http://www.darlington-interface.co.uk Darlington-Interface Articles. en Since the launch of the Regional Growth Fund in 2010, the North East has seen around £150m worth of grant funding awarded to businesses based in the region. This has been the trigger to stimulate investment of over £1bn by a diverse range of businesses involved in a wide variety of activities throughout the area. Regional Growth Fund monies have helped towards the construction of new manufacturing plants, a rail freight terminal, training facilities, and in the process have secured some world class engineering facilities for the North East. This investment in people, equipment and product development has enabled our region to stand out as innovative and forward thinking. The Chancellor’s Autumn Statement saw the announcement of a further £1bn in Regional Growth Fund monies, the first part of which is to open for bids in February. Exact details of the amount, the third round of RGF, have yet to be announced, and there is talk of changes to the bidding arrangements. Rounds One and Two had a minimum bid requirement of £1m, and with state aid rules limiting the grant assistance to 10% or 15% of the total investment this effectively precluded many SMEs from bidding. The rules did, however, allow a number of smaller projects to combine in a package bid, providing the total bid exceeded the £1m threshold, and several of these package bids were successful in the North East. Until the exact details of Round Three are known it is difficult for companies to assess the likelihood of an application. But, forward thinking businesses should be considering whether their RGF could help deliver their plans for 2012. As with all state aid schemes the grant must be the incentive to trigger the start of the project, so it is important to plan well in advance to maximise the chance of success. Also, as with all funding applications, the awards given can vary from sector to sector. With RGF, the two main areas to consider are capital expenditure and/or job creation. RGF is a competitive bidding process and the last round saw only 119 successful applications from a total of almost 500 bids submitted. Now is the time for business owners to take another look at where they want to develop or grow their business in 2012 and beyond. If you are looking at ambitious plans for your business you may have a project that would qualify for RGF. Even though at this stage precise details have yet to be announced, it is positive for businesses to plan early, seek advice from a professional who understands the mechanics of RGF and who can also provide support and ideas regarding funding. Article prepared by Neville Baldry, Partner at accountants and business advisors Clive Owen & Co LLP - Please note that this article was first featured in Bdaily. An event to showcase local businesses is taking place at Darlington College next month. Darlington Business Club is launching its 'Buy Local' campaign at Darlington College on Wednesday 15 February, in partnership with Darlington Borough Council and the College. The event is open to businesses in and around Darlington. 'Buy Local' is an initiative aimed at encouraging local residents and local businesses to look at their local suppliers first before buying from out of town, thereby providing support to the local economy and reinforcing employment opportunities. This event will take the form of a business to business showcase where each business will have a table at the event with a flipchart stating what products and services they buy and what they sell. In this way other stand holders and visitors can see whether they might be able to buy from or supply to that company – hopefully generating discussions that could lead to local business being won. The event will be from 10.00am and 4.00pm in the Atrium at Darlington College. The event will be FREE to exhibitors and visitors, with upwards of 60 exhibitor spaces being available. Places will be awarded on a ‘first come, first serve' basis. The organisers will endeavour to accommodate as many businesses as possible – businesses that don’t want to take a stand are encouraged to visit on the day as this will still give them a chance to meet suppliers and buyers. We are hoping some of the larger companies in Darlington will take a stand and back the 'Buy Local' campaign. If you would like to take a table or if you require more information please contact Suzanne Clark on 01325 388 686 or e-mail suzanne.clark@darlington.gov.uk New office space at Lingfield Point is being snapped up at an unprecedented speed – and flying in the face of current expectations in the property sector. The final suite has already been let within YARN rooms - just weeks after the new business space was unveiled. And while it is good news for Lingfield Point, it’s also great news for the business environment in the Darlington area – showing there is a very healthy business dynamic and great entrepreneurial spirit. Companies moving to Lingfield Point include those that are expanding, relocating because of the service offer or because of the skills available in Darlington. Home-based businesses have been attracted by the supportive structure and flexibility also on offer. YARN is a flexible business space and new lettings are from 160 sq. ft. to 2980 sq. ft. and customers moving in include First Software Solutions, Avec Training Partnership, VoiceAbility, Capital Accounts, ROVIN Energy, LighterLife, Mintronics and Para-sols. Four Seasons Health Care continue to expand their base at Lingfield Point. Eddie Humphries, of Lingfield Point, said: “When YARN was finished we were delighted with the results – it is an extremely attractive and creatively designed space and people have been very enthusiastic about working from here.” “We are offering people the flexibility they need along with great communal facilities such as Canteen by Alexander MacMurray and Little Lingfields Nursery with support services from the concierge service to hosting business improvement workshops. Taken along with the unique environment, we are clearly making an offer that’s difficult to refuse.” *The offices were named YARN as they form part of the former Paton and Baldwin wool factory which was based at Lingfield Point. Lingfield Point is already an award winner for creating outstanding business spaces receiving the BCO Award for Best Recycled Building for its Memphis building development in 2009. For further information please visit www.lingfieldpoint.co.uk Accountancy firm Clive Owen & Co LLP is advising how to get businesses in tip top shape for 2012 as the festivities die down and the nation looks to getting fit and healthy. The firm, which has offices in Darlington, Durham and York, has produced its Top Ten Tax Tips for a healthy business in 2012 – from making the most of tax breaks to paying employees in the most tax efficient way. Simon Briton, Senior Tax Manager with the firm, said: “The start of a new year is an ideal time to look at our businesses and work out how we can ensure they keep in top shape in 2012. “It pays to take time out now to see how things like maximising tax breaks and identifying tax benefits can make a real difference to the health and future success of a business.” Clive Owen & Co’s Top Ten Tax Tips for a healthy business are: 1 Replace salary with benefitsAsking employees to replace part of their salary with childcare vouchers, car parking, subsistence payments (for those working away from the office), etc can all reduce the tax cost to the business while keeping the overall package value the same. Share options are also a good incentive for employees and often cost the employer nothing. 2 Spot research and development opportunitiesBusinesses that carry out product development or trouble-shooting can often get tax benefits. Where a technological hurdle is tackled the costs (usually salary costs) of doing so get tax relief at 200/225%. 3 VAT’s betterMost businesses work out how much VAT they can recover by splitting VAT paid on overheads in proportion to their VATable turnover and their VAT exempt turnover. The proportion of VAT recovered can often be increased by agreeing a different basis for the apportionment with HMRC, such as the staff / floor space involved in each part of the business. 4 Delay buying plant and machinery Tax relief on the cost of plant and machinery is spread over a long period, but there is a new tax break available from April next year which will allow relief on the full cost of new equipment in the year that it is bought if you’re in a qualifying Enterprise Zone. It will cover businesses in the Tees Valley EZ and North Eastern EZ. 5 Take a patent where possibleA new tax break is about to be launched which will reduce tax on profits to 10% if it can be shown that those profits come about because the business has patent protection over some of its products or processes. This is known as the ‘patent box’. 6 Speak to an angelAttracting investment from a business angel can be a great way of raising working capital or funding development of the business. Many businesses find it easier to attract investment from business angels who can benefit from tax breaks rather than looking to traditional sources of funding, such as banks. 7 Give your business structureThere are all manner of tax planning structures available to businesses and these can be used to save tax in many different areas. The right structures can often help reduce tax charges on overdrawn directors’ loan accounts, corporation tax charges, etc. 8 Be super efficientTaking dividends is more tax-efficient than taking salary payments. Similarly, putting money into pensions is tax efficient as the business saves tax on the payments to the pension and no tax is paid on money going into the pension. 9 Put property firstIf you’ve spent money buying a building, parts of it will attract tax relief. But the time limit around tax relief claims is due to change soon and so it should be looked at as a priority for businesses – particularly those with qualifying assets such as hotels, student accommodation, leisure facilities, pubs and restaurants. 10 Keep on top of paperworkHMRC now places great weight on a business’s risk profile. If a business has robust systems in place it is less likely to be looked at than a badly organised business. Ensure robust business records and accounting systems are in place. Health for wealth: Simon Briton, Senior Tax Manager with Clive Owen & Co LLP, drafts up his healthy business tips for 2012. The Darlington firm fabricates modules for the offshore and renewables markets, as well as offering solutions for clients to protect people and equipment from explosion, fire and noise hazards. After increasing its services for customers and expanding its workforce, Mech-Tool sought consultancy support to review the way it operated. The company knew that to remain competitive and be responsive to market changes, it had to be proactive and adopt best practices in industry, ensuring company procedures were standardised and documentation integrated across the business. Mech-Tool called on Teesside University’s industry support unit, Teesside Manufacturing Centre (TMC), to look at strategies to move the business forward. TMC reviewed the firm’s business systems, highlighting key areas where the organisation would benefit. TMC worked with the company to prioritise areas of improvement and identified the need for a system which could pull all information together relating to different functions of the organisation. Kevin Harland, Operations Manager at Mech-Tool, said: “It was eye-opening when the report was carried out and we were able to get pointers which would benefit us as an organisation.” The consultancy led Mech-Tool to embark on organisational change and redefine processes. The company is now looking at systems to enhance the management of daily operations across the organisation. Kevin added: “Teesside University went that extra mile and from our point of view it was a very worthwhile exercise, bringing in someone who can look at the business in a different way, with a fresh pair of eyes and ideas. Although acting as consultants, it’s your goals and results from your point of view which the University focuses on. “Developing relationships within education is important and we’ve developed a partnership with the University. The more industry gets involved in the academic sector the better. “The University is equipping students to go into the industry with the skills they need. As a result qualified graduates are coming through who can help to take the business forward.” Ruben Pineda-Cuenca, of TMC, worked as project manager with Mech-Tool. He said: “The company was seeking support to identify a strategy for the business moving forward. They’re really pleased with the outcome, we have developed a close relationship and we are still working with them on other projects. Although collaboration through consultancy can be short, we look for long-term partnerships and relationships.” The consultancy was carried out through the University’s EPMS (Environmental Process Management Services) project, funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Find out what Teesside University can do for your business at www.tees.ac.uk/spark A new fund is bringing investment to businesses in the North East. Investment for Growth will provide funding to companies for projects that will create or safeguard jobs in the region. Funded by the European Regional Development Fund and delivered by the Investment Centre, the fund will provide grants of around 30 to 40 per cent to eligible businesses. The Investment for Growth fund will provide financial assistance for businesses investing in a wide range of business projects including branding and marketing, product development, expansion and change management, process and systems improvements, and environmental and efficiency programmes. As well as creating or safeguarding jobs directly, the Investment for Growth programme will lead to a more active business landscape, and help create a more vibrant economic climate in the region. Tracey Watson, Senior Project Manager said: “Every eligible business which gets in touch will be assigned a dedicated advisor who will work with them through the process. The team of advisors are incredibly experienced and well-placed to offer guidance and invaluable advice.” But of course every businesses needs are different and the advisers will give as much or as little support as is needed. “The fund is here to help the region’s business community and we’ve already seen a lot of interest. It’s a real opportunity for the region’s businesses to access funding to help them grow.” To be eligible your business must be based in the North East, have fewer than 250 employees, and a turnover of less than 50 million euros. To access the Investment for Growth programme call 0191 426 6408 or email enquiries@business-enterprise.net The project is benefiting from £4.99 million of investment from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), managed by the Department for Communities and Local Government. The ERDF Competitiveness Programme 2007 – 2013 is bringing over £300m into the North East to support innovation, enterprise and business support across the region. For the fourth year running, Darlington Markets have been named as the greenest in the north. The award, from the National Markets Traders Federation, celebrates those markets in the North which promote environmentally-friendly practices, and covers markets from the Midlands to northern Scotland. All of the waste produced by Darlington Markets is recycled and traders are encouraged to think about the environmental impact of the goods they sell and the packaging they use. Nick Wallis, Darlington Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure and Local Environment, said: “This is a great achievement. Darlington Markets were up against more than 1,000 markets from across the UK, including large cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds. “The Markets Team work hard to encourage traders to be environmentally-friendly and this award is a testament to all they have achieved.” As well as the award, the town’s Covered Market has received its best ever energy-efficiency report from the Government’s Display Energy Certificate scheme. Sparta Security’s Managing Director Francis Jones is currently pursuing his boxing career in Las Vegas and from across the Atlantic he is still putting Darlington first. Francis has got his team together with a goal to build a relationship with the local community by putting Sparta Officers on foot patrol in the local area. As a born again Christian, Francis has wanted to put back into the community starting with the churches of the town. As many churches are non profit making Francis is offering his services for FREE. Completely free regular checks of the Churches’ premises, together with providing FREE deterrent signs. Checks include CRB/SIA licensed guards, uniformed in marked patrol cars checking the perimeter of the premises quietly, randomly and regularly. This service has been offered to 5 local churches that are all very responsive and grateful for his service and help. In the event of any criminal activity on the premises the Sparta patrol team are proactive in catching individuals engaged in criminal damage and behaviours such as vandalism - which serves no positive purpose. Sparta’s aim is to reduce criminal behaviour and promote safety ultimately unifying the neighbourhoods. For further information, please visit: http://www.spartasecuritynortheast.co.uk Arriva bus drivers and employees from Student Finance England and NAAFI at Lingfield Point helped launch the new bus link, service 1/1b by introducing a new hybrid vehicle to a 3ft wide electrical plug. Local bus company Arriva North East will be trialing a new hybrid vehicle on the newly extended 1,1b service from this January. The current route runs from Tow Law, Crook and Bishop Auckland to Darlington Town Centre and from 2 January will be extended to Lingfield Point via Darlington College/University, funded by the Department for Transport through the Local Sustainable Transport Fund. The bus being trialed on the route is a state-of-the-art vehicle which is powered using an electric engine. If the trial proves a success the company will take delivery of 7 new hybrid vehicles in the summer of 2012. The investment comes following a partnership between Arriva North East and Lingfield Point working with Team Local Motion to champion even more environmentally-friendly means of transport being available to the people of Darlington. Nigel Featham, Managing Director for Arriva North East, said: “The extension of the service will ensure that we continue to improve our customers’ journey experience, and the testing of the hybrid vehicle is another real benefit for the area. We know that value for money and reliability are very important to our customers, however more and more we are hearing that the environment is another key consideration.” Councillor David Lyonette, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport said ”The Department of Transport funding will benefit people locally and regionally by providing improved access to education as the route now extends past Darlington College and the University, and to jobs at Lingfield Point too, which will assist future economic development. I’m delighted Team Local Motion has been able to secure this development.” It’s great news that this service is being extended to include the Lingfield Point community. It is important that the site is well-served by buses, with over 1,800 staff based at Lingfield Point, and a great deal of them living in and around Darlington, it will certainly make the choice to travel to work by bus far easier. For Lingfield Point to be served by hybrid buses is very appropriate as it fits perfectly with their ethos of sustainability – and the vision of our masterplan – setting out to make Lingfield Point one of the most environmentally-friendly developments in the UK. A creative mum of two has been boosted by a TV dragon into crafting a new global career. Darlington entrepreneur Vicky Lloyd has seen her craft company, NE Day crafts, exposed to thousands of new customers around the world after being supported by celebrity businessman Theo Paphitis. The television star of Dragon’s Den, who runs the Small Business Sunday Club on Twitter, personally recommended Vicky’s company to all of his 144,000 followers, after she sent him a promotional tweet. Now Vicky, who gave up her job in engineering to purse her passion for crafts, is carving her niche in a global industry worth billions of pounds. “I couldn’t believe it when Theo Paphitis chose me,” said Vicky. “I was over the moon and delighted to get his approval of my business. It really encouraged me even more to drive the products further.” Vicky started NE Day Crafts in 2009 after seeing a gap in the market when looking for activities for her own children. She now supplies craft materials to regional events, including fairs and festivals and supports schools in Teesside with the creative arts. “I was brought up in the era of Blue Peter and was always making things,” said Vicky. “I guess this is a modern day version of that. Children start so young these days using computers and I wanted to offer an alternative where they could tackle something traditional, colourful and fun.” Vicky produces hundreds of packs and kits with over 60 designs, including mask making sets, banners, wrapping paper, animals, jewellery, Christmas crackers and collage. And the packages are proving so popular that NE Day Crafts are now offering subscriptions, allowing a new kit to be delivered every month to customers’ homes. Nicola Burt, of Darlington, is a big fan. “I think it’s a great idea. It stops kids from just sitting in front of the TV and really gets their creative juices flowing. “We had a craft birthday party for my daughter which was a huge success.” For further information on crafts visit www.nedaycrafts.co.uk Are you looking to reduce your business overheads? Have you considered renting floor space in an existing showroom? Homecare is a large independent showroom in Valley Street North Darlington. They have 3 floors of well lit, well maintained showroom which currently includes a heating and stoves showroom, a fires and fireplaces showroom, a kitchen appliance showroom and a bathroom showroom. There is also a cafe to enhance the shopping experience for customers Due to the closure of their television and audio department they now have floor space available in a prominent place on their shop floor. For as little as £100 per week you could rent showroom space with the following benefits:No additional heating/lighting bills; no business rates/building insurance; secure and safe environment; increased footfall; customer toilets; cafe; free car parking. If you are interested in exploring this opportunity further please contact Sarah Cheffings on 01325 352 224 or email Sarah@homecaresupplies.co.uk or visit www.homecaresupplies.co.uk It has been confirmed that the Leadership and Management Development Grant scheme is due to end in February, therefore, those wishing to apply should now do so at their earliest convenience. Thousands of SMEs and social enterprises with growth potential are already benefiting from the scheme, which is designed to help stimulate innovation and employment, thereby boosting the economy. A match funded grant of up to £1,000 can be spent on leadership training and coaching that aids business growth, improving productivity and competitiveness. The programme also includes a free consultation with a business adviser before the training commences, as well as a free follow-up to discuss the impact of the training and any further skills needs. The scheme is being administered through the regional Leadership and Management Advisory Service. Contact details for the service are available through the Business Link website, where business managers will be able to book a personal leadership and management assessment. To be eligible, the business must be in England and have: Up to 249 full-time equivalent employees, and The potential for high or fast growth. The scheme closes in February 2012; therefore, interested parties should now submit applications at their earliest convenience. For further details please visit: http://skillsfundingagency.bis.gov.uk/employers/growth-innovation-fund/leadership-and-management/ A local business owner has been appointed as chairman of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering’s (ACE’s) North East regional committee. David Hodgson, Managing Director of Darlington-based AMP Consultants, has been named chairman of ACE’s regional committee after serving on the board for three years. He replaces Raymond Davies who has been Secretary and Chairman since 1997. Nelson Ogunshakin OBE, ACE Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that David has stepped up to chair ACE’s regional group in the North East. David’s experience and passion for our vital industry makes him an ideal advocate. This will benefit ACE in the North East as our industry continues to address the challenges of 2012 and beyond.” ACE represents the business interests of its members and the overall engineering and consultancy industry in the UK. It promotes the critical contribution that consultants and engineers, working in the built and natural environment, make to the nation’s developing infrastructure. The organisation was launched in 1913 and now counts around 40 North East-based consultancy and engineering firms as its members. These include AECOM, Halcrow, URS and Mott MacDonald. Nationally, ACE members account for approximately 90,000 employees across 600-plus companies and contribute as much as £8bn to the UK economy. David will be Chairman for two years, meaning that he will be in office to celebrate ACE’s centenary year in 2013. David, who has been involved with the design of such iconic North East buildings as the Metrocentre, Teesside Retail Park and McArthur Glen in York, was proposed as Chairman due to his commitment to the North East and ACE, as well as his 31 years of experience within the built environment. He said: “I am very proud to have been appointed as Chairman of ACE’s regional committee. “I wouldn’t want to work anywhere other than the North East as I have a passion for the region, its people and its businesses. I have had a long working career in the engineering industry and enjoy the experiences that my work entails, especially building structures. “My own company has received many fantastic benefits from ACE membership, including training, research support and in particular representation, which involves lobbying the government to encourage the commencement of infrastructure and building projects. “It is great to now be given the opportunity to work for the benefit of other engineering firms in the region that I hold so dear.” David’s responsibilities as Chairman will include co-ordinating meetings, referring back to the national ACE Headquarters and helping to increase ACE’s membership numbers. The latter role will prove particularly challenging in a climate where increasing numbers of engineering firms are closing their North East offices in order to cut costs. David, with the help of his Secretary, David Wall from Capita Symonds, will also undertake his duties as ACE chairman while continuing to manage his civil and structural consultancy business, AMP Consultants. AMP is currently working on a number of projects such as extending a Darlington care home and upgrading crane factories in Billingham and Sunderland, while working further afield in Manchester, Bristol and various other locations. The company has been responsible for designing structures for all the different sectors of the built environment – hospitals, schools, offices, shopping centres, warehousing and factories – and is also designing light gauge steel structures for housing and care homes. For more information on ACE, please visit www.acenet.co.uk or for AMP, please visit: www.ampconsultants.com Run by registered charity Morrison Trust, Morton Park Conference and Training Centre, in Darlington, has been in business for 16 years providing, conference, training and meeting facilities for local, regional and national businesses. Morton Park Conference and Training Centre is a large purpose-built facility in an excellent location on the Morton Park site on Yarm Road in Darlington with, easy access from the A1, A66, Durham Tees Valley Airport and, the East Coast main line. For your convenience there is ample FREE parking all day. The Centre is a versatile and unique venue with, 4 large conference suites, 6 training rooms and 4 syndicate rooms. Flexible space means they can accommodate large conferences, training days, meetings, networking events as well as one-to-one meetings, interviews etc. The conference centre staff team provide a high quality, friendly and professional service and can accommodate all your conferencing needs including: booking accommodation, refreshments, wi-fi, fax, photocopying, message taking etc. They offer excellent value for money and will be happy to discuss your conference requirements and the different cost options available to your business. To receive a conference pack or to arrange a visit please contact Alison Clayton on 01325 387 700 or email aclayton@morrisontrust.org.uk Two employees at a firm of chartered accountants and business advisers are celebrating passing their professional exams. Abu Ali and James Cleave, of Clive Owen & Co LLP, have both passed their final exams with the Institute of Chartered Accountants England and Wales (ICAEW). The firm, which has offices in Darlington and Durham, is also celebrating James coming among the very top students sitting their final qualifying examinations to become ICAEW chartered accountants. James achieved joint ninth place out of over 1,700 candidates internationally in the ICAEW’s Advanced Stage examinations, undertaken in November 2011. James joined the firm in August 2009. He spent four years studying at the University of Durham achieving a Mathematics degree (MMath). He is now continuing with his three year training programme at the firm. James said: “I’m delighted to have passed my exams and absolutely thrilled to have achieved such a high position internationally. “Working in a progressive firm like Clive Owen & Co has enabled me to combine my training with a high standard of practical experience, and I have found this support invaluable.” Abu joined the audit team in Sept 2008 having gained a BA Hons from Newcastle University in accounting and finance. Abu has worked at both the Darlington and Durham offices of Clive Owen & Co on a wide variety of owner managed businesses. He has now completed his training period, so in conjunction with his exam success has qualified as a chartered accountant (ACA). Abu said: “I am very pleased to have passed my exams and am excited about my future prospects. I have been able to gain valuable experience by working with a variety of interesting clients.” Chris Beaumont, partner at Clive Owen & Co, said: “We are proud of both James and Abu over their exam success. Both of them are a real asset to the firm and their hard work and dedication has been rewarded.” In October 2010, BBC’s Dragons Den Theo Paphitis started a business competition every Sunday called Small Business Sunday. Businesses entering have to tweet to @TheoPaphitis between 5-7.30pm using the hash tag #sbs and he will retweet his favourite 6. His current Twitter followers stands at over 200,000. He started the competition because “Sunday was the day that he did all his thinking.” The last Small Business Sunday was held on 18 December 2011 and Darlington-based The Little Coffee Van was lucky enough to be one of the 6 businesses chosen by Theo to be retweeted to his massive list of followers. “We were printing labels for our online coffee orders when we saw the mail saying Theo Paphitis (@TheoPaphitis) retweeted one of your tweets. It was a surreal moment and within seconds the Twitter timeline went crazy with new followers, other sbs winners congratulating us and retweets. This continued for 2 hours making it difficult to keep with our responses thanking everyone,” commented Gill Cartwright. The winning tweet was “Coffee_Van Little Coffee Van @TheoPaphitis we are coffee geeks who own a little Piaggio Ape coffee van and have an online shop selling flavoured coffees #SBS”. “The week following this was amazing, with another 200 followers, extra online coffee orders and some interesting new business contacts. It has been a great way to end our first year of business. The Little Coffee Van is looking forward to an exciting 2012.” For further information, please visit http://www.littlecoffeevan.co.uk/ ‘Pass It On’ raises awareness of the suicide risk amongst men. This taboo subject is rarely discussed; however, it is the biggest killer of men under 35. Nationally there is one death by suicide every two hours and 75% of those are men. There is a trend locally for men to have financial and relationship problems and to use alcohol as a coping mechanism and suicide as a way out. Other men may not take these problems seriously and that further isolates men at risk of suicide. We want people from all walks of life to become Pass It On Champions who will spread the message in the spirit of Pass It On. Pass It On Champions recruited from local communities, employers and sports clubs will support the public mental health improvement team to cascade the pass it on message to men in Darlington and East Durham; the two localities countywide with the highest male suicide statistics. Pass It On challenges the stereotype that men don’t ask for help or share their problems. Pass It On Champions will promote that it is not a sign of weakness for men to talk about problems and there is support out there. Pass It On Champions simply need to Pass It On; there is no expectation of providing support for individuals or a huge time commitment. We can all Pass It On as part of daily life. A Darlington event will be held on 31 January, 9.00am – 1.00pm at Blackwell Grange Hotel, closing with a buffet lunch. If you would like any further information or to attend the event then please contact Marnie Ramsey direct via email marnie.ramsey@nhs.net or telephone 01207 523 658. County Durham and Darlington NHS Stop Smoking Service is offering free training to volunteers and staff in community organisations to help people lead a smoke-free life. Smoking remains the biggest cause of preventable illness and premature death and around one in five of all deaths can be attributed to tobacco use. Stopping smoking significantly reduces the risk of developing many diseases and improves quality of life. Brief Intervention training is a free half day training session and is suitable for anyone who comes into contact people in the community who smoke and would like to help them to stop. The training covers how to raise the subject of smoking, advise people about the benefits of quitting and make a referral to the NHS Stop Smoking Service. To express your interest in the training, please ring 0191 569 282 The NFER (National Foundation for Educational Research) are conducting research for STEMNET, which is an organisation that seeks to encourage young people to be excited by, and understand the importance of, science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). It aims to improve the competitiveness of the UK economy by encouraging more young people to study STEM subjects and enter STEM careers. STEMNET does this through two key programmes: the STEM Ambassadors Programme and STEM Clubs Programme, as well as through other activities customised to employers’ needs. Through its work, and programmes such as STEM Ambassadors, STEMNET helps businesses to work with young people to increase their interest and skills in STEM and raise their awareness of career opportunities, thus widening the pool of future recruits. Employees themselves gain excellent career development through acting as positive role models for young people. The research will explore how STEMNET can support SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) in engaging with schools, through new approaches or current programmes, in an effective and meaningful way. NFER would like to consult with SMEs (i.e. less than 250 employees) in the following areas: • Digital and creative industries (e.g. architecture, computer games, ICT, technology-related, sound/lighting engineering);• Advanced manufacturing (e.g. nanotechnology, design engineering, advanced materials and manufacturing);• Healthcare and life sciences (e.g. bioscience, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, agricultural biotechnology, medical technology), and• Broader STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) (e.g. aerospace, electronics, mechanical, metals, automotive, manufacturing). NFER would like to consult with SMEs in the above sectors during January/February either via a telephone interview (maximum 30 minutes) or short survey. They would really value the input of SMEs to explore issues such as the perceived benefits to SMEs of engaging with education; how STEMNET can support SMEs to engage with education and the challenges for SMEs in engaging with education. The study will involve consultation with 45 SMEs based around the UK. For more information please visit: http://www.nfer.ac.uk/research/projects/sme-engagement-stemnet/ To get involved in the research please contact: Jennie Harland: jennie.harland@nfer.ac.uk, or Suzanne Straw: s.straw@nfer.ac.uk, or telephone 01904 433 435. Darlington Borough Council; local secondary schools and RTC North, are running an event to be delivered at the Dolphin Centre Sports Hall on Friday 24 February and Saturday 25 February. The event is an Olympic Sports STEM Challenge, which aims to develop the employability and entrepreneurial skills of young people and increase their awareness of STEM related careers in Darlington. (The acronym STEM relates to Science; Technology; Engineering & Mathematics). The objectives for the event are as follows: • Engage young people in an exciting STEM challenge;• Introduce young people to employers and apprentices from Darlington;• Create awareness of emerging SMART technologies and intelligent textiles;• Develop the employability skills and entrepreneurial characteristics of young people, and• Recognising and showcasing the talents and skills of young people to both parents and employers. The Olympic Sport STEM Challenge focuses young people on product development which will develop their employability and entrepreneurial skills. On the 27 July, the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympics Games will commence and impact on the whole country. With athletes and tourist visiting the North East this will have a positive benefit on the economic wellbeing of the region. Students will form a team of 6 budding entrepreneurs, each will have a defined business role to capitalise on this opportunity and launch a new product into the scientific sportswear market. Their challenge is to develop smarter clothes or accessories using a range of intelligent textiles and new technologies for a specific Olympic or Paralympics event. Therefore assisting athletes in one of the following areas: • Increase and maintain the performance of the athletes;• Reduce the risk of injuries or allow athletes to compete with injury;• Monitor performance and health conditions of the athletes, or• Develop accessories to assist the athletes when competing. The event will take place over two days – Friday 24 February and the morning of Saturday 25 February. Businesses are encouraged to attend on the Saturday to witness the achievements of the teams and also to support their local schools. We are also keen to hear from businesses who would be interested in having a stand to showcase their businesses and highlight career options for young people. For further information, or if your business would like to have a stand on the Saturday, please contact Nik Grewer or Stephen Appleby via business.support@darlington.gov.uk The new Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), previously operating on a regional basis across England, has become a national service focusing on helping the country's small and medium-sized manufacturers to grow. MAS provides companies with practical support on all aspects of manufacturing and offers direct access to manufacturing experts with a proven track record. Subsidised consultancy assistance is offered where it is needed. The new service will be delivered by the Manufacturing Advisory Consortium (MAC). It will help to boost the economy by an estimated £1.5 billion, create 23,000 jobs and safeguard 50,000 existing jobs. It will continue to deliver a national service to all manufacturing businesses in England but the new consortium now means that there will be a specific focus on: * Driving business growth through strategic and technical support for SMEs developing advanced manufacturing capabilities and creating high value jobs; * Enabling business improvement with manufacturers operating in global supply chains, and * Linking SMEs with the apprenticeship programme delivering a minimum of 1,250 engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships annually. Previously delivered through the Regional Development Agencies the new service is expected to deliver four times' the current return on investment. The new MAS offer will comprise: Level 1 (Enquiries) Provided by a small team of experienced advisors geographically dispersed around England ensuring detailed local knowledge supported by an enhanced website offering a range of online support packages. Level 2 (Manufacturing Review) One day (two days for more complex businesses) of on-site specialist manufacturing diagnostic review. MAS will use a new diagnostic tool which includes comparisons against best-in-class. In addition, a "Fast Track" over the phone Level 2 will be introduced for common, well understood issues. Level 3 (Events) Training and networking events, including best practice visits. This will be complemented by a Sustainable Improvement Community using best practice social networking tools to provide peer-led best practice examples and lower cost forms of self help. Level 4 (Consultancy) Introduction of a three tier Level 4 project structure: * MAS Foundation Service: Funding up to £1,000 (or a maximum of 50%) towards an improvement project - targeted at companies that need basic low level help; * MAS Step Change Service: Funding of up to £3,000 (or 50% maximum) towards a more significant improvement programme, and * MAS Transformation Service: Funding of up to £10,000 (or 50% maximum) for a strategic change to the business. Level 5 (Referrals) MAS advisors are responsible for identifying partner organisation support but retain responsibility for referral until it is demonstrated and confirmed by the client that the partner organisation has addressed the client need. Supply Chain Focus on helping SMEs diversify into advanced manufacturing supply chains; helping original equipment manufacturers and their supply chains develop better relationships and greater efficiency; helping groups of SMEs in supply chains or clusters interact more effectively. It will use the tools available through Levels 1 - 5 with custom implementation packages assembled to suit client needs delivered by a team of dedicated supply chain experts. Announcing the new service, Business Minister Mark Prisk said: "Manufacturing contributes half of Britain’s exports and has much higher productivity than the rest of the economy so it is essential to our plans for growth. That is why we are taking steps to ensure our industrial base is thriving as part of a strong and balanced UK economy. "The new Manufacturing Advisory Service will play a key role, providing tailored advice to businesses helping them to grow and thrive, with a specific focus on helping SMEs improve competitiveness and unlock their growth potential." Businesses interested in finding out more about the programme should visit http://www.mymas.org or call an advisor on 0845 658 9600. A high flying student is on course for a transatlantic career to care for toddlers born in the USA. Childcare trainee Kelsie Jeeves, has her sights set on living the American dream, after completing a one year apprenticeship at Darlington College. Kelsie, is currently undertaking her training within the college’s own Childcare Centre, which cares for 70 children aged from six weeks to five years, and also provides holiday club care for older children. “My family is very child orientated and I always wanted to work with children, so pursuing a career in childcare seemed a natural thing to do,” said Kelsie. “After leaving school I did an NVQ Level 2 in childcare at another local college, but they were unable to offer me any apprentice opportunities. “My mum saw an advert for Darlington College, which was offering one year full time childcare apprenticeships, so I switched colleges and came to Darlington. “It was the best thing I ever did, as I much prefer being `hands-on` working with the children, rather than just studying from books. “Everyone asks for experience when you apply for a job and an apprenticeship is the best way to get that while learning and earning money, and the childcare centre here at the college is fantastic. “If I have any queries about my work, there is always someone here to help me or point me in the right direction. “I have a brilliant staff mentor, who works with me on a one to one basis, but the best thing is feeling settled in my work and being part of a great team.” Kelsie, who is set to complete her apprenticeship in the summer, is currently searching for job opportunities in the USA as a live-in nanny. “I’m already looking for agencies that help you find work in America,” said Kelsie. “This course has not only given me the skills I need to find a job in childcare but also the confidence to use those skills to travel the world and meet new people on the way – who knows where my qualification will take me? “Having an apprenticeship at Darlington College Childcare Centre has been the best possible start to my career. The only downside is that it only lasts a year – I would have loved to have stayed there longer.” Centre Manager Andrea Cartwright added: “This is the first year that the Childcare Centre has taken on apprentices since the college moved to its new site on Haughton Road in 2006. “It was very important for us to support the college’s apprenticeship scheme and the three apprentices that we have taken on have all been exceptional. “Practical experience in childcare is essential and the benefits our apprentices get from their work related training are immense. “Not only do they get hands on practice with the children they also get to work alongside our highly qualified staff and interact with parents, which all helps to boost confidence and puts their childcare curriculum into practice.” An IT apprenticeship has boosted job prospects for 10 young people. The teenagers have been given an insight into the world of work with Baltic Training Services’ advanced IT apprenticeship, in partnership with Darlington-based the Student Loans Company. And two of them have already walked into new employment thanks to the 22-week programme, which mixes education with hands-on experience. The teenagers have successfully graduated from the apprenticeship, which has helped them gain qualifications and vital work experience. Michael Tailford has started his new role with NHS Health Trust, while Adam Baldwin has been handed a job with high street clothing firm Next. Lewis Hill, Yasmin Uddin, Charlie Armstrong, Kyle Raine, Caroline Rudd, Alexandra Perring, Laura Bailey and Savanna Hall also successfully completed the apprenticeship to significantly improve their chances of finding work. Baltic’s Training Centre Co-ordinator Lesley Cain-Metcalf, said: “The IT apprenticeship not only provides these young people with a firm grounding in the world of work, it also gives them a full skills set to use as they take their next steps into their chosen career. “The Student Loans Company is delighted with the scheme, and most importantly the apprentices have thoroughly enjoyed the course and have found it very worthwhile. “Hopefully, our apprenticeship programme is just the beginning of a promising career for them all.” As well as gaining level two key skills in Application of Number, Communication and ICT, and a nationally-recognised Apprenticeship qualification, the young people have also had hands-on business experience, making them well equipped for successful employment in a range of office-based and call-centre environments. The learners spent half their time with Baltic’s training staff during the apprenticeship, and the other half with the Student Loans Company, gaining office-based experience. It is hoped that the training programme will provide a stepping stone for the apprentices to gain IT or administration roles in business. The current group, who left school in 2010, is the second to undertake the Advanced IT Application Specialist Apprenticeship with Baltic Training Services and the Student Loans Company. Rebecca Miles, Processing Services Team Leader at the Student Loans Company, said: “This is the second group we’ve worked with and we can safely say it’s been a huge success. “The apprentices have gained genuine and valuable hands-on experience, and this will hopefully provide them with a stepping stone to full-time employment. We look forward to working with the next group.” For further information, please visit www.baltictraining.com Apprenticeships can help businesses across all sectors by offering a route to harness fresh new talent. UK businesses consider skills shortages and recruitment difficulties a bigger threat to performance than soaring oil prices and declining consumer spending, and more than a quarter of these rate this form of vocational training higher than any other qualification. Apprenticeships ensure that your workforce has the practical skills and qualifications your organisation needs – now, and in the future. The mixture of on and off job learning ensures they learn the skills that work best for your business. Improve your bottom line Apprenticeships deliver real returns to your bottom line, with Apprenticeships helping them to improve productivity and to be more competitive. Training apprentices can also be more cost effective than hiring skilled staff, leading to lower overall training and recruitment costs. Fill your skills gaps Apprenticeships deliver skills designed around your business needs, providing the skilled workers you need for the future. They also help you develop the specialist skills you need to keep pace with the latest technology and working practices in your sector. Motivate your workforce Apprentices tend to be eager, motivated, flexible and loyal to the company that invested in them. Remember, an apprentice is with you because they want to be – they have made an active choice to learn on the job and a commitment to a specific career. Qualifications Apprentices will be trained to do a job to agreed standards, which have been set by the Apprenticeship Framework and the training provider. So they will gain a qualification that shows that they have the skills necessary to do the job, unlike those who follow a formal academic route. They gain recognised qualifications – NVQs, Key Skills and a Technical Certificate. Apprentices can go on to gain a higher qualification, such as HNC, HND, Foundation Degree or full Degree, by studying on a part-time basis while continuing to work for you. In this way they will be gaining higher-level skills to improve the productivity of your business, but without making too much of an impact in terms of lost time. The increased investment in them will benefit, not just your business, but will also help to cement the relationship that you have with them. Benefits in numbers Earlier research, conducted in February 2008 by Populus on behalf of the Learning & Skills Council (LSC) to launch the first National Apprenticeship Week, revealed: 77% of employers believe apprenticeships make them more competitive;76% say that apprenticeships provide higher overall productivity;80% feel that apprenticeships reduce staff turnover;83% of employers rely on their apprenticeships programme to provide the skilled workers that they need for the future;Two-thirds of respondents believed that their apprenticeship programme helps them fill vacancies more quickly; whilst,88% believe that apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce;59% report that training apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff, with 59% believing that apprenticeships lead to lower overall training costs and 53% feeling that they reduce recruitment costs;In terms of the return on investment linked to apprenticeships, 41% say that their apprentices make a valuable contribution to the business during their training period, while a further third (33%) report that apprentices add value within their first few weeks (or even from Day One);57% report a high proportion of their apprentices going on to management positions within the company;Over three-quarters of respondents expect apprenticeships to play a bigger part in their recruitment policy in the future. Over 130,000 workplaces offer apprentice places because they understand the benefits that apprentices bring to their business – increased productivity, improved competitiveness and a committed and competent work-force. Could your business be the next one to take on an apprentice? On 16 November 2011, the Government announced a new incentive to encourage thousands of small firms that don’t currently employ apprentices, to take on a young apprentice aged 16 to 24. This will support up to 40,000 new apprenticeships. The incentive is for employers with up to 50 (and in some cases up to 250) employees, and comprises a payment of £1,500, payable in two stages. It will be available to small firms in all industries and for apprenticeships at all levels from April 2012. Details of how the new incentive will be administered and when employers will be able to express formal interest in it are currently being developed, and will be announced as soon as possible. The incentive is part of a wider £1 billion package of support to encourage small businesses to employ young people. From April 2012, an incentive of £2,275 will be available for small employers who employ a jobless 18-24 year old for a period of 6 months. The subsidy will support work and training placements. The Government aims to subsidise a 6-month work placement and training for up to 160,000 young jobless over a 3 year period. Details of this subsidy are currently being developed and further information will be made available when finalised. When did you start working at Darlington Borough Council?“I initially started working at Darlington Borough Council through the Future Jobs Fund Scheme on a 6 month contract, with the intentions of acquiring work experience and well needed confidence in the work place. The time came when my contract was coming to an end and I was made aware that the current post I was currently working in was going to become available as a full-time position. I applied for the position feeling confident enough to do so and was successful in my application and interview”. What did you do prior to working here?“I had been made redundant in my previous post and after a month of unsuccessful interviews I signed on for Jobseekers Allowance, in order to keep myself in accommodation and support myself. After a period of unemployment, I was offered the opportunity to enrol on to the Future Jobs Fund Scheme. That opportunity created the path for where I am now”. Which college course do you do? “I’m currently in the middle of doing my Business & Admin Level 2 NVQ”. When do you expect to complete the course?“I have planned to complete the course by the end of March 2012”. What are your plans after completing the course?“I intend to start a Business & Admin Level 3 NVQ once I have completed my Level 2. I believe this progression is very important for my career in the future”. How do you find work/study balance?“I personally think that the balance is perfect. I find that on-the-job experience is rich in knowledge and boosts confidence in the workplace. You take that to where you study and `tunnel` it down the necessary paths to enable you to get the most out of your apprenticeship”. Do you enjoy work? Which areas do you enjoy the most? And least?“I love where I work, my colleagues are great to get along with and have taught me many valuable procedures and tricks of the trade. I enjoy attending appointments with the Enterprise Coach and clients who are looking into self employment etc. It gives me valuable information and experience, which I believe has helped me progress to where I am today”. What are your career aspirations?“To be competent at what I do, and exceed that to ensure I secure employment in the future”. Would you recommend apprenticeships to others?“Always! The balance of work experience and learning tie in to one another so well, I believe it optimises the whole opportunity”. Tom came to Groundwork through the Motiv8 programme, which is an alternative curriculum programme designed to target year 10 and year 11 pupils who are; struggling within the mainstream curriculum, are at risk of exclusion, or, are unlikely to make a positive transition to post-16. The aim is to use an environmental theme that enables pupils to undertake positive activities, learn new skills and build self-esteem. Tom was no angel when he first came on the programme and he had an unsettled family life. After working with Tom, Groundwork saw the potential was there to develop him, and over the two years, Sandra Manners from Groundwork watched Tom grow in confidence, maturity and self-respect. “He is a shining example to other students on the programme. Tom has shown so much commitment, he is now on a two year apprenticeship initially with Groundwork, and from 1st November he was placed four days a week at Stressholme golf course in Darlington whilst attending Houghall College once a week”. Tom is doing a great job and Sandra and the other staff at Groundwork are so proud of what he as achieved. Tom says: “Being on the Motiv8 programme brought skills out of me I never knew I had, doing the practical hands on work in an outdoor environment really makes you feel like you are actually at work. I enjoyed horticulture type of work so much I would like to make it my career choice. I’ve now left school and Groundwork has chosen me to take on the opportunity of an apprenticeship working at Stressholme golf course, which I started in November”. Rebecca gained a place on a Childcare Apprenticeship at 16 with Kids & Co. Northwood and has never looked back. As a result, the 19 year old from Darlington has gained a worthwhile job and qualifications to match. ProgressionRebecca’s role at Kids & Co. Northwood involves the developing of children and babies emotional, physical, intellectual and social skills. Whilst with Kids & Co, she has completed her Intermediate Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship and secured employment. CompetenceThanks to a positive attitude and ongoing training, Rebecca is able to understand and develop children, teaching them those vital skills required in their early years. Her dedication was rewarded through her gaining the accolade of Childcare Apprentice of the Year 2011. "Apprentices have benefited through the Apprenticeship scheme as this has enabled them to put knowledge from taught lessons into practice in the workplace.” Helen Lucas, Nursery Manager, Kids & Co. Northwood Nursery. "I found the Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship really beneficial as I have learnt practical skills and knowledge that I have been able to put to practice in the workplace.” Rebecca Barker, Advanced Apprentice. From a young age, 17 year old Jodie Glennon’s ambition was to join the Police Force and become a Police Officer. Jodie was one of only sixteen young people within Middlesbrough to join the Police Cadets, which provided her with the opportunity to see first-hand, how each division within the Force operated, including, the Serious Crime Division and The Dog section. Jodie was in her element, until she was informed that there was a six year waiting list to join. Undeterred, Jodie put her ‘Plan B’ into action, and paid a visit to her local Army Careers Office, where she was delighted to learn she could join the Military Police, subject to passing the Army’s entrance and physical fitness tests. Jodie, always athletic and sporty, plus a good academic student, passed both with flying colours, however, as entry is restricted to specific times of the year, could not join until January 2012. Not one to stand still, Jodie found a place on a 12-week Foundation Learning course with Pertemps, Thorntree, Middlesbrough, and was successful in securing employment as a Youth Support Worker on a 6 month temporary contract with them; during which time Jodie completed OCR NVQ Level 2 in Business Administration. Following her departure from Pertemps at the end of her contract, Jodie joined Nordic’s Apprenticeship in Cleaning and Support Services. Jodie commented, “This was something very different for me, and I viewed it as a challenge; I love being active and enjoy the outdoors so the Apprenticeship really appealed to me”. Jodie joined Nordic in May, and was based with Middlesbrough Council’s ‘Area Care’ team, covering Parks and Allotments. Jodie says, “I loved it; it was hard work but really rewarding. As well as the practical work, I was trained in the safe use and handling of equipment and machinery, including, hedge cutting, strimming and leaf blowers, and received certificates to endorse this. On a personal level, I gained confidence, developed my team working and communication skills, and definitely improved my level of physical fitness”. Jodie completed her apprenticeship in September and found a temporary Christmas job with Smyth’s Superstore (Toys), Portrack, Stockton on Tees, where she was employed as a Sales Assistant. Jodie commented “During my interview with Smyth’s, the questions mainly centred on customer service and team work, which was great, as I could directly relate my experience gained at Nordic. Also the fact that I received help and support in how to conduct myself at interviews and how to answer typical interview questions really helped”. Jodie joined the Military Police on 16 January 2012, where at the end of her 36-week training, she will be appointed the position of Lance Corporal. “Thank you Nordic for all your help and support, I really enjoyed my time with you, and recommend all young people out of work or doing nothing to join your apprenticeship programme, it will definitely benefit them, as it benefited me”. Stephen joined Darlington Borough Council’s Apprenticeship scheme in Site Joinery to continue his education from Level 1. He was determined to become a qualified joiner and simply needed the support and direction to achieve this. ProgressionStephen has completed an Intermediate Apprenticeship and gained a string of other industry related qualifications, whilst gaining valuable work based skills from a number of employers. He is currently working towards his Advanced Apprenticeship in Site Joinery and has secured full time employment with Think Kitchens Darlington. CompetenceThanks to a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, Stephen is able to carry out technical and complex joinery tasks and has won the accolade of Apprentice of the Year 2011. “Stephen is currently in his first year of his advanced apprenticeship and is producing excellent work in both the underpinning knowledge and practical work skills that are required for him to become a successful joiner.” Chris Burney, Trainer/Assessor. “By doing an apprenticeship, I have gained real life experience on the job and have really enjoyed practising what I have learnt in the training centre. I have managed to progress to Level 3 and have managed to start a career in joinery thanks to the support I have received.” Steven Noble, Site Joinery Apprentice. Daniel Addison: A total of 5 Apprenticeship vacancies were up for grabs with the North Yorkshire Moors - many people applied; however, it was former Nordic apprentices, Daniel Addison and Adam Hogg, who chased off the opposition. Needless to say, Daniel and Adam were delighted and commenced their apprenticeship in October, along with their team mate Steven. Daniel said, “I couldn’t be happier, and I want to thank Nordic for all the help and support I received; I got loads from it, and have since put the skills and experience I gained with them to good use in my current role with North York Moors. Things like: using similar types of tools and machinery, ground work and landscaping, team work and communication. “I’ve grown in confidence and as a person. The help I received with job applications and interview techniques worked, because normally I get stuck on some interview questions, but I didn’t feel embarrassed and gave positive answers. If it wasn’t for the help I’ve received, I wouldn’t have got the apprenticeship, be working towards another qualification and, doing a job that I love." Adam Hogg: “I went to Freebrough Specialist Engineering College; left the school in 2010, wanted to work but couldn’t find any employment that suited my age group. A year on, aged 17, my uncle told me about Nordic Pioneer looking for apprentices, so I went to the interview and got the job.” From a young age, Adam was always interested in gardening, conservation and the outdoors; so much so, that he found himself a part time job when still at school with Mick Brown Gardening Services, and soon after leaving school, applied for, and commenced, his apprenticeship with Nordic. Adam says, “Working for Nordic gave me the wake-up call I needed, and prepared me for employment. I had to be up, ready, and at work for 7.30, and knew my life had changed forever! No more relying on mum to get me up and minor excuses for not turning up on time – I was no longer at school, this was work, and I had to prove myself if I wanted to get on in life and have a good career. “I did numerous jobs; gardening, litter picking, all aspects of cleaning and support services and much more. It has given me a whole lot more experience and understanding about different varieties of jobs, and it’s increased my confidence and skills to pursue further employment. “I would recommend any young person, particularly those who like the outdoors, to give an apprenticeship programme a try; it helps you to gain experience, develop confidence, set and accomplish goals and much more. I had little to put on my CV, but gained so many transferable skills used in any job. I also got my Key Skills from the apprenticeship, which has helped me proceed to another apprenticeship on the North Yorkshire Moors scheme.” Beauty student Louise Nockels has her sights set on a captive audience, as she takes another step towards her dream career. The 18-year-old plans to launch her own business offering hair and beauty regimes to army families. And to hit her target, she joined hundreds of other students enrolling on courses at Darlington College, the only FE College in the Tees Valley rated as outstanding across the board by Ofsted. As she grows her business idea, Louise has already studied Level 2 Beauty and Hairdressing and is now embarking on the next phase of her development: Level 3 Beauty. “I’m determined to have my own business and have spotted a niche with army families,” said Louise, of Darlington, whose boyfriend is in the infantry. “Many army wives and girlfriends have time on their hands and people are much more image-conscious nowadays. They feel more comfortable and confident wearing make-up and with styled hair, and if they are not careful – and they don’t have it done professionally – they can mess it up. College is great for learning the skills you need and getting you ready for work”. Over the coming weeks, Darlington College will be enrolling up to 2,000 students on a variety of full-time courses, as they strive to get more out of life and work. Courses include: painting and decorating; plastering; hairdressing and beauty; sports; public services; brickwork; art and design; media and journalism; child care; catering and hospitality; motor vehicle; construction; engineering and IT and business administration. There are still full time places available for those who have yet to make a decision on what to do now they have left school. For more information on courses please visit www.darlington.ac.uk or phone 01325 503 035. Securing a Darlington Borough Council Apprenticeship at 16 in Light Vehicle Maintenance has helped Joe Jackson to kick start his career. As a result, the 18-year old from Darlington has a worthwhile job and a string of extra qualifications. ProgressionJoe’s role at Andy Harland’s Garage involves the maintenance and repair of a wide variety of cars and includes jobs such as: servicing, tyre repairs, brakes and exhausts. To add to his skills and knowledge, he has also completed his Intermediate Apprenticeship, which has allowed him to progress to his Advanced Apprenticeship with Andy Harland. CompetenceThanks to a positive attitude and ongoing training, Joe is able to understand and communicate technical and complex information to colleagues and has won the accolade of Apprentice of the Year 2011. “I have no doubt that Joe will go on to become a very good vehicle technician and is already proving to be an asset.” Andy Harland, Employer and Owner. “The Apprenticeship Programme has enabled me to be in paid employment and carry out practical tasks using the skills and knowledge taught in the training centre.” Joe Jackson, Advanced Apprentice. A childcare apprentice, who disliked school, is hoping to turn her life around by working her way back into the classroom. Sammie Schneider confesses she couldn’t wait to leave secondary education, but thanks to a Darlington College apprenticeship, she is now on the way to realising her ambition of becoming a teacher. “I really didn’t do well at school and was really pleased when I left,” said Sammie, of Darlington. “I thought I’d try hairdressing but soon realised it wasn’t for me, so Darlington College allowed me to transfer to childcare. “I knew straight away that this was the course for me, and passed my NVQ Level 2. But as I learn better in the workplace, I really wanted to do an apprenticeship. “When the apprenticeship became available last year, I applied immediately and the college found me a great placement.” Sammie now works four days a week at the Magik Out of Hours School Club, in Middleton St George, which provides out of school and wrap-around care for 80 children, aged from three to 11, with one day a week in college to study for her NVQ Level 3. “Working in the Magik Out of Hours School Club was different to what I expected,” said Sammie. “I thought I’d be treated like a student but I’m not. The team here is great, really close, and treat me just like any other member of staff. “I do what they do and they are always there to help and support me. Working with kids has really changed me; it’s given me the ambition to want to do more. “Sometimes it can be challenging, but I enjoy the challenge. I suppose I didn’t make the most of school. I would never have dreamt of doing higher education but this apprenticeship has made me realise that I have a lot to offer and now I can’t wait to get my qualifications, go to university and study to be a teacher. This really is the best thing I have ever done.” Magik Out of Hours School Club Manager Sam Baronowsky added: “This is the first time we have had an apprentice from Darlington College and the quality of their students far surpasses anything that I have had in the past from outside agencies. “Being an apprentice offers the best of both worlds. It’s great to be working with the children but time away in college also gives the apprentices the chance to really think about what they are doing. “Sammie does everything that I would expect from any of my staff members and is an integral part of the team. “She helps with the wrap-around care, breakfast club and the key worker group. She is great at organising games for the children and is very good at interacting with the parents, which is very important. “It is important for us to be able to offer apprentices like Sammie their first taste of life in an ever-changing industry, and I’m sure that she has the drive and enthusiasm to pursue a really successful career working with children.” More than 500 young apprentices have gained invaluable placements in more than 500 local businesses, thanks to Darlington College. The college is leading the way in encouraging small firms to take on an apprentice aged between 16 and 24. And new changes in Government policy mean there’s never been a better time for businesses to invest in their future. Liz Holmes, Spa Director at the luxury five-star Rockliffe Hall, recently took on two beauty apprentices, and she said it was one of the best decisions she ever took. “Employers really need to understand and appreciate the benefits that an apprentice can bring to the business. We’re absolutely delighted with our partnership with Darlington College,” she said. The college’s dynamic Business First team works with hundreds of employers of all shapes and sizes to find first-class apprenticeships for young people – allowing students to study for a qualification whilst being employed and earning a salary. Record numbers of learners have commenced on apprenticeships in the last few years, and the college is striving hard to show businesses how they can boost the life chances of young people. To encourage small firms to take on an apprentice, the Government will shortly offer employers with up to 50 employees an incentive payment of £1,500. There will be a renewed focus on targeting the programme where apprenticeships deliver greatest value. And a new review will take place into the standards and quality of apprenticeships, undertaken by a leading employer. “Our apprenticeship programme is a real success story, and we’re working hard to show that apprenticeships remain the gold standard in vocational training, and I’m proud of the opportunities Business First is offering up to students and companies, including prestigious local employers like Cummins and Rockliffe Hall,” said College Principal Tim Grant. “A continued focus on the value of apprenticeships helps build successful careers, thriving firms and strong communities. By continuing to drive up standards and reach out to small business, we are creating a culture which values, drives and rewards vocational excellence and fuels economic and social progress,“ he said. Apprentices are expected to spend four days a week in the work place, working towards an NVQ qualification, and one day at college studying towards a Technical Certificate and Functional Skills. Foundation for Jobs is an initiative that was launched on 26 January and comprises of a range of activities which will directly increase vocational opportunities for young people in Darlington. It is a Darlington Partnership initiative which capitalises on the Partnership’s strong networks to stimulate Darlington’s employers to sign up to Foundation commitments and to foster alliances with schools and other public sector providers. A core aim of the Foundation is to generate as much publicity as possible which promotes job-seekers, employers and agencies providing vocational support. The Campaign will feature prominently in the Northern Echo, a key partner in this initiative. Launched by the Bishop of Durham the Right Reverend Justin Welby, who called for support from employers in the region. He called on business leaders, union officials and educationalists who attended the launch at Lingfield Point to get involved. The campaign will establish formal links between schools and employers; encourage employers to offer internships; promote an increase in the number of apprentices; encourage young entrepreneurs and showcase young job seekers. Bishop Justin said: “This initiative recognises there is a crisis of youth unemployment, of economic recession, but also says we recognise there is a need to plan in order to flourish in the future.” Bishop Justin became the first to sign the Foundation for Jobs pledge, saying he would take on an intern in his office and look at areas where more youngsters could be taken on across the diocese. He added: “I am passionate about being patron and this campaign has the potential to transform the opportunities of thousands of young people.” With UK youth unemployment at record levels, more than 1,000 young people aged under 25 are currently claiming Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) in the Borough alone. It is a grim statistic that the Foundation aims to tackle over the next year, by helping more than 1,000 young people to be better placed to secure work. This includes creating at least 100 internships at firms in the Borough and 100 additional apprenticeship places, as well as inspiring youngsters to develop entrepreneurial skills. In addition it will provide 1,000 youngsters with the chance to establish formal links with local companies, providing vital skills for their CVs and a genuine insight into the world of work. As he launched the Foundation, Bishop Justin, commented: “When businesses are in a crisis the big danger is they become short-term and put a hold on the things that, once we get through the crisis, mean we are able to flourish in the future. “If survival is all we deal with, we will emerge from this, when the opportunities come, with a lack of capacity to take the opportunities. “An effective business deals with a crisis but looks to the future.” Darlington Borough Council’s Leader, Councillor Bill Dixon pledged that, where possible, the organisation would look at whether positions that became vacant could potentially suit apprentices. He said that it was important not to create a generation which had not only never worked, but didn’t develop the skills to thrive in the workplace. He told delegates: “We would all do whatever we can to help our kids. There are kids in this town who don’t have people like us to even up the odds a bit, that is where we can play a huge role.” He said he understood some businesses may find it contradictory to be looking at taking on interns and apprentices at the same time as job cuts were happening, but he did not believe this to be the case. He said: “One is about what you and I need to do now to get through today, the crisis we have got, the other is that we need to have a vision for the future. Those people who don’t plan for the future are set to live in the past. “We need to make sure that when we come out of the malaise we are in we have a workforce of people who have been to work, know the feeling of getting up on a Monday morning and understand holding down a job.” Alasdair MacConachie, Chairman of Darlington Partnership, is Managing Director of Vauxhall dealership Sherwoods which will take on at least ten apprentices this year. He said: “One of the myths about apprenticeships and internships is that they cost money but if you maintain it, it doesn’t. Our apprentices contribute to the business after six weeks, working alongside the technicians and improving their productivity.” For further information or if you or your business would like to get involved, please email business.support@darlington.gov.uk On Wednesday 23 November 2011, Mech–Tool Engineering Ltd in Darlington kindly hosted 10 students from Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and a similar number from St Aidan’s Academy. The students were able to visit both sites, the factory in Dodsworth Street, to see the products being manufactured and then on to the Head Office in Whessoe Road. The groups were met at the factory by Kevin Harland and George Hodgson and saw the factory in action. Students saw the fabrication of the fire and blast protection products and the new press that Mech–Tool has recently invested heavily in. Students were then given the opportunity to talk to employees who were on apprenticeships at Mech–Tool or were graduate engineers, and the students were able to ask about their career paths and find out more about engineering as a career. Then travelling on to the Head Office of Mech–Tool in Whessoe Road, the groups met Ron Davison and Jonathan Harris. They provided the students with an inspirational presentation on the engineering principles used in the design and manufacture of the wide range of products Mech-Tool produce. They also demonstrated the software “Autodesk Inventor” which they use to create 3-D images of the products they design. Ron and Jonathan’s enthusiasm for engineering as a career was very apparent and students left Mech-Tool knowing they were entering a career with excellent prospects. Student, Dan McGee found the visit extremely informative and commented;“The visit to Mech-Tool was incredibly interesting. I gained a better insight into both the planning side and the fabrication side of engineering, and learned a great deal more about mechanical engineering. My favourite part of the tour was learning about how they build blast walls that are able to withstand great shocks and heat and the new ideas that both engineers and fabricators have to come up with to deal with these problems.” These tours are part of a wider programme currently being developed to encourage greater collaboration and understanding between local employers and educational institutions; to raise the aspirations of young people and also provide a better understanding of local employment opportunities. A number of other businesses including CTC Marine; Magnet and Cummins have also very kindly offered to host factory tours. Any business wishing to put themselves forward as hosts for future visits please contact business.support@darlington.gov.uk Van hire giant Northgate is creating around 80 jobs at its Darlington head office as it streamlines the company into the 'One Northgate' brand. The group, which recently published a strong set of interim results despite current tough trading conditions, is recruiting now for the office positions at its headquarters. But Chief Executive Bob Contreras admitted over the course of the year, there would be a net drop of around 100 staff nationwide because of the restructuring operation. Northgate’s turnover for the six months to the end of October rose by 2% to £375.7m, while pre-tax profits increased by 19% to £32.3m. The group, which rents vans in the UK and Spain, also reduced its net debt by £48.3m to £481.6m. Contreras said: “If you look at the six months, profit is up almost 20% and we’ve seen net debt reduced by almost £50m.“There was quite a restructure of the business in the UK and that’s progressing very well and we have utilisation rates of over 90%.”Northgate’s restructuring, designed to make the company more efficient and bring it under the One Northgate banner, started last summer. Contreras said it was not designed purely to reduce the company’s headcount.“This is a wider restructuring and it features many points,” he said.“It’s creating a national identity so wherever our customers are, they get the same service. It’s a cultural change; we were 22 separate businesses now we are One Northgate.” As part of that, the number of Northgate sites was reduced from 62 to 60. The business is refurbishing some of its centres and bringing “two or three” together at Grantham, Lincs, and at Cannock beside the M6.“There is centralisation which will lead to job reductions but there will be an uplift of around 70 to 80 in Darlington,” said Contreras. "We are recruiting some now and the rest in the next couple of months.” The group has around 2,000 staff and Contreras said Northgate would cut its cloth to fit the economy.He said: “Certainly, the wider economic climate is difficult. Our customers are struggling to stay still let alone grow. If there is a flattening or a reduction in demand, you will see us trying to be more efficient.” Overall, the company said trading was in line with expectations despite tough economic conditions in both the UK and Spain.Chairman Bob Mackenzie said: “The uncertain economic outlook makes it more difficult to forecast trading in the medium term.”For further information please visit www.northgatevehiclehire.co.uk A training firm which specialises in apprenticeships that keep the region’s streets clean has landed a major industry award which it will use to fund its own staff and student appreciation awards. Nordic Pioneer, based in Darlington, has been awarded the Eric Hill Award 2011 – one of the highest accolades in the cleaning industry – in collaboration with the City and Guilds Institute and the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners. The award is given to the college or training centre with the greatest number of successful candidates in a cleaning related subject and recognised Nordic for its groundbreaking work in the sector. However, instead of the cash prize that accompanied the award being put into Nordic’s coffers, it will be used towards the company’s own student awards that recognise effort and excellence. The awards will cover several categories including overall apprentice of the year, best team leader and most improved apprentice titles. Peter Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Nordic Pioneer, accepted the Eric Hill Award on behalf of the company. He said: “The awards evening was an amazing experience and I am honoured and proud to receive this award on behalf of my team. “It is the most prestigious annual award given by the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners and it’s thanks to the whole team at Nordic Pioneer that we have received it. The team has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience between them, and I believe the success of Nordic is the sum of all parts. “I now want to continue raising the profile of the cleaning industry and the importance of training young people, and am looking forward to handing the prize money out on December 20th to our own deserving apprentices.” As well as accepting the Eric Hill Award, Peter has also been accepted into the Worshipful Company of Environmental Cleaners, which means that he will become a Freeman of the City of London. He was formally admitted at an official ceremony at the Guildhall on 7 December. Nordic, which operates across the UK from its North East headquarters, has been involved in the cleaning industry since 1994, working mainly with local authorities and their main contractors. Managing Director Diane Shakespeare, who also sits on the National Advisory Committee for Cleaning and Environmental Services, said: “We are extremely proud of the training experience we give to our apprentices. Not only are they gaining valuable vocational and relevant qualifications, they are also, in a lot of cases, being introduced for the first time into the world of work and all that it involves. “As an organisation we are also passionate about up-skilling the industry and giving existing workforces the recognised qualifications that they deserve.” The company will be holding its own awards ceremony in recognition of its staff and students’ achievements on 20 December, from 2pm to 4pm. For more information on Nordic Pioneer, please visit www.nordicpioneer.co.uk The Government has announced a £75 million boost for high tech small and medium-sized businesses as part of a package of measures in its new Innovation and Research Strategy for Growth. Key actions in the Strategy, launched by Business Secretary Vince Cable and Minister for Universities and Science David Willetts, include: • £75 million of new government investment for the Technology Strategy Board to give high tech innovative businesses better access to the facilities and finance they need to develop and commercialise products;• £25 million to help companies develop large scale prototypes that will showcase their ideas to potential investors;• Piloting a new innovation vouchers scheme delivered by the Technology Strategy Board that will give SMEs the opportunity to get free academic support from colleges and universities; • Supporting SMEs by doubling the size of the Designing Demand Programme by £650,000 to £1.3 million a year, and• Working with the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (NESTA), to establish a Centre of Expertise for running innovation inducement prizes, and a new Innovation Prize Fund. In addition, details of a new £125 million initiative designed to improve the global competitiveness of UK advanced manufacturing supply chains have also been revealed. The Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative will help existing UK supply chains to grow and achieve world class standards while encouraging major new suppliers to locate to the UK to undertake manufacturing. Innovative projects in established UK advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, automotive and chemicals will be supported. The scheme will also target newer growth areas where the UK is well placed to take a global lead, such as energy renewables and other low carbon sectors. In order to fulfil their potential and address market failures, suppliers and supply chains may require a combination of investment in capital equipment, associated research and development and improved skills and training support. Therefore the support offered to businesses submitting successful proposals will be flexible. The programme will complement and work alongside other publicly-funded schemes such as the Regional Growth Fund, Growth and Innovation Fund, Manufacturing Advisory Service and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) in order to maximise impact. Companies will be invited to express interest in applying later this month and to bid formally early in the New Year. All advanced manufacturing sectors, except those where barriers to entry are low or displacement levels are high, will be eligible to apply. Suppliers, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), will be encouraged to submit joint proposals that demonstrate potential to strengthen and provide better 'join-up' across whole supply chains. For this reason, a threshold of £2 million for support has been set. Applications, to be submitted under a competitive call, will be assessed by the Technology Strategy Board. Further details about the new fund and how to apply will be provided imminently. Please visit http://www.bis.gov.uk/ for further information. A North East driver training firm has powered ahead in its plans to expand by recruiting three new staff members since launching eight months ago. Darlington-based Durham Tees Valley Training (DTVT), which specialises in providing training to the transport industry, has recruited two new specialist Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) trainers and a business development administrator to help drive the Company forward. Graeme Todd, from Wolviston in Teesside, and Michael Robinson, from Durham, are both responsible for delivering CPC to drivers and for training both passenger-carrying vehicle (PCV) and large goods vehicle (LGV) drivers. Graeme was taken on due to his significant experience within the transport industry, which includes training driving instructors for the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). He was also general manager of a major local coach company, director of a PCV driver training centre and has been trained in driving VIPs. Newcastle-bred Michael Robinson was taken on after spending 30 years with Durham Constabulary, 10 of which he spent working in traffic patrols and another 10 in driver training. He has instructed on all types of vehicles and is also a VIP-trained driver like Graeme. They were appointed due to increasing demand on DTVT by companies with drivers who have not yet begun training and who need to complete 35 hours of training before September 2014. Graeme said: “It was great to be recruited by DTVT to help meet the demand for more driver CPC training. I have been working with Robin and Michael to deliver driver speed awareness courses in the Cleveland area, but this job will mean helping lots of big companies to get their drivers trained up to a high standard.” Michael added: “I’ve really been looking forward to starting with DTVT. This job is the perfect opportunity to utilise all of my driving and instructing experience in order to provide fantastic training and help the Company to grow.” Company owner Robin Raine said: “A lot of investment has been put into DTVT to ensure that the correct training is offered. The experience and enthusiasm for the transport industry which Michael and Graeme share between them makes me certain they are two of the best people to deliver this training. “Our training is not just about ticking boxes to meet legislative standards – it’s about offering training which leaves the delegates enthused and wanting more. Michael and Graeme will help the company to concentrate on the expertise required for companies to ensure they get the best value.” In addition to the recruitment of Michael and Graeme, Robin has also appointed ex-bank area manager Sarah Hutchinson, from Ripon, as part-time administrator/business development manager. She will be responsible for managing DTVT’s website and also attracting new clients to the Company. This recruitment drive is just part of DTVT’s expansion plans. The Company is also currently developing its website to allow its trainers to work anywhere in the country. Robin said: “The appointment of Michael and Graeme will test this new system in the Durham Tees Valley area before the Company considers a national launch. I’m now looking forward to working with the team with the emphasis on quality training.” DTVT offers training in Driver CPC, Digital Tachograph, Health and Safety, defensive driving, SAFED and many other areas associated with the transport industry. It gives training to individuals as well as to groups of up to 20 people. For more information on the Company, please visit: www.durhamteesvalleytraining.co.uk The fifth annual National Apprenticeship Week takes place from Monday 6 to Friday 10 February and will celebrate and showcase the talent and skills of apprentices, across England. The Week has been hugely successful over the last four years with hundreds of activities taking place. For 2012, the National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) want to raise the awareness and esteem of Apprenticeships even further amongst the business community. A ‘Hub’ of resources has been created on the NAS website that can be used to help employers support the Week. It can be accessed here. This includes:• The 2012 Toolkit to support your planning;• National Apprenticeship Week supporting 2012 logos;• Contacts at 4 national newspapers producing Apprenticeship supplements;• Apprenticeship Week templates;• FAQs and myth-busting information;• “Get with Apprenticeships” marketing campaign resources, and• Case study protocol and templates. Apprenticeship Hall of FameDid your Managing Director or Chief Executive start their career as an apprentice? Or do you know an award winning former apprentice whose career has gone on to flourish? Or even a celebrity who started out as an apprentice? If so, they could be ideal candidates for the online Hall of Fame, which will showcase the rise and accomplishments of England’s most successful apprentices. NAS are encouraging businesses to supply biographies and photos of the individual(s) that you would like to nominate for the Hall of Fame that tells their career progression story. Please e-mail theweek@apprenticeships.gov.uk for further details. Forming part of Chancellor of the Exchequer's 2011 Autumn Statement, George Osborne announced plans for a new National Loan Guarantee Scheme, underwriting up to £40 billion in loans to help the UK's small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). The scheme is a credit easing measure, designed to lower the cost of loans for the country's small businesses, helping them access finance during the current economic downturn. The scheme will provide new loans and new overdrafts for SMEs in order to reduce the interest rates at which these businesses can borrow. It is anticipated that the initiative will lead to reductions of one percentage point in the rate of interest on loans being charged to smaller companies. For example, a business facing a 7% interest rate to obtain a £5 million loan could see their rate reduced to 6% and their interest costs fall by up to £50,000. Initially there will be £20 billion of these guarantees available to UK businesses over the next two years. The scheme will be open to those SMEs with an annual turnover of less than £50 million. Further details will be reported in early 2012 when the scheme will be formally launched. For further information, please visit: www.nationalloanguaranteescheme.co.uk Are you an innovative and successful employer able to help young people realise their future dreams and aspirations? Are you in a position to give a young person the opportunity and support to take their first steps into employment? Are you willing to give a young person the chance to learn and shine within your workplace? If so, we would love to invite you to take part in an exciting January event.‘C: Your Future: Getting Young People in Darlington into Education, Employment or Training’27 January 2012 1 to 4pm @ Darlington Arts Centre The aim of the event is to target young people currently not in employment, education or training and give them the opportunity to meet and engage in practical activities with dynamic and inspirational employers, education providers and other key agencies, all in one place, during one afternoon. Young people in Darlington are often desperately seeking employment; hoping to better themselves and support their families. However, knowing who to approach and how to go about it can prove a daunting and difficult task. Meeting with employers such as yourselves face-to-face and learning from your experiences will help young people to take those all important first steps into work, as well as allowing you the opportunity to meet some of Darlington’s most charismatic, creative and interesting young people; you may even find the perfect addition to your organisation. ‘C: Your Future’ will have a creative twist where young people can take part in M-C mixing decks, fashion and animation workshops all geared towards exploring the positives of education, training and employment. There will also be opportunity for young people to work with a graffiti artist to express their views and for both young people and employers to consider creative ways to tackle youth unemployment in Darlington. We really hope that you will be able to attend this event and that your organisation will be able to showcase the positive and exciting opportunities you have available to offer young people. For further information please do not hesitate to contact ‘C: Your Future’ organisers, Vicky Meaby and Stacey Lynch on 01325 346 831. From January 2012, a further course leading to the award of a University Certificate Advanced Professional Development – People Management is being delivered from Teesside University. Who is it for? This course is for individuals wishing to develop their knowledge of Employment Law and Human Resources. Applicants must: • Have a Level 3 Qualification OR 3 years’ appropriate work experience, and• Be currently employed in a role in which they have responsibility for managing people, either as a manager or supervisor or as the named person in the organisation responsible for Human Resources as the course involves work-based learning. Course Content: The course is a Level 4 qualification which gives 60 credits. It consists of six modules which cover the employee journey throughout an organisation: • Recruitment & Selection;• Contracts & Rights in Employment;• Performance Management;• Managing for Attendance;• Dealing with Discipline & Grievance, and• Termination of Employment. Delivery: The course is delivered in Hartlepool over six months with a one day masterclass each month together with work-based learning. The aim is for students to develop or update their knowledge and skills through the production of assignments which can be used in the workplace, such as policies and procedures. Students must attend every one day masterclass and submit all assignments. Course Dates: Wednesday 18 January 2012Wednesday 12 February 2012Wednesday 14 March 2012Wednesday 18 April 2012Wednesday 16 May 2012Wednesday 13 June 2012 Resources: All materials will be provided and as this course is accredited by Teesside University, students will be registered with the University which will allow access to the University’s Library & Information Services, most of which can be accessed on-line. Costs: Fees include registration with the University and course materials and must be paid prior to the commencement of the course. The course costs £395.00 per person. If you book and pay before 31 December 2011 an early bird discounted price of £345.00 applies. How to book: Places are limited due to class sizes and if you would like to book a place please send an email with your details to Sheila.watson@hartlepool.gov.uk and a booking form will be sent to you. Government cuts to Legal Aid next year mean many people may have to pay the legal costs of their divorce themselves. While there are many emotional costs in a divorce, one law firm is determined to keep the financial costs to a minimum for their clients. Close Thornton Solicitors is the first law firm in Darlington to offer divorce for a fixed fee, payable in monthly instalments, including Court fees. Clients will be able to finance their divorce through a series of monthly payments, giving them one less thing to worry about. The Government is pressing ahead with plans to cut £290m from the more than £2bn annual Legal Aid bill, despite opposition from lawyers and campaigners. Ministers say Legal Aid will end for most family cases in England and Wales, but will remain for criminal cases. However, Linda Lee, President of the Law Society, said the proposals would be a "disaster for the public" because they would prevent people turning to the justice system. Under the plans, approximately 600,000 Legal Aid cases will no longer be funded if the full plan goes through Parliament. To respond to these changes, Close Thornton is announcing new fee structures to help clients seeking legal advice for Family Law matters. Firstly, clients, who find that they are no longer eligible for Legal Aid, will be able to spread their legal costs by paying through agreed monthly payments. Secondly, the Family Law department will offer a fixed fee for divorce, which would include Court fees. Katie-Lee Pearson, Head of Family Law, said: “We are aware that the Government changes to Legal Aid will have an impact on clients seeking divorce or on those involved in contact disputes. We believe that our new fee structures will help clients to manage their costs more efficiently. Our focus has always been on delivering a cost-effective and caring service and, with the introduction of these initiatives, we will continue to do so.”For more information on Family Law matters or to discuss finance options, please contact Katie-Lee Pearson or her Legal Assistant Christine McLay on 01325 466 461 or email katie-lee.pearson@close-thornton.co.uk or christine.mclay@close-thornton.co.uk Increasing the number of young people who take part in learning after they are 16 is a key element of educational reforms. The aim is to increase the achievement of young people by the time they reach the age of 19. These reforms also aim to increase the skill levels of young people in order for them to achieve economic wellbeing and be able to contribute to the skills needs of the economy. The Education & Skills Act (2008) introduced the Raising Participation Age (RPA) legislation. This legislation requires young people to stay in learning until they are 17 (effective by 2013) and until they are 18 by 2015. During the current Government’s review of existing legislation and policy, there has been some uncertainty about the status of RPA. However, in the 2010 Spending Review announcement and the White Paper ‘The Importance of Teaching’, the Government confirmed its continued commitment to raising the participation age. What counts as participation? It is important to note that raising the participation age does not mean raising the school leaving age, nor does it mean that every young person needs to be in full-time education. For some young people it may be more appropriate to learn on a part-time basis alongside employment. Participation will take place in a range of places including: • Full-time education or training;• Work-based learning (e.g. an apprenticeship), and• Part-time accredited education or training for 280 hours per year (equivalent to one day a week) if they are employed, self-employed or volunteering for more than 20 hours a week. No group will be exempt from participating. However, a young person will be deemed as having a ‘reasonable excuse’ if their circumstances mean that it is unreasonable to expect them to participate. For those young people without a ‘reasonable excuse’ who do not participate, the Act outlines an enforcement process. However, Government intends for local authorities to implement RPA with minimal need for an enforcement process. Decisions on any enforcement process will be made at a later date. Who will have a role in supporting RPA? The legislation outlines the duties for young people, local authorities, learning providers and employers as follows: - Duty on young people Young people will be required to participate in learning until their 18th birthday or until they achieve a full Level 3 qualification (the equivalent of 2 A-Levels), whichever is sooner. They will be able to participate in a number of ways, as outlined above. - Local authority duties The local authority will be required to: • Promote the effective participation in education or training of the young people in their area;• Make arrangements to identify young people not participating, i.e. maintain a tracking system, and• It will also have powers relating to establishing an enforcement process and an independent adjudication panel (‘attendance panel’). - Duty on learning providers Learning providers, including schools, will be required to: • Promote good attendance of 16 and 17 year olds, and• Inform local authority support services if a young person has dropped out of learning, so that the young person can be contacted swiftly and offered support. - Duty on employers There will be no requirements of employers employing 16 and 17 year olds who work for less than 20 hours per week or for less than eight weeks in a row. Where they are not providing accredited training, an employer taking on a 16 or 17 year old for more than 20 hours per week for more than eight weeks will be required to: • Check the young person’s evidence that they are enrolled in some part-time accredited learning before they start work, e.g. a letter from the provider, and• Agree reasonable hours of work so that the young person can access training, for the equivalent of a day a week, i.e. release young people so they are able to attend their training. Employers are not responsible for monitoring the young person’s attendance, nor do they have to pay for the learning or wages of the young person when they are not at work. If an employer is in breach of these duties, the local authority would ultimately have powers to enforce them. What are the benefits of staying on in learning? Evidence shows that staying in learning for longer brings benefits for the individual, the economy and society. These benefits include: • Being more likely to find and keep employment;• Having greater earning potential and more choice of future career paths;• Generating the skills required to meet the needs of our economy, and• Reduced likelihood of teenage pregnancy, drug use, anti-social behaviour, offending, depression and obesity. How is Darlington doing? National data shows that Darlington compares quite favourably to other areas in terms of participation rates. The most recent data (2009) shows that 90% of 16 and 17 year olds are engaged in learning, compared with 88% in the North-East and 89% nationally. The latest figure (November 2011) for young people in Darlington who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) is 11.7%. However, local research and intelligence shows that in Darlington there are still: • 345 young people who are NEET, which means that not all young people are enjoying the right to participate;• Too many young people who do not make a successful transition from school into post-16 learning;• Too many young people who start a course at 16 but drop out either at 17 or before they complete it;• Significant numbers of vulnerable young people who are not participating in learning;• Too many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds failing to achieve a Level 2 qualification (equivalent to five GCSEs A-C) by 19 than in our neighbouring areas and the country as a whole, and• Too many young people from disadvantaged backgrounds failing to achieve a Level 3 qualification (equivalent to two A-Levels) by 19 than in our neighbouring areas and the country as a whole. What are we going to do about it? Darlington Council is currently developing a strategy to take forward the raising of the participation age agenda. This strategy will look at a number of areas including: • Understanding the group of young people;• Determining priorities;• Managing transitions and tracking;• Strengthening support mechanisms;• Identifying and meeting the education and training needs for RPA, and• Communicating the RPA message. What next? Further updates will be made available through the Council’s website at:www.darlington.gov.uk/14-19partnerships If you would like to know more please contact Paul Richardson, Head of 16-19, 14-19 and Learning and Skills Team, on 01325 406 015 or e-mail paul.richardson@darlington.gov.uk eVOLution are looking for a Treasurer who will work with Trustees, the Executive Director and the Finance Manager to oversee the financial affairs of the organisation, ensuring its financial viability; with financial experience and business planning skills. eVOLution is the Local Voluntary and Community Sector infrastructure organisation in Darlington. They aim to promote, support and develop the voluntary & community sector to bring about positive change in the lives of people and their communities. They offer a wide range of services including core services such as Volunteer Brokerage, Group Development, Funding Advice, Local Strategic Representation and Policy Influence. eVOLution also specialise in Back Office Services such as Administration, Community Accounting, ICT Support, Internet Services, Marketing, Meeting Facilities and Room Hire. For further details please contact Hazel Thompson, eVOLution, Church Row, Darlington, DL1 5QD on 01325 266 888 or email hazel.thompson@evolutiondarlington.com The Business Engagement Team would like to wish all of our readers a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Efforts are being stepped up to tackle the expected shortfall of qualified science, engineering and manufacturing staff in the North East. Sector skills body Semta’s North East Regional Council has organised two events for the New Year, aimed at businesses concerned with the skills gap associated with projected business growth within the engineering sectors. The North East Regional Council was established by Semta the Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing to help raise skills levels in the region, through improving the match between provision and employer/regional strategic need. The Council consists of local industrialists who are all Managing Directors or Senior Members of staff from companies such as Nissan (Chair), Tallent Automotive Limited, Nifco, Union Electric Steel (formally Davy Roll) and Liebherr Cranes to name a few. Engineering in the North East is currently faced with a major skills shortage, an ageing workforce (approximately 8,500 people will retire from the engineering sector in the next 6 years) and an up skilling demand for approximately 15,000 employees needing to raise their skills levels to assist the performance as a world class region. Last month, Semta secured £5m of UK Commission for Employment and Skills cash for its skills and training plan. The money will be shared nationally by the organisation. Two events will be held, one on 17 January at SASMI Sunderland (opposite NMUK) and one on 19 January at the Exel Centre Newton Aycliffe. Both events will begin at 10.00am with a scheduled finish of 12.00pm. If you or a Senior Member of your team would like to attend to explore how to reduce skills issues this region is currently facing please contact Jordan Crawford on 01740 627 034 or emailing: jcrawford@semta.org.uk