tendring business community magazine
DESCRIPTION
Issue 8 - Summer 2014TRANSCRIPT
Issue 8 Summer 2014 FREE
The business networking magazine for the Tendring Peninsula
In this issueProfessional Cost Management - Auditel
Good design has a lasting impression
Introduction to Early Conciliation
Focus-on: Lifehouse
Responding to Technology
Keeping it Local - GCS Alarms
fruitionin Tendring
Bringing business to
Donation made following delivery of SWATH workboat
Brightlingsea (UK), 15 May 2014 CTruk recently cemented its support of the Motor Neurone Disease Association with a donation of £20,000 following the delivery of its second CWhisper SWATH workboat.
The late naval architect Nigel Warren was heavily involved in the design of the first-in-class CWhisper SWATH, CWind Astute. Nigel fought bravely against MND but lost his battle before the vessel was launched in 2012. In dedication to Nigel, CTruk subsequently pledged £20,000 for every CWhisper SWATH sold to support the MND Association in continuing their important work.CTruk is also actively encouraging its suppliers to donate through the company’s Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/CTruk
The next generation CWhisper SWATH 20m workboat, CWind Endurance, is currently working out of the ABP Port of Grimsby. A third is currently in production at CTruk’s Brightlingsea base. The SWATH hull form (SWATH stands for small waterplane area twin hull) gives a smoother ride in rough seas, vastly improving comfort levels for technicians commuting to offshore wind farms in rough conditions. To know more visit www.ctruk.com/products-and-systems/cwhisper
About MNDMND is a fatal, rapidly progressive disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It attacks the nerves that control movement: people can still think and feel, but their muscles refuse to work. It can leave people locked in a failing body, unable to move, talk and eventually breathe. It affects people from all communities. It kills five people every day in the UK, half within 14 months of diagnosis. It affects up to 5,000 adults in the UK at any one time. It has no cure.
CTruk cements support of MND Association
CWhisper SWATHin action
3Issue 8 Summer 2014
Welcome
Greetings from me Kevin Barnes, Managing Director, and the team at TBCM. Welcome to the eighth issue of your local business community magazine.
It is with gratitude to all our advertisers, sponsors and supporters that the team and I are able to produce the ‘summer’ edition of the Tendring Business Community Magazine.
I would also like to thank all members of staff at The Colne Yacht Club, Brightlingsea, for the superb networking event that was held there in April, following issue seven. The event was a resounding success with over twenty businesses represented from the local area. It was a pleasure to see all the familiar faces as well as the new ones that were introduced on the day.
As promised, we continue to move the networking event around the Tendring peninsula and our next breakfast meeting will be held on July 11th at Charnallies, Clacton-on-Sea. Full details can be found on the outer back cover.
In this edition we are beginning our ‘Hidden Gems’ article. This is an opportunity to give exposure to those businesses in the Tendring area that are less well known but nonetheless making outstanding contributions to the local economy. If you would like to make a contribution to this or, as always, any other local good news story please feel to contact to me.
With great excitement I am pleased to announce that the team and I are working towards our second anniversary issue and a respective special networking event to celebrate this, more details will follow in the ninth ‘Autumn’ issue.
Hoping you have a bright and cheerful summer season.
Best wishes
Kevin BarnesManaging Director. TBCM Ltd
In this issue Professional Cost Management - Auditel 4
Good design has a lasting impression 4
Introduction to Early Conciliation 5
Japanese Knotweed - A Growing Issue 6
Focus-on: Lifehouse 8-9
Responding to Technology 10
Keeping it Local - GCS Alarms 11
Business Guidance - TEA 13
Hidden Gem - Spinning Strawberry 15
Managing Director: Kevin Barnesemail: [email protected]
Design: Gyles Harden - Silverloopemail: [email protected]
Photography: Robert Wong Photographyemail: [email protected]
Printed by: Juniper House of PrintTel: 01206 230884 [email protected]
The opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor or the Publishers. The Publishers cannot accept responsibility for the errors or omissions, although the utmost care is taken to ensure that the information contained is accurate and up to date.
All rights reserved. © Copyright Tendring Business Community Magazine.
Professional Cost Management
Good design should leave a lasting impression
Issue 8 Summer 2014
As we witness the green shoots of recovery, organisations that embrace strategic cost management and see it as more than
simply making savings are likely to accelerate their business performance, says Auditel cost management consultant, Paul Hughes.
His company recently commissioned an independent survey to examine the strategic importance of cost management amongst organisations across the UK.
Key findings suggests that:
70% of organisations do not have a cost management strategy in place,
Lack of understanding is the greatest obstacle to cost management,
In 73% of organisations, cost management measures are undertaken in-house,
Two thirds of respondents recognise that cost management can accelerate performance, improve efficiency and gain competitive advantage.
Gyles Harden, of Silverloop, is a Graphic Designer with over 25 years experience in creating “brands” and logo’s for clients all
over the UK.
“When it comes to design it is essential to get it right. A good design should leave a lasting impression on the observer but ,similarly, a bad design can also leave a lasting negative impression.
When a business starts up or decides that it requires a rebrand, one of the most important features is to ensure that the visual design makes the required impact on its’ intended market. After over a quarter of century working in graphic design, I find it hard not to comment when I see an inferior product advertising a companies wares or services.
There is a general misconception that professional design costs are expensive and out of reach for those running a small business. However, it isn’t necessary to go to an overpriced agency to get a professional design or identity for your company.
For the full results visit: www.auditel.co.uk/paulhughes/performance-accelerator/
Paul adds: “Organisations have not embraced strategic cost management as well as they could and indeed should, and a lack of knowledge is commonplace. We see this regularly. There is a genuine lack of understanding between simple cost cutting exercises and strategic cost management.
“The survey shows that almost three quarters of the respondents control their cost management in-house, yet experience suggests that they are ill equipped to deal with the task. Over the past 20 years Auditel has worked with more than 5,000 firms and we can say with some certainty that strategic cost management driven by the right people, with the right tools and knowledge can deliver much greater returns than in-house resources and accelerate organisational performance.”
For more information Tel: 01206 250349www.auditel.co.uk/consultants/paulhughesemail: [email protected]
Small business Graphic Designers have, in most instances, worked for larger corporations or agencies prior to setting up their own and have a wealth of experience.
Here at Silverloop, customer satisfaction is paramount and the service I provide has no hidden costs. When contacted I will visit the potential client free of charge and glean some key information about their business and their requirements. I will then, at no cost, produce a couple of visuals and if they are happy to proceed, agree a price to suit their budget.”
For more information; e-mail: [email protected] Tel: 01255 812251 Website: www.silverloop.co.uk
4
Paul Hughes
To Accelerating Your Performance
Issue 8 Summer 2014 5
Introduction of Early Conciliation
Agriculture l commerciAl ProPerty corPorAte And commerciAl l disPute resolution
emPloyment l licensing
Mary Anne Fedeyko leads the TSP Business Services team
SOLICITORS fOR IndIvIduaLS and buSIneSStsplegal.com
Our practical and constructive full service approach lets you focus on your business whilst we take care of the legal details.Clacton on SeaT 01255 [email protected]
ColchesterT 01206 [email protected]
[Richard Porter, Solicitor and Head of
Employment Law at Thompson Smith and Puxon (TSP), discusses the introduction of Early
Conciliation to the Employment Tribunal process.
Following a change in the Law, which took effect on 6 May 2014, an employee intending on making an employment tribunal claim must now notify Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) first.
The introduction of Early Conciliation was announced as part of the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 in an attempt to settle workplace disputes without the need to go to Court. Although it has been available on a trial basis since April 2014, for tribunal claims lodged on or after 6 May 2014 it is now a legal requirement to have made an Early Conciliation notification to Acas. Tribunal claims will not be accepted unless an Early Conciliation Certificate has been issued.
As well as employees using Early Conciliation when making a claim, employers will also be able to use Early Conciliation if they believe there is a workplace dispute which is likely to lead to tribunal proceedings.
Tip: If you are an employer and wish to respond to an approach for Early Conciliation you should take professional advice as soon as possible.
A number of Legal Updates covering all aspects of Employment Law can be viewed or downloaded from www.tsplegal.com.
Dates for your diaryEmployment Workshop: Managing Exit under Settlement AgreementsThursday 12 June 2014 Time: 4.00pm to 6.00pm
Employment Workshop: Using Contracts and Policies as a Business ToolThursday 11 September 2014 Time: 4.00pm to 6.00pm
Employment Workshop: Addressing Bullying, Harassmentand Discrimination Issues in the Work PlaceThursday 20 November 2014 Time: 4.00pm to 6.00pm
To book your place visit www.tsplegal.com or [email protected]
Richard Porter can be contacted on 01206 574431 or email [email protected]
6 Issue 8 Summer 2014
Japanese Knotweed - A Growing Issue
Me, Stress, Life & how I ended up with an allotment
Catie Spink (GCILEx) of the TSP Residential Property team, discusses the “growing” problem that is Japanese Knotweed.
Japanese Knotweed is an invasive and difficult to controlweed. It’s a perennial with bamboo like stems of over 2metres which re-grow each year. The plant was boughthere from Japan for its ornamental qualities in the midnineteenth century but soon spread across the UK. Ithas been said that there is not a six mile square patchof the UK that is not affected by Japanese Knotweedand we have the Victorians’ fondness for all thingsornamental to thank!
Under Schedule 9 of the Wildlife & Countryside Act1981 it is an offence to plant or otherwise causeJapanese Knotweed to grow in the wild and an offenceunder the Act can result in criminal prosecution. Thiscan include moving contaminated soil from one placeto another or incorrectly handling and transportingcontaminated material and plant cuttings.
Japanese Knotweed can cause serious damage tobuildings and structures (including drains, walls,garages, other outbuildings and drives) and it can bevery expensive and time-consuming to treat or remove.(It has been reported that clearing the weed from the10 acre Olympic site cost £70 million.) As a result, itcan affect the value of your property, its marketabilityand insurability and is now a major issue in propertytransactions.
Many mortgage lenders are reluctant to lend onresidential properties affected by Japanese Knotweedand those that are willing, usually require remediation
work to have been completed first.
If you are selling your property you will be required, on forms that you will fill in as part of your sale, to disclose the presence of Japanese Knotweed; if your property is affected, further enquiries will need to be made. This can cause considerable delays as surveys may need to be carried out and either remedial action taken or evidence provided that such remedial action as necessary has been completed.
If your property is affected by Japanese Knotweed youneed to be aware of the relevant legislation. Under theEnvironmental Protection Act 1990, Japanese Knotweedis classed as a controlled waste and as such it can onlybe disposed of in special landfill sites - this also includescontaminated soil.
An infringement under the Environmental ProtectionAct can result in enforcement action being taken andan unlimited fine. You may also be responsible for costsincurred from the spread of Japanese Knotweed ontoneighbouring properties.
I strongly recommend that if you suspect thatyour property is affected by Japanese Knotweed,get advice from a specialist contractor soonerrather than later.
To find out more about the tailored residentialproperty services TSP can offer, contact Catie on01255 254252 or by email at [email protected].
I’m a 54 year old sign maker, married to Wendy with 3 boys who’ve all left home. I’ve been self employed and worked hard all my life.
I’m overweight as I like a drink or three, who doesn’t? I did, however, stop smoking 8 years ago as this was the lesser of all my evils. I needed to relax but stress still got me when I least expected it. It was the last day of the month and I had been very busy all day getting jobs out and invoiced. By the time I got home that evening I had enough. I had developed a bit of a nagging headache so poured a large scotch to see if I could shake it off.The next thing I remember was being put in an ambulance and twenty minutes later having tests at Colchester hospital. I was diagnosed as having
had a mini stroke (TIA).
So, what next? A friend of mine who’s a farmer wanted me to make signs to sell 2.5 acres of land, so long story short, I got the land and it is now neatly separated out into 26 small, medium and large allotment plots. Ok, so that’s one for us and twenty five to rent out to friends, relatives and other serious like minded people.In my opinion, allotments are just perfect at the end of a busy day or at weekends. With a bag of cold refreshments, sitting there in the peace and quiet of the countryside, watching the wife plant and dig our plot. The satisfaction you get from planting and eating your own fresh fruit and vegetables is beyond words. Other benefits include keeping fit, reducing your carbon footprint, the community spirit and not to mention relieving stress.
www.myvegplot.co.uk
Issue 8 Summer 2014 7
How Close Do You Look at the Cleaning Standard of your office?
GLC Cleaning Ltd is an established contract cleaning company based in North Essex. As our business has grown, and by request of
our clients, our services have evolved into facility management.
Assisting our clients, not only in cleaning, but including Washroom Services, Pest Control, Grounds Maintenance and Landscaping, Carpet and Floor care works, Window Cleaning, Special Projects and requirements. Our attitude is not only to provide and ensure these services are delivered but to provide a fully trained staff member, advice, support and help. This, alongside trust and assistance, has been at the core of our success and growth. Our clients and their satisfaction of our services is why we are in business. Can we help and improve your services?
If you would like a review and estimate for your premises to which we provide a full break down of charges and how ‘your’ money is spent with a No Contract Tie In policy, call us on 01255 851478 or email [email protected]
TESTIMonIAl“GLC Cleaning started working for us a couple of months ago and they quickly had our office looking the best it’s ever looked. Their attention to detail is incredible and they constantly double-check and monitor their work so that high standards can be maintained.
What sets them apart is the fact that they are so very well organised, they have an established and well-thoughtout routine and they keep you fully informed at all times about what they are doing. It’s a pleasure to work with them and they are a breath of fresh air”.Katie Beer of Cunningtons Solicitors in Chelmsford
What makes us different to your current cleaning provider?
BEFORE
AFTER
Issue 8 Summer 20148
Award winning Lifehouse Spa & Hotel is flourishing!
The luxury spa treatments include Facials and Body Treatments using ESPA, Decleor and Ishga Seaweed Detox products, perfect for some well-deserved pampering.
However, what really sets Lifehouse apart is its focus on wellness with an emphasis on finding your own individual path to feeling good. Unlike many other spas, Lifehouse has its own resident naturopath who leads a team of wellness practitioners offering shiatsu, physiotherapy, postural assessment, life coaching, meditation, energy balancing, Australian Bush Flower Remedies and Food Intolerance Testing.
Asked about the key to Lifehouse’s success, Owner Donald Emslie says: “We believe that everyone should be free to choose what they need to feel good. For some people, that’s a swim and a yoga class followed by a cappuccino with friends on the sun terrace. For others, it’s a Life Balance Consultation with the Naturopath followed by a detoxifying Body Wrap and a healthy smoothie. Or sometimes we all just need an hour of peace and quiet walking in the gardens in the sunshine followed by a glass of Prosecco and a large slice of cake!”
L ifehouse Spa & Hotel, which nestles peacefully amidst 12 acres of beautiful English Heritage Listed Gardens in Thorpe
Le Soken, first opened its doors to the public in December 2010. As with many new fledgling businesses, the early years weren’t easy.
However, just two years since purchasing Lifehouse Spa & Hotel in March 2012, owners Peter Murphy and Donald Emslie are delighted that this award winning spa hotel is now a well-established and successful local business, thanks to great support from local residents, suppliers and a fantastic local workforce.
Peter Murphy, who is also on the Board of Visit Essex, describes his first impressions of Lifehouse saying, “When we first visited in 2011, Donald and I fell in love with Lifehouse. The contemporary design of the building set in beautiful historic gardens gives such a feeling of space and serenity. It’s the perfect location for a luxury spa.”
Lifehouse Spa & Hotel has all the facilities you would expect in a first class Spa: a fully equipped gym, an 18.5m swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room, salt inhalation room and plunge pool along with a full range of fitness classes including yoga, Zumba and spin.
FOC
US
ON
Issue 8 Summer 2014 9
Lifehouse has been very successful in attracting guests from all parts of Essex, London and beyond. However, Peter and Donald both emphasise that local people are Lifehouse’s most valued guests! Lifehouse offers gym memberships for those who want to enjoy the facilities on a regular basis. Or you can just pop in for a drink at the Lifehouse Bar overlooking the beautiful Thorpe Hall lakes and gardens. The Lifehouse Restaurant is open to non-residents for lunch and dinner serving superb cuisine created by Head Chef Jamie Murch. The Lifehouse Spa Café on the 1st floor, with its terrace overlooking the gardens, serves fresh fruit juices, smoothies, healthy green teas and delicious homemade scones.
Lifehouse also has corporate meeting rooms available to hire. So if you want an exclusive venue for your company’s events or away-days, with the added bonus of a beautiful setting and airy well equipped conference spaces, Lifehouse is the place for you.
Peter Murphy says, “the Lifehouse philosophy is all about guests loving life and living well. Lifehouse is the perfect place to enjoy looking after yourself! Whether you become a Lifehouse Member or want
Lifehouse - the perfect place to love
life and live well
to get away from it all with a pampering Spa Day, whether you would just like to book individual spa treatments now and again or whether you want somewhere for a drink, lunch or dinner we are here to look after you.”
So, if you live locally, the complimentary Lifehouse Loyalty Cards might be just the thing for you, giving you 10% off spa treatments and restaurant prices.
If you would like to know more or if you would like to visit Lifehouse for a look around, just contact Sarah Attrill on 01255 863442 or email her on [email protected].
Lifehouse Spa & Hotel Frinton Road, Thorpe Le Soken, CO16 0JDwww.lifehouse.co.ukReservations: 01255 860050 General Enquiries 01255 863400
10 Issue 8 Summer 2014
Call Now 01255 223223 or fax 01255 421733 or Email [email protected]
Baillie Business Supplies Ltd. Shop 8, Mansion House Precinct, North Road, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex CO15 4DA
FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY
MASSIVE STOCKHOLDING
BEST PRICES
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OFFICE STATIONERY
INKS, TONERS, RIBBONS
OFFICE FURNITURE
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Responding to Technology
It is estimated that there will be over twenty four and a half million tablets in use in the UK by the end of 2014. Among tablet owners the tablet is on
a par with the laptop as the most important device for accessing the internet Alongside this, seven out of ten adults in the UK now own or have access to a smartphone and are more likely to buy goods using it than anywhere else in Europe. A survey conducted by Google has shown that 32 per cent of people in the UK, (compared to just 8 per cent in France, 15 per cent in Germany and 19 per cent in Sweden) make a monthly purchase on their smartphone.
Ian Carrington, Director of Performance Solutions & Innovation at Google, said: “In the UK, people are increasingly using their smartphones for researching products, locating stores and making purchases. That’s why it is now essential for businesses to ensure their sites are mobile-ready.”
TBCMedia have been developing a smart responsive website that reacts to the type of device accessing your website, the resolution of the screen, the users bandwidth speed and whether the user is holding their device in a landscape or portrait position. It will evaluate all of these aspects and display your website in the best way possible to ensure a pleasant experience for the user, keeping them coming back to you time and time again.
For more information on this technology or to make an appointment call Kevin on 01255 740 021 or 07702 746 270. Email [email protected].
Accounts Prepared & Submitted for Ltd Companies,Partnerships & Sole Traders
VAT, Bookkeeping & Payroll
Tax Advice, Self Assessment Tax Returns & Company Secretarial Service
For a free Initial consultation please contact Alan on 01255 508252 or 07954 091981
www.ovendenbookkeeping.com
Issue 8 Summer 2014 11
for BUSINESS…for PLEASURE
Business meetings | Conferences | WeddingsPrivate parties | Wakes | Civic receptions…and more
An idyllic and versatile venue offering stunning harbour views
• Fully-serviced restaurant and bar • Experienced professional staff
• Multi-purpose hall for all seating formats • Accommodates up to 85
• Bespoke menus from tea and cakes to buffets to sit-down dining.
Corporate or celebratory, we have the location, the facilitiesand the know-how to make your event a complete success
For more information about holding your event atColne Yacht Club, please contact our HospitalityManager, Tony McManus on 01206 302594or email him at events@colne yachtclub.org.uk.
We are at Waterside, Brightlingsea CO7 0AX
© MLL Telecom 2013 Jubilee House, Third Avenue, Globe Park, Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 1EY
To find out more about our roll-out in Tendring, please call us on 01628 495 485 or email [email protected]
Faster broadband for your business
Starting with Gorse Lane Business Park, we will be delivering a business class service in Tendring launching from June 2014!
MLL Telecom is a specialist in delivering connectivity to rural and under-served communities and business parks.
Keeping it Local
John Candler of Abacus Security Systems has been providing safe and secure systems to his clients since the establishment of his company in Clacton-
on-Sea during 1980.
He has grown a large loyal customer base through his care, commitment and attention to detail. After 34 years running his firm he has made the decision that the time has come to retire.
As a meticulous business owner, committed to customer care, he has very carefully selected who to take over his clientèle. Seeking a company with the same conscientious approach and local commitment, John Candler has successfully achieved his aim by selecting a company that will fill this criteria – GCS Alarms Ltd.
GCS Fire & Security Systems is a name synonymous with security & protection, professionalism and customer service - they deliver the very best in fire & security systems to all of their clients. Being a NSI Gold Approved Company, GCS Alarms Ltd are also able to offer insurance approved upgraded systems which include central station monitoring, CCTV, keyholding and many other services.
Abacus Security Systems loyal customers now have the peace of mind that they will continue to receive top quality services, from a local family run business, with over 40 years experience.
For more information on services offered by GCS Alarms Ltd you can visit their website www.gcsalarms.co.uk, call 01255 220316 or email: [email protected].
Hurst Insurance Services is a trading style of R J Hurst & Partners. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.Registered in England (No.492768). 131-133 New London Road, Chelmsford, Essex. CM2 0QZ.
Every employer in the UK will be affected by auto-enrolment. Under new legislation, you are required to enrol all employees that meetcertain criteria into a pension plan and then contribute to their pension.
Can you ignore it?There’s a significant administrative burden to auto-enrolment, but it is amatter you need to get to grips with, because if you don’t comply withthe new requirements you could face a fine of up to £5,000 a day (moreif you employ 500 plus employees).
If you have an existing scheme, do you need to do anything?Yes, unfortunately there is still work that will need to be done by you tocomply with the new rules. You also need to review employees who arenot members of any scheme you may have in place. So, even if your scheme is auto-enrolment compliant you will need totake action. Depending on your own situation there could still be aconsiderable amount of things you need to do or put in place.
What are the next steps?1. Find out the date you need to comply (your staging date)
Fewer than 30 PAYE employees - 1st June 2015 - 1st April 2017(depending upon your PAYE reference number). The dates above are forguidance only, as there are complexities even with this part of the process.You should find out your own specific staging date by visitingwww.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/employers/tools/staging-date.aspx* Number of PAYE employees
2. Start preparingComplying with auto-enrolment is complex. You need to start the processearly so that you can put in place a solution that is right for your businessand for your employees. There are 38,000 companies that have to meetthe new auto enrolment regulations this year so getting your solution inplace early is critical. Being able to choose the best solution for yourbusiness is likely to be very challenging if you leave it too late, worse stillyou may not be able to meet the deadlines which could result in yourbusiness being fined.
3. What are the cost implications?These can be split into two areas; the direct costs of actually payingcontributions on behalf of your employees and the time cost of preparingand meeting your new responsibilities. The employee contributions youare required to pay increase as we get closer to October 2018 by which
time they are around 3% of pay. The time cost associated with autoenrolment will vary depending on how you meet your requirements andif you decide to undertake a lot of the work internally or find anoutsourced solution. Be warned, to undertake the work internally thereare over 250 pages of guidance that the Pensions Regulator has issuedthat you would need to work through and more importantly understand!
4. Categorise your workforceYou will need to categorise your workforce into three bands, eligiblejobholders, non-eligible jobholders or entitled workers. Each category has different entitlements under auto-enrolment rules. Thisis a critical part of the process and one that continues every time you runyour payroll after you have past your staging date.
5. Communication It's not just the company that is affected by the changes - this will havean impact on every member of your staff. How you communicate withthem will determine whether or not this is a smooth process or an HRdisaster. There are many communications you have to provide as astatutory requirement so getting this part of the process right will go along way to determining the number of phone calls and queries you willget from your workforce.
6. SystemsThere's a misconception that auto-enrolment is just about setting up apension scheme, however, that's only a very small part of it. The biggestchallenge for businesses will be the ongoing monitoring, reporting, recordkeeping and compliance associated with auto-enrolment and ensuringthat all members of the workforce are being treated correctly andcommunicated with appropriately every time you run your payroll.The only way to successfully achieve this is to ensure you have theappropriate systems in place that take care of all of this for you in anautomated way. This is a far bigger consideration than setting up thepension scheme itself.
7. SimplicityThere is a danger that trying to understand and implement all of this couldtake up a disproportionate amount of time for a business owner and inmany cases it could end up costing a lot more than it needs to. Nominating a dedicated auto-enrolment "champion" within the businessis a good start. This could be the HR Manager or one of the Directors ofthe business. They can work with an auto-enrolment specialist to comeup with a clear implementation plan, roll out the communications to theteam, set-up the scheme and sort out the ongoing systems.
Don’t worry – we can help. Get in touch…..We are currently offering employers within the Tendring area an initialconsultation to assess their auto-enrolment duties. This is a free 30 minuteconsultation. Simply call us on 01255 676543.
Financial ServicesHurst Insurance Services147 Connaught AvenueFrinton on Sea, Essex CO13 9RA
T: 01255 676543 F: 01255 677756
Business & Personal InsurancesHurst Insurance Services131-133 New London RoadChelmsford, Essex CM2 0QZ
T: 01245 251581F: 01245 491641
Are you ready for Auto Enrolment?asks Stuart Smith, Managing Director of R.J. Hurst & Partners in Frinton on Sea.
Employees* Date Employees* Date
61 1st August 2014 54 - 57 1st March 2015
60 1st October 2014 50 - 53 1st April 2015
59 1st November 2014 40 - 49 1st August 2015
58 1st January 2015 30 - 39 1st October 2015
Hurst Insurance TBCM Full Page Advert_Layout 1 13/05/2014 10:34 Page 1
Business Guidance
T he Tendring Enterprise Agency is an independent, not-for-profit organisation providing free business mentoring and
signposting services to start up and expanding businesses in the Tendring area from Harwich all the way to Brightlingsea.
Established in May 2012 it has mentored numerous emerging businesses and its networking and signposting has resulted in successful business to business collaborations as well as work with organisations such as Essex Innovation and the Institute for Manufacturing (IFM) who help them realise their full potential.
Our mentors are all volunteers and experienced business people including Chartered Accountants & Surveyors, I.T. Specialists, Marketing Professionals and business owners. All provide valuable time to help Tendring Businesses establish and grow.
Aside from the wealth of expertise and experience available through the Mentors Tendring Enterprise Agency arranges networking opportunities and can signpost for finance questions, marketing guidance, and many other issues.
All this at no cost! Why not take advantage of what it has to offer.
Tendring Enterprise Agency is run entirely by volunteers and is a Community Interest Company.
Visit our website, call the office or email for more details.
T: 01255 740 020 E: [email protected]
13Issue 8 Summer 2014Hurst Insurance Services is a trading style of R J Hurst & Partners. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.Registered in England (No.492768). 131-133 New London Road, Chelmsford, Essex. CM2 0QZ.
Every employer in the UK will be affected by auto-enrolment. Under new legislation, you are required to enrol all employees that meetcertain criteria into a pension plan and then contribute to their pension.
Can you ignore it?There’s a significant administrative burden to auto-enrolment, but it is amatter you need to get to grips with, because if you don’t comply withthe new requirements you could face a fine of up to £5,000 a day (moreif you employ 500 plus employees).
If you have an existing scheme, do you need to do anything?Yes, unfortunately there is still work that will need to be done by you tocomply with the new rules. You also need to review employees who arenot members of any scheme you may have in place. So, even if your scheme is auto-enrolment compliant you will need totake action. Depending on your own situation there could still be aconsiderable amount of things you need to do or put in place.
What are the next steps?1. Find out the date you need to comply (your staging date)
Fewer than 30 PAYE employees - 1st June 2015 - 1st April 2017(depending upon your PAYE reference number). The dates above are forguidance only, as there are complexities even with this part of the process.You should find out your own specific staging date by visitingwww.thepensionsregulator.gov.uk/employers/tools/staging-date.aspx* Number of PAYE employees
2. Start preparingComplying with auto-enrolment is complex. You need to start the processearly so that you can put in place a solution that is right for your businessand for your employees. There are 38,000 companies that have to meetthe new auto enrolment regulations this year so getting your solution inplace early is critical. Being able to choose the best solution for yourbusiness is likely to be very challenging if you leave it too late, worse stillyou may not be able to meet the deadlines which could result in yourbusiness being fined.
3. What are the cost implications?These can be split into two areas; the direct costs of actually payingcontributions on behalf of your employees and the time cost of preparingand meeting your new responsibilities. The employee contributions youare required to pay increase as we get closer to October 2018 by which
time they are around 3% of pay. The time cost associated with autoenrolment will vary depending on how you meet your requirements andif you decide to undertake a lot of the work internally or find anoutsourced solution. Be warned, to undertake the work internally thereare over 250 pages of guidance that the Pensions Regulator has issuedthat you would need to work through and more importantly understand!
4. Categorise your workforceYou will need to categorise your workforce into three bands, eligiblejobholders, non-eligible jobholders or entitled workers. Each category has different entitlements under auto-enrolment rules. Thisis a critical part of the process and one that continues every time you runyour payroll after you have past your staging date.
5. Communication It's not just the company that is affected by the changes - this will havean impact on every member of your staff. How you communicate withthem will determine whether or not this is a smooth process or an HRdisaster. There are many communications you have to provide as astatutory requirement so getting this part of the process right will go along way to determining the number of phone calls and queries you willget from your workforce.
6. SystemsThere's a misconception that auto-enrolment is just about setting up apension scheme, however, that's only a very small part of it. The biggestchallenge for businesses will be the ongoing monitoring, reporting, recordkeeping and compliance associated with auto-enrolment and ensuringthat all members of the workforce are being treated correctly andcommunicated with appropriately every time you run your payroll.The only way to successfully achieve this is to ensure you have theappropriate systems in place that take care of all of this for you in anautomated way. This is a far bigger consideration than setting up thepension scheme itself.
7. SimplicityThere is a danger that trying to understand and implement all of this couldtake up a disproportionate amount of time for a business owner and inmany cases it could end up costing a lot more than it needs to. Nominating a dedicated auto-enrolment "champion" within the businessis a good start. This could be the HR Manager or one of the Directors ofthe business. They can work with an auto-enrolment specialist to comeup with a clear implementation plan, roll out the communications to theteam, set-up the scheme and sort out the ongoing systems.
Don’t worry – we can help. Get in touch…..We are currently offering employers within the Tendring area an initialconsultation to assess their auto-enrolment duties. This is a free 30 minuteconsultation. Simply call us on 01255 676543.
Financial ServicesHurst Insurance Services147 Connaught AvenueFrinton on Sea, Essex CO13 9RA
T: 01255 676543 F: 01255 677756
Business & Personal InsurancesHurst Insurance Services131-133 New London RoadChelmsford, Essex CM2 0QZ
T: 01245 251581F: 01245 491641
Are you ready for Auto Enrolment?asks Stuart Smith, Managing Director of R.J. Hurst & Partners in Frinton on Sea.
Employees* Date Employees* Date
61 1st August 2014 54 - 57 1st March 2015
60 1st October 2014 50 - 53 1st April 2015
59 1st November 2014 40 - 49 1st August 2015
58 1st January 2015 30 - 39 1st October 2015
Hurst Insurance TBCM Full Page Advert_Layout 1 13/05/2014 10:34 Page 1
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CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHYRobert Wong
American, Italian & Mexican Cuisine Birthday PartiesWedding Parties Themed Party Nights Cocktails
Call 01255 688655 for reservations or visitwww.charnallies.co.uk
Our Voluntary Community
Frinton & Walton Heritage Trust Frinton & Walton Heritage Trust (Reg Charity No 289885) are offering a 10% discount to any business booking, for their exclusive use of James Stevens No.14 the World’s oldest motor lifeboat. The vessel takes 11 passengers and we run return trips of approx. 2, 4 and 8 hours from Walton on the Naze to local waters, Harwich and Ipswich, from £20 per person. So why not book a staff outing, team bonding day or corporate entertainment for your clients, with the option of taking lunch in Harwich or Ipswich.
Contact Brian Jennings on 01255 861440 or visit our web www.fwheritage.co.uk where you will find details and the full history of this unique historic vessel.
Supporting the elderly residents of Tendring
What’s on at Tendring Eldercare
• Full Day Care Monday – Friday 10.00am – 3.30pm • Flexible Half Days – Mornings and Afternoon Sessions available
Come and join us at our friendly and welcoming day centre
and enjoy a optional light breakfast, a healthy two course
meal with unlimited refreshments. Daily entertainment
and activities, social interaction and more
Showering, Hairdressing, Library, In house Shop facilities
all available.
• Spring into Summer Community Dinner
Thursday 19th June From 11.30am
Come along and enjoy a two course meal, unlimited
refreshments and an afternoon of entertainment.
• Lunch Club Thursdays 12.00pm – 2.00pm Little Clacton Village Hall• Weekly Day Trips and Afternoon Tea Outings
• Bingo Night – Saturday 21st June 2014
For more information please contact us on
01255 432132 or email us at; [email protected]
This page is donated by Tendring Business Community Magazine for the third sector in Tendring
Home-Start Harwich Home-Start offers a flexible non-judgemental befriending service delivered weekly on a one to one basis in the parents own home.
Outreach workers and Volunteers give practical and emotional support to families who are going through a difficult time. Previously this help was only given to families with under-fives but in Harwich we have expanded the service to any family with a child under the age of 11 years. We help parents or their families who are suffering from depression, anxiety, disability, additional needs, bereavement, domestic violence, emotional abuse and anyone who feels isolated.
We also help with budgeting advice and transport to essential services. This friendly support enables parents to build up confidence and raise their self-esteem giving themselves and their children a better quality of life. Parents are referred to us through the Health Visiting teams, Social Care, Nurseries, Pre-Schools, Toddler Groups and the Children’s Centre. Parents can also refer themselves by phoning the Harwich office on, 01255 556 230 9am – 5pm Mon-Fri.
We cover Harwich, Dovercourt, Manningtree, Mistley and the surrounding rural area. Please contact us if you feel you would like our Friendship and support.
Home-Start HarwichSt. Nicholas Hall, Stour Road, Harwich, Essex CO12 3HST: 01255 556230 E: [email protected] Charity No. 1113984
Hidden Gem
15Issue 8 Summer 2014
H i there, my name is Amber and I own Spinning Strawberry gift shop in Frinton-on-Sea. I started my business when I was 17
years old and Spinning Strawberry has been open almost 2 years now.
One of the main feedbacks from customers is that the Spinning Strawberry is different and unique - which is my aim. I also try to make the world a happier place by having recycled, organic products, Fairtrade products and deal with companies that give a percentage of their profit’s to charity. I believe that if everyone did the same the world would be a much happier place, all big things have to start somewhere!
Spinning Strawberry has a range of products for all ages. We have hand creams and body lotions, soap and candles, we also have picture frames and new baby gifts as well as toys, games and just about anything in-between. Everyone knows someone who has everything, well I can guarantee you will find something in the Spinning Strawberry that would suit them!
I know what it is like when you are in a rush to get everything done, so I also provide a free gift wrapping service and I sell
cards - so you can walk into the Spinning Strawberry with an occasion and person in mind and walk out with a gift that is wrapped, a bag to put it in and a card to go with it, saving you lots of time and hassle.
Spinning Strawberry’s motto “we aim to make the world a happier place” starts right here in the shop. If I can help you find the perfect gift, wrap it for free and then you walk out with a smile on your face, then I have achieved my goal. Like the well-known saying, “when you smile the world smiles with you”.
Spinning Strawberry is different because it is not just a shop, it’s a service, always putting the customer first and always thinking about the wider picture. Everything has to start somewhere, the biggest tree was once a small seed.
Tel: 01255 676881 E-mail: [email protected] or find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/SpinningStrawberry
Nicky CoatesResident Partner, Frinton-on-Sea office
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Visit us at our offices in: Colchester, Clacton-on-Sea, Frinton-on-Sea and Dovercourt
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Headgate CourtHead StreetColchesterEssex CO1 1NP
01255 85100001206 [email protected]
www.ellisonssolicitors.com
Our team of solicitors are dedicated toserving and protecting your interestsand providing the best possible service.
The TBCM team have came across some quirky, unique, innovative and unusual businesses throughout the Tendring area. Each issue we will highlighting them with our ‘Hidden Gems’ article
Amber in her shop
If you have a business that is a ‘hidden gem’ in Tendring then email the team and tell us why! E-mail: [email protected]
Graphic design for print and the web
Make good design your difference
For more information call: 01255 812251 orE: [email protected] www.silverloop.co.uk
We are pleased to announce that our forthcoming networking event is to be held at Charnallies in Clacton-on-Sea on Friday 11th July 2014. This is a delightful venue situated in the town centre.
As usual, this event is free to attend for all advertisers and sponsors. (T&C’s apply)
We welcome all Tendring based businesses to attend this quality networking event in a comfortable, relaxed with no pressure to buy environment, complemented with a full English breakfast at a cost of only £15.00 per person.
This charge is payable in advance or by cash on the door. Please book early to avoid disappointment as numbers are limited.
There is an opportunity to address and promote your business the rest of the group. These slots are offered on a first come first served basis and can be booked in advance by e-mailing [email protected].
Please also remember to bring any marketing or advertising collateral with you and a good supply of business cards.
The event starts at 8.00am and will finish at 10.00am. Tea, Coffee and juice are available on arrival, followed by a full English breakfast (please contact us if you have any special dietary requirements at least 48 hours prior to the event).
Our next networking event
Address and Sat Nav details:
Charnallies is located on Pier Avenue on the road opposite Clacton Pier. Parking is available on surrounding roads but please take note of parking restrictions.
Address: Charnallies Restaurant and Bar, 1-5 Pier Avenue, Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, CO15 1QB Tel: 01255 688655
For bookings and further information please contact Kevin Barnes via e-mail at [email protected] or call 01255 740021
We look forward to seeing you there!
Advertising
Deadline for advertising and payment for the autumn issue is Friday 22nd August 2014.
Bookings are already being taken by new and repeat advertisers, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Special thanks to Richard Blackman and the team at juniper house of print for their help in producing the Tendring Business Community Magazine. (For more information on juniper house of print please see the advert on page 13).
Call: 01255 740021 Email: [email protected] www.tbcm.info
Free Networking
Events for all advertisers