncaster Social Care Academy we have matched 101 people to a caring role. But we want more people to come forward who want to make a difference to people’s lives. So, if you want to help and think you have what it
Monday, May 04, 2020Raising funds in memory of Kevin Smith
On Easter Sunday, Kevin Smith, a beloved colleague at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH), passed away following treatment for Covid-19. A Plaster Technician at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and a valued and respected member of the team since 1983, Kev, as he was known to friends, cared for thousands of patients throughout his career. So well-known and thought of was the Doncaster resident that he was often stopped and thanked whenever he was out and about by those he had so expertly
Friday, May 01, 2020DN Colleges Group help Shield the NHS
DN Colleges Group engineering staff have teamed up to produce over 200 visors to help support our local NHS. DN Colleges Group compromises of Doncaster College and University Centre, North Lindsey College and UCNL. Darren Farrar (Technician/Instructor Engineering Industrial Technologies) was inspired to get involved by making PPE after hearing of the shortage with the NHS. After further investigation, Darren found that people up and down the country have been using their home printers to produce visors
Friday, May 01, 2020Crown Hotel Bawtry Chef switches cooking for NHS hospital volunteering
The Crown Hotel Bawtry Chef Keegan James Loveday has switched his day job as a chef to becoming a Service Assistant Volunteer for the NHS based at the local Doncaster Royal Infirmary. Keegan, from Retford, was put on furlough after the hotel closed its doors following government guidelines with Covid-19 in March. Keegan explains: “I was devastated as I love my job, but found that after two weeks of just being home I needed to do something to help out during the crisis, and what better way than working as
Thursday, April 30, 2020CityFibre breaks ground on Doncaster’s digital transformation
Doncaster is celebrating a major milestone in its digital transformation as work begins to extend its full fibre network to reach almost every home and business in the town, as part of a £25m private investment from CityFibre. Full fibre is currently available to around 13 percent of premises across the UK. It is revered as the best in connectivity for its speed, near unlimited bandwidth and reliability. By using fibre optic cables for every stage of the connection from the customer’s home or business to
Thursday, April 30, 2020Local hospitals ask people to run five, donate five and nominate five during the lockdown
Teams across Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) are getting involved with a recent social media craze, in order to help boost their wellbeing and donate to the Trust’s dedicated charity, and they are calling for others to join them. The new online challenge, called #run5donate5nominate5, has inspired staff to doff their clinical uniforms and instead don their trusty sports gear and limber up for a five kilometre run. With around 100 participants, the health professionals now want to
Thursday, April 30, 2020Local Hospitals collect two awards at national ceremony
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) were the proud recipients of two accolades at this year’s Leading Healthcare awards which were streamed live online earlier this month. Celebrating significant accomplishments from across the healthcare sector, this annual ceremony spotlights the very best that the NHS has to offer, whilst also recognising the contributions of individual teams that have gone above and beyond. The programme consists of 14 categories, including prizes for the best
Thursday, April 30, 2020Doncaster gets behind Deaf Awareness Week
Doncaster Deaf Trust is leading the charge to support this year’s Deaf Awareness Week. The national awareness campaign runs from 4-10 May 2020 and the organisation, which manages Communication Specialist College Doncaster, Doncaster School for the Deaf, Little Learners Day Nursery, Dickson House Children’s Home and the Specialist Employability Service, is hoping to use the profile of the week to make as many people as possible ‘deaf aware’ as well as raising vital funds to support their students. As part
Thursday, April 30, 2020Helping to add life to days
With the lockdown in force and everyone working from home, the team here at cHRysos HR Solutions wanted to do something fun to help stay in touch with each other, keep spirits high and raise money for a worthy cause. At our regular team meetings, now being held online, the cHRysos HR team decided to get creative and implemented a fundraising fancy dress programme, with all proceeds going to Dove House, a hospice providing specialist palliative care across Hull and East Yorkshire. With themes such as fancy
Thursday, April 30, 2020New listening service launched for people who have lost loved ones during Coronavirus pandemic
A new listening service for people who have lost loved ones during the coronavirus pandemic has been launched in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw. Health and local authority partners in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw recognised that during the Coronavirus pandemic people are experiencing the death of family and friends in difficult and painful circumstances. It is very likely that due to the restrictions people may not be with their loved ones at the time of their death or they may have witnessed traumatic
Thursday, April 30, 2020darts at Home is launched - creative activities bring new ways to connect, feel motivated & have fun
darts artists have been working hard to create inspiring activities for people to get involved in while staying safe at home. Professional musicians, artists, dancers, poets and film-makers have been finding new ways to share fun and engaging opportunities for those who might be feeling isolated, for parents who have children at home, for people who want to stay active and for everyone who wants to learn new skills. darts has 30 years’ experience in delivering creative activities and supporting
Thursday, April 30, 2020Doncaster contract cleaners spray away the virus
Doncaster based contract cleaning company Solutions4 cleaning are literally spraying away the Coronavirus, having taken delivery of the latest electrostatic VICTORY disinfection equipment from the USA. This portable unit is unique in that the disinfectant water vapour is electrostatically charged on release and 'wraps' itself around all surfaces, even hidden ones.This 360 degrees wraparound gives complete coverage where traditional fogging and vapour sprayers cannot. This process is now widely used on all
Wednesday, April 29, 2020Sheffield Hallam recognised as leader in information and technology
Sheffield Hallam University has joined a network of educational institutitions recognised across the world as leaders in the field of information and technology. The Sheffield Business School at Sheffield Hallam University has joined the iSchool network – representing the best of teaching and research within the field globally. Sheffield Hallam University is one of only nine UK universities to achieve iSchool status, including Oxford University, University College London and the University of
Wednesday, April 29, 2020Be a Doncaster hero – don’t ignore cancer symptoms
On National Cancer Day (29 April 2020) local GPs and nurses in Doncaster are calling for patients to be a hero and not ignore cancer symptoms. It is important that patients seek advice if they have a worrying symptom. All local practices in Doncaster are offering online consultations and speaking with patients remotely; this is to ensure that patients don’t have to travel unnecessarily and provides a reassuring option during the Coronavirus outbreak. Essential and urgent cancer diagnosis, treatment and
Tuesday, April 28, 2020For The Love of Scrubs’
Doncaster College tutor Noreen Nasim is supporting a national campaign to help address the shortage of scrubs within the NHS. Noreen is spending much of her free time in her sewing room and is encouraging others to do the same, Noreen first heard of the shortage on a Facebook group called ‘For The Love Of Scrubs’. Initially starting with just a few in the group the word soon spread and now comprises of thousands of volunteers, sharing patterns, suppliers and taking orders from NHS workers. Noreen
Tuesday, April 28, 2020Energy experts warn of lockdown consequences on the fuel poor
With home energy bills expected to soar as a consequence of the Covid-19 lockdown, academics from Sheffield Hallam University have raised concerns that the impact could be more costly for low-income families. While total energy consumption has declined with large sections of the economy shutting down, domestic consumption has increased. Uswitch estimates that home confinement costs families an additional £16 a week due to extra electricity and gas being used for cooking, making hot drinks, televisions,
Tuesday, April 28, 2020Local hospitals introduce new rainbow rooms for staff wellbeing
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) have recently set up designated spaces for team members who need to emotionally recuperate during their challenging shifts. Equivalent to the ‘’Wobble Rooms’’ that have been established in other NHS Organisations, they have been rebranded as ‘’Rainbow Rooms’’ here in reference to their colourful decor and the optimistic atmosphere they create. There are currently four of these locations around the Trust, providing solace for when the pressures of dealing
Monday, April 27, 2020Doncaster businesses invited to digital debate with Council CEO and Mayor
On Tuesday 28 April Doncaster Chamber is hosting a unique live business Q&A with Mayor Ros Jones and CEO of Doncaster Council, Damian Allen. •Date: Tuesday 28 April 2020•Time: 2-3pm•Venue: Chamber Digital online Zoom event This one-off Chamber Digital event has been scheduled to allow companies to hear first hand about what the council is doing to support business during the Coronavirus pandemic and how they are planning for recovery. Just as importantly it will also allow local businesses to question and
Monday, April 27, 2020ClickView makes world-class educational resources available for free
In response to the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, ClickView, the world’s leading producer of educational videos, is taking action. For the first time, all curriculum-aligned videos and resources produced by ClickView since 2014 will be freely available. This will help as many families as possible to homeschool with confidence, explains Managing Director of ClickView UK, Michael Wilkinson: “It is our civic duty, and we hope that this small but important act can benefit some of the teachers and students in
Friday, April 24, 2020Doncaster Children's University offers FREE membership for children aged 5-16
Doncaster Childrens University, part of Doncaster College and University Centre, are offering FREE membership for children aged 5-16. Getting your child involved is easy and only takes 5 minutes, simply email donna.woodthorpe@don.ac.uk and you will be sent a membership form and more information. CU rewards children for doing extra-curricular activities and gives them goals to work towards! During this time at home, they are ensuring children have lots of fun CU activities to do to keep them
Friday, April 24, 2020Fisher German makes three promotions at its Doncaster office
A leading property consultancy has made three promotions at its Doncaster office following a strong period of growth. Fisher German has promoted Ben Flint to associate and Emma Buckle and Sarah Scarsebrook to senior administrators. The firm made the promotions as part of its career progression framework, which gives employees a clear pathway to advance within the business. Fisher German has made a total of 32 promotions across its offices, marking its continuing success across a number of specialisms
Friday, April 24, 2020Staff and patients at Doncaster Royal Infirmary receive a special Amazon delivery
Staff and patients at Doncaster Royal Infirmary received a special delivery from Amazon’s fulfilment centre on Doncaster’s iPort when the team showed up with Fire Tablets and chocolate. The hospital received 15 Fire Tablets with screen protectors, providing patients in palliative care with the technology needed to communicate with their families. The Amazon team also donated almost 3,000 bars of chocolate to the hospital to say thank you to its hardworking doctors, nurses and staff. Adam Banks, Site
Friday, April 24, 2020Keepmoat Stadium lights up for NHS heroes
Club Doncaster join football clubs across South Yorkshire by lighting up the Keepmoat Stadium with a message of thanks for the heroes at the NHS. The lights which were organised and facilitated by PA Entertainments offer a message of thanks for the incredible frontline NHS staff and all the key workers who are keeping the country safe during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. As well as this show of appreciation, Club Doncaster have a number of fundraising projects for NHS charities with Elite Pro Sports
Thursday, April 23, 2020Can your business provide laptops to support Doncaster children learning from home?
Many businesses have struggled to keep operating during the crisis, and have in many cases all but ceased able to generate revenue. At the same time, our teachers keep schools open for those who still have places, whilst many others stay at home. Polypipe has joined others across the North including Northern Gas Networks and Drax in Selby to donate laptops to children who are from the most disadvantaged backgrounds. These efforts by businesses have been matched by government offering to also support
Thursday, April 23, 2020Mayor thanks Doncaster for the local response to coronavirus and updates on latest support available
Mayor Ros Jones has today thanked residents, community groups and businesses across the borough for their massive response to the coronavirus emergency. Mayor Ros’s 10-point plan, launched last month to help Doncaster get through the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to help the most vulnerable. “We have never known a time like this and hopefully never will again in our lifetimes,” said Mayor Jones. “The £5 million plan was drawn up by the council’s leadership team and cabinet and provides continuous support to
Thursday, April 23, 2020Calling all Business Heroes!
Do you know a business in the DN postcode area that is going the extra mile to provide essential support during the Coronavirus pandemic? Doncaster Chamber is looking for companies that are going above and beyond to help others, including companies adapting their production lines to manufacture critical PPE, those helping local NHS hospitals, care services and front line staff, or lending a hand to support the more vulnerable in the local community.Jade Dyer, Assistant Director of Services at Doncaster
Wednesday, April 22, 2020Fly-tippers face crackdown and hefty fines
Doncaster Council warns fly-tippers to beware as the maximum fine for offences could be up to £50,000 and up to five years in prison. Up and down the country, councils are facing increased issues with fly-tipping, with the Local Government Association reporting that local authorities nationally are dealing with an 80% increase in fly tipping incidents. The Coronavirus pandemic has meant that the council has reduced some services, including picking up litter and dumped rubbish, to be able to respond to
.png)
Wednesday, April 22, 2020Active Fusion release 'PE From Home' project
Doncaster sporting charity Active Fusion have launched a brand new digital project, PE From Home. In order to ensure children are happy and healthy in body and mind, the charity have created ‘PE Parent’, a free, easy to follow resource for parents to give their children a positive, progressive experience in PE. All activities are age appropriate for Early Years Foundation Stage, Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2 and sessions for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).Director of Active
Wednesday, April 22, 2020Business Impact Tracker: More than 70 per cent of firms surveyed have furloughed staff
Results from the latest BCC Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker reveal that the vast majority of businesses surveyed have furloughed a proportion of their workforce, and are awaiting funds from the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme as payday approaches for many. 71 per cent of survey respondents have furloughed staff, up from 66 per cent last week Cash flow remains a significant concern for many businesses - 6 in 10 have less than three months’ cash in reserve The leading business organisation’s weekly
Tuesday, April 21, 2020Aspire’s services remain open
A Doncaster service that supports the recovery of people with an alcohol and/ or drug problem is reminding residents that its services are open during the Coronavirus outbreak. Aspire Drug and Alcohol Service, which is run by Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH) in partnership with registered charity the Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS), is urging people to continue to seek support if they are worried about their own or someone else’s alcohol or substance issue. Located at
Monday, April 20, 2020Doncaster primary care services remain open for business
Despite the enormous pressures and demands on NHS services during the Coronavirus outbreak, local practices and pharmacies remain open to care for patients in Doncaster. The health needs of our patients is of paramount importance and it is vital that sick patients continue to seek advice from health and care professionals such as GPs, nurses and pharmacists. All practices and most branch practices in Doncaster remain open, but of course, the ways in which they are providing care and services has changed.
Monday, April 20, 2020MechFS funds food truck to feed NHS staff of Doncaster Royal Infirmary
The MechFS team is proud to be providing hot meals, available to all Doncaster Royal Infirmary’s NHS staff, from Monday 20th April. MechFS has organised and funded a food truck to feed frontline NHS staff based at DRI for the next three weeks as they work tirelessly through the Covid-19 pandemic. Working within the strict government health & safety and social distancing guidelines, chef Tom Bracha of Yellow Bus Catering, a minimal pre-prep team based in Armthorpe and a small rota of MechFS employees will
Monday, April 20, 2020BCC and Doncaster Chamber respond to announcement of Future Fund
Welcoming the Chancellor’s announcement of a Future Fund, supporting start-ups by delivering an initial commitment of £250m of new government funding which will be unlocked by private investment on a match funded basis, British Chamber of Commerce Head of Economics, Suren Thiru, said: “The Future Fund will help provide urgently needed support for many of our most innovative and fast-growing businesses around the UK, as we have urged. “The fund fills an important gap in existing government support
Friday, April 17, 2020Doncaster COVID-19 business survey - early findings indicate extent of the impact on local businesses
Early results of an ongoing survey of Doncaster businesses shows the impact of the current coronavirus crisis on the borough’s business community, with jobs, turnover, cashflow all threatened and delays reported in accessing support. In addition: •79% have seen business revenue fall•60% of businesses have already furloughed some employees•15% have made some redundancies•75%+ of businesses are aware of the financial support available to them •But many are experiencing delays in accessing funds The survey,
Thursday, April 16, 2020Yorkshire Gin Distillery Supports Autism Charity in fight against Covid-19
Cooper King has switched production to hand sanitiser, providing vital supplies to Autism Plus. Cooper King Distillery has provided essential supplies of hand sanitiser to help Autism Plus continue to safely support individuals with autism in Yorkshire. Autism Plus provide 24 hour, round the clock support for adults and young people with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs in residential living and support in individuals own homes. Due to the nature of support provided by the charity,
Wednesday, April 15, 2020Two-thirds of respondents awaiting funds from furlough scheme as payday approaches
Results from the third BCC Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker reveal that the majority of businesses responding to the survey have now furloughed a proportion of their workforce, and are awaiting funds from the government’s Job Retention Scheme to enable them to pay staff. 66% of survey respondents have furloughed staff in anticipation of scheme going live More than half of firms (59%) have three months cash in reserve or less 2 per cent of firms surveyed had successfully accessed CBILS and 15 per cent
Tuesday, April 14, 2020Award winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park reflects on a very different Easter bank holiday weekend
The award-winning Yorkshire Wildlife Park was left empty this Easter Bank Holiday weekend - exactly a year after a record breaking 28,000 visitors enjoyed four days of eggstatic entertainment. For the first time since the park opened in 2009, there are no guests entering through the gates this Easter holiday after its temporary closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Only dedicated teams of rangers were on site caring for the animals, which include some of the most rare and beautiful species on the
Wednesday, April 08, 2020Impact tracker shows businesses are not yet successfully accessing government loan and grant schemes
Results from the second British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker reveal that most businesses have not yet successfully accessed the government’s Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) and the grants for small businesses. Just 1 per cent of firms had successfully accessed CBILS and 7 per cent are receiving grants57 per cent of firms have three months cash in reserve or less, 6 per cent of respondents have already run out of cash37 per cent of respondents said they
Thursday, April 02, 2020Coronavirus business tracker shows heavy toll on UK business communities
BCC Coronavirus Business Impact Tracker: First results show heavy toll on UK business communities as majority of firms face cash flow crisis Results from the British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) first Covid-19 Business Impact Tracker paints a concerning, if unsurprising, picture for business communities affected by Coronavirus.Sharp and significant fall in domestic and overseas revenue for UK businessesThe majority of firms (62 per cent) have three months’ cash in reserve or lessAlmost half of respondents (44
Friday, March 27, 2020Doncaster Chamber and BCC comment on government support for the self-employed
Welcoming measures outlined by the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak to support the self-employed and sole traders whose businesses have been affected by Coronavirus, British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “The Chancellor’s announcement offers a lifeline to the vast majority of the UK’s 5 million self-employed people, many of whom have seen their livelihoods vanish overnight. “Chambers, along with other business groups, have worked constructively with
Tuesday, March 24, 2020Doncaster Chamber and BCC respond to new social distancing measures
Responding to the Prime Minister’s announcement of further restrictions to tackle the spread of Coronavirus, BCC Director General Adam Marshall said: “Businesses must play their part to help limit the spread of Coronavirus. “As the UK goes into lockdown, ministers must be crystal-clear about which businesses can continue to operate, and those which must now shut their doors. “The new restrictions make it all the more important that the package of financial support announced by ministers last week is
Friday, March 20, 2020New multi-million pound Coronavirus action plan to help the most vulnerable in Doncaster
Mayor Ros Jones has today announced a 10-point plan to help people, communities, businesses and arts and leisure get through the COVID-19 emergency. The plan includes a three month Council Tax payment holiday for households struggling to pay due to the crisis. St Leger Homes tenants will also be given a similar financial break with their rents. These are just two points in a £5m 10-point action plan drawn up by Mayor Ros Jones, her cabinet and the council’s leadership team on top of planning, dealing
Wednesday, March 18, 2020BCC responds to Coronavirus business support measures
Responding to the package of government announcements to help businesses affected by Coronavirus, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “Businesses will welcome the scale of the Government's latest response, as well as the specific support it is offering to some of the worst-affected parts of our economy. These measures could be a lifeline for many businesses across the UK who are now experiencing wholesale disruption as a result of the pandemic. “The key to the success of these measures is
Tuesday, March 17, 2020BCC economic forecast: Coronavirus could further weaken UK economy
UK economic growth is expected to slow sharply in 2020 amid disruption caused by the impact of Coronavirus, according to the latest economic forecast by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). The leading business group has downgraded its UK GDP growth expectations for 2020 to 0.8%, from our previous forecast of 1.0%. Outside of the 2008/09 financial crisis, this would be the weakest full-year growth outturn since 1992 and down sharply from UK GDP growth of 1.4% in 2019. UK GDP growth is then expected to
Tuesday, March 17, 2020Doncaster Chamber annual conference and other events to be rescheduled as Coronavirus precaution
With the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the spread of Coronavirus, Doncaster Chamber of Commerce has decided to postpone a number of events planned over the coming weeks, including its headline Conference in May. The Chamber is also looking at ways to deliver some of its events programme and training courses as online interactive sessions with further details to be released when available. The Chamber has decided to take proactive action to help businesses and other partners to plan accordingly, and to
Tuesday, March 17, 2020Bawtry Kitchen specialist targets growth after securing Launchpad support from Doncaster Chamber
A Bawtry-based husband and wife team who sought to inspire property owners by making the most of their homes have expanded their company Meliora’s operations after calling on help from a unique business support programme which aims to help entrepreneurs in the Sheffield City Region to unlock their business potential. Leon Roden first began thinking about working for himself back in 2017. Having spent more than a decade working with major kitchen and bathroom suppliers, Leon became increasingly
Wednesday, March 11, 2020BCC responds to interest rate cut
Responding to the Bank of England’s announcement that interest rates will be cut from 0.75% to 0.25% in the wake of the Coronavirus outbreak, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: "Businesses will welcome the decisive action taken by the Bank of England to support the economy at this delicate moment. “The Bank and UK financial institutions must now work together to ensure that these policy measures translate into real-world support for firms on the ground. “We will want to see banks
Wednesday, March 11, 2020Budget 2020: Much to welcome for business communities across the UK
The British Chambers of Commerce provides its full response to the 2020 Budget. Giving his initial reaction to the Chancellor’s March Budget, BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “There’s much to welcome in this Budget for business communities across the UK. “The Chancellor has listened to our calls for support to help firms overcome cash flow challenges posed by Coronavirus. “Increases to infrastructure spending and sharper investment incentives will help businesses grow over the
Wednesday, March 11, 2020Doncaster Chamber response to the 2020 Budget announcement
Responding to the 2020 Budget announcement, Dan Fell, CEO at Doncaster Chamber, said: “After many years of uncertainty caused by Brexit and political gamesmanship, businesses were optimistic for a budget that would inject confidence into the economy and prioritise the domestic business agenda. Regrettably, the headline objective of driving the economy forwards and injecting confidence in to the system has been significantly hindered by fast moving events linked to the coronavirus pandemic. As such, this
Tuesday, March 10, 2020Connectus helps DSA businesses fly high with 100% gigabit capability
Unified communications and cybersecurity industry leader Connectus Business Solutions has announced it has achieved total gigabit coverage of networking services provided to Doncaster Sheffield Airport’s business park. Occupying more than half a million square feet of office, warehousing and manufacturing space, with outstanding rail, road and air links, the business park is home to over 160 businesses who now benefit from the superfast connection. Finningley-based Connectus is an approved supplier under
Tuesday, March 10, 2020Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith CBE elected BCC President
Business leader Baroness Ruby McGregor-Smith CBE has today (Thursday 5th March) been elected President of the British Chambers of Commerce. Baroness McGregor-Smith was elected by representatives of the accredited Chamber Network ahead of the BCC’s Annual Conference in London today. She will take up the role, which is unremunerated, with immediate effect, succeeding Francis Martin CBE. As President, Baroness McGregor-Smith will work alongside BCC Chair Sarah Howard MBE and Director General Adam
Monday, March 02, 2020ENGIE Clean Growth Innovation Fund - Calling all Doncaster Green Tech Innovators
Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, has teamed up with energy and services firm ENGIE to support projects working on the transition to clean energy. The £4 million competition will fund innovative projects that decarbonise, digitise and decentralise (find ways to generate power off the main grid) energy, and help achieve a sustainable transition to cleaner energy. Successful projects will receive a combination of government grants from Innovate UK, and private investment from ENGIE. For the
Friday, February 28, 2020Chamber welcomes proposals for major Yorkshire rail scheme
Commenting on the outline business case submitted to the Government by the Sheffield City Region, Doncaster Council and the Peel Group, which could deliver a new national and regional rail connection to Doncaster Sheffield Airport, Dan Fell, CEO at Doncaster Chamber welcomed the proposal and said: “A rail link to the airport is an essential piece of infrastructure that is currently missing. I fully support this compelling proposal which will not only directly benefit the airport, but will also act as a
Thursday, February 27, 2020Department of Transport receives formal proposals for a major Yorkshire rail scheme
Delivery of 33,000 jobs for the North takes a major step forward today as the Department of Transport receives formal proposals for a major Yorkshire rail scheme The Sheffield City Region, Doncaster Council and the Peel Group (owners of Doncaster Sheffield Airport) have taken a major step forward today by submitting an outline business case to the Government which could deliver a new national and regional rail connection to Doncaster Sheffield Airport. With just 4.5 miles of new track required, the
Thursday, February 27, 2020BCC comments on regional inequalities report
Responding to the final report of the UK 2070 Commission on regional inequalities led by Lord Kerslake, published today (Thurs 27 Feb), BCC Director General Dr Adam Marshall said: “Future UK growth depends both on investment in areas with untapped potential and on genuine devolution of decision-making powers and funding to every part of the UK. “A long-term strategy to ‘level up’ must be shaped by business knowledge of local and regional needs, and be accountable to local communities. Government
Wednesday, February 19, 2020BCC comments on proposals for new UK immigration system
Commenting on the government’s policy proposals for a points-based immigration system, British Chambers of Commerce Director General Adam Marshall said: “The speed and scale of these changes will require significant adjustment by businesses. “Companies are already investing heavily in home-grown talent across the UK, but critical labour shortages mean firms will still need access to overseas workers at all skill levels. “The new points system must be able to respond quickly to changing market
Tuesday, February 11, 2020Doncaster Business Awards raise over £4,800 for local charities
Following the Doncaster Business Awards held in December, Doncaster Chamber and its members have raised over £4,800 through a charity raffle. The charity donations will be split equally between four local charities: Cast Theatre, Doncaster Little Theatre, DARTS and the South Yorkshire Community Foundation, all selected as the Doncaster Chamber President’s charities for 2019.Michael Wilkinson, former President of Doncaster Chamber, said: “Amazing art and culture doesn’t just happen on it’s own, and at the
Tuesday, February 11, 2020Doncaster Business for the Community launches new fundraiser
Westfield Health in conjunction with Doncaster Business for the Community is proud to announce the launch of yet another ground breaking and unique fundraising initiative in their growing sporting calendar. The “10TenK” Challenge will consist of participants taking part in ten 10k running events of their choice over the course of this year and recruitment of 100 runners each signing up to raise £100 each has already begun. Runners will be able to choose to run in 10k races being held in both the UK and
Tuesday, February 11, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on the Prime Minister's HS2 announcement
Commenting on the Prime Minister's HS2 high-speed rail link announcement, Dan Fell, CEO at Doncaster Chamber, said: “Today’s announcement regarding HS2 will, broadly, be welcomed by the business community. HS2 is a key infrastructure project for the UK and its delivery will enhance connectivity across England, encourage inward investment into towns and cities across the UK. Closer to home, we hope that HS2 will generate supply chain opportunities for Doncaster firms and fantastic career opportunities for
Monday, February 10, 2020Doncaster Chamber responds to new statistics regarding women on boards
Responding to news that one-third of FTSE 100 board members are women, Jill Wood, Doncaster Chamber President, said: “As President of Doncaster Chamber I’m proud that over 50% of our non-executive members are female. As a mother I understand first-hand the importance of balancing work and family life, and think it is vital that women are empowered to choose a career path that meets their aspirations. Government efforts to make childcare more affordable and to encourage more shared parental leave play a
Wednesday, February 05, 2020Smart boost for CPH2's hydrogen technology
Clean Power Hydrogen (CPH2), the Doncaster developer of the unique Membrane-Free Electrolyser™ which generates clean hydrogen has been awarded a £338k grant by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency. CPH2 submitted its application to Innovate UK’s Smart Grant Programme in October 2019. The programme is an opportunity to compete for a share of up to £25 million to deliver ambitious or disruptive R&D innovations that can make a significant impact on the UK economy. Andy King, CEO (CPH2) said “This funding
Tuesday, February 04, 2020Students and businesses prepare for Doncaster’s biggest and best careers event
Doncaster students, teachers, parents and businesses are preparing for the borough’s biggest ever careers event later this month. Running from 10 – 14 February, Doncaster Careers Week showcases career opportunities and inspires students to think about their future career pathways, culminating in Doncaster Opportunities LIVE on 13 February – the biggest careers event ever held in Doncaster, with over 100 businesses exhibiting and 3,700 local students set to attend. Sponsored by Mech FS and a range of
Tuesday, February 04, 2020BCC/Totaljobs: Budget must address critical skills shortages to ‘level up’ UK growth
Over half of UK firms attempted to recruit in the last quarter of 2019, but almost three quarters have struggled to find the right talent, the largest survey of UK employers has found. Labour market remains stable as over half (55%) of UK businesses attempted to recruit in the final quarter of 2019.Skills shortages continue to impact growth as 72% of firms reported recruitment difficulties in Q4 2019.With greater political stability, one in four (26%) businesses expect to increase their workforce in Q1
Friday, January 31, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on the UK's departure from the EU
As the UK marks its official departure from the European Union, and the start of an 11-month transition period, Dan Fell, Chief Executive at Doncaster Chamber, said: “Brexit will create winners and losers throughout the UK’s business communities; therefore, as some firms gear up to maximise new opportunities, others will be working to mitigate risks and head off new challenges. They key to facing challenges and opportunities alike is being prepared. In many ways, businesses can only be prepared when
Tuesday, January 28, 2020BCC comments on MAC report
Commenting on the release of the Migration Advisory Committee’s report on the UK’s immigration system, published today, BCC Head of People Policy Jane Gratton said: “Businesses want a flexible immigration system that provides access to the staff they need, without costly delays or red tape. “While a reduction in the salary threshold is welcome and the list of eligible jobs has been expanded, it is disappointing that recommendations did not take account of regional salary differences. This risks
Tuesday, January 21, 2020BCC comments on ONS labour market data
Commenting on the ONS labour market figures for January 2020, published, Suren Thiru, Head of Economics at the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “The jobs market remains strong in the face of a challenging economic backdrop, with firms continuing to hire in large numbers. “However, falling job vacancies in Q4 compared to the previous quarter suggests that a subdued economy, lingering uncertainty and persistent recruitment difficulties are weighing on firms’ hiring decisions. If sustained,
Monday, January 20, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on HS2 speculation
Responding to reports on the unpublished Oakervee Review, Dan Fell, Chief Executive at Doncaster Chamber, said: “In the election campaign the Government talked extensively about the need to level up the country and invest in the North of England. A good way of delivering this would be by delivering a parity of investment in infrastructure projects across the UK. The South is not being asked to pick between HS2, projects such as Cross Rail and investment in existing railways. It is not enough to offer
Thursday, January 16, 2020Doncaster Chamber comments on South Yorkshire devolution deal
Commenting on the South Yorkshire devolution deal, Dan Fell, Chief Executive at Doncaster Chamber, said: “Securing a South Yorkshire devolution deal is a positive step for Doncaster and the region. “Whilst the Chamber – led by member sentiment – has, and continues to advocate for, full Yorkshire devolution, Doncaster businesses have always been extremely pragmatic about how this is achieved and the need to take iterative steps in pursuit of the ultimate prize. “This compelling deal is, however, much more
Tuesday, January 07, 2020BCC comments on launch of the Budget process
British Chambers of Commerce Co-Executive Director, Claire Walker, said: “Businesses will be looking to the Budget to boost confidence and stimulate growth at a time of significant uncertainty for the UK economy. “Firms of all sizes need to see a package of fiscal measures to alleviate the burden of high up-front costs and boost investment. The Chancellor must outline how he will make good on election promises of a fundamental reform of Business Rates and we also need to see a moratorium on all
Monday, January 06, 2020Doncaster Chamber welcomes new President and Board members
Formally announced at the Doncaster Chamber AGM in December, Doncaster Chamber is pleased to announce new appointments to its Board. Changes to the Board include:Jill Wood (Signum Facilities Management) promoted to PresidentAndy Morley (ProAktive), Steve Bradley (NatWest) and Jim Carley (Carley Consult) welcomed to the Board as Elected members.Karen Beardsley (Unipart Rail) and Heather Boyce (Age UK Doncaster) welcomed to the Board as Co-opted members. Operating as a not for profit organisation, the
Thursday, January 02, 2020BCC Quarterly Economic Survey Q4 2019: UK economy stagnating as service sector slows
The British Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey reveals that the UK ended 2019 in stagnation, amid long term uncertainty, rising business costs and a slowing global economy. The latest results of the survey – which is the largest of its kind in the UK and a leading indicator of GDP growth - found protracted weakness across most indicators of economic health in the final quarter of 2019.Service sector indicators worsen and remain well below their historic averageIndicators for manufacturing and
Thursday, January 02, 2020BCC comments on new National Minimum Wage announcement
Commenting on the announcement that the new National Living Wage will be set at £8.72, with the National Minimum Wage increasing across all age groups, Co-Executive Director Hannah Essex said: “Businesses want to pay their staff a good wage. They recognise and support the drive to improve living standards. But many have struggled with increased costs in a time of great economic uncertainty. Raising wage floors by more than double the rate of inflation will pile further pressure on cash flow and eat
Thursday, January 02, 2020Is your company Disability Confident?
The Disability Confident scheme is a national initiative to support employers like you to make the most of the talents disabled people can bring to your workplace. Through Disability Confident, thousands of employers are:challenging attitudes towards disabilityincreasing understanding of disabilityremoving barriers to disabled people and those with long-term health conditionsensuring that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfill their potential and realize their aspirationsWhy you should become
Friday, December 20, 2019BCC comments on appointment of new Bank of England Governor
Commenting on the appointment of Andrew Bailey, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), said: “Businesses will look to the new Governor to foster confidence and offer reassurance at a time of significant change in the UK economy. “With our own research pointing to a stagnating economy, businesses will want to see the Bank deliver continued transparency on interest rates, and use the levers at its disposal to support investment and growth. The Bank can play a
Friday, December 13, 2019And the winners are...
The winners of the 21st annual Doncaster Business Awards, sponsored by Doncaster College and University Centre, were announced on Thursday 12 December during a prestigious awards ceremony at Doncaster Racecourse. The black-tie evening organised by Doncaster Chamber saw over 900 guests from the local business community recognise and celebrate the high calibre of work that firms are performing across the borough and beyond. The Award winners and runners-up for each of the award categories received their
Monday, December 09, 2019Mech FS leads the way for Doncaster students
Doncaster based mechanical and electrical engineering company, Mech FS, is leading the way with their support for the workforce of tomorrow as headline sponsor for Opportunities Doncaster LIVE. Opportunities Doncaster LIVE is a flagship event designed to engage and inspire local students to choose their career pathway. It takes place on 13 February 2020, with over 100 business and education providers showcasing the learning and career opportunities they offer to over 3,000 young people from all Doncaster
Monday, December 09, 2019Weak GDP growth forecast for 2020 as business investment falls
UK economic growth in 2020 is forecast to slow to its weakest rate since the financial crisis as higher government spending struggles to offset falling business investment, weakening net trade and sluggish consumer spending. GDP growth is forecast to slow from 1.3% for this year to 1.0% in 2020 - the weakest outturn since 2009 – according to the latest economic forecast from British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Although this is a slight upgrade on BCC’s previous forecast of 0.8%, it indicates that by the
Monday, December 02, 2019Doncaster Chamber crowned Chamber of the Year
At this years’ British Chamber of Commerce Business Awards 2019, Doncaster Chamber has been awarded the Chamber of the Year – the highest accolade a Chamber of Commerce can win at the annual event. The awards, now in their 16th year, are one of the showpiece events in the national business calendar, highlighting the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local communities. Judges praised Doncaster Chamber as an excellent example of a Chamber punching above its weight. As a not
Friday, November 29, 2019British firms hit by power cuts even as electricity demand set to rise
Businesses are hampered by an unreliable electricity supply according to a survey of more than 1,000 business leaders published today by British Chambers of Commerce and Drax. One third (33 per cent) of UK businesses have experienced electricity outages in past twelve months, according to a major new study of the business community’s views on infrastructure and risk. With demands on energy set to intensify in the years ahead – more than one-quarter (27 per cent) expect their dependence on
Thursday, November 28, 2019Financial support for businesses affected by flooding
This article provides information for businesses affected by the floods in Doncaster.Business Rates – Tel: 01302 734454 Option 2 Any business premises affected by flood damage will qualify for an exemption, 100% relief, from business rates for a minimum period of up to 3 months (6 months for industrial) from the date of the flood when full business rates will be payable. The property needs to be empty. If any business is struggling, the Business Rates team can also look at ways to support i.e.
Tuesday, November 26, 2019UK road and rail networks not meeting business needs
Business satisfaction rates fall, underlining need for parties to make good on infrastructure promises UK businesses are even less satisfied with UK infrastructure than they were a year ago, according to research published today by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Stagecoach. The survey of 1,200 business leaders finds that only around one third (35%) of UK businesses feel that the UK road network is meeting their needs when reaching customers, suppliers, and employees. This is a
Tuesday, November 26, 2019Doncaster businesses and learning organisations urged to make the Promise
A new and exciting Doncaster initiative launches on 2 December to further strengthen local relationships between business and education for the benefit of the future workforce. The Doncaster Promise is a new social compact between businesses, education and the local public sector. It represents a deep and sincere commitment from businesses to support and help young people develop their careers. For the education and skills sector, it will create a framework that they can use to develop strong working
Monday, November 25, 2019British Chambers of Commerce response to Conservative Party manifesto
In his initial response to the publication of the Conservative Party manifesto, BCC Director General, Dr Adam Marshall said: “While the Conservative manifesto strikes some of the right notes, business communities across the UK will be looking to see more substantial measures to boost growth, enterprise and investment from the Prime Minister and his party if they form the next government.” On Brexit, Marshall said: “There’s a big difference between ‘getting Brexit done’ and doing it right. The
Thursday, November 21, 2019Supported Internship gets Doncaster student Robyn ready for work
Robyn Cooper, aged 20 has been studying at Communication Specialist College Doncaster since September 2015 and with the help of her Social Worker and the team at the college she secured a work experience placement at Doncaster Chamber of Commerce through the summer. Rachael McEwan from Doncaster Chamber of Commerce said: “It has been a real pleasure to work with Robyn, she has worked with us throughout the summer and has been a great addition to the team. “Due to the success of the work experience we were
Thursday, November 21, 2019Initial BCC response to Labour Party manifesto
Responding to the Labour Party manifesto, Director-General Dr Adam Marshall said: “No government can deliver the prosperity that people and public services depend on, or achieve net-zero, without a true partnership with business. When business thrives, people and communities thrive too. “Millions of businesspeople care deeply about their employees and their communities and they need the next government to take decisive action to restore business confidence and unleash business investment and growth.
Friday, November 15, 2019Brexit and global uncertainty bite as majority of exporting manufacturers report drops in orders
A majority of UK manufacturing exporters are reporting a stark worsening in sales and orders, with indicators showing a substantial drop compared to 2017 and 2018 levels. The Quarterly International Trade Outlook for Q3 2019, released by British Chambers of Commerce and DHL today, reveals that indicators for exporting manufacturers in Q3 2019 have undergone large declines, with several key indicators for orders and cashflow now in negative territory. The percentage balance of exporting
Tuesday, November 12, 2019Flooding emergency: support for those affected
Here at the Chamber we would like to send our sincere thanks to our emergency services, volunteers and the wider community supporting those affected by the recent flooding. Members of the Chamber team will be lending their support as volunteers as clean-up operations progress throughout the week. Please feel free to get in touch with any queries or concerns by telephone at 01302 640100 or email chamber@doncaster-chamber.co.uk. Can you help?South Yorkshire's Community Foundation have launched an emergency
Tuesday, November 12, 2019Doncaster Chamber calls for local business support
Ahead of the Doncaster Business Awards on 12 December, Doncaster Chamber is urging local business to get involved and donate prizes for the charity raffle, held as part of the highly anticipated awards event. The Doncaster Business Awards, sponsored this year by Doncaster College & University Centre, are an annual recognition and celebration of excellence across Doncaster business. Each year all monies raised in the charity raffle is donated to the year’s chosen charities. Some of the exciting prizes
Tuesday, November 05, 2019Take the Doncaster Business Insight survey and support local charity
The latest quarterly Doncaster Business Insight survey is now open and for every survey completed by a business with a DN postcode, Doncaster Chamber will donate £1 to support Doncaster residents via Changing Lives. The Doncaster Business Survey, run by Doncaster Chamber in association with Doncaster Council and sponsored by ProAktive, gains a snapshot of business sentiment on current issues that impact on the local economy. Hot topic questions this quarter include a focus on business carbon foootprint and
Tuesday, October 29, 2019Doncaster shortlisted for national Chamber of the Year award
Doncaster Chamber in the running for national ‘Chamber of the Year’ award. Doncaster Chamber has finalised for Chamber of the Year at the British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) annual business awards. The prestigious awards night celebrates the best of business from across the UK whilst also shining a light on the most impact Chambers in the network. To be shortlisted for ‘Chamber of the Year’ recognises the exemplary service delivered by Doncaster Chamber to support the growth and prosperity of the local
Monday, October 21, 2019Chamber Patrons take advantage of Doncaster Knights Member Hot Deal
Clark's Vehicle Conversions took nearly 100 of their employees and families to Castle Park for an enrichment day on 5 October. The 2018 Doncaster Chamber Awards Large Business of the Year winner and Chamber Patron member attended a Doncaster Knights fixture against Jersey Reds as the Knights made a winning start to their Championship Cup campaign. Prior to kick off, members of the Knights playing squad received a guided tour of the Castle Park rugby stadium which included behind the scenes access in the
Friday, October 11, 2019Uncertainty around Brexit, tariffs and exchange rates holding back business
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Bibby Financial Services (BFS) have revealed that uncertainty around Brexit, tariffs and exchange rate volatility are holding back the potential of many UK exporters. The recent survey included 1,140 internationally active UK businesses, and found that general uncertainty around Brexit was considered the top barrier to export, listed by almost half (47%) of businesses, followed by specific concerns around tariffs and exchange rate volatility, listed by 35% and 33%
Wednesday, October 09, 2019BCC comments on No-Deal Readiness Report and temporary tariff regime
Commenting on the publication of the No-Deal Readiness Report, Dr Adam Marshall, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “It’s good that government has got its shoulder to the wheel, but it’s going to have to push a lot harder to give businesses answers to the many complex and detailed questions they have in order to trade successfully in the event of an unwanted no-deal exit. “Business concern about an unwanted no-deal exit is rising, particularly given developments over recent
Tuesday, October 08, 2019Doncaster on track to maximise HS2 opportunities
More than 100 Doncaster businesses are on track to take advantage of the country’s biggest investment in national railways since the Victorian era. They were among those attending a HS2 Supply Chain event held at National College for Advanced Transport & Infrastructure (formerly National College for High Speed Rail), organised by the Doncaster Chamber on 8 October. The Chamber is working with HS2 Ltd, the company tasked with building the new railway, to ensure that business in South Yorkshire can win
Friday, October 04, 2019BCC Quarterly Economic Survey Q3 2019: Economic conditions weaken as manufacturing slump continues
The British Chambers of Commerce’s Quarterly Economic Survey – now in its thirtieth year as the largest UK private sector survey of business sentiment and a leading indicator of UK GDP growth – found that UK economic conditions weakened in the third quarter amid a significant deterioration in manufacturing sector activity. The balance of manufacturers reporting increased export orders lowest in a decade and domestic sales lowest since 2011. The balance of manufacturers reporting improved cashflow drops to
Tuesday, August 20, 2019Reflecting on the Doncaster Chamber Business Awards with last year’s winners
With the deadline for the Doncaster Chamber Business Awards fast approaching, we spoke with some of the winners of the 2018 Awards to learn about the opportunities they have had since winning, their experience of the evening and any advice they have for this year’s entrants. Keepmoat Homes’ Corporate & Social Responsibility Manager, Mark Burley, reflected that winning the Excellence in Corporate, Social and Environmental Responsibility Award has ‘reinforced the importance of sustainability within our
Friday, June 14, 2019Handelsbanken enhance local business relations
One of Doncaster’s leading banks, Handelsbanken, has become a patron member of Doncaster Chamber. The new partnership will enable them to build stronger relations with local businesses and individuals and contribute to the borough. Handelsbanken is a local relationship bank, based on satisfied customers, financial strength and traditional values. Their Doncaster branch is empowered to make the majority of banking decisions which is why they say that the 'branch is the bank'. “Becoming a patron member
Monday, May 27, 2019Lecturers unveil dementia themed virtual reality art exhibition at London Biennale
Two Sheffield Hallam University film and media academics have worked with Dutch artist Marcel Schreur to create a virtual reality (VR) and art installation that gives viewers an insight into dementia. The exhibition, 'Life is Beautiful. Always' is now on display at the London Art Biennale 2019, which officially opened yesterday (Thursday 23 May) after a preview event with Lady Sophie Windsor earlier in the week. Film-maker Dominic Green and multi-media expert Daniel Bacchus have been developing the
Monday, May 27, 2019Chamber's Launchpad programme supports eco-friendly entrepreneur
A crafty former library assistant has found a new outlet for her creative talents, after teaming up with a number of like-minded entrepreneurs to pioneer Doncaster’s first eco-friendly shop. Based in Doncaster’s recently renovated Woolmarket, Artisan and Eco offers a range of plastic-free products, ranging from bamboo toothbrushes, hand crafted fairies, traditional peg dolls and even cling film substitutes made out of beeswax covered cotton. The shop was created by entrepreneurs, Jill Brooksbank and
Wednesday, May 15, 2019Take part in virtual challenge Active Teams to help young people become happier and healthier
Would you like to be more physically active, but don’t know how? Or maybe you struggle to find the time? Perhaps you can’t find the motivation? Active Fusion, a charity based in Doncaster striving to improve the health and wellbeing of young people across South Yorkshire, has launched virtual challenge Active Teams. We challenge you to take part in any physical activity you enjoy every weekday in July for 20, 40 or 60 minutes. Take part alongside your colleagues or enter as an individual and see just
Tuesday, April 30, 2019RSPCA DRB Corporate Heroes Scheme
After joining the Doncaster Chamber of Commerce in 2018, it became increasingly evident, that the RSPCA Doncaster, Rotherham and District Branch (RSPCA DRB) could build new and exciting links with local businesses, who were interested in supporting the work undertaken at the Animal Centre. The Corporate Heroes who have committed to support us in 2019 will be: •promoting their company’s standing alongside the largest national animal charity•increasing their CSR profile •supporting employee
Monday, April 01, 2019BCC Quarterly Economic Survey Q1 2019: Business hits the brakes
The British Chambers of Commerce’s quarterly economic survey – the largest private sector survey of business sentiment and leading indicator of UK GDP growth – found that key indicators of UK economic health weakened considerably in the first quarter of 2019. •The balance of services firms reporting a rise in export sales at its lowest level in a decade•The balance of firms reporting improved cashflow turned negative for the first time since 2012•Investment intentions in both manufacturing and services
Thursday, March 07, 2019Doncaster Chamber awards local apprentices
Doncaster College & University Centre hosted an Apprenticeship Awards night to celebrate the success of their apprentices and their employers during the academic year 2018/19. As proud sponsors, Doncaster Chamber presented the 'Business Support Apprentice of the Year Award' to Abbie Brierly at Hallcross Medical Practice, and Doncaster Skills Academy presented Narmila Singh from Doncaster School Meals, with the ‘Personal Achiever of the Year Award.’ Abbie, a Business Admin Apprentice, was praised by her
Tuesday, December 04, 2018Doncaster Chamber wins national business award
Doncaster Chamber is celebrating winning the Most Effective Campaigning award, sponsored by Heathrow Airport, at the British Chambers of Commerce’s annual Chamber Business Awards 2018. The national awards highlight the role of business in delivering growth and prosperity for the UK and local towns and regions. Doncaster Chamber has worked closely with a range of partners – including Hungerhill School, Doncaster MBC, Doncaster College, the National College for High Speed Rail, the University of Sheffield
Thursday, October 04, 2018BCC survey finds investment and recruitment would be cut in the event of ‘no deal’
One of the biggest surveys of business intentions since the EU referendum has found that nearly two-thirds of firms still aren’t preparing for Brexit – and in the event of a ‘no deal’ outcome many would cut investment and recruitment plans. With just six months to go before the UK leaves the EU, the British Chambers of Commerce is calling for UK ministers to redouble their efforts to reach an agreement with the EU – and ensure a transition period that could help firms prepare for change and prevent a slump
-
Categories
-
Subscribe to our newsletter
-