< Previous East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk CORPORATE HOSPITALITY O ver two-thirds of companies throw a ‘Christmas’ or year- end party in the UK and it’s important it goes well. Success mainly depends on how people are left feeling after the event, especially as the period over Christmas and New Year is a key time for staff to consider whether they want to apply for another job, often at another company – so the party shouldn’t leave anyone with a bad taste in their mouth. There is a lot of risk involved, however, and problems can occur when alcohol flows. Staff need be aware that the party, even though outside of office hours and often office workspace, is an extension of the working environment, both from a PR point of view and in legal terms and here lies an expectation for all to behave accordingly while having fun. Any staff members’ behaviour at an event can give rise to claims or disciplinary action so it’s essential to communicate expectations by circulating a considered email, a staff meeting and notices in staff rooms. The CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel Development) states, “make your expectations clear - remind people of the behaviour that’s expected of them beforehand, including communicating your policies on dignity and respect and on drugs and alcohol misuse.” When people know what parameters are in place they feel safe and can relax and enjoy the event. Many attendees may worry what to chat about at the office party. Politics should be avoided and although it’s tempting to vent about the state of the country there are many more pleasant topics to discuss such as next years’ vacation plans, favourite foods, bands or video games. Keeping topics light and general stops attendees feeling anxious or aggravated. Ensure official talk is kept in the office and employers remain aware of expressing opinions about employees too or making promises of promotion at a party that aren’t kept as if the promotion falls through, it can end up in an Employment Tribunal based on ‘breach of trust’. Other considerations are whether social media postings are permissible, Trouble at the party Christmas parties are designed to be fun and are important for maintaining staff, but there are a lot of things that can go wrong – it’s best to be aware of these in advance. 50-52.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:57 Page 1www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link CORPORATE HOSPITALITY staff need to be informed on this topic beforehand as selfies are here to stay! The obvious issue that can cause problems at a party and upset others is when people drink too much, whether it’s a free bar or not – avoiding hard spirits and limiting the number of drinks per person can help this as well as providing non-alcoholic drinks such as mocktails, juices, water and tea or coffee. Also, drinking on an empty stomach is not recommended so providing finger food, a buffet or sit down meal is ideal, depending on your budget. A DJ or band can help as well as getting people moving further averts extreme drunkenness and allows people to enjoy themselves dancing, and others enjoy listening to some good tunes and watching others dance. As well as drunkenness other problems could be if an argument or fight breaks out. If this happens staff members, two or more preferably senior staff or HR personnel, should intervene adjourning to a quiet corner and offering a listening ear and non-alcoholic drink to calm a situation down, reassuring an upset 52 Á © stock.adobe.com/deagreez 50-52.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:57 Page 2 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk CORPORATE HOSPITALITY attendee they are being heard. As always, if necessary, issues can be discussed in the clear light of day especially as an employee can be fired for aggressive behaviour or complain about unfair dismissal, so if in doubt about matters HR or management should offer a clear course of action. Unwanted contact, offensive or lewd remarks can also cause consternation at a party. Sneaking a consensual kiss under the mistletoe might be OK but groping and inappropriate touching can be classed as sexual harassment which could not only lead to criminal charges and could result in dismissal. In this ‘Me Too’ era, employers need to remain vigilant at all times during the festivities as the company can also be held liable. Many employees argue ‘it’s not fair being fired for actions at a company party’, so all staff should be treated equally and it’s important for a company to acknowledge when HR or an employer is to be involved in a situation as well as keeping an open dialogue for any employee wishing to discuss things they felt uncomfortable with. Luckily, many complaints are easily dealt with but for ones that aren’t, again, proper protocols must be followed and all concerned be made aware of them. Employers should ensure they distance themselves from any unofficial ‘after- party’ and highlight to staff when the company event starts and ends. No employer wants to be seen as curtailing on-going enjoyment but staff should be reminded of their expected ‘after-party’ behaviour, for example, not drink driving. This can be actively discouraged by offering secure overnight parking, taxi company and public transport information or the company providing transport. Finally, a consistent policy regarding post-party absenteeism and behaviour, if it’s a workday following the party, should be decided on beforehand to avoid arguments - how lenient or not a company is going to be regarding lateness or absenteeism needs to be communicated to staff so they are aware of the consequences and can make suitable arrangements beforehand so they can then relax and enjoy the whole night. Coming into work drunk from the night before can lead to dismissal, especially if in your work role you drive or operate machinery and nobody wants that to happen. © stock.adobe.com/BillionPhotos.com 50-52.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:57 Page 3FEATURES Productivity & Efficiency In Manufacturing Spotlight IT & Communications Logistics & Transport Renewables New Year – New Suppliers REGULARS Commercial Property Motoring Corporate Hospitality Watch out too for the latest news from across the region in every sector Next month in January 2023 - Deadline 14th December Visit us at www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk where you’ll find the latest news as it breaks – and why not subscribe to our newsletters so you can have the latest news emailed to your inbox 53.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:58 Page 1OUT OF OFFICE National kindness & leadership honour for Leicestershire entrepreneur A Leicestershire entrepreneur has been named one of the UK’s top business leaders in a prestigious annual list honouring kindness in leadership. Dr Nik Kotecha OBE DL, who is the founder and former chairman of Loughborough-based Morningside Pharmaceuticals, has been included in the UK’s Top 50 Kindness & Leadership Leading Lights. The annual list honours leaders from the public and private sectors, as well as academia, who are using the power of kindness to make a transformative impact in business and to empower change. Dr Kotecha said: “I’m truly humbled to make this list and to be among some of the UK’s leading lights when it comes to putting kindness at the heart of corporate governance. “Giving back to communities in the UK and globally has always been at the core of my own personal mission, when establishing new business ventures. As an entrepreneur and business leader over the past 35 years I have also ensured this ethos has been central to my companies’ mission and values, which in turn brings about important non-financial benefits for the business, our people and society as a whole.” Nottingham colleagues raise hundreds with Rainbows charity day Colleagues at a Nottingham chartered accountants staged a special Rainbows Day to support the East Midlands’ only children’s hospice. Page Kirk accountants, based in Gregory Boulevard, has chosen Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People as its charity of the year. Over 40 colleagues have been fundraising since January and there are lots more events to come in the run up to Christmas. The team recently staged a dedicated Rainbows Day, which in itself raised £400. Rainbows’ mascot Bow Bear was on site surprising staff as they arrived that morning. He also got up to mischief during the day carrying out photocopying and taking over reception. As well as enjoying Bow’s antics, colleagues held a bake sale, staged a quiz, played games and there was a raffle to win a day’s annual leave. Staff also made donations for their lunch, which was provided by Page Kirk. James Haywood, partner at Page Kirk, said: “It was pleasure to hold Rainbows Day at our office. Having chosen Rainbows as our charity of year, it was great to hold a specific event related to the charity that all members of staff could take part in and understand the wonderful work that Rainbows is performing to brighten children’s lives.” East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk Local companies support the most vulnerable this winter A host of local companies have donated over £28,000 to help those hardest hit this winter during the cost-of-living crisis. Derby Homes set a target of raising enough money to buy 500 slow cookers, 500 air fryers and 500 electric blankets/throws. Their contractors and suppliers have responded generously with contributions already received from Buildbase, ARCUS Consulting, EEM, Nationwide Windows, Eurocell, Marley, Buxton Decorators, SPK Contractors, JAL Roofing, Vaillant Group, Bell Group and Westville Group. Derby City Council Local Area Coordinators are working closely with Community Action Derby and Food 4 Thought Alliance, who are organising delivery to residents across the city. One of the first residents to receive a heated blanket was hugely appreciative of the gesture. The elderly gentleman from Derby has a number of physical health conditions which limit his mobility. Due to the cost-of- living crisis he’s not been able to afford to put his heating on and has had to sit in the dark after running out of credit on several occasions. He wanted to remain anonymous but did say: “I’ve been struggling for weeks, the cost of living is having a huge impact on me every day. “I’m reluctant to ask for help but having spoken to Community Action Derby I realised I could get some help. They helped me apply for the Household Support Fund vouchers.” 54-55.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:59 Page 1 200 Degrees names Switch Up as charity partner in three-year commitment East Midlands-based coffee roaster 200 Degrees Coffee has announced its partnership with Nottingham-based Switch Up, as part of a three-year commitment. The roaster has created a unique Switch Up roast of coffee and brand-new coffee pods, which will be available to order across its 18 coffee shops, with £1 in every kilo roasted going directly to the charity – with a minimum commitment of £10,000 a year. Customers can request the Switch Up blend when purchasing bags of coffee in store or online, and on sit in or takeaway drinks during selected times. Switch Up, which was founded by CEO Marcellus Baz BEM, empowers young people, children and young adults from disadvantaged communities affected by crime and violence to reach their true potential. The charity uses its five-pillar approach to help connect young people with employment, training and education opportunities. The three-year partnership with 200 Degrees will provide much-needed funding for the charity, enabling its team of mentors to continue to offer their vital support to young people and run its sister organisation the Nottingham School of Boxing. OUT OF OFFICE www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link Marketing agency supports Derby Rugby Football Club with sponsorship of new U11s kit The Under 11s Derby Rugby Football Club has kicked-off the season with a new kit, and Balls2 Marketing makes its debut on the pitch as a first-time kit sponsor. “We love the way our logo really stands out on the back of the shorts, and it’s on the team’s hoodies as well,” said Sarah Ball, joint MD at Derby-based marketing agency, Balls2 Marketing. “It’s our first ‘try’ at corporate sponsorship, and we are very happy to have our brand associated with the team and club. DRFC has a well-earned reputation as one of the most accessible and inclusive clubs in the region. Sponsoring the kit is a win:win as it helps the team with their kit costs, and gets Balls2 Marketing involved at a grass roots level in our home city. “After the agency moved into new premises on Stores Road in 2021, we were keen to get more involved in the local community. Our sponsorship of the Under 11s team is part of this plan. And we are thrilled to be able to help keep these players on the ‘ball’, if you’ll pardon the pun!” IDT achieves landmark carbon neutral accreditation Ilkeston-based managed service provider IDT has achieved a significant environmental milestone – ahead of schedule. IDT has been verified with Carbon Neutral + accreditation, which means the company is offsetting 25% more carbon than it is producing. The landmark marks a sustained, year-long effort by IDT to lessen its carbon footprint. The company has also started the process of changing its vehicle fleet to a complete EV and Plug- in Hybrids. This will be complete in the next six months. Other environmental work has included investing in the IDT head office, replacing the legacy lighting with up-to-date energy efficient LEDs throughout, as well as the expensive and inefficient electric office heating with air conditioning. IDT has also installed the latest roof insulation technology. IDT is also educating its staff by doing the simple, important things like turning off lights in rooms that are not used and unused equipment. Rob Darby and Marcellus Baz 54-55.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 09:59 Page 2 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk channels. In this engaging and interactive workshop, Lindsey Newman-Wood will explore the changes in customer buying habits, emerging trends and how to ensure you target the right customer at the right time with the right channel. The workshop will include real life examples of how brands have pivoted their business model and marketing and the session includes opportunities to discuss ideas with other delegates. For more information visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/supporting- growth/business-growth-events-and- workshops/d2n2-growth-hub/what-s-new-in- marketing/?VariantID=5477 Enterprising Women – Christmas wreath making and networking Thursday 8 December emh group, Coalville This light-hearted and festive event will include a full tutorial from a highly experienced florist, along with the materials needed to create a Christmas wreath. You will receive a glass of fizz and some treats to snack on while you get creative and network with the group. For more information visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/connecting-you/ networking-and-social-events/enterprising- women-events/?VariantID=5374 Bank of England Forum Tuesday 6 December Online This is an online discussion with the Bank of England to gauge a sense of the current localised economic environment and the impact of the current challenging climate. The Bank seeks to assess the mood concerning recruitment and investment intentions, and attendees are encouraged to draw attention towards any day-to-day issues affecting their current operating conditions. For more information visit www.emc- dnl.co.uk/helping-you-influence/ engaging-decision-makers/bank-of- england-forum3/bank-of-england- forum/?VariantID=5097 What’s new in marketing Wednesday 7 December Online In times of crisis, marketing communications is more important than ever. It must, however, pivot to reflect the new world around us, and that means knowing what to say and how to say it, but also when to say it and through which events Preventing work related stress Tuesday 13 December Online Are you a business owner or manager who holds some responsibility for the well-being of the people in your organisation? Are you aware of the problems created by work-related stress and anxiety and looking to improve your understanding of how to recognise and tackle it? If you are, this webinar should not be missed. For more information visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/supporting- growth/business-growth-events-and- Dispelling the myths around taking on an apprentice Tuesday 13 December Online Apprenticeships have traditionally been viewed as a way of helping a young person begin a career in a chosen sector, but they are so much more than that! This webinar aims to debunk the myths and ensure employers and individuals get the most out of offering apprenticeships to any age: school leavers, upskilling existing members of staff or for those looking for a change in career. For more information visit www.semlepgrowthhub.com/dispelling- the-myths-around-taking-on-an-apprentice/ © stock.adobe.com/malp © stock.adobe.com/goodluz 56-57.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 10:01 Page 1www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk East Midlands Business Link workshops/llep-business-gateway-growth- hub/preventing-work-related- stress2/?VariantID=4550 Lincolnshire Network December Wednesday 14 December Online Build your network, make connections and create long-lasting meaningful relationships at this Lincolnshire-wide event. Run by the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, this is an informal, fun, virtual network where you’ll hear from a speaker, introduce yourself and your business, as well as network in small breakout rooms with other attendees. For more information visit www.lincs-chamber.co.uk/ events/lincolnshire-network-dec22/ Leicestershire Manufacturing Network Tuesday 10 January Space Park, Leicester The Leicestershire Network forms part of the umbrella East Midlands Manufacturing Network which is led by East Midlands Chamber. The East Midlands Manufacturing Network unites local manufacturing companies, to enable members to harness the cross-industry, business, engineering and manufacturing knowledge necessary to evolve and expand. The network provides members Annual State of the Economy Review Friday 16 December emh Group, Coalville At the end of a turbulent year, this session brings together businesses from across the region to take stock of the key events that have influenced the regional economy over 2022 and explore those issues that will shape the prospects for 2023. With input from expert economists, politicians and business leaders, this session is for those wanting to learn more about the global and local factors that are influencing operating conditions and share ideas on how future business growth can be best supported. For more information visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/connecting- you/conferences-and-expos/state-of-the-economy-conference2/?VariantID=5473 Carbon footprinting - the next steps Wednesday 25 January Online So you’ve produced your first carbon footprint, now what? This webinar will help organisations use the available information to prioritise the areas of focus for reducing their carbon emissions and the associated financial benefits. For more information visit www.emc-dnl.co.uk/connecting- you/industry-focused-events/sustainability- and-low-carbon-events/sustainability-and- low-carbon-events2/?VariantID=5476# with opportunities to share their experiences with other industry professionals and obtain unique insights into new technologies, resources and information. For more information visit https://bizgateway.org.uk/events/leicester shire-manufacturing-network-meeting-10- jan/ © stock.adobe.com/NAMPIX 56-57.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 10:01 Page 2Here’s Frazer’s collection of the weird and wonderful ‘news’ that came his way over the last few weeks. And finally The world of Frazer 58 East Midlands Business Link www.eastmidlandsbusinesslink.co.uk Pulling a sickie We all know someone who likes to take a sick day every now and again despite not being ill. But is the number of people who do this rising? Perhaps! Google searches for excuses to miss work have hit a five-year high, according to new research from Frank Recruitment Group, rising dramatically over the last two years, including searches for ‘believable excuses for missing work’, ‘good excuses to miss work’, and ‘realistic excuses for missing work’. What is particularly interesting is a drastic jump in searches in 2021 that seems to coincide with the beginning of the return to the office, showing the transition has not been easy for everyone, and that more incentives may need to be given to staff that have enjoyed staying tucked up at home, and been just as successful while working remotely After a long week, why not decompress in your own nuclear bunker? At the end of a hard week at work, it’s nice to have somewhere to go and relax. Some might head to the pub, others home to see family, but how about your very own bunker? A nuclear bunker built during the cold war and still in its original condition (including body bags, gas masks and even a red telephone box) hit the market in Lincolnshire last month for £25,000. The property was constructed in the late 1950s in Louth, designed to provide protection for three observers to survive a nuclear attack, with food and water for fourteen days. Within this time, they were expected to report on any nuclear bursts and on the fall out of an attack. Jim Demitriou, national valuer at SDL Property Auctions, said: “It’s a great property for people looking for something off-grid or to get away from it all.” Frazer’s not so sure it would be his dream escape after a busy week — a small room underground — but to each their own! Don’t give the gift of nose hair this Christmas It’s that time of year again; carols are in the air, Christmas lights are twinkling, and Secret Santa is on the cards at the office. If you’re looking for some inspiration on what to buy for a colleague, Frazer is here with a PSA on what NOT to get! A new survey recently sent in to Business Link has highlighted some of the worst Secret Santa gifts ever received, with a half-eaten jar of jam and spoiled food amongst them. These are perhaps better, though, than the nose hair and bathroom vending machine-bought pleasure toy that were unwrapped! The survey also highlighted a rather odd stat, with over 60% of people stating that they would rather buy for a colleague they hate than one they like! adobe.stock.com/ Elnur adobe.stock.com/ zaikina adobe.stock.com/ BPawesome 58.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 10:01 Page 1LINCOLN PROPERTY & BUSINESS INVESTMENT EXPO Well targeted, professional events aimed at the Construction, Property, Business, Investment, Finance, Professional Services and related B2B markets. The events have everything you require for a great day of networking and business generation. Face2face route2market – the opportunity to meet more potential clients in one amazing cost effective day, than it would take months out on the road. For further Information contact tina@businessshowsgroup.co.uk Register now businessshowsgroup.co.uk 26th April 2023 The Bentley Hotel, Newark Road, South Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9NH Exhibition & Network - Property & Construction related industries - FREE TO ATTEND 59.qxp_Layout 1 30/11/2022 10:02 Page 1Next >