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Issue 7 April 2014TopicUK

Putting Wakefield on the radar

Unity Hall set to open

Special Business week issue

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MAKINGCREATIVITYWORKIN PRINT

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Call Chrissie Slater on 07764 348782 or email myconferences@mycci.co.uk

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MY CONFERENCES IS A SERIES OF ‘OPEN SOURCE’ BUSINESS WEEKS, full of sector specific seminars all run by different businesses and free to all. Each regional event features its own dedicated conference

MONDAY 2ND JUNE SEES THE START OF THE SECOND Wakefield Business Week with Wakefield Business Conference bang in the middle of the week on Wednesday 4th June.

MARTIN DAWES, COFFEE NATION/COSTA EXPRESS GIANT AND JOHN BIRD, founder of The Big Issue will take to the main stage to share their journey to business success. There will be more than 30 seminarshosted by experts across the district, a ‘State of the Distrct’ paneland four local businesses presenting ‘20 slides in 20 seconds’ of social media.

KIRKLEES BUSINESS WEEK WILL FOLLOW ON THE 13TH OCTOBER WITH THE conference held on the 15th October at the John Smith’s Stadium.

FINALLY FOR 2014, THE FIRST EVER CALDERDALE BUSINESS WEEK WILL TAKE place on 10th November with the conference on the 12th November at The Shay Stadium.

GET INVOLVED NOW. SEMINAR REQUESTS AND STAND BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN FOR ALL THREE BUSINESS WEEKS ON THE MY CONFERENCES WEBSITE WWW.MYBUSINESSCONFERENCES.CO.UK

Topic

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G I LL L A I D LE RED I TO R

R O B B L AC K W E LLC R E AT I V E D I R EC TO R

LO C A L H E R O E S/C H A R I T Y S A M G RU N DY, K I DS .O R G

T H E A R T SM U R R AY ED WA R DS , T H E AT R E R OYA L

FA S H I O NEM M A DA R V I L L , T R I N I T Y WA L K

LEG A L M AT T E R SPE T ER H A R L I N G , C H A D W I C K L AW R EN C E S O L I C I TO R S

B E AU T Y & W E LLB E I N GL IZ S PEI G H T, T RU E B E AU T Y S A LO N

H E A LT HD R A N D R E W F U R B ER , WA K EF I EL D CO U N C I L

FO O D & R E S TAU R A N T R E V I E WK E V I N T R I C K E T T, WA K EF I EL D C I V I C S O C I E T Y

R EC R U I T M E N TA N DY T U R N ER , F I R S T C H O I C E R EC RU I T M EN T

PR O PE R T YH O L D R OY D M I L L ER

6 News5TH AWARD FOR LOCAL COMPANY

10 Business TravelLOCAL COMPANY GOES GLOBAL

12 The Art BusinessTHEATRE TAX RELIEF TO BE INTRODUCED

20 AwardsRESTAURANT OF THE YEAR

26 Business Week2nd ANNUAL BUSINESS CONFERENCE

30 Local HeroesPUTTING WAKEFIELD ON THE RADAR

Tel: 07711 539047 Email - topicuk@ ghost-communications.com

The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers and therefore no responsibility can be held by the publisher for misinterpretation. Reproduction of this magazine without the express permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Carolyn Pearsonmaiden-voyage.com

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@topic_uk facebook.com/ topicuk

MEETPAUL REIDp30 TopicUK caught up withnew Wakefield First Chair,Paul Reid

Unity hall set to open early September after £4Mrenovation project.

UNITY HALLP34

P10

• Wakefield One Business Centre• Wakefield Theatre• Cedar Court Hotel Wakefield• Trinity Walk Shopping Centre• The Ridings Shopping Centre• The Hepworth• Ramsdens Solicitors• Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors• Westgate Train Station• Wakefield Business Centres• Wakefield Chamber of Commerce• Tourist Information Centre

Plus a number of smaller outlets. If you would like to stock copies, call us on 07711 539047 or email the address below. Alternatively, to ensure you receive a regular copy, you can subscribe and receive your own copy direct by post for just £20 per annum. To subscribe email your details to gill@ghost-communications.com

Where to pick up a free copy of TopicUK

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32 Council News SETTING APPRENTICESHIP SIGHTS HIGH

34 Unity Hall WOULD YOU LIKE TO OWN A SHARE ?

36 Dining Out RESTAURANT REVIEW GASKELLS

38 Recruitment IT ISN'T ROCKET SCIENCE

46 Health MAKING WAKEFIELD DEMENTIA FRIENDLY

Tel: 07711 539047 Email - topicuk@ ghost-communications.com

Whilst every care is taken in the production of this magazine, the publisher/editor cannot accept any responsibility for errors in articles, advertisements or programme schedules. To subscribe to this magazine, submit an article or press release please contact Gill Laidler on: 07711

539047 or email topicuk@ghost-communications.com Published by Ghost Publishing Limited. Law pages are written by Chadwick Lawrence Solicitors and TopicUK is not responsible for any advice given Cover Shot: Guest speakers Wakefield Business Week.

topicukgallery www.topicuk.co.uk

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WHATS ONDURING BUSINESS WEEK 2014In this special Business Week issue, check out the programme of events & guest speakers

EDITORSNOTESThis month, TopicUK celebrates its first Birthday and how fitting that this issue, thanks to our advertisers, guest editors, sponsors and contributors, we have doubled our print circulation. We are also receiving a fantastic 4500 visitors each month to our website, giving us a potential readership of 9,500 businesses.We will be celebrating this milestone with a Birthday party on 9th May at Wakefield Theatre and if you would like to join us between 11.30am-12.30pm, please let us know as places are limited.This issue we focus our attention on Wakefield Business Week and TopicUK will be handed out to all delegates attending the conference. You will find all the information about speakers, events and details of how to book exhibition space on pages xx.We also welcome on board two new regular guest editors. First Choice

Recruitment who will be reporting about employment in the area and Holroyd Miller Estate Agents who will keep us informed about commercial property. As we went to press we welcome om board Audi Wakefield who will guest edit our future motoring section. Although our circulation is increasing, we are still keeping our advertising rates low to help local business. Quarter pages are available at just £90; half page at £160 and full page at £295. If you would like to take advantage and potentially reach up to 8,000 local businesses, call us now on: 07711 539047.Remember TopicUK is YOUR magazine and if you have a story to tell, do let us know.

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News

Visitors will find themselves stepping back in time, and walking straight into the feeding frenzy of hungry dinosaurs

from slow-moving plant-eaters to fierce, agile flesh eaters. This spectacular exhibition brings together intriguing fossil evidence, fun hands on exhibits, scientific insights and the 10 most lifelike and spectacular animatronics you have ever seen, it will reveal everything scientists now know about what and how dinosaurs ate. “We are delighted to have secured the exhibition which is in great demand. June – September are peak dates and covers all of the long school summer holidays. We look forward to welcoming children of all ages, to what promises to be a great day out.” James Vincent – Managing Director of Royal Armouries (International) Plc.The lifelike spectacular

It was announced today that the Natural History Museum Exhibition Dino Jaws will be taking place at NEW DOCK Hall, Leeds from the 3rd June 2014 - 7th September 2014.

animatronics will show you what paleontologists know about what that dinosaurs had for dinner! Using the same techniques that scientists use, become a dino detective and study dinosaur jaws, claws, guts and even a huge mound of poo piled high behind the plant-eating Euoplocephalus animatronic to discover what dinosaurs ate. Visitors can investigate the poo to find traces of what this armoured dinosaur might have eaten. They can also touch real fossilised dinosaur poo. However, they have to watch out for the deadly swinging tail of Euopocephalus.

KIRKGATE MARKET HOSTS INTERNATIONAL FOOD TOURS

Retail property specialist and developer of Victoria Gate, Hammerson, has teamed up with Leeds Kirkgate Market to deliver a series of interactive school tours, aimed at celebrating Leeds as a global city leading up to the Tour de France.

The five-week event on 24 April will showcase some of the 130 different nationalities and international communities within Leeds and encourage children to appreciate cultural diversity and where food comes from.

Each week, school classes will tour the market learning about different communities and tasting native foods, as well as watching cultural performance from Zulu and Chinese Lion dancers and listening to talks from Leeds’ very own community representatives. Cultures from Nigeria, China, Southern African, Italy and France will be showcased throughout the event.

Allerton CE Primary, Valley View Community Primary and Hunslet Moor Primary are just a few schools participating in the tours.

Commenting on the initiative, Hammerson’s

Community Manager, Jon Brooks said: “The International Food Tours will help to promote the market as an interesting and thriving place at the heart of the city. The Victoria Gate development will neighbour the market and we intend to support the market’s growth exposure and development as much as we possibly can as well as profiling the diverse population of the city.”

Sue Burgess, Leeds Kirkgate Market’s Manager said: “It’s great to be working with our new neighbours, Hammerson on this initiative, Children really engage with the market and its cultural diversity by learning in a fun and interactive way and we hope they will become great ambassadors for market shopping now and in the future.”

If you’re interested in booking a tour for your school, visit: http://www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for Leeds Kirkgate Market. To enter your school into the International Food Tours Competition, to be in with a chance of winning £200 worth of book vouchers, visit the Victoria Gate website at: http://www.victoriagate.co.uk/news/

Euopocephalus.

DINO JAWS LEEDS DATES ANNOUNCED

RAI was incorporated in 1993 and owns and operates NEW DOCK Hall. RAI is also the sole and exclusive provider of corporate entertainment, event management and catering under concession at the ROYAL ARMOURIES MUSEUM, Leeds.RAI has no other contractual relationship with the Board of Trustees of Royal Armouries, Royal Armouries or Royal Armouries Museum. This exhibition is neither the responsibility of, nor endorsed by the Board of Trustees of the Royal Armouries, Royal Armouries or Royal Armouries Museum

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CHADWICK LAWRENCE ANNOUNCE NEW PARTNERYorkshire’s Legal People are pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Welton as a partner

Due to Tim’s continued commitment to the firm, highly commended profile in the Wakefield business community and numerous achievements in the Dispute Resolution team, Tim has earned his place as a partner.After studying ancient history and archaeology at Liverpool University, Tim joined Chadwick Lawerence in August 1996 as a paralegal in the criminal department and has been with the firm since.Tim went on to complete a post graduate diploma in law at Huddersfield University before qualifying as a solicitor in May 2006. He is based in the Wakefield office in the dispute resolution department as the team leader. Tim is also an expert in road traffic offences and privately funded criminal law and continues to work in the criminal department.Tim chairs a number of local groups including the Wakefield Enterprise Partnership professional Group and Wakefield is Working Group. He is a founder and committee member of WACCL (Wakefield Annual Christmas Charity Lunch) which raised £14,000 for the Performance Academy at Wakefield Theatre Royal last year. Tim has also been appointed as a Director of our very own TopicUK magazine. In addition, he is also vice chair of governors at Flushdyke Junior and Infant School in Ossett.Jeremy Garside, Managing Partner commented: “The dispute resolution team has grown significantly over the past few years and Tim has played a pivotal role in this growth and the development of the firm in the Wakefield community. We are delighted to announce his promotion to Partner.”

Following on from the successful launch of her book at The Hepworth as reported in TopicUK in our January issue,

businesswoman and author Jo Haigh headed south to London at a second launch on 20 March.Endorsed by entrepreneur James Caan, ‘The Keys to the Boardroom, How to get there and stay there’, is the fifth book authored by Ms Haigh, a partner of Wakefield fds Corporate Finance.

AUTHOR CELEBRATES LONDON SUCCESS

FIND THE RIGHT SUPPLIER FOR YOUR BUSINESSFinding the right supplier for your business is daunting. Finding the right service at the right price can be a minefield, especially when as a business owner you do not have enough time in the day, which is why after 20 years in the business service industry, Simon Kamen from KJA Procurement has developed the business buying service.“Over the years I have gained some great contacts, learnt a tremendous amount about buying, selling, negotiating and the importance of service levels,” Simon told TopicUK.The business buying service is designed to take away the hassle

when looking for a product or service for your business. So how does it work? You make an enquiry and KJA will do the rest by establishing your requirements. Their team in Yorkshire will then request proposals from their large bank of accredited suppliers which will then be analysed and you will then receive quotes offering the best possible value, saving you both time and money. It’s as simple as that.If you would like to know more about the service, view the animated video at www.kjaprocurement.co.uk or call on 0844 8119241.

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One of the fastest growing law practices in the UK, has revealed that it has now hired its 120th

member of staff as part of the business’s rapid expansion. The firm, which now has one of the largest conveyancing departments in the country, is taking advantage of the growing housing market, as well as expanding each of its other divisions, with the aim of employing more than 200 people by the end of the year.Based in Wakefield with a turnover exceeding £5m, Beaumont Legal is at the forefront of the provision of modern legal services with a

reputation for providing a quality, honest service. Tracing its history back more than 200 years, 2013 saw unparalleled growth for the firm, which expanded from 50 to more than 150 employees, with the majority of the new roles being solicitors and law graduates in the conveyancing division.The first new solicitor to be hired outside conveyancing is Nicola Roberts, 45, who joins the firm as an associate solicitor with more than 17 years experience, specialising in

litigation such as personal injury and medical negligence. Roy Cusworth, senior partner at Beaumont’s said: “Last year, we began a major expansion of the conveyancing business as well as building a management team capable of developing Beaumont Legal into one of the country’s top providers of specialist and modern legal services. During 2014 we will hire more conveyancing solicitors as the residential property market goes into overdrive and we’re looking to build our team in other areas.”Nicola added: “It’s exciting to come into a firm that has such

a buzz around it and expanding at such a rate. Beaumont Legal is known for its personal approach to client service and that’s something I value both professional and personally. The whole team has made me feel extremely welcome and I am already enjoying helping clients pursue their claims.”

News

FIFTH INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS AWARD FOR LOCAL COMPANYWakefield based recruitment firm m2r, has picked up its fifth award in as many years, having won ‘Most Improved Business Performance’ at the UK Trade & Investment Export Awards held in Leeds. Having also been shortlisted for ‘Exporter of the Year’, this marks an excellent start to their new financial year and shows how much the company has grown within the international education sector.m2r are newcomers to the education sector and in the space of one year, have won accounts across the Middle East with major universities, vocational colleges and private companies, helping them fill their much needed requirements for Teachers and Trainers.Managing Director, Munir Mamujee, who accepted the award commented: “this is a tremendous result for us and just goes to

BEAUMONT LEGAL CONTINUES TO EXPAND

120th member of staff

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After a day spent pitching to esteemed ‘Dragons’/judges, six teams of budding female entrepreneurs found out which of their innovations was deemed the most marketable at the WGHS ‘Young Entrepreneur of the Year’ award evening.

Students, parents, teachers, guests and the judges joined together for a truly inspirational evening, watching the teams’ pitches back on the big screen, eating canape’s made by the food technology students and celebrating enterprise.The competition, designed to encourage girls within a single sex educational environment to think like ‘business women’, gain enterprise skills and an awareness of the job market, challenging teams of year 10 girls to create an innovative product. The brief asked the girls to look for gaps in the market, to consider branding, target markets, consumer wants and needs and then incorporating the 4 P’s, Product, Place, Price and Promotion, into a presentation to be pitched at business and industry experts.WGHS were excited and privileged to be supported by an impressive judging panel comprising: Kathryn Wood, owner of Mint Salons and The Beauty Rooms, Dimple (an ex-pupil) and Vikesh Patel who run a nationwide coffee franchise and have recently acquired Harry Ramsden’s (Yorkshire) and lead judge, Claire Harper, owner of

IndiaCoco, an award winning ‘Best of British’ childrenswear retailer. As well as judging the pitches, Claire was an inspiring host for the event, imparting credible enterprise advice and offering, in her words, valuable learning rather than criticism.Before the winning team and their product were announced, the audience was treated to a truly motivational talk by Emily Cummins, a young inventor and entrepreneur. Her vision and inventions have benefited the lives of many in Africa, lending to such accolades as ‘one of the top ten outstanding young people in the world 2010’ and the ‘Barclays Woman of the Year 2009’ and at just 26 years of age!The friendly ‘Dragons’ felt privileged to have been involved in judging pitches by girls in Year 10 who demonstrated keen business acumen, confidence and superlative presentational skills. The audience were in awe of the exceptional standard and felt fortunate not to be in the judging seat. Nonetheless, the winning team ‘Temperfect’ emerged victorious with their revolutionary thermostatic, baby feeding bottle.

STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO THINK LIKE BUSINESS WOMEN

BEAUMONT LEGAL CONTINUES TO EXPAND

show what can be achieved with consistent hard work and diligence.”The company recently hosted the first ever education job fair in Leeds inviting a Saudi company to join them on their first UK visit.Munir took the delegation on a guided tour of Wakefield following a VIP arrival at Leeds Bradford Airport, organised by Mick McKigney, business manager at Wakefield Council.“They were very impressed with Wakefield and the welcome they received from local businesses,” Munir told TopicUK."We hope to be inviting them back again very soon".

TopicUK I s s u e 7 A p r i l 2 0 1 4

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When my manager said “We need you to go Hollywood”, I jumped at the opportunity as I love to travel. The reality was a little less glamorous however, as Head of IT Systems at ITV, my mission was to visit Paramount Studios to look at an IT system. The Emmerdale Christmas party was coming up and it would be a perfect shopping destination to pick up a little something to wear. I decided to head out on the Friday and tag on the weekend prior to my meetings.

I ventured out of my hotel on that Saturday morning, excited about having a whole new city to explore. It wasn’t quite what I had imagined however, having arrived late at night I hadn’t familiarised myself with my surroundings and found myself in a deserted business district. The concierge hailed me a cab and I spent the day in Santa Monica and wandered down to Venice Beach. I had a fantastic day, enjoying my own

LOOKING AFTER BUSINESS LADIES WORLDWIDE

LOCAL COMPANY GOES GLOBAL

company, shopping at my own pace, yes I got the outfit, and I enjoyed a leisurely lunch on Santa Monica Pier.

As darkness fell I headed back to the safety of the hotel. It was then that I faced the stark realisation that a company jolly, is anything but jolly when you are in one of the world’s most exciting cities, alone on a Saturday night. Determined not to waste the evening eating room service, I ventured down to the hotel restaurant. It was practically deserted apart from a couple of business men. Two hours and a stodgy pasta Carbonnara later I was besides myself with boredom and couldn’t wait for my colleagues to arrive. It was then that I decided that I should create a network through which women in similar situations could connect, have dinner or do a spot of sight-seeing in like-minded company.

I named the network maiden-voyage.com. Within weeks the New York Times featured the site and before I knew it I was being broadcast around the world on CNN! The site was a hit and we had ladies joining from all over the world. Five years later maiden-voyage.com has grown into a global business with members in over 60 countries.

Ladies began asking us for recommendations for good, safe comfortable hotels so we worked with them to create a brand standard which includes double-locking doors, 24x7 manned reception, salon quality hairdryers and luxury toiletries. Hotels that pass our inspection criteria are now featured on the site and benefit from exposure to a global female traveller community. In turn, these hotels now offer VIP benefits such as upgrades, spa treatments and champagne to our members. Some of the local hotels we feature include Oulton Hall in Leeds, Radisson Blu Edwardian in Manchester and Rockliffe Hall in Darlington.

The business expanded and we now work with hotels to really teach them how to attract and retain female business travellers and to turn them into ‘raving fans’. It’s wonderful to go on a journey with a hotel and to really help them understand this growing segment of savvy travellers.

Member benefits have expanded too and we’ve launched our global Ambassador network. This is a hand selected group of women around the world who have written city guides in their own words, recommending their favourite bars, restaurants and hotels and sharing essential information for the female traveller. Members can also get in touch with ambassadors and meet up with they are in town.

Find out more about maiden-voyage.com, see www.maiden-voyage.com (ladies register for free)email carolyn@maiden-voyage.comfollow maiden-voyage.com on twitter @maiden_voyage

TRAVEL

1. Only use hotels that have double-locking doors that cannot be overridden with a master key and make sure you apply both locks when in your room.

2. Good hotels will never announce your room number verbally, it should be communicated to you discreetly.

3. Remember to remove your name badge or pass when leaving a conference or offices so that people can’t catch you off guard.

4. Heading out to dinner? Remember to take your hotel details with you. If you travel a lot it can be easy to forget where you are staying.

5. Being collected an airport? Make sure you and the driver both have copies of the same correspondence, it takes minutes for somebody to copy a name plate.

6. Remember drink spiking doesn’t only happen at night and with alcohol, think about who you are meeting and twice about leaving drinks unattended.

7. Leaving the TV on hanging to do not disturb sign on your door may deter thieves from entering your room. Tip! Ask for two key cards if one is needed to operate the power.

8. Keep your room key, coat or robe and shoes close the bed in case you have reason to evacuate in the night - this way you will be warm and can avoid the inevitable queues at reception to get back into your room.

9. Read maps and work out your route before leaving the hotel, walk confidently and purposefully to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

10. Last but not least plan ahead and book in some nice down time, it’s criminal to be in a new city and not experience the culture, people and food. You can meet other like-minded women on maiden-voyage.com or find a list of recommended female friendly hotels there.

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LOCAL COMPANY GOES GLOBAL

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The Art Business

Murray Edwards Executive Director TRW

THEATRE TAX RELIEF TO BE INTRODUCED FROM SEPTEMBER 2014

The Chancellor announced in his Autumn Statement 2013 that the government would introduce a new tax relief for theatre productions.

In his March 2014 Budget Statement the Chancellor set out that this relief will support plays, musicals, opera, ballet and dance and will offer two rates; 25% for touring productions and 20% for other theatre productions. This new relief will be available from September 2014. A consultation has been launched with a closing date of 8 May 2014. The government will take all responses into account before confirming the final policy design.

With the reductions in public sector investment in the Arts the proposed tax breaks for the theatre industry is a most welcome development and will help generate additional investment in new productions, create more employment opportunities and give a boost to

producing across theatre and other forms of performance.

The scheme will benefit both commercial and subsidised producers, because this relief will be claimed either by offsetting it against corporation tax – a levy on the taxable profits of a company – or obtaining the relief as a cash credit. It will be applied to 80% of a production’s eligible capitalisation which includes all the costs associated with mounting a show, apart from marketing, advertising and contingency provisions.

Producing organisations that are charities will have to consider setting up separate trading companies to operate their productions in order to claim the relief. This is reasonable straightforward and UK Theatre – the industry body representing theatres across the UK - will be

Our newly modernised conference facilities now boast ergonomically designed 8 hour chairs to keep you comfortable throughout a busy meeting plus plasma screens for easy use with your laptop or iPad.

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providing training for those organisations which plan to make use of this new initiative and the Treasury and HMRC are said to be very supportive.

Provided that this scheme doesn’t prove to be top heavy administratively, then it will enable producers to reduce the costs of setting up new productions and this should result in more productions being mounted and more touring taking place.

Nicholas Hytner, Director of the National Theatre, said “After a very rocky start, I detect the government recognises that that theatre’s success is a golden egg and they know that it is something they would prefer not to undermine.” Henny Finch, executive producer at Headlong – one of

this country’s major subsidised touring producers said “I won’t look a gift horse in the mouth – this is great news. But I’m nervous that this government might give with one hand and take away with the other. The commercial touring field is currently very successful and is making money. Big companies will get richer – and what will that do to the availability of quality work? Will large theatre groups use the windfall to invest in riskier work?”

It is well known that the London West End is now relying more and more on work originating outside London, often from the subsidised sector. Over the last 3 years there has been a significant reduction in regional production which

is not only having an immediate effect on programmes at many regional theatres, but is also reducing the amount of work available for actors and therefore making it more and more difficult to make a living. If the Chancellor’s recent announcement enables more productions to be generated then this is a most important development for the long term health of the theatre in this country.

If you would like to respond to the government’s consultation then follow the link below.

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/theatre-tax-relief Murray Edwards is the Executive Director of Theatre Royal Wakefield.

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LEGALMATTERS EACH ISSUE CHADWICK LAWRENCE, YORKSHIRE'S LEGAL PEOPLE SHARE WITH TOPICUK READERS INFORMATION TO KEEP US ALL WITHIN THE LAW. IF YOU HAVE A LEGAL QUESTION OR NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A PARTICULAR SUBJECT, EMAIL TOPICUK@GHOST-COMMUNICATIONS.COM AND WE'LL GET CHADWICK LAWRENCE TO ANSWER IT FOR YOU.

Law

Pension sharing orders are underused claims reportPension Sharing Orders, first introduced in England and Wales in 2000 have been the subject of a review for the first time.

Family Law Week reports that the study by Hilary Woodward from Cardiff Law School has explored when and how the issue of pensions is included in Financial Remedy Orders in the Family Courts.

Pension Sharing Orders allow a proportion of one party’s pension to be transferred to the other in a separate pension fund. The orders can be extremely useful where one party’s pension provision far outweighs the other’s, thus providing security for the future.The outcomes of the study suggest that whilst Pension Sharing Orders are extremely useful, the fact is that they simply are not used as much as was anticipated. It remains the case that in the majority of financial settlements, parties choose or are ordered to offset pension assets with other assets such as capital in a savings account or property.

Remarkably, the findings suggest that in 20% of cases, neither party disclosed any pension assets other than the basic state pension and in all but two of the cases where a Pension Sharing Order was used, the Order was in favour of the wife. As expected however, the findings show that Pension Sharing Orders are more common in longer marriages where pension assets would be of greater significance and the orders are more likely to be made where both parties are legally represented.

Consumer Credit ChangesFrom 1 April 2014 the FCA will be taking over from the OFT as the main regulator of Consumer Credit agreements.

Previously, consumer credit has always been regulated by itself, rather than alongside other retail financial services. The Government felt this left a weakness in the regulatory system which was being abused.

So, from 1 April, all regulation of financial services will be carried out by the FCA and there will be an overhaul of the Consumer Credit licensing systems.

The timescales for the new systems to be brought into place are relatively short and prudent businesses are already preparing for the changes. Notably, businesses have until 31 March to check that their consumer credit licence is up to date and to apply for interim permission to continue offering consumer credit, based on their existing licence.

With the new changes to Consumer Credit and the proposed revolution to consumer protection in the form of the Consumer Rights Act, 2014 promises to be an exciting time in the consumer contracts field.

Pre-Nuptial Agreements - reforms recommendedIn case you missed it, the long awaited report from the Law Commission has highlighted a number of areas of family law which are ripe for reform. The underlying premise of the report is that it ought to be simpler for couples to settle their finances when ending their marriage or civil partnership and that there should be a greater degree of predictability where the outcome is concerned. One measure which is suggested is for the Family Justice Council to provide guidance on what amounts to ‘financial needs’ and also to consider a formula to be used to determine financial settlements.

A further key suggestion is that ‘qualifying nuptial agreements’ should be upheld by the courts. Presently, couples can enter into Pre- and Post-Nuptial agreements to regulate how they would settle their finances if their marriage or civil partnership breaks down. Whilst these would be considered by a court, there is no guarantee that they will be upheld if there is any disagreement. To make such agreements enforceable would hopefully mean

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that more couples would feel confident in entering into them thereby reducing any uncertainty should the relationship end and also the burden on the current court system. It will however remain vital that such agreements are freely entered into and that both parties take legal advice.

Although guidance on financial needs and the possibility of a formula would provide some welcome certainty, it remains unclear as to how the formula will be applied, particularly to take into account regional differences. It is also questionable whether the proposed reforms go far enough. For many years family lawyers have sought wider ranging reform of the 1973 Matrimonial Causes Act, calling for a reflection of modern times by removing the conflict that often follows the requirement of assigning blame for the breakdown of a marriage of civil partnership to one party.

Catherine Dews, Partner and Head of the Family Law Team at Chadwick Lawrence said: “The recommendations certainly make interesting reading. Clarity over needs and a formulaic approach might well help to give many couples the certainty that they look for when their relationship ends. The reform of nuptial agreements will also bring our system into line with most other European countries and provide a structure for ‘qualifying’ agreements. On the whole we welcome the report but there is clearly more detail to come.”

Amazon Adword case decides it must leave Lush aloneIn the latest of the Adword cases, cosmetic company Lush has taken on retail giant Amazon over its use of the term ‘Lush’.Lush has previously refused to trade with Amazon as the ethical cosmetic brand allegedly disapproves of Amazon’s business attitude, particularly in relation to Amazon’s stance on UK taxation.Although it did not sell Lush products, Amazon decided to bid on keywords containing the word ‘Lush’ on Google’s Adword service. Amazon also used Lush in its own website search engine to direct people to competitor products within its site.Lush, who have an exclusive licence of the word ‘Lush’ in relation to cosmetics within the UK brought an action against Amazon as they believed that the Adwords and search function on the Amazon site devalued their trade mark.Amazon argued that it was common practice in the online retail world for websites to direct customers to similar or competing products and that their customers would soon realise that the product they were viewing were not Lush products.

Yorkshire’s Legal People

Chadwick Lawrence delivers a comprehensive range of expert legal services to commercial and private clients.

Our integrated approach allows us to manage your business, personal and family affairs with seamless expertise.

For more information or to arrange an initial free consultation please call:

01484 519999 or visitchadwicklawrence.co.uk

The judge rejected this view. He believed that the average consumer trusted Amazon as a retailer of a large variety of products and that they would expect that if Amazon was advertising using the brand name of a product then Amazon would sell that brand. He further said that the average consumer would not realise that the use of the brand name was a marketing ploy and the products they were looking to buy were a different brand.This judgement is the latest in a series of cases concerning the use of Adwords and provides a cautionary warning for online retailers when using trade marks in searches and advertising. It does, however, also promote the value in a properly registered and protected trade mark.

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B E A U T I F U L R A N G E O F F U L L Y S E R V I C E D O F F I C E S

I N W A K E F I E L D

Wakefield Business Centre, Langham House, Merchant House and Prospect House all offer a range of office suites either furnished, unfurnished or virtual with a friendly unrivalled service with tailor made packages to suit all needs. We have safe gated car parking with CCTV at Langham House which is situated just 300m from the new Wakefield Westgate train station offering a high speed service to London in less than 2 hours. Wakefield city centre is just 5 minutes walk away.

• secretarial service

• telephones

• all utilities

• free resilient, fast broadband

• manned reception

• Conference room hire

Tel: +44 (0) 1924 580959 - email: info@wakefieldbusinesscentre.co.uk - www.wakefieldbusinesscentre.co.uk

B U S I N E S S C E N T R E S

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• secretarial service

• telephones

• all utilities

• free resilient, fast broadband

• manned reception

• Conference room hire

2020

MOCCA MOOCHORESTAURANT

OF THE YEAR 2013

Wakefield Civic Society Dining Club – going from strength to strength

In 2010, the Society started a monthly Dining Club for its members, providing them with an informal opportunity to socialise while trying out different restaurants. To make it more interesting, we ask members to vote on their experience each time, allowing

the Society to make an annual award for the best restaurant each year. Points are awarded for ambience and comfort, food quality, value for money and service. We include ‘proper’ restaurants, pub restaurants and even cafés if they can cater for us with a three course evening meal.

In 2013, the Society’s Dining Club visited the Iris, Kashmiri Aroma, The Handmade Burger Co, The Delphi Restaurant and Café, The Holmfield, The Bay Horse ,The Wharfside, The Grill Pit , Cedar Court Hotel, Bollywood Lounge, Mocca Moocho Café not usually open on an evening but who organised a special vegetarian night for us with entertainment); and, finally, Gaskell’s Restaurant at Wakefield College (previous joint winners of our Restaurant of the Year Award in 2010, 2011, and 2012).

For the first time, we had one outright winner scoring the highest mark. But just below that top score came no fewer than four more establishments who all shared the next mark down. It was close, though, so we decided to award four ‘Runners-Up’ prizes as well as our Restaurant of the Year Award (it’s our club, so we’ll make the rules!).

The Runners-Up prizes, presented at the Society’s AGM on 10th April, went to the Iris, Delphi Restaurant and Café, The Grill Pit, and Gaskell’s (not quite hanging onto their crown for a fourth year). Meanwhile, our Restaurant of the Year Award went to Margaret and Jamie Blackshaw, proprietors of Mocca Moocho. Yes, theirs was a special, one-off evening, just for us, but it was a very popular event and scored well in all of our categories. It might not be open on an evening very often – but it is open during the day – if you haven’t visited yet, why not give it a try?

Kevin Trickett, President, Wakefield Civic Society.

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One of our most attractive attributes are our eyes.

When you are meeting someone for the first time, you either look at their eyes or at their lips, so we should always make sure that they look their best. What is it that we women say as long as the face and hair is right, our clothes are the finishing touch!

Lash and brow tinting is becoming a very popular choice, with many advantages such as the need for less or no make-up at all, especially in Summer. It is amazing the difference a lash or brow tint and shape can do to enhance facial features, not only for the ladies but men look

LADIES AND LOVE IT

far better when their brows are trimmed! We are finding we have a number of gentlemen looking after their eyebrows.

Any reputable beauty salon must ask you the question ‘have you had a patch test in the salon?’ as it is so important because you could have a serious allergic reaction to the application. Don’t assume that all salons use the same tinting application; if it is a new salon, make sure you get a patch test. I get my lashes and eyebrows tinted every six weeks and I am ready to go!

Why not invest in semi-permanent make-up? Semi-permanent make up is subtle, natural and vital when those over

BEAUTY & WELLBEING

plucked eyebrows have all but disappeared, for eyes that require a liner or colour and when lips would benefit from greater colour and definition. Sounds too good to be true? Well not so. The process is simple; pigment is implanted into the skin, leaving a make-up effect that will last for around 3 to 5 years.

I certainly would recommend eyebrows and eyeliner. How many women would love time to put the eyeliner on before rushing off to work. My problem was I could never get it right so when I heard about semi-permanent make-up, I braised myself and went for it! It was the best thing I ever did, I had it done three years ago. A lot of my friends have the semi-permanent eyebrows - this treatment highlights one of your main assets whether you have thin or pale eyebrows. One of my staff who is only in her 20s loves it and is certainly hooked on the product.

Just think about going on holiday and not having to worry how you look on the beach with your eyes perfectly dressed. All you need is your suntan lotion and lipstick and you look the part at the pool bar!

Liz Speight is the proprietor of True Beauty Salon, Providence Street, Wakefield.

Tel: 01924 369369

Visit us in branch at:19a Cheapside, Wakefield, WF1 2SD or call 01924 669510

01924 669510www.ramsdens.co.uk

@ramsdens facebook.com/Ramsdens.Solicitors

Here to help youfor all your legal needs, call your local solicitors, Ramsdens

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Get involved in Wakefield Business Week

Monday 2 June is the start of the second Wakefield Business Week and free to all with Wakefield Business Conference in the middle of the week on Wednesday 4th June.Opening Wakefield Business Week with impact our Leadership Breakfast is hosted by Wakefield First and will bring together leaders across the district for panel discussion with Councillor Peter Box CBE. Places are extremely limited so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. Wakefield Business Conference presents two major UK trailblazers.

Martyn Dawes founder of Coffee Nation (now rebranded Costa Express) and John Bird founder of The Big Issue is a globally admired social entrepreneur. Our closing event is First Friday, hosted by Wakefield First where we all come together to connect, reflect and relax after a fantastic week of business deals, learning, inspiration, networking and putting Wakefield district firmly on the map as a place very much open for business and collaboration.All events are FREE to attend and we are on track to involve well over 1,000 businesses throughout the week. Don’t miss out on one of the region’s ‘must do’ business events of the year.Visit www.wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk and follow #WBW14 on Twitter for updates.

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What did dinosaurs eat and how do we know? Find out next month when the greatly anticipated Natural History Museum’s Dino Jaws at NEW DOCK Hall Leeds, opens its doors to the public.An exclusive deal has been signed with The Natural History Museum for NEW DOCK Hall to house the fascinating Dino Jaws Exhibition from 3 June - 7 September. Visitors are invited to step back in time and walk among these magnificent creatures. James Vincent, Managing Director of NEW DOCK Hall enthuses: “We are delighted to

have secured this popular exhibition which is in great demand. June - September is a peak period and covers all the school summer holidays. We look forward to welcoming children and grown-ups of all ages, to what promises to be a great day out.”WARNING - look out for our special guest, the terrifying Tyrannosaurus Rex which will be visiting the exhibition. Your knees will tremble when you hear him ROAR!www.rai-events.co.uk or call 01132 2201990 or email enquiries@rai-events.co.uk

TopicUK is proud to welcome on board new sponsors for 2014. Trinity Walk, Royal Armouries, Ramsdens Solicitors, My Conferences, Sarcophagus and Wakefield Business Centres.Each one has provided a statement, telling us a little about themselves and will provide updates about their business throughout 2014.Ghost are offering a number of

sponsorship packages for as little as £1200 for the year.For this, you will receive a full page advertisement in every issue of TopicUK during 2014 (worth £1770) as well as a mention on our sponsors page, together with your logo. On top of this, each will have articles published that are newsworthy.In addition, each sponsor will be mentioned on our website and will

have their ‘tweets’ re-tweeted where appropriate.

This is a fantastic PR package to have your name reaching as many as 10,000 readers throughout Wakefield and surrounding areas. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact Gill on 07711 539047 or emailgill@ghost-communications.com

OVER TO OUR SPONSORS

WELCOME TO OUR SPONSORSWELCOME TO OUR SPONSORS

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Trinity Walk opened in May 2011 and is becoming one of the most popular retail locations in the area, quickly gaining a strong reputation as the place to go for the latest retail trends, style and food.The 500,000sq ft centre has seen footfall increase consistently over 2013, outperforming regional and national benchmarks by more than 10%. Trinity Walk has successfully transformed shopping in the city with a little over 20 million visits made before

it reached its second anniversary, establishing itself as a regional retail destination with a mix of top national high street stores and independent local retailers.The wide range of stores at Trinity Walk include a mix of retail and restaurants including Debenhams, Sainsbury’s, Next, H&M, Asda Living, Lush, Bank, Costa Coffee, Pizza Express, Handmade Burger Co and The Chinese Buffet. The latest openings include )2, Burger King, Clintons, Claire’s, Roman, award winning hairdresser Room 97 and independent store Candy Treats.For more information, please visit www.trinitywalk.com

Wakefield Business Centre Wakefield Business Centres provide quality managed and serviced office workspace including virtual offices, hot desks, conference facilities, dedicated desks and dedicated office suites. There are three locations;• Langham House, Westgate, Wakefield• Merchant House, Cheapside, Wakefield• Prospect House, Ossett Town CentreAll centres include ultra fast internet with redundancy provision, IT support, heating, lighting, water, cleaning, 24hr access, telephones, waste disposal and onsite parking. Short term leases are available from 3 months and financial assistance is available for new start up companies.Langham and Merchant House are both situated close to Wakefield Westgate train station with services to London taking less than 2 hours.Langham House has excellent secure gated parking and provides a manned reception and secretarial services.For details contact info@wakefieldbusinesscentre.co.uk 01924 580959

Ramsdens, an award winning and leading legal firm in Kirklees, Calderdale and Wakefield.

With its principal office in Edgerton and eight branch offices in Dewsbury, Elland, Huddersfield, Halifax, Holmfirth, Mirfield, Slaithwaite and Wakefield, Ramsdens is perfectly placed to build on its 140 years heritage in the area.

With 160 staff, working in 12 different practice areas, across

nine offices, with solicitors and support staff fluent in 4 languages, Ramsdens offers the full spectrum of legal services to organisations and to the individual.

Our shared values guide how we conduct our relationships with one another and our clients…we are a local team……supporting local people and businesses. (Ramsdens were Highly Commended in the Law Firm of the Year, 2013.)

Ramsdens are supporting Topic magazine and Sinéad

Sopala Director of Marketing at Ramsdens comments: “Ramsdens are delighted to support Topic. The magazine is published independently and is driven by Gill and her teams passion for the community’s they are in and we’re delighted with the announcement that the magazine in now a social enterprise.

Here’s to a fabulous few months on the build up to the Tour de France and make sure you watch out for #TopicPaparazzi, they could be cycling at event near you.”

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Opening the week with impact the Leadership Breakfast hosted by

Wakefield First, will bring together leaders across the district for panel discussion with Councillor Peter Box CBE. This year, we introduce ‘Meet the Leader’ sessions; an extremely rare opportunity to experience a ‘behind the

GET INVOLVED WITH

WAKEFIELD BUSINESS WEEK

social entrepreneur. The Big Issue is a social business built in the face of adversity through commercial route only and is now published in dozens of countries around the world.

Our ‘State of the District’ panel is chaired by Helen Oldham, MD of Johnston Press and is made up of leaders from various sectors across the district including Jeremy Garside of Chadwick Lawrence, Mike Pickles of Really Useful Products, Graham Howarth from Sarcophagus and Joanne Roney from Wakefield Council with more to announce.

We also showcase four local businesses on our main stage through a fast and furious ‘20 slides in 20 seconds’ of social media.

Our closing event is First Friday, hosted by Wakefield First, where we all come together to connect, reflect and relax after a fantastic week of business deals, learning, inspiration, networking and putting Wakefield district firmly on the map as a place very much open for business and collaboration.

All events are FREE to attend and we are on track to involve well over 1,000 businesses throughout the week. Don’t miss out on one of the region’s ‘must do’ business events of the year.

www.wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk and follow #WBW14 on Twitter for updates.

scenes’ visit and to connect with some of the key business leaders in Wakefield, including: Ian Johnson of Coca Cola Enterprises, Dr Faull of the National Coal Mining Museum, Jonathan Greener of Wakefield Cathedral, Sir Rodney Walker of the Theatre Royal, Barbara Winston of the Ridings Centre to name just a few. Places are extremely limited so BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment. These are identified as Featured Visits throughout the Wakefield Business Week website. We also have over 30 seminars presented by experts across the district covering topics such as employment, IT, sales/marketing, finance and education/skills.Wakefield Business Conference presents two major UK trailblazers. Martin Dawes founder of Coffee Nation (now rebranded Costa Express) revolutionised coffee on-the-go and has been ranked year after year as one of the UK’s fastest growing private companies. John Bird, founder of The Big Issue is a globally admired

Monday 2 June sees the start of the second Wakefield Business Week, an ‘open source’ business week, full of sector specific seminars all run by different businesses and free to all with Wakefield Business Conference in the middle of the week on Wednesday 4 June.

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WAKEFIELD BUSINESS WEEK

Programme

9:45 to 10:30 – State of the District Panel

11:15 to 12:00 – Martyn Dawes, Coffee Nation

12:45 to 1:30 – John Bird, Big Issue

2:30 to 3:15 – 20slides in 20seconds, Social Media

Clinics

10:00 – 10:45 – Mark Bradley, Wakefield Express – Inside the Head of a Journalist

11:15 – 12:00 – Caroline Andrew Johnstone, FASprint – How I bought a company using the power of networking

12:30 – 1:15 – Fantastic Media – Strategic Marketing

1:45 – 2:30 – Servatech – The Cloud

TopicUK I s s u e 7 A p r i l 2 0 1 4

Jeremy Garside Helen Knowles

Mike Pickles

Ellen Knowles Dan Conboy John Bird Barbara Winston

Margaret Faull Murray Edwards

Caroline Andrew - Johnstone

Judy Parsons Claire Harper Ali Gordon

Jonathan Greener

Mark Taylor

Ian Johnstone

Sir RodneyWalker Keith Sorrell

Paul Reid Graham Howarth

Karen Crawshaw

Martyn Dawes Greg Wright

Mark Bradley

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A group of 10 adventure hungry charity fundraisers took part in The Major Series in Leeds, raising money for the Forget

Me Not Children’s Hospice.

Calling themselves ‘The Motley Crew’, the group ran 6km overcoming lots of crazy obstacles, hills, ice cold rivers and lots of mud to raise £350 for the Hospice.

Sinead Sopala, Director of Marketing at Ramsdens Solicitors LLP who led the team commented: “We’re delighted to have supported the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice and we all thoroughly enjoyed taking part. We knew the event was going to be challenging and muddy and it didn’t disappoint!”

The Hospice extend a huge thanks to ‘Team Ramsdens’ who were Sinead Sopala and Rachael Sykes, Jason Taylor from Kirklees College, Jason Costello from the Forget Me Not Children’s Hospice, Ian Parsons from Parsons Accounting, Juven Nelson from NatWest, Tracy Smith and Jo Palmer from the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and Jamie Watson from Fusion IT Management.

Tray Smith, Membership and Events Manager at the Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce added “We had a fantastic time, its all about teamwork, it’s not just a run, the camaraderie and laughter helped us to get through - until next year!”

CHARITY ROUNDUP

On Saturday 17 May, Wakefield Audi will be the main sponsor of the Wakefield Hospice Pyjama Walk for the seventh consecutive year.

The event has been a major date in the Hospice Fundraising diary during that time and has raised well in excess of £140,000. The walk starts at 10pm from the Wakefield Audi Showroom on Calder Park and covers six or ten mile circular routes around the city. Walkers finish with a well-earned bacon butty and cuppa at The Swan and Cygnet Pub, also on Calder Park.

Wakefield Audi Head of Business, Duncan Anderson said: “we are really proud to continue our support for the Hospice and hope that in 2014 we can surpass last year’s record total of over 500 walkers. The Hospice has given invaluable support to the families of so many of our customers and staff and we are delighted to be able to help with this fabulous event.” Over 60 members of the Wakefield Audi team have signed up to take part in the fundraiser, which will be compared by Real Radio DJ Guy Harris. Duncan added “Guy has been a Wakefield Audi customer for many years and we are very grateful that he has again agreed to help on the night.”

A BEDTIME STORY

LOCAL BUSINESSES GET MUDDY FOR CHARITY

On 20 March staff from across all four Jordan’s offices arrived at work dressed with a sports theme, making a donation to Sport Relief to do this.Some arrived appropriately wearing head bands, gym clothes or as a particular sports person as Accident and Personal Injury solicitor, Janet Dobson who is also a qualified yoga instructor, hosted a beginners yoga class, with staff donating to attend and despite being in her early 60s, she really put staff through their paces!As we went to press, the final amount raised was still unknown, as donations were still being made.

JORDANS SOLICITORS

SUPPORT SPORT RELIEF

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Trinity Walk Shopping Centre offers the very best in high street fashion and much, much more, all in one convenient location. Easy to get to, easy to shop.

And, there’s cafés and restaurants to relax in, ample parking and fun for all the family.

Trinity Walk in Wakefield – shopping exactly the way you want it.

for kids

for him

for her

For the latest looksWALK this way

www.trinitywalk.com

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LOCAL BUSINESSES GET MUDDY FOR CHARITY

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PUTTING WAKEFIELD ON THE RADARTOPICUK RECENTLY CAUGHT UP WITH PAUL REID, NEW CHAIR OF WAKEFIELD FIRST AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF REID AVIATION SOLUTIONS AND ALPHA SIERRA AVIATION, WHO TOLD US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT HIMSELF AND HIS CAREER IN AVIATION.What did your role involve whilst working as MD of

NATS?

Primarily I was responsible for providing Air Traffic Control and other aviation related services in some of the busiest airports and airspace in the world. The NATS business is a FTSE 250 sized business turning over circa £900 million and employing nearly 6000 people. The role involved constant travel overseeing subsidiary companies, joint ventures and contracts in 32 different countries as well as the core business here in the UK.

How did you get into the aviation industry, was it a

career you always wanted to do?

I always had a vague interest in aviation whilst growing up and initially wanted to be a pilot. I had always been curious about air traffic control and wrote to Edinburgh Airport asking for a visit to the tower. As soon as I observed the controllers at work, I knew I had found my vocation.For a while, I harbored ambitions of playing football for a living but lack of pace and a serious injury put pay to that. I decided against university in favour of employment and worked for a couple of years at Scottish Widows as an Investment Analyst as I was too young to be a controller. At 19, I applied successfully as an Air Traffic Control Cadet and packed my bags for college in Bournemouth where I

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PUTTING WAKEFIELD ON THE RADAR

finished Top Cadet for my intake.Since then, I’ve worked as a controller at Glasgow and Heathrow Airports in General Manager positions at London City, Gatwick and Swanwick Centre (the largest air traffic control centre in Europe) as well as Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director. I now own and manage my own business in the air traffic management sector.

Did the job become more difficult with more traffic in the sky over the years?

As you would expect, Safety really is the top priority in Air Traffic Management. The industry must therefore find ways to adapt and cope with the constant growth in flights, whilst at the same time maintaining and where possible improving safety standards. Fundamentally the task still involves speaking to aircraft over a radio link and using radar to ensure they are all adequately separated. Systems are, however, playing a larger role now in assisting the air traffic controllers make the most effective decisions, which in turn reduces their workload and enables them to handle a greater quantity of aircraft through the airspace they are responsible for. It is a constant challenge keeping a pace with demand but it is also reassuring to know that safety is the one thing the industry won’t compromise on.

It is a very responsible job, is it highly pressured?

I think, like most jobs, it depends on whether you are suited to it. I loved my time as a controller and couldn’t believe I was being paid to do something I found so enjoyable. For others, the responsibility and knowing thousands of peoples lives depend on you at any given time can be too much.Of course there are times when the pressure is on, usually due to an emergency or weather event, when controllers, just like pilots, really come into their own and demonstrate all their training and inherent capabilities. These events can be tough but also incredibly rewarding.

I would say that some of the leadership roles I’ve had have been every bit as pressurised as my time actually controlling aircraft. Dealing with the politics of a large corporate and constantly balancing the needs of the shareholders, the customers and the employees, is every bit as challenging as controlling the skies over London.

What has been your favourite role so far?

Being an Air Traffic Controller at Heathrow is hard to beat. It’s challenging, well paid and you can’t take your work home with you! But, on balance, I would say that the 4 years as Managing Director at NATS have been most rewarding. Working with a team as capable and committed, as the one I had at NATS was very special and the results we produced nothing short of incredible.

How are you finding working for yourself, is it such a big change?

Clearly moving from a senior leadership role at a large global corporate to start up here in Wakefield has been an enormous culture shock. I can honestly say however, that I have enjoyed every minute of the last three months. In my previous role I was spending all week travelling. I suddenly realised that my son Thomas was 6 and I had never been to a parents evening or nativity play. As I was little use even when I was at home recovering from one trip and preparing for the next.My businesses, Reid Aviation Solutions and Alpha Sierra Aviation are now established and are growing quickly. The Air Traffic Management industry is akin to the airline industry of 25 years ago where national flag carriers dominated a largely regulated landscape. Now the biggest airlines in Europe are Ryanair and Easyjet There is growing interest from customers in new service techniques, innovative business models and perhaps most importantly credible supply alternatives. This combined with a move towards liberalisation across Europe and beyond should

provide exciting growth opportunities in the sector. I aim to provide the innovation, agility and choice the airport and airlines say they want from air traffic services, employing different business models and new techniques. That offering combined with a more towards liberalisation across Europe and beyond provides exciting growth opportunities.

What is your vision for Wakefield as chairman of First?

I think credit should go to Councilor Box and CEO Joanne Roney for having the foresight to establish a cross stakeholder group to provide guidance and support through the recent economic crisis. As the recovery starts the focus should now be on growth and the challenge for First is to adapt to the new environment and ensure it has a relevance and usefulness going forward.The real strength of Wakefield First is the inclusion and partnering of different stakeholders from the public and private sectors and academia. I want the board to monitor, support and drive economic growth in Wakefield. Monitor the Wakefield Councils Jobs and Growth plan, support inward investment and networking and drive activities such as Bondholder that encourages growth in private enterprise.The First Board should operate with integrity, transparency and inclusiveness at its core and collaborate with other stakeholders, such as the Chamber of Commerce, to ensure the best outcomes for the City. As should be the case with any support organisation the success of First can only be measured by the success of those it is there to serve, primarily the people of Wakefield, the Council and private enterprise across the city.I enjoy my role as Chairman and it is the commitment, passion and energy of those involved that keeps me inspired and reminds me of what it is I and the rest of First are there to do

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NEW COMPANY BENEFITS from Wakefield’s Business Support Programme

Wakefield Council is continuing to help local people start their own company through the

Business Support Programme.Steve Harrison wanted to help people with the condition affecting hearing, tinnitus, so after receiving guidance from the Council’s expert business advisors he was able to build Tinnitus Network into an invaluable resource and support network for people with the condition.Steve said: “I found the advisors really helpful and they were able to point me in the right direction for funding and showed me business models of other web-based support networks like ours.”Based at Cedars Business Centresin Wakefield, Steve’s business is completely online and therefore needed more than a standard business plan which the advisors were able to provide. He also received funding support from the Business Support Grant to help pay towards the website which is the driver for his social enterprise business.The Business Support Programme advisors also set up a cash flow

forecast and a profit and loss statement for the first year which is a crucial part of planning for a successful first year in business.Denise Jeffery, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Growth said: “Through the support offered by Wakefield Council’s Business Support Programme a number of local entrepreneurs have been able to grow and become part of a thriving business community in the district.”The Wakefield Business Support Programme was officially launched in September by Wakefield Council in partnership with RCP21, South Elmsall Town Council and South Kirby and Moorthorpe Town Council with part funding from the European Regional Development Fund.The scheme aims to help businesses establish, grow and enter new, innovative and sustainable markets whilst creating jobs and prosperity in the district. It offers a range of free support to businesses in the district from business planning advice, access to funding and a calendar of networking and business events.For more information call 01924 306008 or email info@wakefieldfirst.com or visit their website www.wakefieldfirst/wbsp

Entrepreneurs can grow and become part of the thriving business community

Wakefield sets apprenticeships sights highand has created 94 new ap-prenticeship opportunitiesWakefield Council has set an ambitious target to help create 100 apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.From now until May the Council is calling all Small Medium sized business (SME’s) in the district to recruit as many apprentices as possible as part of the 100 in 100 Challenge.To date the Apprenticeship Hub has created 94 new apprenticeship opportunities with 146 local employers and are hoping to keep this success going between March and May this year.Councillor Peter Box, Leader of Wakefield Council, said: “Through the work of the Wakefield Apprenticeship Hub and a number of key partners including West Yorkshire Learning Providers and the National Apprenticeship Service we hope to create even more apprenticeship opportunities in the district.” We know that every £1 invested in apprenticeships generates £18 back to the economy. So investing in apprenticeships both supports our local economy and tackles youth unemployment in the district.”An influential national report praised Wakefield Council’s apprenticeship schemes last year as a way of helping people into work including the 100 in 100 Challenge and its use of the Apprenticeship Hub.Businesses who hire apprentices can be eligible for certain grants and incentives and Wakefield Council’s Apprenticeship Hub works with quality providers to offer training to develop both the staff and business.Through a dedicated Business Engagement Officer, the Hub can help businesses with all aspects of the recruitment process and help identify the right candidates.To find out more about hiring an apprentice and the 100 in 100 challenge please contact the Wakefield Apprenticeship Hub on 01924 302703.

COUNCIL NEWS

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WAKEFIELD BUSINESS SUPPORT PROGRAMMENeed help to grow your business?

Controlling Cash Flow

Access to Finance

Diversif cation

Expor

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Our goal is to support SMEs in the Wakefeld district to grow, innovate and prosper.We offer a wide range of free support that is tailored to your own individual needs. Contact us now to find out how we can help you to grow your business.

Tel 01924 306008 www.wakefeldfrst.com/wbsp info@wakefeldfrst.com

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Unity Hall set to open

this Autumn, would you

like to own a share?

Work is well underway to refurbish the stunning grade II listed building

in the centre of Wakefield into a fabulous new music venue, conference centre, gallery and cafe space.Four million pounds has been raised to redevelop this gem, which is just minutes from Wakefield Westgate station. The scheme has created a buzz in Yorkshire and is intended to attract the best in the music industry.Wakefield is undergoing a cultural renaissance and has support from the European Regional Development Fund and the Leeds LEP. Gary Verity from Welcome to Yorkshire said: “Unity Hall will be another string to Yorkshire’s cultural bow and has the potential to play a role in growing tourism in Wakefield. It will add to Wakefield’s already burgeoning cultural scene.”Last year, the Wakefield community supported the scheme by raising £107,000 in share investment from 230 people. Unity Hall will work in partnership with the Theatre Royal, The National Coal Mining Museum, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and

the Hepworth Gallery to create an exciting arts, music and performance programme and is expected to have a £6m economic impact and create 100 jobs.“Unity Hall is the biggest community-driven project Wakefield has known and is a much loved municipal building with a long history,” said Simon Wallis, Director of the Hepworth Gallery. “As such, it’s so exciting to know this communal heart of Wakefield will be beating once more and will make a significant contribution to the diverse and ambitious cultural offer for the region. It’s an invaluable asset that will contribute to Wakefield as a place that not only showcases the finest art, but creates its own vibrant, cultural scene at a grass roots level.”Unity Hall still needs to meet a £200,000 shortfall however, to pay for the audio and lighting equipment for the main hall; enabling it to open on time in September.Until June, the team are issuing shares to the Yorkshire Community.Unity Hall Chairman, Chris Hill said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity

for Yorkshire folk to create a legacy and be part of shaping Wakefield’s future. The minimum investment is £200 (the maximum is now £100,000). Shareholders are members of the society and control it on a one-person one-vote basis. Businesses and organisations as well as individuals can invest. Shares in Unity Hall can make a great gift and we hope the Yorkshire community will get behind our appeal and make a real difference to Wakefield.”The names of all shareholders will feature on artwork within the building and members will receive priority bookings on all events and VIP offers throughout their membership.If you would like to invest go to www.unityworks.co.uk to download an application form or alternatively request a form and full business investment details from chris.hill@unityworks.co.uk

++

BE PART OF WAKEFIELD'S CREATIVE BUSINESS FUTUREWORKSPACE OF ALL SIZES AND SORTS; MEETING ROOMS, GALLERY, CAFE / BAR, EXHIBITION SPACECONTACT - mark.taylor@unityworks.co.ukm.07728 878681www.unityworks.co.uk

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When you sit down to a meal in a restaurant or hotel, do you ever wonder where the people who are cooking your food or waiting your table learned their skills?

Did you know that, right here in Wakefield, we have our own well-established and fully-licensed training restaurant

operated by young hospitality students who are working towards their Professional Cookery Diplomas and BTEC National Diploma in the hospitality industry?

Well, wonder no more – Gaskell’s Restaurant at Wakefield College is the establishment in question and I had the good fortune to sample their lunch menu recently when I

Learning their trade: Great service and value are on the menu at Gaskell’s Restaurant at Wakefield College

Gaskell’s Restaurantat Wakefield College

Restaurant Review

Kevin Trickett

visited as a guest of the restaurant.

My first visit to Gaskell’s was nearly four years ago when I dined there with members of Wakefield Civic Society’s Dining Club. The food was so well prepared, and the students so friendly, that the evening was judged a great success by all and it was no surprise to us that members voted Gaskell’s one of the Society’s Restaurants of the Year in 2010. It was, however, a very pleasing outcome for the man in charge of the hospitality and catering programme, Laurent Berges, who was, of course, delighted that his staff and the students had been recognised in this way. Gaskell’s then completed the hat-trick by going on to win the award again in 2011 and 2012.

It was, therefore, with high expectations that I chose Gaskell’s, named after Wakefield’s first MP, Daniel Gaskell (1782-1875), for my review and I decided to try their lunchtime offering, a new experience for me.

The restaurant is situated off Margaret Street in the St John’s area of Wakefield, an area resplendent in fine Georgian and Victorian architecture. Alas, the architecture of the college building doesn’t match the style of its neighbours being a rather utilitarian contrivance that dates from around the 1960s. Somebody must have loved it once, I suppose, but we’re not here to judge the architecture, so I’ll press on. All I’ll say is, don’t let the outside deter you – it’s what happens inside that matters and, from the moment we crossed the threshold, we were once more impressed by the warmth of the welcome we received.

Greeted at the door to the restaurant and our coats taken, we were shown to the bar area and given our menus to peruse while we sat in comfortable chairs sipping our drinks. The restaurant is fully licensed and offers a reasonable mix of soft and alcoholic drinks – wine, for example, at £12 or £13 a bottle, also available by the glass.

Our waiter, Chris George, introduced himself to us and showed us to our table.

The restaurant was nicely busy with a mix of couples and groups, everyone chatting away and seemingly enjoying their meals.

The lunchtime menu, which changes weekly, is simple affair with a choice of starter, three main course offerings and three desserts to pick from. I went for the Yellow Split Pea Soup served with a bread roll, followed by the vegetarian Toad in the Hole, served with Sauté Potatoes, Roasted Root Vegetables and Sauté Cabbage, finishing off with Apple and Wensleydale Pie with Cardaman Ice Cream and Custard. (I also sampled a good piece of my partner’s Curd Tart, this sweet being one of my particular favourites). The whole meal was truly excellent: beautifully cooked and presented with sufficiently-sized portions to fill without being over-faced.

Service by Chris and his assistant table waiter Luke Bradbury, was efficient and attentive. Like all the students working in the restaurant, whether front of house or in the kitchen, they operated under the supervision of staff lecturers but otherwise, the idea behind Gaskell’s is to provide students with “a realistic working environment in which to practise the skills they have learnt in the classroom”. This is not one of those slick, high-class establishments where the waiters are haughty and everyone speaks in hushed tones: it is a training school for young people learning their trade and conversation seems to be encouraged. I asked Chris if he had drawn the short straw in having to wait on my table – quite the contrary; he had volunteered to do so and this attitude is typical – the students are keen to impress.

According to the website, Gaskell’s provides customers with “the opportunity to sample high quality dishes at moderate prices” and, at this point, I must say something about the prices – they are exceptionally good value for money! With a three-course lunch for just £8.50 and dinner prices starting at just £13.50, (drinks extra), no one can complain about the cost especially as the quality of the food is something you would perhaps

associate with a much higher-priced meal. Watch out for their programme of themed dinner menus – details on the website.

After my lunch, I chatted with Chris, now in his final year as a BTEC student, and Luke, who is a first-year student. Both were committed to their chosen career paths. They enjoyed working with people but also saw the catering and hospitality business as one that could offer great job opportunities in the future. Interestingly, they also saw the industry as one that would offer opportunities to travel – something that is in fact about to happen as they will both be taking up a month-long placement in Sweden in the near future as part of their course work. With some of their fellow students studying in Venice at the time of my visit to Gaskell’s, it certainly does seem that Wakefield College is creating international opportunities and a great reputation for its students.

Kevin TrickettFollow me on Twitter: @MrTrickett

----------------------------------------------

KEVIN DINED AS A GUEST OF GASKELL’S RESTAURANT

Address: Gaskells Restaurant, F Block, Wakefield College, Wakefield City Campus,Margaret Street, Wakefield, WF1 2DH

W: http://courses.wakefield.ac.uk/gaskells

E: gaskells@student.wakefield.ac.uk

Restaurant Opening times:

Open for lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and Dinner on Wednesday evenings.

Lunch - Reservation times 12noon – 12.45pm

Dinner - Reservation times 6.30pm – 7.15pm

Reservations Hotline: 01924 789505 (Phone line open Tuesday 9am - 3pm, Wednesday 9am - 3pm & 5pm - 8pm, Thursday 9am - 3pm, Friday 9am - 12pm)

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TopicUK I s s u e 7 A p r i l 2 0 1 4

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Recruitment

Recruitment isn’t rocket science...

And getting it right is what First Choice Recruitment have been doing for the past 21 years and it must be working as they are still here and still developing and still growing. More importantly, they are still learning.

As a business, First Choice have seen many changes in the way in which employers across the region attract and retain the best staff, the most effective teams and the most efficient workforce. “We’re privileged to work with a diverse range of clients across the region and we’ve built long term relationships based on a mutual trust and understanding that we’re working together to find great people for great businesses,” director Andy Turner told TopicUK, “because at the end of the day, recruitment and business is about people.”

The past few years have seen

a revolution in technology; online interview assessments, social media networks enabling 24/7 instant access to virtually anything, anywhere, candidate applications via a plethora of job-sites offering endless potential opportunities and seemingly unlimited access to a world of work. But when it comes right down to it, finding the right job, employing the right person, is about relationships, personality and skills, all of which can only be truly demonstrated and assessed when people talk to each other, face to face.

“There’s no doubt that technology plays a significant part in the recruitment process,” continued Andy, “and with it comes an invaluable range of benefits and advantages to candidates, agencies and employers. The danger comes when we hide behind it, when we become faceless and automated; when we

forget that we’re dealing with real people, with real hopes and real expectations.

“Getting the balance right between technology and human interaction is crucial. Yes, it demands more effort and yes, it can take more time, but it delivers results and that’s what makes good recruitment great,” concluded Andy.

Over the coming months, Andy will guest edit for TopicUK, focusing on the changing world of recruitment and highlighting some of the key challenges, issues and solutions that we can deliver. In the meantime, if you would like to discuss any aspect of recruitment, or would just like to find out more about how to attract the very best candidates for your business, simply get in touch with Andy on 01924 201155 or visit the website at www.firstchoice-uk.com

but it is harder than you may think to get it just right...

Wakefield: 01924 201155 Leeds: 0113 2070100 www.firstchoice-uk.com

the way recruitment should be

Finding great people for great businesses is just one of the ways we provide the support and expertise our clients and our candidates need.If you think all recruitment agencies are the same think again.Get in touch and let us show you how recruitment really should be.

Searching for great people?Looking for a great job?

SometimesYou just need to know where to look

4040

property

The Commercial PropertyMarket in Wakefield

The various sectors of the market were affected differently during the recession but we are delighted to see improvement across the board so far in 2014.

One of the stand-out names in the Wakefield property sector is Holroyd Miller. What probably

isn’t all that well known is that Holroyd Miller doesn’t just excel in residential sales and lettings, but commercial too. Led by Jonathan Kidd, partner at Holroyd Miller, his wealth of experience reports that the Wakefield commercial property market is showing signs of improvement.

The industrial sector, perhaps the most resilient during the credit crunch, continues to improve and better quality space demand is beginning to outstrip supply, particularly for freehold accommodation with a view to owner occupation.

Older industrial space is more challenging, but the resurgence of the residential development sector bodes well for renewed interest in redevelopment where existing buildings are coming

to the end of their useful life.

There continues to be take-up of former retail space on the periphery of the centre by serviced based users taking advantage of reduced rents while still benefiting from shop front exposure. One local property owner has recently commented that’ ‘for the first time in a number of years new lettings of shops and offices are outstripping units becoming vacant’.

One of the worst hit sectors during the downturn has been the office sector and while there is still something of an over-supply of space, take up rates are increasing and the mass of To-Let boards are beginning to diminish, and, while growth in values may be a little way off yet, re-occupation in these areas adds to the better outlook and the general feeling that at last things are beginning to move.”

Simon Miller is the new guest editor for commercial property and will report on all property matters over coming months.commercial property and will report on all property matters over coming months.

OUR BRANCHESOur offices are conveniently located in Wakefield, Dewsbury and London offering full coverage of a large region rich in type, style and availability of a huge number of commercial and residential properties.

DESIGNED TO OFFER CLIENTS THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTY SERVICES AVAILABLE, ALL UNDER ONE UMBRELLA.

No matter what your property interest, from straightforward commercial and residential sales and purchases through to lettings, surveys, valuations and rentals, Holroyd Miller can assist you. From initial enquiry through to final completion we can enable you to achieve your aims quickly, efficiently, cost effectively, and with the minimum of “fuss” and “effort.”

Wakefield Branch70 Northgate, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF1 3AP 01924 299494

Dewsbury Branch44 Daisy Hill, Dewsbury, WF13 1LH01924 465671

London Branch121 Park Lane, London, W1K 7AG 020 7079 1544

Regional Agent of the Year, voted by the Guild of Professional Estate Agents; Rising Star of the Year, voted by The Negotiator Awards; and shortlisted as Lettings Property Manager of the year by the Sunday Times. See our customer reviews on www.allagents.co.uk

www.holroydmiller.co.uk

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IS YOUR BUSINESS GROWING?

ARE YOU SPENDING TOO MUCH TIME MANAGING YOUR CASH FLOW?

COULD YOUR BUSINESS DO WITH MORE CASH?

If the answer to any of the above questions is YES, then get in touch with

catalystfinanceFor fast, flexible and efficient funding to take

your business to a new level.

Contact: St John Emms on 07793 038855 or email: stjemms@catalyst-finance.com

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Chartered Accountants & Business AdvisorsUnit 3 Silkwood Court Wake�eld WF5 9TP Telephone: 01924 263766

OR HAVE THE NEED FOR SPECIALIST SERVICES SUCH AS

If you are looking for advice on Accountancy and Taxation matters...

• Inheritance Tax Planning,

• Business planning,

• Mergers or Acquisitions.

Contact Chris Dix or Carolyn Harman for your free initial consultation

4343

*New Guest Editor for MotoringWakefield Audi Sytner

*Coming in our next issue

TopicUK I s s u e 7 A p r i l 2 0 1 4

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This event is run in partnership with Barclays, Copiserv, First Choice, Ramsdens Solicitors, Statement and the Wakefield Wildcats.The event takes places on the second Friday of each month from 12.30pm - 1.30pm at The Hop, Bank Street, Wakefield. No booking required.For more information follow@MidYorkshireNet on Twitter

MY Network WakefieldMY Network Wakefield is very informal, just turn up and take advantage of this great opportunity to make some valuable new contacts .

To book a stall please email r

idingsmarkets@yahoo.co.uk

C

raft

ma r k e

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Ridings

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www.ridingscentre.com

CRAFT MARKETS

SPECIAL BI-MONTHLY THEMED FAIRS

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FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

upper mall - 10.30am - 4.30pm

SEE WWW.RIDINGSCENTRE.COM/EVENTS FOR DATES AND THEMES

There’s more to just shopping at The Ridings, with a jam packed schedule of events, the Centre continues to showcase its position as a key destination for families and shoppers of all ages.Catching up with Victoria Clapham, Marketing Manager, we find out what’s in store, looking at how the centre will be enhancing the shopper experience and complimenting high street brands and independent names. “Our calendar of events and activities will continue to get bigger and better this year. With at least one event planned every month there’s going to be no shortage of entertainment! Some highlights include a World Cup themed Father’s Day celebration and a team of talented BMX performers who’ll be showcasing more than just pedal power in support of the Grand Depart.“July will be our dedicated Style Month including a fantastic flash mob style catwalk that will help shoppers with their last minute summer essentials and make plans for their autumn wardrobe.“Halloween is definitely a firm favourite with shoppers and retailers alike so look out for some big celebrations! “Our market days which take place on the first Sunday of each month, will continue but this year we have added an extra treat through themed fairs. In March we attracted thousands of shoppers with a Vintage Pop-Up fair. Up next we have a food fair (4th May) followed by style and music themed fairs scheduled for later in the year.“Other highlights to look out for include, The Ridings first Grand Boot Bazaar, which takes place in June and our Christmas Lights Switch On which will involve extra special guests including a finalist from this year’s X Factor.”For further details about The Ridings Shopping Centre and the many events they have planned please visit www.ridingscentre.com.

Enhancing the shopping experience

4545

Local solicitors for all your personal and business legal needs

18 King Street, Wakefield, WF1 2SQ 01924 387110

enquiries@jordanssolicitors.co.uk www.jordanssolicitors.co.uk

Offices throughout Yorkshire Jordanssolicitor @JordanSolicitor

Company & Commercial Litigation, Disputes & Debt Recovery

Residential & Commercial Conveyancing Employment

Professional Negligence Family & Mediation

Accident & Personal Injury Wills, Trusts, Probate & Estate Planning

MAKE

Connecting those with the Wakefield district at heartAt Community Foundation Wakefield, we connect those who care passionately about the district and it’s people.

Helping you to help your clientsWe can work with you to meet your clients’ charitable needs and exceed their expectations. We can add our expertise to yours to provide added value to your clients.

Why work with us?

CONNECTING PEOPLE WHO CARE WITH LOCAL CAUSES THAT MATTER

a di­erence locally

Community Foundation for Wakefield District

• We work closely with community groups

• We are experts in philanthropy

• We take the hassle out of charitable giving

• We are specialists independent grant makers

• We can help you give tax effectively

• We work closely with over 1000 community groups

Find our how you can make a difference locally by calling us on: 01924 239181 or email: swalsh@communityfoundationwakefield.co.uk

4646

People with Dementia all differ in the way they experience dementia, but generally speaking in public situation people with Dementia may have

a range of difficulties including:

• Have problems remembering what they are doing

• Have difficulties communicating clearly

• Have problems handling money

• Have problems navigating in complex or confusing environments

Why does my organisation need to be Dementia friendly?

There are estimated to be nearly 4036 people with Dementia living in Wakefield and by 2020 that is set to rise to almost 4813.

Increasingly, people with Dementia are living for much longer in the community and that will mean that increasingly, more and more customers and potential customers will have Dementia.

Making it easier for people with Dementia to use a service and supporting staff to serve them more effectively has a number of clear benefits:

It will enable you to maintain your existing customers who might have, or be developing Dementia

It will enable you to attract new customers because people with Dementia will opt for services that are easier to use

By supporting Dementia Friendly Wakefield, you will get access to the ‘Working to become Dementia friendly’ recognition scheme logo

Help compliance to Equality Act 2010

What could my organisation do to become more Dementia friendly?

This depends on what type of organisation you are. Wakefield has a Dementia friendly recognition process, based on what we know is important to people affected by Dementia and will help change their experiences. This process allows organisations and businesses to be publicly recognised for working towards becoming Dementia-friendly.

Wakefield Council are working towards being Dementia friendly; staff from the Customer Access Point at Wakefield One were the first to participate in the free Dementia awareness training on offer. Front line staff from Library and Museum Services are next to take part.

This is a great local example of what large customer facing organisations can do.

Below are some further examples, but you may have other ideas:

Train your staff so they can best

support customers with memory problems or Dementia. Training is being offered to community groups, businesses and other organisations. Find out more by going to www.dementiafriends.org.uk

Ask people with Dementia what it’s like to use your business they will often be able to tell you very directly which aspects of your business they will find easy to use and which presents barriers to them. Contact your local Alzheimer’s Society for more information on 01924 373 264

Make the physical environment more Dementia friendly. Have a look around your building and facilities, are they Dementia friendly? Simple changes can make the environment easier for people with Dementia. For information on the Dementia Friendly Community checklist contact www.wakefieldaa@wakefield.gov.uk

Review your policies, including Human Resources policies, to make sure the needs of people with Dementia and carers are taken into account.

Provide information on Dementia and available services and support.Support our public awareness campaign by displaying campaign materials.

Encourage others to become Dementia Friendly.

For more information please contact: www.wakefieldaa@wakefield.gov.uk

HEALTH

Why do we need to know about dementia?Dementia currently affects some 800,000 people in the UK and the term is used to describe a group of related symptons, which signal decline in brain function. Dementia is a loss of mental skills that affects your daily life. It can cause problems with your memory and how well you can think or plan.

MAKING WAKEFIELD A DEMENTIA FRIENDLY COMMUNITYDr Andrew Furber Director of Public health

WAKEFIELD COUNCIL ARE WORKING TOWARDS BEING DEMENTIA FRIENDLY AND WORKING WITH LARGE CUSTOMER FACING ORGANISATIONS

Spawforththe Architects to go to!

4747

SPAWFORTH ARCHITECTS ARE A FRIENDLY WAKEFIELD BASED PRACTICE WHO THIS YEAR CELEBRATE 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS.

• Are you a business looking to redevelop, relocate or expand your premises?

• Are you wanting to develop new premises?

• Do you have under utilised property and land that you want to enhance or sell?

• Are you struggling to find a site for redevelopment?

Talk to the team at Spawforths.

For more information call us on 01924 873873 or visit our website www.spawforths.co.uk

ARCHITECTURE | PLANNING | MASTERPLANNING | LANDSCAPE | ENGAGEMENT

We have extensive experience in the commercial market sector and supported by our in-house planning team, we can add significant value to your scheme through our knowledge and experience of local planning authority processes and procedures.

Spawforththe Architects to go to!

4848

FDS open new city centre gallery

TopicUK were recently invited along to the new offices of FDS who we featured in our last issue, as they have now opened a small art gallery on the ground floor of their offices.Managing Director Jo Haigh always wanted to have an art gallery, so when they moved into their new premises, this gave her the perfect opportunity. Director of Marketing Stephanie Osman was the person tasked with setting up the gallery and is loving the role! “We feature artwork from lots of local artists and have recently joined The Artwalk. We have a lot of talent here in Wakefield, we are the City of Arts after all!”If anyone would like to view the artwork on display, Stephanie can be contacted on: 01924 376784 as viewing is strictly by appointment.

Cognitiv, a new industry group established to place the spotlight firmly on Wakefield’s

creative, digital and IT sector, officially launched at The Hepworth on 2 AprilMore than 100 people attended the event to learn about the crucial role that these industries play in Wakefield’s growth and future prosperity and listen to fantastic speaker Claire Harper who is the founder of the successful IndiaCoco childrenswear shop which recently opened on Wood Street.The group aims to become the voice for the sector, bringing people together to share ideas, develop partnerships and build better business

opportunities. Cognitiv will also promote the best of the districts thriving creative, digital and IT talent to the wider community and represent members when addressing market challenges.If you would like to join or learn more about Cognitiv, visit the website at www.cognitiv.co.uk

COGNITIV A NEW INDUSTRY GROUP

THE ARTBUSINESS

JORDANSJOINSARTWALKDuring March, Jordans Solicitors hosted the second ArtWalk of the year.As with every ArtWalk, members of the public were welcomed into the boardroom where artists discuss their work. However, unlike previous ArtWalks, Jordans were joined by two artists, Carol Hanson and Loretta Cusworth – one in their boardroom and the other displaying work in the reception of their King Street office.The art in the boardroom by Loretta Cusworth will be on display until the next ArtWalk, which will be held on 28 May between 5-8pm. If you would like to view the art, please call Jordans office on 01924 387110 to make sure the boardroom is available. Their 18 King Street Wakefield office is open Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm.

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TRY BEFORE YOU BUYNOT READY TO COMMIT? HOW A SECURITY PROVIDER CAN EARN YOUR TRUST

When buying any service for your business, it is vital that you have confidence in the service and of

course the company who provide it. Seldom is that need is more pertinent than when dealing with business security. Securing your business involves placing a great deal of trust in the skills, ability and integrity of the people providing it, but how do they earn that trust?Wakefield security firm, Calder Security, has been in business since 1976 so they know a thing or two about securing new contracts. Reputation helps, longevity in the industry helps and recommendation goes a long way but some clients take a much more cautious approach when embarking on a professional relationship: they ‘try before they buy’. Or, more accurately, they try a little before they commit to buying a lot. This has happened many times at Calder Security. One example was the caretaker of a large secondary school in Wakefield,

who used Calder Security several times for key cutting. He would come into the shop regularly to get this done and, during these visits, gradually learned more about the other services on offer. As he got to know the company, and took advice on different areas of security from the engineers on site, he became increasingly confident that Calder Security could handle something more involved. When the existing CCTV contract came up for renewal he gave them the opportunity to take it on. Not only did he get a service that he was happy with but actually saved a significant amount of money for the school on the annual contract.Another example was Coca Cola’s large manufacturing plant in Wakefield. They needed a company to design, install and maintain a complex master key system for the facility, but before committing to such an important contract the facilities manager used the company for his own domestic locks and intruder alarm system.

Happy with the service, he went ahead and engaged them for the work, a considerable on-going contract. Simon Cook, MD, spoke of this kind of approach to commercial contracts:“We really don’t have an issue with people ‘testing’ us out prior to considering us for larger projects, in fact we enjoy rising to the challenge. We treat every job the same whether it’s getting a few keys cut or designing an all-encompassing security system so the service levels and expertise you get are directly comparable. As far as we’re aware, everyone who has started out on this basis has gone on to offer us larger scale contracts for their business.”Anyone wishing to try Calder Security out for any commercial or domestic security project can give them a call on 01924 582243, e-mail: mail@caldersecurity.co.uk or see the website www.caldersecurity.co.uk.

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BARRINGTON’S EXPAND THEIR LEGAL TEAM & OFFER SUMMER PLACEMENTS

At a recent event to celebrate their first year of trading in the city, Barrington’s Solicitors took the

opportunity to announce the appointment of two new members of staff.Vicky Simpson has been appointed Head of Property and has joined the firm to launch their international commercial property division. Vicky was called to the bar in 2007 and is a non-practising barrister. She entered the legal profession with a varied background across the property sector. Her remit extends to having conducted appeals through the Adjudicator to HM Land Registry, the

Land Tribunal and town planning appeals. Vicky has a particular flair for adverse possession claims/defences, boundary issues and third party rights over land. Another recent appointment is Lois McCartan who joined the firm in March as a trainee Solicitor, having worked for the Crown Prosecution Service for almost 9 years. Lois brings a wealth of legal experience and knowledge, which will be built upon, through training in specialist areas alongside Managing Director Sue Barrington-Binns. Lois is also a member of Women in Property, which compliments Barringtons Construction and Commercial

Property departments.Exceeding their first year’s forecast by 100% with predicted further growth over the coming 12 months, Barringtons celebrated by inviting clients, suppliers and friends to a Birthday party at the end of March. Guests were greeted by a musical duo and enjoyed champagne and canapé’s.To celebrate their success, the firm are launching a Summer Placement Programme for law students, offering one-week placement work experience during the month of August. The firm are looking to receive applications from student’s aged 17-21.If you are interested in taking part in the programme send your CV with a covering letter to Sue Barrington Binns at Barringtons Solicitors, Suite 3, 6 St John’s North, Wakefield WF1 3QA.

Could you do your ‘One Good Thing’ in 2014to help localfamilies like Holly’s?

Registered charity number (1110457)

There are many ways that you canget involved as a business from taking on our business challenges, taking part in one of our fundraising events or by joining our 99ers networking group.

To find out more visit: forgetmenotchild.co.uk/holly or call our Corporate Fundraising team on: 01484 411040

Far Left : Vicky Simpsonand Lois McCartan

The annual Yorkshire and Humberside Association of Civic Societies (YHACS) annual award ceremony took place recently at the Cedar Court Hotel, with more than 50 members representing 24 societies.Each year, the YHACS presents awards to societies for their achievements and the first prize, receiving the Peter Spawforth Award for outstanding activities between October 2012 and September 2013 was awarded to the Wakefield Civic Society for the Wood Street Market initiative.Wood Street hosted three markets over the summer period with a fabulous Christmas Market taking place at Merchant Gate during December. Committee member Darren Bailey who received the Trophy and cheque for £250 from YHACS President Peter Cooper said: “We will be organising the market on the second Sunday of July, August and September during 2014, as the market proved that it breathes life back into the Civic Quarter and makes use of any

empty premises.The Peter Spawforth Award began in 2008 when Peter joined the YHACS, sponsoring a new initiative they were working at the time called Civic Societies week. Spawforths donated £1000 towards the cost of setting the project up. It was then decided to change this and offer the award during 2013 for the best project or activity carried out over a 12-month period and gave out this first award in 2014 with Wood Street Market the outright winner.Spawforth Architects are a long established Wakefield practice with more than 25 years experience of working both locally and nationally on major projects. They have a wealth of experience in architecture for domestic, education, health, leisure, residential and retail as well as planning and urbanism. Now retired, Peter Spawforth handed over the day-to-day running of the practice to his son Adrian but remains president of the company.

WOOD STREET MARKET RECEIVES PETER SPAWFORTH AWARD

TopicUK I s s u e 7 A p r i l 2 0 1 4

As part of Wakefield Business Week (2 – 6 June), Theatre Royal Wakefield invite you to share in the magic of a venue much loved by its community.

The act of attending a show is only part of the connection the Theatre has with its audiences. Our speakers will talk about the place that the Theatre holds in the hearts and minds of the community and how we have engaged them as supporters and ambassadors, while our technical team will share some of the magic that makes a visit to Theatre Royal Wakefield so unique.

Sir Rodney Walker, Honorary Life President. Sir Rodney will talk about taking the Theatre from a derelict building into a vibrant going-concern and what has made that possible.

Murray Edwards, Executive Director of Theatre Royal Wakefield.Murray will discuss how we are changing attitudes to the Theatre so that it is seen as both a charity and as somewhere to do business. Murray will also talk about the plans for the restoration of this grade II* listed building.

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leadersThursday 5 June 11:30am - 1:30pm

With Sir Rodney Walker and Murray Edwards

To book your place for this FREE event go to www.wakefieldbusinessweek.co.uk

A brown bag lunch will be available on the day for £5.