Focusing on men’s mental health in Sandwell: have your say

The Better Mental Health programme in Sandwell is turning its attention to an often-overlooked issue: men’s mental health. Over the next 12 months, the initiative aims to spark discussions, raise awareness and promote the support available for men’s mental health across the community.

Understanding mental health needs

Two surveys have been launched to gather valuable insights from both individuals and organisations in Sandwell. These surveys are crucial in helping to understand the specific mental health needs of men in the area and how best to support them.

  • Individual survey: This survey is open to anyone living or working in Sandwell. While the focus is on men, everyone is encouraged to participate and share their views. Partners, friends, and family members are also welcome to contribute, offering insights into the support they believe would benefit the men in their lives.
  • Organisation survey: This survey is designed for businesses, community organisations, and other groups in Sandwell that provide support or services to men. The goal is to understand the current provision and gather ideas for improving mental health support within the community.

Why your feedback matters

Men in Sandwell are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, and this has significant consequences, with men making up 79% of deaths by suicide in the area. By participating in these surveys, you can help shape the future of mental health services in Sandwell, ensuring that men have access to the support they need when they need it most.

Your input will directly contribute to creating a better mental health environment for men, helping them to “feel good and function well” throughout their lives.

For more information and support on mental health, visit our Wellbeing page.

Business Growth West Midlands: celebrating a year of success

We’re thrilled to announce that Business Growth West Midlands is celebrating its first anniversary, marking a year of significant progress in supporting and nurturing businesses across the West Midlands. To celebrate this milestone, an event will be held on Tuesday 1 October 2024, at Millennium Point in Birmingham.

This celebration will not only reflect on the achievements of the past year but also offer a forward-looking perspective on the opportunities available for businesses in the West Midlands.

About Business Growth West Midlands

Business Growth West Midlands was established with the mission to empower local businesses by providing them with the tools, resources and the support needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Over the past year, they have successfully connected many businesses with essential services. This ranges from funding opportunities to expert advice on digital marketing, sales strategies and more. Their commitment to fostering economic growth in the West Midlands has made them a cornerstone of the local business community.

Event highlights

The first anniversary event promises to be an unmissable opportunity for local businesses to connect, learn, and grow. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Networking breakfast: kick off the day by networking with local business leaders, entrepreneurs and support providers. This is your chance to forge new connections and discuss collaboration opportunities in a relaxed setting.
  • Inspiring stories: be motivated by a young entrepreneur who has successfully turned her vision into reality. Her story is sure to inspire you to take bold steps in your own business journey.
  • Masterclasses: participate in hands-on sessions covering key areas such as digital marketing, funding, and sales strategies. These masterclasses will provide you with actionable insights and practical skills to accelerate your business growth.
  • Celebration of success: reflect on the achievements of businesses in the region over the past year and get a sneak peek at upcoming initiatives, including the highly anticipated West Midlands Business Festival.

Don’t miss out – register today

This event is free to attend, thanks to funding from the Government, but spaces are limited. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this milestone celebration and gain the tools you need to propel your business forward.

We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate the achievements of the past year.

Black Country Chamber Business Awards back for 2024

Don’t miss your chance to submit an entry for the Black Country Chamber Business Awards – celebrating resilience, innovation and impact in our region.

The annual Black Country Chamber Business Awards will this year announce winners in fourteen different categories. The awards are free to enter and the deadline for submissions is Monday 16 September. For 2024, the awards will take place on Thursday 21 November at the University of Wolverhampton.

Why attend the Black Country Chamber Business Awards?

Attending the Black Country Chamber Business Awards is more than just a chance to win an accolade. It’s a networking opportunity, where you can connect with some of the most influential business leaders in our region. The event also offers the chance to celebrate the achievements of your peers, gain inspiration from their successes and reflect on your own company’s contributions to the local economy.

Being part of this prestigious event can elevate your business profile, open doors to new collaborations, and offer a platform to showcase your commitment to excellence.

Previous winners

Dudley-based MET Recruitment won the Excellence in Professional Services Award in 2022. The company’s commercial director Nella Share said: “Our experience has been so valuable. It has opened doors to new relationships and allowed us to demonstrate the high standards we offer on a regional stage.”

Lisa Cowley, CEO of the Beacon Centre (the 2021 winner of Large Business of the Year), echoed Nella’s words. Lisa said: “Both the event and the award have led to opening doors to new local connections and supporters, as well as providing a fantastic news story for us to share across all of our channels and giving a boost to employee morale. If you are considering entering your organisation, I would really recommend doing so.”

Sandwell College and NHS Trust sign landmark agreement

Sandwell College and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust have signed a transformative partnership agreement, set to reshape the local employment landscape.

A landmark agreement

This collaboration will offer direct access to education and job opportunities within the healthcare sector, meeting the growing demand for skilled NHS staff. At the heart of this partnership is the development of an £18m Learning Campus, scheduled to open in Smethwick in 2025. Located at the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital site, this innovative facility will align educational programs with the needs of the local job market.

Preparing the next generation

Starting in September 2024, Sandwell College students, including school leavers and adult learners, will be the first to benefit. The campus will offer hands-on work experience, masterclasses and career guidance from NHS professionals. Graham Pennington, Principal and Chief Executive of Sandwell College, said: “This new Learning Campus is more than just bricks and mortar; it offers our students unprecedented insights into healthcare careers.”

The Learning Campus is also a key component of the Grove Lane masterplan, which aims to create 800 new homes and a sustainable neighborhood. This integrated approach will foster a connected community that benefits both current and future residents.

Richard Beeken, Chief Executive of Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, said, “The Learning Campus is a game changer, contributing to the wider redevelopment, including the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital. This net-zero building will serve as a public learning space welcoming parents, students, staff and the community, and promoting health and wellbeing.”

Creating pathways to employment

The Learning Campus is set to significantly impact local employment, supporting 1,280 learners annually. James Fleet, Interim Chief People Officer for the Trust, highlighted the initiative’s reach: “This project will create 50 new NHS jobs each year, alongside 100 apprenticeship opportunities, 250 work experience placements, and ten supported internships, especially through programs like Project Search, which helps young adults with learning disabilities find employment.”

The quotes and information used for this story came from Sandwell College, read their story here.

A&M-EDM secures investment to power growth in Sandwell

We’re pleased to celebrate the continued growth of Sandwell-based A&M EDM, a leading precision engineering company. They have used a grant from Sandwell Council and Business Growth West Midlands to fuel their expansion and enhance their capabilities.

Driving innovation with cutting-edge machinery

A&M EDM has invested significantly in state-of-the-art equipment, including a Hurco VMX42i three-axis machining centre. This cutting-edge technology will enable the company to take on more complex and larger-scale projects. The new machinery will not only boost the company’s production capacity but also improve the precision and quality of its engineering services. This will further solidify its reputation as a leader in the field.

Expanding facilities and workforce

In addition to upgrading its equipment, A&M is also expanding its facilities to accommodate the increased production demand. This expansion is set to create new jobs, providing valuable opportunities for skilled workers in the Sandwell area. By investing in both technology and talent, A&M is positioning itself for long-term growth and contributing to the economic development of the region.

A boost for the local economy

A&M has grown from a two man start-up in 2002 to a workforce of 82 with sales over £8 million, creating new jobs by applying its engineering expertise in CNC machining, spark and wire electro discharge machining and toolmaking with continuous investment in new technology.

The investment marks a significant milestone for A&M and a positive development for the Sandwell community. With plans to continue expanding its services and workforce, the company is playing a key role in driving local economic growth and supporting the region’s engineering sector.

Positive Impact

Mark Wingfield, managing director of A&M EDM, said: “Sandwell Council’s support was important; the grant was a refreshingly straightforward process and accelerated our investment in a new machining centre to increase our manufacturing of precision aerospace components.”

Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for business and skills, Councillor Sukhbir Gill, said: “This is a great example of how, working in tandem with business, Sandwell Council is determined to drive growth and increase employment. We want Sandwell to be the location of choice for business and would encourage anyone in business or thinking of starting a business however big or small to contact our Sandwell Business Growth Team.”

Well done to the entire team at A&M.

‘A time for communities to unite and support each other’: message from West Midlands Police

In light of public disorder, West Midlands Police have issued a statement to reassure local businesses.

First published on the West Midlands Police website, the message is:

“We appreciate these are incredibly worrying times for our communities and business partners across the West Midlands.

This is a time for communities to unite and support each other and we are working together to make sure communities are fully supported and our response is coordinated, proportionate and responsive.

We are really proud of the strong links we have with businesses and local communities across the West Midlands. Over the coming days and weeks we’ve asked our local policing teams to speak to local businesses and offer them reassurance.

We would also ask you to continue to engage with your local policing teams and if you have any concerns then please contact them.

Your safety and safety of your customers is the primary concern and we would ask that you review your policies and incorporate any necessary measures in line with your business needs.

If a crime is committed we will investigate. However, it would be really help if you could ensure that you have working CCTV. If you employ security staff consider the use of body worn video.

This would help us with evidence gathering. If you are part of the business community please be reassured of the action we will take to support you and bring offenders to justice during these challenging times.

There’s also lots of crime prevention information which can be found on our website.

Please be mindful of the incredibly harmful spreading of misinformation on social media at the current time, do challenge what you see online, report where appropriate and consider the source of the posts.

We would also encourage you to seek your information from trusted sources like news outlets or through our social media pages like West Midlands Police Facebook. We will be posting regular updates on our website and social media channels.

And lastly we would like to thank you for all of your support and please get in touch with your local policing contact if you have any concerns.”

Sandwell Start-Up Hub walkthrough: watch our new video tour

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur or growing a business in Sandwell? The Sandwell Start-Up Hub in Oldbury is here to support you. Our new video walkthrough showcases this vibrant workspace designed to help your business thrive.

The Sandwell Start-Up Hub is an open plan office space with 60 desks, kitchen facilities, free Wi-Fi and meeting rooms. Plus free parking at nearby Sainsbury’s for three hours. And we’ve got a new Sandwell Start-Up Hub walkthrough video to show you around.

The hub features three zones:

  • Collaboration Zone: Where entrepreneurs can engage in meaningful networking and spark collaborations.
  • Quiet Zone: For focused work, allowing you to immerse yourself in your tasks without distraction – for maximum productivity.
  • Event Zone: Where we will host business support organisations to deliver informative sessions on a variety of topics.

Located in Jack Judge House, Oldbury, the Hub is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. If your business has been trading for less than two years, you may qualify for free access until March 2025. The Hub also offers expert guidance and resources through the Sandwell Enterprise Programme.

We’ve got a Sandwell Start-Up Hub walkthrough, which gives you an insider look at the Hub’s features and benefits. Rugz from Vocal Rogue shares his positive experience, highlighting the supportive environment and the opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Watch the video now and see how the Sandwell Start-Up Hub can help your business succeed:

Event recap: Cyber Security Masterclass

We recently held a Cyber Security Masterclass, attended by our Sandwell Business Ambassadors.

Cyber security is important because it protects businesses from the increasing threats of cyber attacks. As our reliance on digital tools and online platforms grows, so does the potential risk of data breaches, financial loss and reputational damage. Ensuring cyber security measures helps safeguard sensitive information and ensure the continuity of business.

The event began with breakfast provided by Ambassador Rob Green from Robinson’s Bakery, followed by an introduction from Ambassador Alan Taylor. After that Detective Inspector Michelle Ohren MA, Managing Director of the Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands, delivered a detailed presentation on cyber security risks where attendees learnt:

  • How to enhance personal and workplace cyber security.
  • Identify and prevent phishing, smishing and vishing.
  • How to improve staff awareness.
  • How to manage passwords effectively.

Alan Taylor said: “This masterclass was a crucial reminder of how important cyber security is. The insights and practical advice shared during the session highlighted the steps we can all take to better protect our businesses. Events like this are invaluable in helping us stay ahead of potential cyber threats”.

The session concluded with a valuable networking opportunity, allowing attendees to connect and share insights. We extend our thanks to all who attended and contributed to the event’s success. Your engagement and enthusiasm are what make our gatherings so impactful.

The Sandwell Business Ambassadors, a group dedicated to fostering business growth and resilience in the region, hosted this event after DI Michelle Ohren spoke at one of their monthly meetings. Her presentation highlighted the importance of cyber security and the vulnerability of businesses to cyber attacks, prompting the Ambassadors to organise this masterclass.

Following this event we have created a page to give you more information on cyber security, read here.

Mayor visits Sandwell Start-Up Hub

The Sandwell Start-Up Hub in Oldbury recently hosted a visit from the Mayor. This visit showcased the hub’s role in supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.

The hub is a dedicated space offering desks, resources, mentorship and a collaborative environment for new and growing businesses. It is a centre for networking, learning and sharing experiences among local entrepreneurs.

The tour

During the tour, the mayor met the dedicated staff and community members using the space. He met with Rachel Butler from Pippatopia, Kaur Chana from Infant Academic and Rugz from Vocal Rogue. The mayor also met with Kamal, who shared his experiences and the impact of the hub on his business growth.

Helen Peach, Business Development Coordinator for the Sandwell Business Growth team provided an overview of the hub’s mission and activities. She highlighted the resources and support available to local entrepreneurs and the hub’s role in fostering business growth.

Mayors commitment to local businesses

Reflecting on his visit, the mayor said, “I am incredibly impressed by the dedication and innovation I have seen here. The support and resources provided to local businesses and entrepreneurs are truly commendable. This hub is a shining example of fostering growth and success within our community and I wish everyone involved all the very best for the future.”

The mayor’s visit demonstrated his commitment to supporting local businesses and their growth. This visit was an opportunity to highlight the hub’s significance in the community.

Sandwell young people’s festival gets a goodwill boost

A youth festival taking place in Sandwell Valley this weekend will be even brighter thanks to the generosity of two businesses.

On Saturday 13 July, Sandwell Valley will be the vibrant setting for SHAPE Youth Summer Fest 2024. This brings together young people and their families from across the region for fun and entertainment.

To ensure the event has the right kind of sparkle, Dodd Group and its contractor CPS are providing electrical engineering services and generators free of charge.

Features of the one-day festival include a Youth Zone with a UV rave tent and a Family Zone with dhol drumming workshops and giant Lego. The Sports Zone will have boxing, cycling and zorb football. Meanwhile, the Music Zone will have sets from several DJs, including Rena Sparks and eleven-year-old DJ Naziah.

Sandwell Council’s SHAPE Programme team is organising the festival, together with a range of services and partner organisations.

In an act of generosity, the mechanical and electrical engineering specialist Dodd Group has pledged 80 hours of free labour to set up the electrical systems for the festival. Its subcontractor CPS, which provides generators, is also offering its services free of charge. The companies are doing this as part of their social value commitment to the Constructing West Midlands (CWM) Framework. Through this, they supply services to Sandwell Council and its Urban Design and Building Services team.

Festival goers at a previous SHAPE Youth Summer Fest, visiting a stall of plants

Keen to give back to Sandwell

Matt Lewis is Managing Director of Dodd Group Property Services. He explained why the companies are delighted to donate work ‘in kind’ to SHAPE Youth Summer Fest 2024.

“Although the festival is free for people to access, there is a huge amount of work involved for Sandwell Council and the SHAPE Team in ensuring a big event like this is safe and enjoyable for everyone who attends.

“When we looked at what we could do as suppliers to fulfil our social value commitment to the CWM Framework, this youth festival was high on our list. We are keen to give back to Sandwell and its communities, and this is an event that will benefit many of the borough’s young people.

“By taking care of the electrical side of SHAPE Youth Summer Fest, we can allow the organisers to focus their energy and budget into delivering a fantastic day filled with music, activities and fun.”

Fancy going to the festival?

SHAPE Summer Youth Festival 2024 takes place from 12 noon to 8pm on Saturday 13 July, in Sandwell Valley, West Bromwich. Go to www.justyouth.org.uk/ysf to learn more.

Investing in local talent: Eighty3 Creative has taken on an apprentice

Congratulations to Sandwell marketing and design agency Eighty3 Creative, which has expanded its team by investing in a graduate apprentice.

Eighty3 Creative has recently welcomed graduate digital marketing apprentice, Rosie.

Since directors Amie and Craig famously founded their business on £80 in 2008, the marketing and design agency has continually grown. Eighty3 Creative has always worked closely with clients to deliver bespoke design and digital marketing solutions.

The company achieved further success when it moved from Wolverhampton to an office at Burnt Tree in Tipton.

“Our target market is manufacturers, so this is an ideal place for us to be. Sandwell has great transport links, a thriving business community and strong business support. Since the move we have had an increase in turnover, profit and enquiries,” Craig told us, when we wrote this profile of the business

By taking part in Sandwell Business Boost last year – our growth support programme for Sandwell SMEs – Eighty3 Creative accessed expert guidance to aid with its expansion plans.

And now Eighty3 Creative has fulfilled its next growth ambition by taking on a graduate apprentice. In recruiting Rosie, business partners Amie and Craig have given a young creative person employment in Sandwell while enabling her to learn as she works.

Fresh perspective

Rosie hopes to bring a fresh perspective to Sandwell marketing. She aims to enhance the company’s digital marketing efforts with innovative ideas across social media platforms.

Rosie said: “I chose the apprenticeship route as I had just finished my degree in Birmingham and just wasn’t ready to be done with learning! I have always been interested in a career in marketing but, honestly, just didn’t know where to start. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have received to do what I love and learn on the job.

“I’m excited to gain the knowledge and training to evolve my career in marketing. Eighty3 really is the perfect company for me to do this in.”

Grow in Sandwell

Eighty3 Creative is ready to maintain its growth. The team is now applying to the Grow in Sandwell SME Grant. The idea behind the scheme is to empower local businesses to achieve sustainable growth.  

Eighty3 Creative’s team expansion shows the company’s commitment to supporting local talent whilst shaping the future of the industry. We look forward to hearing more from Amie, Craig and Rosie!

To give a local person a step up and gain a skilled team member for your Sandwell organisation, talk to us about apprenticeships. Sandwell Council’s Think Sandwell Employment and Skills Team supports your business and your apprentice throughout the apprenticeship process – including with grants and incentives where available. 

Congratulations to TopLabs Prosthetics for securing Oldbury site

TopLabs Prosthetics has acquired the 45,000 sq. ft. lab it was renting in Oldbury, enhancing its operations and creating new jobs.

We’re glad to hear via Insider Media that TopLabs Prosthetics, a leading dental prosthetics manufacturer, has significantly enhanced its operations by acquiring the 45,000 sq. ft. laboratory in Oldbury that it had been leasing since 2019.

Thanks to a £146,000 commercial mortgage from HSBC UK, this investment will allow TopLabs to refurbish and customise the lab, produce 10,000 more dentures per year and take on more contracts.

Creating new jobs in Sandwell

The expansion of TopLabs Prosthetics is not only a significant step for the company but also a boost for the local economy. By adding six new technician positions to its 30-strong existing staff, TopLabs is contributing to job creation and economic growth in the Sandwell area.

Well done to the team!

Green Advantage: explore environmental challenges for business course

Green Advantage is a six-session course for managers who want to explore environmental challenges for their business.

Green Advantage provides an informed approach to environmental issues. Start your journey to sustainability with six interactive workshops, peer networking and one-to-one business coaching. 

The course takes place over twelve weeks and is designed to fit around full-time work.

The Department for Education via the West Midlands Combined Authority has funded Green Advantage, as part of the government’s Skills Bootcamps. Aston University delivers the course.

Develop a roadmap to sustainability for your business

During the course, you will develop a bespoke sustainability roadmap for your enterprise. Maybe you will take practical actions to lower emissions and save energy. Or perhaps you will decide to overhaul your business model and values completely.

Investing in environmental training and green practices can help businesses benefit the planet. It also provides an opportunity to offer increased value for your customers, gain a competitive advantage and enhance your profitability.

Course fees

The cost of the Green Advantage course varies according to your business size. SMEs must contribute £385 per learner, while for large businesses the cost is £1,155 per learner. It is free for self-employed people. 

The next cohort starts in September 2024.

For more information visit the Aston University Centre for Growth page.

DIATOMIC India Accelerator: business applications now open

West Midlands-based companies developing clean technologies can now apply to take part in a six-month export-led programme.

Known as the DIATOMIC India Accelerator, the programme is led by Connected Places Catapult in partnership with the West Midlands Growth Company and the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The programme is designed to prepare up to eight SMEs with innovative solutions to pressing climate issues, to access the rapidly growing Indian market.

Requirements

Applicants must have their main operational base in the West Midlands. 

They must also have products or solutions that are of at least a Technology Readiness Level six – which means they have been demonstrated in a relevant environment.

Funding

A total funding pot of £80,000 is on offer. Companies can apply for funding to carry out trials. 

Successful participants will also benefit from business support, the chance to trial their technology, and the chance to explore new collaborations with Indian stakeholders.

Visit Delhi

Winning companies will be invited to send one senior team member on two market visits to Delhi, the National Capital Region and Haryana in November 2024 and February 2025. 

Travel expenses will be covered, including flights and accommodation. 

The visit in February will coincide with India Energy Week.

Challenges

Three challenges have been set for the DIATOMIC India Accelerator:

  • Future of Energy
  • Future of Mobility
  • Sustainable Urban Areas.

Find details of the three challenges for DIATOMIC India and eligibility criteria on the Connected Places Catapult website.

Companies welcomed onto the programme will receive tailored market readiness coaching. As well as business support, pitch coaching and introductions to key commercial stakeholders.

Who should apply?

The programme is aimed at growing bilateral innovation collaborations. Trade and investment opportunities between India and the West Midlands – two markets recognised as having strong links in the past.

India offers great potential for the introduction of sustainable innovations to solve several pressing national challenges. These include tackling poor air quality, addressing a scarcity of water and deforestation. 

The country has also introduced digital innovations through academic institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology and the Delhi Urban Mobility Lab.

Applications are now open – apply via the Connected Places Catapult website.

Chief Executive visits Sandwell Start-Up Hub

The Sandwell Start-Up Hub had a visit from Sandwell Council’s Chief Executive Shokat Lal, along with Alan Lunt, Executive Director, Place.

The Sandwell Start-Up Hub, located in Oldbury, is a dedicated space designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. It offers desks, resources, mentorship and a collaborative environment where new and growing businesses can thrive. The hub serves as a vital centre for networking, learning and sharing experiences among local entrepreneurs.

Supporting local entrepreneurship

During their tour of the hub, Shokat and Alan chatted with local entrepreneurs who had signed up to work in the space that day. Afterwards, Shokat expressed his admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit present in Sandwell. 

“The Start-Up Hub provides a space for local businesses and entrepreneurs to collaborate, network and learn from each other’s experiences. I look forward to visiting again to hear about their progress,” he said.

Alan Lunt, Executive Director, Place said: “The passion we’ve seen here today is truly inspiring. It’s clear that the Hub is creating opportunities for the people of Sandwell. We are committed to supporting these businesses as they continue to develop and succeed.”

Learn about the Sandwell Start-Up Hub

Visit our page
Learn about the Sandwell Start-Up Hub

Sandwell Council representatives pictured top from left to right:
Alan Lunt, Executive Director, Place.
Gareth Owens, Business Growth Team Leader.
Shokat Lal, Chief Executive.
Jenna Langford, Regeneration Manager.

Lord Combustion Services sponsors charity run

Staff and students from Windsor Academy Trust have raised over £20,000 for their community foundation’s ‘Bed and Breakfast’ campaign. Oldbury-based heating specialist Lord Combustion Services was their key sponsor.

Windsor Academy Trust is a multi-school academy trust with its headquarters in Halesowen. Its has a special campaign to ensure every child in its family of schools has their own bed to sleep in, and breakfast each morning.

Two-day running challenge

To raise money for the ‘Bed and Breakfast’ campaign, staff and students took part in a two-day running challenge. More than 70 people ran between the trust’s 15 schools, in a distance equivalent to two marathons, with the route including Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Cheslyn Hay, Great Wyrley, Walsall, Winson Green, and Halesowen. They wore T-shirts with the Lord Combustion Services’ logo on them.

The event concluded at Kingswinford Academy with a 5km family fun run and final celebration.

Dawn Haywood, CEO of Windsor Academy Trust, expressed her gratitude. “I would like to thank all those who made the event a resounding success, especially our generous sponsors Lord Combustion Services, CHG and Sync, along with our donors and supporters. Their unwavering support ensures we are on track to achieve our long-term goal of providing every child within our family of schools with a bed to sleep in and breakfast each day.”

Stuart Smith, Managing Director of Lord Combustion Services, said: “We are proud to support the Bed and Breakfast drive, recognising its significant impact on the community. Congratulations to everyone who participated and helped raise such a tremendous amount.”

About Lord Combustion Services

Operating since 1982, Lord Combustion Services employs nearly 50 staff and serves over 1,000 customers. The company has been awarded for its support for the armed forces and its commitment to sustainability, including the Outstanding Support for the Armed Forces prize at the 2023 Black Country Chamber of Commerce Business Awards and the 2021 sustainability trophy at the West Midlands Business Masters Awards. In 2022, Lord signed the West Midlands Net Zero Pledge to contribute to the region’s goal of becoming a net zero carbon economy by 2041.

If you’ve been inspired by this story of giving back, visit our social value page to learn more about how you can support the community.

NatWest Accelerator: empowering UK entrepreneurs

The NatWest Accelerator supports and empowers UK entrepreneurs and business owners to scale their businesses to the next level.

This six-month, fully funded accelerator programme offers comprehensive support and expertise to overcome growth barriers. You will gain access to invaluable resources, including funding and finance advice, effective sales strategies and access to an entrepreneurial community. The programme is tailored to meet the unique needs of each business, with a focus on ambitious entrepreneurs eager to learn and contribute to the community’s ecosystem.

Why apply?

The NatWest Accelerator programme provides a wealth of opportunities. Participants benefit from six months of dedicated support, receiving guidance from mentors, partners and seasoned entrepreneurs. Experienced acceleration managers are also on hand to provide continuous assistance. Participants will be able to take advantage of a variety of valuable events and tap into a network of like-minded peers. Additionally, modern co-working spaces located in their nationwide hubs will be available.

Application criteria:

  • Are you the owner or decision maker in your business?
  • Are you working full time on this business?
  • Do you know there are customers who want your product or service?
  • Do you employ staff?
  • Are you aiming to build your team?
  • Are you looking to grow or scale your business?
  • Are you open to coaching, ready to learn and develop?
  • Are you committed to accelerating growth?
  • How are your applications assessed?

NatWest will evaluate you based on your ambition to grow your business, your desire to become part of the community and your willingness to learn. The review process will aim to understand your business and your goals to determine if it’s the right time for you to join the accelerator.

Supply Chain Transition Programme open for applications

Business Grown West Midlands is accepting applications for its Supply Chain Transition Programme. This scheme helps SMEs win new orders in growing areas of the economy.

The Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund finances the programme, which will support 160 West Midlands firms to win new business. It is part of the West Midlands Plan for Growth, helping local companies gain new customers, increase sales and boost employment.

Three key growth sectors

The Supply Chain Transition Programme is focused on three key growth sectors – Aerospace, very light rail and electric light vehicles, and micromobility. Delivery partners in each sector will help companies understand the sector, discover business opportunities and meet procurement requirements. 

Successful applicants can access information and training through workshops, one-to-one coaching and peer support. There will also be access to exclusive ‘meet the buyer’ events.

Participating SMEs can expect help to:

  • prepare a roadmap to new sales,
  • develop risk analysis, mitigation and prevention,
  • develop the management team,
  • gain new accreditations,
  • develop a marketing strategy,
  • develop a training and recruitment plan.

We’re here to help

Sandwell is home to many businesses with supply chain potential, particularly in the area of very light rail and electric light vehicles. If you think your company could be one of their new suppliers, talk to our Business Growth Team. We will be happy to talk over your application to give you the best chance of success.

Register your interest

Complete the form

Sign up to the West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is asking Sandwell businesses to sign up to the West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge.

WMCA is encouraging businesses to help achieve a net zero economy in the West Midlands by 2041 by signing up to its West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge.

Net Zero Business Pledge

By making a Net Zero Business Pledge your business will demonstrate its commitment to reducing carbon emissions while on its own net zero journey.

Organisations in Sandwell making a pledge will also join a network of like-minded businesses to share and learn with across the West Midlands. 

They will gain access to advice and up-to-date guidance around translating their pledge into action from experts such as Sustainability West Midlands – the organisation that delivers the programme.

Sustainability West Midlands

Sustainability West Midlands is the sustainability champion for the West Midlands. Established in 2002, it is an independent, not-for-profit organisation that works with 175+ members in the private, public and third sectors across the UK. 

It drives change through giving advice to businesses, local government, and the health and education sectors.

How do I sign up for the pledge?

The West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge is free to sign up to, with no technical requirements or commitment to a specific net zero target date needed. Organisations of all sectors and sizes are eligible.

To make a pledge there are three simple steps.

  • Step one: Register

Register and create an account on the WMCA Net Zero Business Pledge website to create your profile. Once your profile has been confirmed, you will be able to access the pledge form.

  • Step two: Write your pledge

Fill out your pledge form with your carbon reduction and net zero plans, actions and motivations behind making your pledge. 

  • Step three: Pledger profile activation

Once you’ve submitted your pledge form online, your pledge will be reviewed for approval. This approval process will make your pledger profile live and searchable on the pledger directory. 

Once your pledge is approved you can also:

  • Download the pledge logo and publish it on your website and marketing material
  • Get involved in opportunities to showcase your net zero activities
  • Gain access to business networks and guidance to support your pledge commitment
  • Receive updates about regional efforts to become net zero by 2041.

More ways to adapt to climate change

For more information on ways to adapt to the impacts of climate change and how to become net zero in Sandwell visit our net zero page.

Sandwell: the smart place to invest

This week, Sandwell Council is heading north to showcase the region and demonstrate that Sandwell is the smart place in which to invest.

Representatives from Sandwell Council will be attending the West Midlands pavilion at UKREiiF – the UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum in Leeds. As well as uniting with other councils to showcase the West Midlands region, they will tell delegates about the wealth of regeneration and investment opportunities right here in Sandwell.

The aim of UKREiiF is to connect people, places and businesses, to accelerate and unlock sustainable, inclusive and transformational investment. It attracts over 12,000 attendees, including developers, agents, contractors and exhibitors. In 2024, it runs from Tuesday 21 May to Thursday 23 May at the Royal Armouries Leeds & Leeds Dock.

UKREiiF: a packed event programme

For the first time at UKREiiF, the cities and towns of the West Midlands are uniting to showcase real estate and regeneration opportunities worth more than £20bn. From town centre transformations to university-backed innovation campuses, affordable housing to next-generation mixed use schemes, there is so much happening in our region.

So in the special West Midlands pavilion at UKREiiF this week, the West Midlands Growth Company is delivering a packed programme of networking sessions, presentations and discussions. Topics will include low carbon infrastructure, creative clusters, town centre regeneration, urban housing, social value and sport-related investment.

To see the full itinerary, download the brochure.

Key points that our own representatives will be putting across are Sandwell’s great location, growing and diverse population, excellent infrastructure and sector specialisms. These include advanced manufacturing and logistics, business and financial services, life sciences, and food and drink.

Read the Sandwell Investment brochure PDF will download in a new tab

Improving Sandwell for everyone

They will also be taking brochures detailing regeneration progress in several Sandwell towns. Across Smethwick, Tipton, Oldbury, Rowley Regis, West Bromwich and Wednesbury, there are 69 planned projects and fourteen further projects recently completed, worth a total of £3bn and supporting over 14,000 jobs. They all have one goal – to improve Sandwell for everyone who lives and works here.

Read the Sandwell Regeneration and Growth booklet PDF will download in a new tab

A smart place to invest

We hope that potential investors will hear the message and realise the benefits of turning to Sandwell for their future business plans.