Category: Uncategorised

Event recap: Cyber Security Masterclass

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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.

Learn about cyber security
Learn about cyber security

Mayor visits Sandwell Start-Up Hub

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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.

Learn about the Sandwell Start-Up Hub
Learn about the Sandwell Start-Up Hub

Sandwell young people’s festival gets a goodwill boost

Posted on by Marie

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

Posted on by Kate Christie

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. 

Learn about growth funding
Learn about growth funding

Congratulations to TopLabs Prosthetics for securing Oldbury site

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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!

Grow your business
Grow your business

Green Advantage: explore environmental challenges for business course

Posted on by Kate Christie

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.

Get more ideas for achieving net zero
Get more ideas for achieving net zero

DIATOMIC India Accelerator: business applications now open

Posted on by Kate Christie

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.

Learn more and register here

Chief Executive visits Sandwell Start-Up Hub

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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.

More on Lord Combustion Services
More on Lord Combustion Services

NatWest Accelerator: empowering UK entrepreneurs

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

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.

Sign up
More funding
More funding

Supply Chain Transition Programme open for applications

Posted on by Alex Taylor

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

Posted on by Kate Christie

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.
Make your West Midlands Net Zero Business Pledge here

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.

Find out how to achieve net zero
Find out how to achieve net zero

Sandwell: the smart place to invest

Posted on by Alex Taylor

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
Download

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
Download

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.

Be smart!

Bring a tin: support Sandwell for the Big Help Out and Volunteers’ Week

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

SCVO and Sandwell Council have a simple way for people to support two national initiatives: the Big Help Out and Volunteers’ Week. They’re asking everyone to take a tin of food to their local library – it’s as easy as that!

The Big Help Out and Volunteers’ Week, in early June, are great opportunities to support our community, boost team morale, and enhance your company’s reputation.

How you can participate

This year, SCVO (Sandwell Council of Voluntary Organisations) has set you a straightforward challenge to celebrate both events. Between Monday 3 June and Friday 7 June, take a tin of food to your nearest library! All donations will directly benefit local food banks, which are currently experiencing high demand.

Better still, encourage your team to coordinate a collective food donation effort. This will not only foster team spirit but also create a nice photo opportunity.

Drop-off dates for tins

  • Monday 3 June to Friday 7 June, at any Sandwell library during opening hours (here are the locations and opening details).
  • Saturday 8 June, 10am – 12 noon, Haden Hill House
  • Sunday 9 June, 10am – 12 noon, West Smethwick Park (at the pavilion).

Photo opportunities

Capture your team with their donations and share the moment on social media – you can tag SCVO, Let’s Go Sandwell, Sandwell Business Growth and Sandwell Business Ambassadors and each organisation will share wherever appropriate. Use the hashtag #BringATin!

If you’d like to coordinate a photo opportunity with SCVO, contact Kim Fuller via kim@scvo.info to find out which library she will be in on which day. Kim will also be at the park events on both days with a wheely bin for your donations.

Volunteering information events

During Volunteers’ Week, Sandwell libraries will be holding events to highlight local volunteering opportunities:

  • Monday 3 June: Hamstead Library, 10am – 12 noon
  • Monday 3 June: Tipton Library, 1.30pm – 3.30pm
  • Tuesday 4 June: Cradley Heath Library, 11am – 1pm
  • Wednesday 5 June: Wednesbury Library, 9.30am – 11.30am
  • Wednesday 5 June: Oldbury Library, 3pm – 5pm
  • Friday 7 June: Thimblemill Library, 12 noon – 2pm

Litter picks

Sandwell is also hosting litter picks for the Big Help Out weekend:

  • Saturday 8 June, 10am – 12 noon: Haden Hill Park (meet in front of the House)
  • Sunday 9 June, 10am-12 noon: West Smethwick Park (meet at the pavilion).

All litter-picking equipment will be provided. You can drop off tins during those events, too. If you’re planning to attend a litter pick as a corporate team, please tell Kim Fuller via kim@scvo.info so she knows to expect you.

Let’s unite to make Sandwell proud!

About the Big Help Out and Volunteers’ Week

The Big Help Out raises awareness of volunteering throughout the UK. It provides opportunities for people to experience volunteering and make a difference in their communities.

In 2024, the Big Help Out is taking place from 7-9 June to coincide with Volunteers’ Week (3-9 June). In its 40th anniversary year, Volunteers’ Week celebrates the amazing contributions that volunteers make to communities across the UK.

More ideas for social value in Sandwell
More ideas for social value in Sandwell

Sandwell shops! Make sure your pricing displays comply with consumer law

Posted on by Ethan Bailey

Here’s a brief guide to help you ensure your pricing displays meet legal requirements.

Running a successful business in Sandwell means more than just providing excellent products and services, it also involves adhering to consumer protection laws. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to hefty fines and damage to your reputation.

Here’s what you need to know about pricing displays:

Selling price

Your prices must be clear and visible without customers needing to ask staff members. To comply, ensure that prices are:

  • Clearly displayed: Every product must have its price clearly shown.
  • Easy to read: Prices should be legible and understandable at a glance.
  • Close to the product: The price must be adjacent to the relevant item.
  • Consistent at checkout: The displayed price should match what customers are charged at the till.

For shops over 280 square meters, additional unit price information is mandatory.

Legal implications:

Failing to provide accurate price information can mislead customers and violate consumer law. Authorities like Trading Standards or the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) can enforce these laws and impose fines.

For more information you can download this poster from the CMA.

Make sure your shop complies with consumer law to avoid penalties and keep your customers happy.

Go to our trading standards page
Go to our trading standards page

SHAPE Young Traders’ Market in Sandwell

Posted on by Kate Christie

The Young Traders’ Market will return on Saturday 13 July at Sandwell Valley. It is part of Sandwell’s SHAPE Youth Summer Fest 2024.

Sandwell Council is inviting individuals aged 16 to 30 who own a small business to trade at the market.

What is SHAPE?

SHAPE is a Child’s Voice Initiative, designed to listen to children and young people in Sandwell.

It focuses on the five Every Child Matters outcomes:

  • Staying safe
  • Being healthy
  • Enjoying and achieving
  • Making a positive contribution
  • Economic wellbeing.

The SHAPE Programme hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the SHAPE Youth Summer Fest, SHAPE Youth Forum, and SHAPE Your Talent.

Young Traders’ Market

The Young Traders’ Market is part of the national Young Traders’ Market programme, where entrepreneurs aged between 16 and 30 get the opportunity to sell their goods. 

The market is taking place on Saturday 13 July, from 12pm – 8pm at Sandwell Valley, West Bromwich.

Anyone taking part in the national Young Traders’ Market programme can have a stall for free at the Sandwell market. They will also have a chance to enter for the National Young Traders’ competition, which the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF) is running.

If you are between 16 and 30 years old and wish to enter the competition, please apply via the Just Youth website.

Although the National Young Traders’ competition is for 16 – 30 year olds to trade and compete in, this year it is also welcoming anyone over the age of 30 to trade at the festival. Stalls cost £10.

Apply for a stall here.

The closing date for applications is Friday 31 May. The organisers may close this sooner if it reaches full capacity.

Requirements

The festival is tailored for children and young people, so no alcohol, tobacco or any other smoking accessories will be allowed on site.

To trade at this event, all food traders must maintain a four or five food hygiene rating standard (FHRS).

How to register

For more information and to register for a stall go to www.justyouth.org.uk/ytm-info.

If you have any questions please email shape_events@sandwell.gov.uk.

Support for young entrepreneurs
Support for young entrepreneurs

Young entrepreneurs on the rise: EPIC Awards

Posted on by Kate Christie

Young entrepreneurs are rising. More young people than ever are turning to running their own business – and these awards celebrate them.

​The EPIC Young Entrepreneur Awards is a platform to celebrate and recognise the achievements of young people. Especially those who have faced adversity and/or the care of a local authority, to become a startup business.

In 2022, the EPIC Awards launched, announcing eight inspirational young entrepreneurs from across the UK as winners. On the back of this success, the 2023 EPIC Awards became an even bigger event.

EPIC hopes that its 2024 Awards will be double the size again. Being held at the Burlington Hotel in central Birmingham, the event will include:

  • An entrepreneurs conference
  • Live entertainment
  • Guest speakers
  • Drinks reception and food.

What is EPIC?

EPIC is part of the Martin James Foundation, a charity set up to improve the lives of young people around the world. The founders established EPIC to support the growth of young, aspiring entrepreneurs between the ages of 16-25. It places a particular emphasis on those from disadvantaged, displaced or care backgrounds.

EPIC’s three-month programme equips young adults with the skills and knowledge to turn their dreams into reality and become their own bosses.

Since the 2022 Young Entrepreneur Awards, EPIC has seen a sharp increase in the number of new applicants to its programme. It has also seen more interest in mentoring and providing support to its growing community.

Young Entrepreneur Awards

EPIC’s Young Entrepreneur Awards are free to enter for young business owners and entrepreneurs. The awards recognise the achievements of young business owners who have faced challenges and found success. They celebrate their entrepreneurial creativity and passion.

The awards allow entrepreneurs to gain valuable support and win a £500 grant for their business in each category.

The criteria for entry include:

  • The nominee’s business must already be established and operating for at least six months
  • The founder must be aged under 25 years old.

Support the awards

Businesses can show their support for young entrepreneurs while taking the opportunity to network with other like-minded businesses at the Awards event.

Learn about sponsorship here

Find out more about the EPIC awards and register your interest here.

For more useful resources on starting your first business or growing your existing venture in Sandwell visit our young entrepreneurs page. We have details of programmes, funding, and awards to help your enterprise take flight.

More support for young entrepreneurs
More support for young entrepreneurs

Social Economy Growth Programme: apply now to grow your social enterprise

Posted on by Alex Taylor

Charities, social enterprises and CICs have until Friday 3 May to apply for ‘Grow’. This scheme under the Social Economy Growth Programme offers training and grants to the social economy sector.

Aston Centre for Growth is running the Grow programme. It is fully funded and includes leadership and management training. This involves workshops, coaches, peer support to help elevate your business skills and confidence. 

You will develop strategies to boost your income, develop a supportive network and work towards creating sustainable growth in your organisation. It also offers a grant of up to £10,000 to support you to increase your trading income.

Apply by Friday 3 May

The deadline for applications is Friday 3 May. For more information about the Grow programme, and to apply, visit the website. 

More support for social enterprises
More support for social enterprises

Our first Net Zero Navigators event was a success

Posted on by Marie

To support Sandwell businesses with their journey towards sustainability, we held our first ‘Net Zero Navigators’ workshop last week.

Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Net Zero Navigators are our special breakfast events to help Sandwell businesses start their journey towards net zero.

Our first event took place on Tuesday 16 April at the Sandwell Start-Up Hub  – our new co-working environment in Oldbury.

During the early morning session, our attendees were able to network and also explore topics that included:

  • Embracing sustainability within operational decision making
  • The work of not-for-profits in providing solar energy
  • The significant benefit of receiving a free energy audit
  • How to access funding for energy-efficiency improvement projects.

We were delighted to welcome expert speakers to deliver the workshop. Christian Byron from the Aston Centre for Growth at Aston University; Kevin Oubridge from Big Solar Co-op and Harry Long from the Black Country Industrial Cluster. Thank you to them all. 

Ben Sharpe from our Business Growth Team said: “Sustainability is a complex matter that businesses often find challenging to tackle, so we were grateful for the opportunity to connect with many Sandwell businesses and assist them on taking an important step on the journey to net zero”.

We’ll bring you news of the next session soon – watch this space!

Go to our net zero page
Go to our net zero page

Trading standards spring updates 

Posted on by Marie

TSBN (Trading Standards Business News) is here for spring 2024 – a digital magazine covering trading standards news for businesses in our region. CenTSA, the organisation that publishes it, also has a survey for you and an offer of inclusion in the magazine.

CEnTSA stands for Central England Trading Standards Authorities. It’s a collaboration between fourteen trading standards services from local authorities across the West Midlands – including Sandwell Council.

CEnTSA’s spring 2024 edition of TSBN covers a wide range of topics, including new penalties for animal welfare offences, changes to food labelling, the dangers of importing sweets from the US, and updates on workers’ rights.

You can read TSBN and find past editions here

Get featured in TSBN

CenTSA has asked us to tell you about an opportunity for West Midlands business owners to contribute to the magazine. There are two slots available each quarter for relevant articles. If accepted, your piece would include your name, business name, and photo or logo, bringing valuable exposure as well as a chance to contribute useful information to readers.

Perhaps you have a specialist area of expertise to convey, or you’ve overcome a unique compliance hurdle that you’d like to share with others? Email centsa@warwickshire.gov.uk if you’re interested in writing a piece.

How can trading standards support you better?

CenTSA is also looking to understand the needs of your business and how trading standards authorities in the West Midlands region can better engage with you.

Here are eighteen simple questions that should take less than four minutes to answer – can you help?

About the Trading Standards Team at Sandwell Council

Sandwell Council’s Trading Standards Team uses a national intelligence-led approach to tackling problems such as illegal cigarettes, overcharging, mis-labelled food and counterfeit goods. By stopping rogue traders they instil the public’s confidence in our thousands of reputable Sandwell businesses.

They are also here to help credible businesses operate legally and fairly.

Have a look at our trading standards page for information about their support:

Trading Standards Team support
Trading Standards Team support