In this video, we chat with Dora Aston, Director of Think! Associates, Brand Design and Marketing based in Taunton, Somerset. A subject very close to our heart, as designers ourselves.
We discuss the value of design and brand strategy and working in collaboration with others that makes for some stunning results both visually and in clients seeing their business grow and succeed. Dora has worked in the graphic design industry for over 30 years. She started my career pre the digital age when print design was all there was and the tools involved reprographic pens, a scalpel, cow gum, and a very steady hand! Thankfully for Dora, the days of the Apple Macintosh computer were not far off, and, along with the specialist software, they afforded her the time and technology to create some truly ground-breaking design and advance into an era of digital communications. Today, it’s a pleasure for her to work with a younger generation of designers who bring fresh thinking, innovative ideas, new Mac skills and an instinctive ability to exploit the latest media channels, all of which we help nurture and direct towards building powerful strategic branding and communications for their clients. Find out more: www.thinkassociates.co.uk _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL: Meet the Business Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in.
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It is obvious to most the impact that Coronavirus has had on millions of lives, not just in the UK, but across the entire World. Many businesses have had to temporarily close, individuals unable to get to work, children having to be ‘home-schooled’ by their parents, many of whom are already stressed and under pressure.
As a nation we have never experienced anything like this and everyone’s mental health is being tested. While we all try to adjust to the changes this has brought to our own families, we must not overlook the thousands of charities that need to continue operating under this ‘new normal’ that so many speak of. Somerset based charity, PROMISEworks, deliver inspirational mentoring for Somerset's most vulnerable, disaffected and disadvantaged young people between the ages of 5 and 25. PROMISEworks volunteers work as mentors, ordinarily spending a couple of hours each fortnight engaging with their mentee – taking part in activities, talking and most importantly, listening. Often, mentors are the only stable adult relationship a young person has in their life. Since the start of lockdown in March and due to strict social distancing restrictions, PROMISEworks has had to rapidly rethink the way it operates. Of course, contact has been maintained online, but fortnightly face to face meetings have now become weekly skype or Facetime calls, texts messages and phone calls. But these inspirational mentors have taken things a step further, ensuring the vital relationships they have built are maintained as much as they can be. We have spoken to the charity to hear about a few ways that they have adapted to this new way of “talking”. One mentor tells us how she has been maintaining contact with her mentee and has recreated their favourite Costa experience, by buying them the ingredients to make their own version of their favourite hot drink. Other mentors have taken it upon themselves to send cards and hand-written notes with encouraging messages like, ‘You Are Stronger Than You Know’, just to remind their young person that they are still there for them. “A young man of few words” was how this mentor described the 18-year-old lad he was matched with. Over the course of their relationship communication had always been brief in between their fortnightly face-to-face meetings and he was rarely chatty when they did meet, preferring to be tinkering with cars, or eating cake. Since lockdown, new ways of keeping their friendship interesting have had to be explored. The mentor set the young lad the task of compiling some online quiz questions that they could do together. The mentor quickly realised that all of the questions were about places they had been and things that they had done together, further highlighting how important their seemingly mundane meetings had been to this young man over the previous 15 months. A 10-year-old girl mentee was proving difficult for her mentor to engage with. The PROMISEworks mentor had to quickly learn how to communicate by Messenger, FaceTime etc, but was getting almost no response. PROMISEworks sent the girl craft kits and plenty of books to read. But the girl recognised herself that she was becoming lazy, with playing computer games occupying much of her day. Then, following a suggestion from a case-holder, the mentor asked her a quick question – “Name a song with a colour in the title?” Wow, the response came back immediately - Yellow Submarine, Lady in Red, Black & Gold, Tears of Gold. They then moved onto songs with numbers and they were off, the young girl was engaged! They continued to have more conversations - songs about food, sweets, for dancing to, songs from the year of our births – leading perfectly on to plans for her birthday celebrations next month! The lines of communication were open again and the girl began telling her mentor quite a lot about herself through the songs she was choosing – sadly, most of which had very unhappy lyrics! Many young people are finding the excuse for increased gaming time suits them well. One lad facetimes his mentor but continues to play games online. When his mentor asked if he was ignoring her, he said, “no, I just like you being in the room with me!” PROMISEworks sits alongside children and young people who are dealing with life struggles. The mentors help by listening, encouraging, and most importantly having fun. They are looking forward to being able to walk and talk with their young people in the sunshine. If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a mentor, please get in touch on www.promiseworks.org.uk Word Gets Around Networking - Meet the Business - Ruth Lambert - Federation of Small Businesses20/5/2020 In this video, we chat with Ruth Lambert, Development Manager at the Federation of Small Businesses. We discuss the role the FSB has had in helping businesses during Covid-19 and some of the challenges their members have faced.
They work in partnership with local councils, HMRC and central government to help businesses to get the support they need. In these unprecedented times, it can be a time for business owners to see the opportunities, and while in lockdown to take stock of where their business is, and embrace online tools to get the support they need. Ruth works in the Field Staff Team as a Development Manager responsible for Somerset and Wiltshire and supports their members on a local basis. Working with volunteers across the area she raises awareness of issues affecting their members and works on projects to support them. This can include to MPs and local councils about what is important to the success of a small business, through to selling in stories to local press. As experts in business, the FSB offers their members a wide range of vital business services including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in government. Their sole aim is to help smaller businesses to achieve their ambitions. Find out more: https://www.fsb.org.uk/ _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL: Meet the Business Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. Word Gets Around Networking - Meet the Business - Stephen Henagulph - Somerset Chamber of Commerce19/5/2020 In this video, we chat with Stephen Henagulph, Chief Executive of Somerset Chamber of Commerce. They are a membership-based business support organisation which promotes and lobbies for business development in Somerset.
Stephen is a professional Sales & Business Development Director with over 30 years’ experience gained from a career working within sales, B2B, manufacturing, retail, marketing, and advertising. We discuss what the Somerset Chamber of Commerce do for their members, how they do it, and the impact of COVID-19 on Somerset Businesses. Established in 1994, the Somerset Chamber works hard to support local businesses and specifically our 500 strong network of member businesses covering all industry sectors from sole-traders to multi-national corporations. Combined with local Town Chambers, the Somerset Chamber represents over 2000 businesses across Somerset. Somerset Chamber is one of only 53 Chambers accredited to the British Chambers of Commerce, which represents over 100,000 businesses in the UK and is the only truly independent UK business support organisation which has local representation, credibility in the eyes of the government and the media, and is consulted at all levels by Government. Chamber Objectives: Help people and businesses CONNECT INFLUENCE and represent Somerset business Provide opportunities for businesses to GROW Chamber Vision and Values Vision: A catalyst to support and grow a vibrant Somerset economy Chamber members have access to a range of services such as: Events – They organise over 70 events each year of varying scale and size. This supports and informs business and helps strengthen supply chains. They believe this is at the heart of the Chamber so they offer specific events for members. Representation – this is a service at the heart of Somerset Chamber and is largely to support members. They take on issues that affect the whole business community and lobby at all levels of policy decision making. International Trade – they encourage international trade working with the Department of International Trade. Their website has extensive resources for businesses, including an advice hub. Please visit their website for more details: www.somerset-chamber.co.uk/ _____________________ n these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL: Meet the Business Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. In this video, we chat with Martyn Lowesmith, director of Sky Space. We discuss mindset, culture, connecting and needing to evaluate relationships and our motivation to succeed in the future.
Sky Space are team and organisational development specialists. Martyn has a gift for connecting people and businesses with their own humanity. He has decades of experience in business ownership and working as a human-focused transformation specialist with expertise in team and organisational development, consultancy, training, sales, management and systemic coaching. Though a number of senior and Board-level roles in Organisational Development and consulting, he has gathered extensive national and global experience as team and organisational development specialist working on culture change and transformation assignments for multi-national corporate clients. He is also a pioneer of coaching in the UK and played a key role in growing the UK coaching market and building the reputation of the industry. Find out more at: https://sky-space.co.uk/ _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. In this video, we chat with Simon Cutler, a director of Blackdown Financial in Taunton. He is an independent Financial Planner who helps clients plan for their future.
The Coronavirus has changed how people feel about the future. It has given some time to step back and think about what is really important. This may be thinking about your finances in detail, retirement plans, or making some changes to help your family. We discuss its impact on the financial markets and how what is happening right now will affect our future. One thing is sure, all businesses need to adapt to futureproof their business growth. Blackdown Financial wants their clients to be financially independent, to be able to enjoy life, to pursue goals and dreams, safe and secure in the knowledge they have someone to turn to and rely on. This is what drives them to be the best they can be. They are very proud to be Independent Financial Advisers and for them, independence is not just a word it is a state of mind. Visit their visit: www.blackdownfinancial.co.uk _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL: Meet the Business Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. TAUNTON based community lender Wessex Resolutions, CIC has helped hundreds of people across the South West live in safer, warmer and more comfortable homes after lending an impressive £1.6 million to homeowners to carry out essential repairs and improvements. Based in Bradford-on-Tone, near Taunton, Wessex Resolutions is a not-for-profit social enterprise which works with 18 local councils in the South West to provide sensible lending to those in need. Despite having just nine people in the Wessex team, they set themselves the challenging target of lending £1.5 million to eligible homeowners in this financial year, having lent £1.2 million in 2018-19. And despite the restrictions imposed on the team as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, the team has given loans totaling £1,644,909 in the last financial year which ended on 31 March 2020. Wessex Resolutions’ loans are not based on an individual’s credit score and are designed for a range of people, from existing homeowners, first-time buyers, park home-owners, landlords and those trying to bring empty properties back into use.
The Community Interest Company (CIC) uses a sustainable funding stream, in partnership with councils, to improve the quality of homes throughout the South West and has already ‘recycled’ more than £5 million in loans which will help support future clients. Emma Lower, Chief Executive of Wessex Resolutions CIC, said: “I want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to all 18 of our council partners across the West of England and the South West for enabling their funds to be used in this way. “It’s a really unique model where we absolutely put our clients first and find a solution to their needs, as we’re a social enterprise, we put people before profit. But most of all, thank you to everyone who has borrowed from Wessex Resolutions and chosen and trusted us to help them improve their homes, particularly accessing our services remotely as we continue to operate and serve our clients through means of remote working since the end of March.” The youngest borrower during the year was 22 years old, while the oldest was aged 89 years. Boiler purchases are the most popular reason for people to take out a loan, followed by roof repairs or insulation. One borrower, ‘Mrs. L’ from Wellington, used a loan to install the first-ever insulation in the roof space of her 115-year-old lath and plaster property. She said: “I feel very relieved now I have been able to have the work done after eight years living in the house. Already it is considerably warmer than previous winters. I’m expecting to save on energy bills right away. I feel so thankful I've got the loan and been able to have the work done with no stress and worry about money.” More information about Wessex Resolutions CIC is available by telephoning 01823 461099 or by emailing enquiries@wrcic.org.uk. Missing payments could affect your credit rating and ability to obtain credit in the future. Loans are typically protected by a Title Restriction. This means that you may not be able to sell your home without our permission unless the loan is fully repaid. Loans are Subject to Status. This financial promotion has been approved by Wessex Resolutions CIC, a community interest company limited by guarantee. Wessex Resolutions C.I.C is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (675263) for credit and debt-related regulated activities. Registered address: Heatherton Park Studios, Bradford on Tone, Taunton TA4 1EU. Registered in England, company number 4512225. In this video, we chat with Jeremy Hyams, Chief Executive Officer at Claims Consortium Group. When he founded Claims Consortium Group 21 years ago he had the vision to make a positive impact on the way property insurance claims were handled.
Through this time he has never wavered from his focus on the customer, and it has led to some exciting challenges and some amazing achievements – and he's as proud and excited to be in business now as he was when he started out. Jeremy sees his role as three big things: 1. To champion my business 2. To innovate and push the boundaries of what’s thought possible 3. To advocate better standards across our industry. He believes that if he can be true to these goals then there can only be great outcomes – great for their business, staff, customers, clients, and suppliers. Claims Consortium Group endeavour to support their community through a range of initiatives and their staff play an important and active role in this. Find out more about their work www.claimsconsortiumgroup.co.uk Claims Consortium Group has just launched a free wellbeing resource hub: www.loveourcommunity.co.uk _____ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. Word Gets Around Networking - Meet the Business - Chris Lorimer - DBEC & South West Growth Service14/5/2020 In this video, we chat with Chris Lorimer, a founder of South West Growth Service, and someone who loves working with organisations to help them grow and prosper. He is highly connected in the South West and works with ambitious clients across multiple sectors. He is also proud to run Devon Business & Education Centre (DBEC), a co-working hub in East Devon that brings expertise and ambition together to achieve transformational results.
South West Growth Service delivers a wide range of skills that can help your business achieve exceptional results. They collaborate with the best professionals they've met over many years in business to help their clients adapt, develop and grow. If you'd like to know more, feel free to connect or send Chris a message! www.linkedin.com/in/lorimerconsulting www.southwestgrowthservice.co.uk www.dbec.co.uk www.373group.com Check out their upcoming events! www.dbec.co.uk/networking _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. During May 2020, the National Churches Trust is running an online campaign with the hashtag #FavouriteChurches and everyone who loves churches for whatever reason is being invited to take part in “Your Favourite Church” month and nominate their favourite church.
However to date no Somerset churches have been nominated. A spokesman for Somerset Day 365 said “We think this is a real travesty as our churches are amongst the finest in the UK and we need to ensure they are recognised and featured. Let’s not miss this opportunity for us all to celebrate Somerset !” Someone's favourite church might be a photographers dream, evoke childhood memories, be a great place to stop on a walk, have incredible art or architecture, be part of family history, make great cakes or just be the place they go to take time out. A special page has been set up on the Churches Trust website where they will feature all the churches submitted. They will add new churches each week, and each one submitted will be featured on their Facebook, Twitter or Instagram channels. For more information go to www.explorechurches.org At the end of May a separate Somerset churches page will be created, supported by Somerset Day 365. Entries can be submitted, ideally with a photograph take by the person submitting the entry, on the website or can be emailed to linda.patrick@nationalchurchestrust.org Somerset West & Taunton is urging owners of public buildings and volunteer-run premises to service their water and air conditioning systems before re-opening to staff and the public.
Any water systems lying dormant during the COVID-19 emergency are likely to have increased levels of bacteria present, which means there’s a heightened risk of Legionnaires' disease. Shops and offices, hairdressers, beauty salons, hotels, pubs and restaurants, sports centres, gyms, residential buildings, campsites - anywhere that has a water supply and is currently shut down - are being reminded to check and maintain their systems. The Council’s environmental health team is contacting local businesses directly to advise that whilst it may not be high on their priority list during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important ensure all water systems are managed safely at this time. Water systems that are not being used and maintained effectively are very likely to have increased levels of bacteria present. Experts say that it is far better to maintain a water system than to try and treat a water system which has gone out of control. Legionnaires' disease is a lung infection caught by inhaling droplets of water from air conditioning units, shower heads or hot tubs. Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease are similar to COVID-19 and include high temperature, feverishness and chills, cough, muscle pains, headache, and pneumonia. Its name originates from a deadly 1976 outbreak of the disease at an American Legion convention in Philadelphia. More about the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can be found here: www.hse.gov.uk/legionnaires/symptoms.htm Guidance and procedures by the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Disease on how to best manage Legionella in building water systems during the COVID-19 outbreak can be found here: We may all be in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic but nothing is going to stop local charity, Arts Taunton from delivering its youth festival, Tyca 2020 this year. “The festival may be live, it may be virtual, but it will be interactive and happening!” said Arts Taunton’s Tyca Festival Director, Deborah Baddoo. The charity has recognised that young people are bored and struggling with motivation, so they are kicking off the Festival immediately with a series of weekly artistic challenges. Ms Baddoo explains: “Our theme for this year’s Festival is: 2020 Future Vision. “The pandemic has shown how, suddenly and dramatically, the world can change. “What will happen next? When will we come through this? Will we do things differently - especially for the environment and ecology? We are sure this lockdown will feed your imaginations!” With each weekly theme relating to 2020 Future Vision, there will be a £20 prize for the best entry in each age group, each week. And at the end of 4 weeks there will have a £100 grand prize for the overall winner in each age group.
Week One of the Tyca Challenge is already up on the festival website with full information on how you can enter, and suggestions for ideas. The competition is open to anyone living in Taunton and the surrounding areas who are aged up to 25 years old. The three categories are: 10 years and under, 11-15 and 16-25 year olds. The charity is appealing to anyone who is in contact with young people within this age group to ask them to visit the website www.tycafestival.co.uk and enter the weekly challenge. People can also follow progress on Instagram and Facebook (@tycafestival) and the artist pieces will also be displayed on the Tyca website. In this video, we chat with Rob Perks, chief executive at Inspire. They inspire, advise and support enterprise across Wiltshire and NE Somerset. Rob is an experienced business strategist, having studied this with operational efficiency at Warwick Business School, practical application has been through undertaking a number of strategic reviews and transformation projects for several Corporates as well as smaller businesses. Business development and promotion of the business are a particular area of expertise.
Rob is responsible for leading the Chamber of Commerce and SME support services across the South West. Providing strategic direction and developing the Inspire Brand and its customer proposition through a range of excellent products and services to help businesses survive and thrive. He works with UK Government, Local Enterprise Partnerships, Growth Hubs, and Local Authorities to develop a strategy for high growth SME sector including an effective support and advice framework. He ensures Inspire is the 'go-to' place for Scale-Up support in the South West. He works with large corporate partners to support and grow the local economy. The role includes building partnerships with senior politicians locally and nationally, other Policymakers such as the Bank of England and Universities, UK and Local Government Officers, and Business Leaders. Find out more: www.inspirebiz.co.uk _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. In this video, we chat with Karen Morledge, founder and director of Moreledge & Co, who work with ambitious businesses in the South West and beyond to raise awareness, enhance reputation, and ultimately to enhance the bottom line. They guarantee to drive your business forward by maximising opportunities right there, within your business, using their extensive and effective marketing and PR services.
Karen is a communications champion who is passionate about achieving results for businesses. Using her 15 years plus of business acumen, strategic marketing experience, and PR skills she is enthusiastic about working with ambitious people who expect outcomes, results and want to make a difference in business. With a passion for Somerset and the South West, and a vision of creating a vibrant economy for future generations, she loves all things marketing, public relations, and communications and welcome the opportunity to support determined leaders to achieve their business objectives; be it enhancing reputation and raising positive awareness, increased revenue, or long-term growth through effective and efficient marketing activities. Multi-award winning and a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) for ten years (adhering to the highest standards of professional conduct), Karen is an honest, strategic thinker and has a can-do attitude and a hands-on approach. She has an entrepreneurial streak, a creative and curious mind and thrives on supporting ambitious businesses to ensure everything I undertake is successful; it’s what makes her tick. Find out more: www.morledgeandco.com ____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. In this video, we chat with Peter Andrews, director of Introtweet, a business that helps businesses maximise the potential of social media via training, social media management & online support.
Established in 2013, Introtweet has established an enviable reputation for providing social media training and management services to a diverse range of businesses from small local firms to large international companies. Members of their team are regularly interviewed on radio and are booked as speakers as numerous business events where they discuss all things social. Their offices are based in Taunton, Somerset but they travel across the UK and abroad to deliver our bespoke workshops and to speak at events. www.introtweet.com www.twitter.com/introtweetUK www.facebook.com/IntrotweetUK www.linkedin.com/in/introtweet www.instagram.com/introtweetuk _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. #MeetTheBusiness In this video, we chat with Laura O'Driscoll, founder and managing director of OD Talent Solutions. They are a Management Consultancy specialising in Recruitment Solutions and Talent Acquisition. They deliver bespoke Interim In-House Recruitment Solutions for organisations to support existing In-House Functions or HR Teams. They are not an agency, they work within your team as part of your organisation to recruit with you, develop your processes and deliver large recruitment related projects.
What Makes Them Different? ETHICAL RECRUITING Taking care of their candidates and their clients using our honest and straight-talking approach. VALUE ADDING Our combination of In-House and Agency experience means they help their clients for the long term to be more self-sufficient. COST EFFECTIVE Their Managed Vacancy Model allows them to cut costs and save their clients money. www.facebook.com/ODTalentSolutions www.odtalentsolutions.co.uk _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness In this video, we chat with Hugh Graham from The Bid Coach. The Bid Coach is an established and successful boutique consultancy that works with a range of companies to help them win more business through more effective tendering. They have worked with or are currently supporting many of the UK‘s foremost companies so as to increase their win rate, within sectors such as Professional Services, Construction, Legal and Health Care.
Hugh has a very active blog that is full of insightful and useful tips and advice on his website. See: www.thebidcoach.co.uk/all-blog-articles.html Visit his website: www.thebidcoach.co.uk If you want to win more contracts through bids and tenders then The Bid Coach can help. They do this by working with you to develop your presentation skills or helping you structure your bid documentation more effectively. There's nothing off the shelf about what they do, everything is tailored to suit your needs and your objectives. At The Bid Coach they deliver their support based solely around the context of the opportunities you are working towards winning. At the same time, they deliver sustained benefits by developing transferable skills that you can apply to future opportunities. They always start by understanding the existing strengths of your team. They then work to develop these strengths while improving their team-working skills and self-awareness. Understanding how you are perceived is a vital first step toward modifying your behavior to engage your audience and make a positive impression. They don’t aim to sell you our way of doing things; they help you develop your way of doing things, in a way that delivers you the maximum chance of success with your bids and tenders – now and in the future. Over the years Hugh has worked for well-known brands such a Coca Cola, Kellogg’s, SC Johnson and Littlewoods – holding ever more senior account management and man-management positions but always in roles where he's had to interpret and refine business propositions to tailor them to a specific audience. _____________________ In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice. SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness Countryside charity CPRE Somerset is inviting everyone to send in their favourite shots of the great outdoors to help keep us going in these challenging times. 2020 is turning out to be like no other year that any of us have ever experienced. We are all facing unprecedented restrictions on our daily lives due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our freedom to go outside is now extremely limited and, for some, a trip out of the home may make you feel anxious and worried. As the countryside charity, CPRE Somerset wants to remind us all how wonderful it can be to be in the great outdoors and of how, even the smallest details can be fascinating and uplifting. That’s why CPRE is launching its 2020 photo competition with the theme – “Reasons To Be Cheerful” with a £100 prize for the winner.
CPRE Somerset Chair, Chris Lewis, said:
“It is more important than ever to try to stay positive in these difficult times. As the countryside charity, we’d love to see images of the little things about the Somerset countryside, or nature just outside your window, which are keeping you going while you follow the social distancing rules. The great outdoors will still be waiting for us when we are free to return, but for now, let’s all share some little reasons to be cheerful we are enjoying closer to home!” Entries should be emailed as an attachment to admin@cpresomerset.org.uk by midnight on 31st August 2020. Full terms and conditions can be found on CPRE Somerset’s website at www.cpresomerset.org.uk In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice.
In this video, we chat with Bethan Turner from All About You, a fresh thinking, forward-looking business offering bespoke Events, Marketing, and PR services to get you sorted and seen. Bethan works with small businesses, charities and organisations who are so busy that they just don't have enough time to shout about the good work they are doing, or who need help in understanding how best to promote themselves. For her business, it really is all about you! During her career, Bethan has worked both in-house and externally in sales, marketing and events management roles, bringing focus, insight, and energy to campaign work across print and online media. Bethan is an experienced public speaker, taking to the microphone on behalf of her clients and her own business at events such as Digital Taunton, the NCT (National Childbirth Trust) Stars Awards, and at many in-house corporate conferences. Visit her website: www.allaboutyou.business _____________________ SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness The hugely successful launch of the Taunton Independent Market on Castle Green, on Sunday 8 March, sadly seems a lifetime ago. It was back during a time when we could freely amble around our lovely town with friends and family, drink coffee and enjoy delicious street food all whilst upbeat music played in the background. More than 7000 people came into Taunton Town Centre, on a slightly stormy Sunday morning, to peruse the 65 market stalls that filled Castle Green selling local products. Fast forward 7 weeks and the world is a very different place. Not deterred by the current Covid19 restrictions preventing the April Market from taking place, and riding high on the success of Taunton’s first Independent Market, organiser Michelle Beck of By Invitation Events, has set up an online directory of traders and the opportunity to buy artisan goods from local traders, online. With over 20 artisan food and drink producers already signed up to the shop, showcasing in almost 200 local products ranging from cheese, meat, award winning pies, scotch eggs, cakes, gin, cider, bread and much more - there is sure to be something for everyone. There will be twice weekly deliveries to TA1, TA2 and TA3 residents initially, with the first delivery planned for Wednesday 13th May. It is anticipated that the delivery area will expand to other postcodes in the Taunton Deane area soon and there is already a fleet of 15 delivery drivers and their vehicles lined up to help. ![]() Michelle said, “This has been a testing time when lots of businesses have had to re-think their ways of working. At the Taunton Independent Market we decided very quickly that we would take the market on-line, following such positive feedback from traders and customers alike. The market launch in March was an enormous success and we knew that it was exactly what our County Town needed. We are hugely grateful to our media partners Daffodil PR and Taunton based brand agency Think! Associates who, together have built us a full e-commerce website selling goods from over 25 sellers and a comprehensive stallholder directory. Also thanks must go to Company Spaces in the centre of Taunton who are allowing us to use their wonderful space as a depot, Gibbins Richards Estate Agents for sponsoring our Taunton Independent Market reusable cotton bags, Viper Gin for providing us with hand sanitiser and special thanks to our main sponsor Taunton School who have made full-face visors to protect our packers and delivery drivers.” The plan is that, once the Covid19 restrictions are relaxed in coming months, the Taunton independent Market online will continue to run alongside the monthly markets on Castle Green. Please visit www.tauntonmarket.co.uk In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice.
In this video, we chat with Sarah Coward, the Managing Director/Owner at SLC Digital Marketing. Sarah is a Social Media and Digital Marketing professional who has over 20 years of marketing experience gained in both the public and private sectors. She has worked in senior marketing roles for various organisations in the South West including The Bristol Evening Post, Alexandra Plc, the University of the West of England and Bristol Zoo Gardens. She qualified from the University of the West of England with a BA Hons in English Literature and hold a Diploma in Direct Marketing. With experience both in-house and for agencies, she can appreciate and understand the needs of a business and always put excellent customer service at the heart of everything she does. Sarah loves the challenge of making projects come together from concept to fruition. She's an expert in digital marketing strategy, social media management, blog writing, and copywriting and considers herself a marketing 'all-rounder'. Find out more at: www.slcdigitalmarketing.co.uk --------- SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice.
In this video, we chat with Jenny Maynard, founder of The Boho Bride Guide, a business development community created for wedding suppliers or individuals looking to start their own wedding business, eager to attract couples looking to create a Boho Luxe wedding day. During to Coronavirus Jenny has had to rethink and pivot her business. Join their mailing list to be kept up to date with updates on Podcast episodes, blog posts and the launch of The Boho Bride Guide Directory at www.thebohobrideguide.com Find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/thebohobrideguide and click of The Boho Bride Guide TRIBE facebook Group icon to join their business development community for wedding suppliers looking to attract couples who want to create a Boho inspired wedding day. Find them on Instagram www.instagram.com/thebohobrideguide_ for boho-inspired wedding inspiration and podcast updates. or www.instagram.com/thebohobrideguidetribe for inspiration as a wedding supplier on how to build a strong boho-inspired brand to attract your dream clients. Or contact Jenny direct on jennifer@thebohobrideguide.com www.thebohobrideguide.com --------- SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness In these series of short videos, we chat with Somerset business owners to find out what they do, how they do it, and more importantly, why they do it. Informal chats are recorded via Zoom and offer a chance to share tips, information, and advice.
In this video, we chat with Pam Knight from White Knight Marketing. Pam has a wealth of experience in marketing strategy, PR, copywriting, digital marketing, and advertising. She also really knows her SEO when it comes to websites and provides website audits for her clients to make sure their digital shop window (website) performs as best as it can. White Knight Marketing was set up to support companies that need a marketing input, either strategically or practically, and who do not have the appropriate skills in house. The way they work is very varied, and the support offered matches the needs of the client - from taking on the role as an associate director helping strategically, to satisfying an operational need. The most common cry they hear is 'I wish I had someone to do this!' Visit her website: www.whiteknightmarketing.co.uk _____________________ SEE ALL THE VIDEOS ON THE CHANNEL: https://www.wordgetsaround.co.uk/meet-the-business.html Word Gets Networking has been active in Taunton for over 8 years at local venues, giving people a chance to promote your business at a convenient time, working around the busy lives they lead. In a relaxed environment, they get a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and develop your network, with like-minded people. Our business network group is open to anyone who embraces the idea of support, learning, and a ‘together we’re stronger’ attitude. Now more than ever it is about sharing skills and experiences which help build relationships and in time, trust. Everyone has value and you can take away as much as you put in. If you would like to take part in 'Meet the Business' then please send us a message or email info@wordgetsaround.co.uk #MeetTheBusiness Taunton based insurance claims handling provider, Claims Consortium Group have launched their FREE community wellbeing hub: www.loveourcommunity.co.uk
Bringing together invaluable advice, support, resources and educational guides to help during the Covid-19 global pandemic; the community hub is a free tool for everyone to use. The site features handy tips and advice across a range of topics including looking after your mental and physical wellbeing, home-schooling and mindfulness. The site will also feature guest articles from local and industry experts and is being constantly added to. Just as the name suggests, this is a community resource for everyone, and Claims Consortium Group are actively encouraging people to get in touch if they would like to contribute some content. Whether it’s a stand alone piece or a series – please get in touch via hello@loveourcommunity.co.uk. The resources were initially developed to support Claims Consortium Group’s 300-strong team who are all now working from home. Since the content proved so helpful, the company wanted to make it freely available to all, and the wellbeing hub was born. Packed full of free resources provided by a range of award-winning expert contributors and curated in an easy to navigate format, the content has been developed by certified trainers and industry experts, including Mental Health First Aid England trainers. Claims Consortium Group Founder and CEO, Jeremy Hyams, comments, “During this global pandemic, we are all focussed on looking after the wellbeing of our businesses, our customers and our people, and this is absolutely central to how we operate as a business. To support our staff, we wanted to provide as many tools as we could to help make it a little bit easier. We believe there has never been a better moment for us all to pull together and support one another, and this wellbeing resource is just one way we hope to help during this challenging time.” For more information and to check out the new resource hub, please visit: www.loveourcommunity.co.uk During the current lockdown, Queen’s College in Taunton has launched a Remote Learning programme, which is proving popular with students and parents alike.
Now the independent school in Trull Road is holding a Virtual Open Week from May 11 to 15. Queen's educates children from three months in its Highgrove Nursery to 18 years in its Sixth Form and the week will enable parents considering their child's next step to see the outstanding facilities and opportunities on offer. Head Teacher, Dr Lorraine Earps, said: "We always hold our May Open Morning on the first Bank Holiday of the month but this year we have moved it online and spread it over a week. "We've developed a programme so that anyone interested in sending their son or daughter to Queen's will receive 'virtually' the same service as if the usual Open Morning was happening." Prospective parents will be able to take a virtual tour of Queen’s before arranging online meetings with Dr Earps and key staff. For further information and to register, please email admissions@queenscollege.org.uk |
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