government business volume 19.4

BUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

1 Volume 19.4 | GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE

SPORTS & LEISURELeisure Industry Week returns the NEC with a host of new features

Business Information for Local and Central Government

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 19.4

LIW 2012

CONFERENCES & EVENTS | RWM PREVIEW | FIRE SAFETY | FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

ROAD SURFACES

RSMA raises concerns about the state of markings on A and B roads

TRANSPORT

HUMAN RESOURCES

RECRUITMENT

CIPD looks at ways to retain key staff

PSN

GOVERNMENT

TECHNOLOGY

New trade

association for

PSN suppliers

COMMENT

Transport investment has long been seen as a long term strategy to inject life into a stuttering economy. July’s welcome annoucement that £50bn is to be pumped into infrastructure projects will see many shelved transport developments spark back into life. And as we go to press, the 2012 Olympics (are we allowed to say that without being sued?) are finally upon us, which gives the country a prime opportunity to examine how the Capital’s transport infrastructure will cope with future population increases.

According to the Road Safety Markings Association, standards, compliance and research are the key areas the Government needs to address if it is to achieve the goals set out in its Strategic Framework for Road Safety. The association publishes its 2012 Lifelines report in the Autumn, but is already concerned about the state of road markings, particularly on dangerous stretches. Read what the RSMA says on page 19.

In technology news, the government recently announced 29 suppliers that were successful at bidding for work under the PSN Services Framework. It follows the award of the PSN Connectivity Framework earlier this year, with both frameworks intended to significantly cut the public sector’s networking and related services costs. A new trade association has thus been formed - the PSNGB will be organising a series of events which aim to help local and central government get the most out of PSN. See page 85 for details.

Harrow has reported considerable successes in increasing internet-based contact. Use of the council’s ‘MyHarrow Account’ has seen the cost of individual transactions fall by an impressive 65 per cent. Finally, Jos Creese, chair of the Local CIO Council, has hailed the appointment of Leeds ICT chief Dylan Roberts to the National CIO Council. He said: “The stronger the representation we have with the National CIO Council the better.”

Our next issue will feature the Portas Pilots, Passivhaus Progress and Printing and Publishing. Brought to you by the letter P.

Danny Wright



SPORTS& LEISURELeisure Industry Week returns the NEC with a host of new features


www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLUME 19.4

LIW 2012

CONFERENCES & EVENTS | RWM PREVIEW | FIRE SAFETY | FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

ROADSURFACES

RSMA raises concerns about the state of markings on A and B roads

TRANSPORT

HUMANRESOURCES

RECRUITMENT

CIPD looks at ways toretain key staff

PSN

GOVERNMENT

TECHNOLOGY

New trade

association for

PSN suppliers

PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Fax: 020 8532 0066 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Danny Wright ACTING EDITOR Angela Pisanu EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Lisa HarrisPRODUCTION EDITOR Karl O’Sullivan PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Jacqueline Lawford WEB PRODUCTION Reiss Malone ADVERTISEMENT SALES Bernie Miller, Steve Day, Michael Kennedy, David Morgan, Julie Watson, Wendy O’Brien PUBLISHER Kelly Scott GROUP PUBLISHER Barry Doyle ADMINISTRATION Victoria Leftwich, Lucy Carter, Charlotte Casey REPRODUCTION & PRINT Argent Media

If you would like to receive 6 issues of Government Business magazine for £45 a year, please contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055, Fax: 020 8532 0066, or visit the Government Business website at:

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THE ROAD THE RECOVERY

Comm

ent

© 2012 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 1362 - 2541




Contents

CONTENTS07 GB NEWS UK Guarantees scheme will underwrite £40 billion of infrastructure projects

11 FACILITIES MANAGEMENTFacilities management is considered a viable way in which the necessary cost savings can be achieved, writes Chris Hoar, chief executive of the Facilities Management Association, plus a look at the 2012 Facilities Show

19 TRANSPORTStandards, compliance and research are the key areas the Government needs to address if it is to achieve the goals set out in its Strategic Framework for Road Safety, says the Road Safety Markings Association plus The Road Surface Treatments Association discusses a number of initiatives to help councils deliver best practice

21 RECYCLING & WASTE MANAGEMENTA look forward to the Chartered Institute of Wastes Management RWM show in September

41 LEISURE INDUSTRY WEEKSports, fitness and leisure equipment and resources aplenty at the NEC in September

47 IOG SALTEXSports surfaces, landscaping and commercial vehicles on show at Windsor Racecourse

51 ENERGYLord Sebastian Coe announced as keynote speaker at the UK’s leading energy management event at London Olympia on 10-11 October 57 FIRE SAFETYGraham Ellicott, CEO of the Fire Industry Association, discusses how to help reduce the risk of unwanted fire signals

59 BUILDINGThe future explored at Building Services - the CIBSE Conference & Exhibition at London Olympia on October 10-11

61 OFFICE* 2012Details about the dedicated event for the PA, EA and office manager community

69 RECRUITMENTThe public sector is experiencing its biggest rise in recruitment and retention challenges, notes Rebecca Clake, research adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

73 CONFERENCES, EVENTS, DESTINATIONSTelford, Derbyshire and Staffordshire all under the spotlight as destinations for public sector conferences and events

81 GOVERNMENT TECHNOLOGY NEWSNew company to manage Police IT; DfT awards Capita rail services database contract; Westminster launches free wi-fi in time for the Olympics

83 PUBLIC SERVICE NETWORKWith the launch of the PSN Services Framework comes opportunity for real change, comments Neil Mellor, marketing director of the recently formed PSNGB industry association for PSN suppliers

89 CONTACT CENTRESTaking place on 2-3 October at the National Hall, London Olympia, Call Centre & Customer Management Expo examines where customer service is heading

93 WORLD OF LEARNINGFostering and encouraging future leaders is an issue that will be dealt with in depth at this year’s World of Learning Conference & Exhibition, with an informative and engaging seminar from renowned experts in the public sector

www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

Government Business www.governmentbusiness.co.uk

IOG

SALTEX takes place at Windsor Racecourse on Septem

ber 4-6



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NEWS IN BRIEFTelford & Wrekin set to publish expenses above £100Telford and Wrekin BC is set to publish all items of public spending above £100 as part of efforts to make the council more transparent. Cabinet member for neighbourhood services and co-operative council, Cllr Shaun Davies said: “These simple changes would show how serious we are about ensuring we do as we say. The changes would put us at the forefront of councils seeking to be as open as possible with their residents.”

CIPFA to benchmark librariesCIPFA has been commissioned by the government to benchmark council library services. Using the CIPFA data, councils will be able to compare library services with similar authorities around the country. Announcing the deal, culture minister Ed Vaizey said: “This new initiative will give local authorities – and local residents - the tools to see how their service measures up”

NICE offers guidance to LAs on health actionsThe National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has issued advice to Local Authorities on which public health actions offer the best value for money in a series of briefings. The three topics covered are tobacco, physical activity and workplace health.

TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... tinyurl.com/cml28tj

UK Guarantees scheme aims to breathe life into UK economyA new £50 billion scheme to guarantee investment in infrastructure projects and British exports has been launched by the Government. The UK Guarantees scheme will underwrite £40 billion of infrastructure projects which may have stalled due to difficult credit conditions, including transport, energy, broadband, water and flood defences. A further £5 billion will be guaranteed to struggling exporters. The first infrastructure projects are expected to be awarded in the autumn and will qualify for the scheme providing they meet five key criteria: Be deemed ‘nationally significant’ as identified in the Government’s National Infrastructure Plan 2011. Other ‘exceptional’ projects of national or economic significance may be considered on a case-by-case basis; Be ready to start in the next 12 months following a guarantee being awarded; Be financially credible and willing to accept appropriate restructuring of the project to limit risk; Be wholly dependent on a guarantee to proceed and not otherwise financeable within a reasonable timeframe, and; Assessed by HM Treasury to be deemed as ‘good value’ to the taxpayer and make a positive impact on economic growth. As part of the scheme, a temporary lending programme worth an

estimated £6 billion will be allocated to help public-private partnerships (PPPs) who have failed to secure the required amount of private lending to go ahead. PPPs had previously only been able to raise finance from the private sector. Up to £5 billion will be directed towards exports, providing long-term loans for overseas buyers of UK exports at competitive rates. UK Export Finance will begin supporting loans by the end of the year with hopes of lending to sectors such as aerospace, oil and gas extraction equipment, transport and telecommunications infrastructure services, hospital construction and management services, and sports infrastructure. CBI director general John Cridland said: “Investment and exports will be the dual drivers of future growth in the UK and this scheme should help fire up both engines. We are not alone in seeking growth through exports - our European neighbours are competing to break into the same high-growth markets. Offering loans to foreign buyers will make UK exports more attractive and help more firms enter new markets,” he added.

Consultation on internal audit standards launchedThe Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy and the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors have launched a public consultation on the first unified set of public sector internal audit standards. The consultation runs until September 14 and the documents can be obtained by emailing [email protected]

LOCAL TRANSPORT POLICY

New powers to tackle Greater Manchester’s problem roadworks

Councils in Greater Manchester have been granted new powers to clampdown on utilities companies causing disruption on their roads under the country’s first joint road works permit scheme. The scheme, approved by transport minister Norman Baker on 20 July, will give all 10 councils in Greater Manchester more powers to co-ordinate road works and take action if companies break the rules – including issuing fines of up to £5,000. It follows other schemes rolled out elsewhere in the country, but will be the first to be administered by a central body – Transport for Greater Manchester – rather than individual councils. The scheme requires anyone carrying out road works to apply for a permit in advance and allows councils to set conditions on timing, coordination and the amount of road space

left available to road users. The authorities are Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan. Baker said: “I am pleased to be able to give the go ahead for this permit scheme. Although we all know that road works are sometimes unavoidable, the disruption they cause can be a hugely frustrating for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians as well as costing businesses time and money. That is why it is important that councils use the powers they have to make sure utility firms carry out works with consideration. We are determined to tackle problem road works and make sure that those who dig up the road are made accountable.”

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Second round of Portas Pilots announced as scheme aims to revitalise high streets across the country

PORTAS PILOTS

15 new ‘Portas Pilots’ have been announced by Department for Communities and Local Government Minister Grant Shapps.The 15 pilots will receive a total of £1.5 million to make the ideas submitted in their bids a reality, together with in kind support from retail industry giants led by Boots, as well as Mary Portas’s team. This takes the total across the country to 27. 392 ‘Town Teams’ that bid to become pilots but were not chosen have been invited to sign a national pledge to become a Town Team Partner enabling access to a share of a further £5.5million worth of support. High streets that sign up to become Town Team Partners will receive some funding, as well as the opportunity to attend events, workshops and seminars, receive direct mentoring support and visits from experts, share experiences via an online community, and access a new web-based encyclopaedia - 100 Ways to Help the High Street, which will be hosted and run by the Association of Town Centre Management (ACTM). The online tool is a result of collaboration between the National Skills Academy for Retail, Local Government Improvement and Development, Institute of Place Management and the ACTM. Martin Blackwell, chief executive of the Association of Town Centre Management,

said that the response from communities in towns and cities across England to the challenge created following the Mary Portas report was enormous. He stated: “It is terrific to see the government acknowledging that groundswell of activity in such a positive way.” Mary Portas said: “I am thrilled that communities up and down the country have looked beyond the money and have been mobilised to create ‘town teams’ and demand more for their high streets. Whilst I shall continue to fight for the other

27 ‘recommendations’ in my Review am looking forward to seeing fifteen more British towns putting their plans into action” The 12 winning Portas Pilots from the first round of the competition, who are already making strides to revive their high streets. These include Wolverhampton in the West Midlands, where the Town Team has launched a new loyalty card for customers, with over 100 local businesses signed up to offer 10 per cent discounts.

READ MORE - www.100ways.org.uk

LOCAL GOVERNMENT INVESTMENTFuture Council pilot funding worth £150,000 announced by LGAThe Local Government Association has announced five new ‘Future Council’ pilots, worth up to £150,000. These will will focus on demand management, behaviour change, improved commissioning, increasing income and creating new delivery structures, such as social enterprises. They are intended to play their part in helping town halls find new savings and revenues, allowing them to maintain spending on frontline services wherever possible. Half the funding is coming from the LGA, with half from each council involved. Cllr Peter Fleming, Chairman of the LGA’s Improvement Board, said: “Facing unprecedented cuts of 28 per cent, it is therefore vital that any options to create new sources of income are put on the table.” READ MORE - tinyurl.com/d43wwfe

New guidance to help local authorities improve the energy efficiency of their residential housing has been published. The guidance, issued under the Home Energy Conservation Act (HECA), asks local authorities to publish a report on their plans to achieve improved energy efficiency by 31 March 2013. The guidance also asks local authorities to consider the role key local partners, such as social housing providers, can

play in supporting their plans.The Green Deal, which allows the cost of new energy efficiency measures to be attached to a building’s electricity meter, will be significant in helping local authorities to achieve their aims.Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker said: “Local authorities have a vital role to play in improving the energy efficiency of residential homes.”

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Guidance to help improve energy use in housing

ENERGY

The Federation of Small Businesses is calling for councils to better understand procurement spend with small firms in order to benefit local economies. Treasury estimates total procurement spend of UK local authorities at £88 billion per year. The FSB polled all local councils to see how and where they spend their money. Of the 148 local authorities that responded, the FSB found more than a third (38 per cent) of councils do not actively record the location of their spending and almost a half (49 per cent) don’t know the size of business they trade with. The FSB wants to see more accurate and public recording of spend so that it can properly inform strategy and decision making. It is calling for all local councils to put mechanisms in place to record and analyse where and with which businesses

money is spent. This should also measure the size of business by micro, small and medium. The data should be transparent and publicly available, says the FSB. John Walker, National chairman, Federation of Small Businesses, said: “We are pleased that so many councils took part in the research. It has allowed us to build up a good picture of what is going on and identify some really good practice. However, we were surprised that so many councils aren’t being more proactive in terms of the how they record their spending. Knowing where spend is going in the local area, as well as what type of businesses are getting contracts, would help councils focus on improving their procurement processes.”

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Written by Chris Hoar, chief executive, Facilities M

anagement Association

In 2009, it was estimated that the outsourced activity in the public sector in the UK added in excess of £45bn per annum. As a trend for Total Facilities Management (TFM) continues to emerge also, public sector organisations are able to outsource all ‘non-core’ business activity to one provider, enabling a greater focus on core business. This evolution in business practice and strategy is becoming increasingly apparent across all industries and sectors, as a means of cutting costs and improving organisational efficiency.

A COMPLEX ROLEThe complex role of Facilities Management in the public sector is summarised by Alexander (1995): “Facilities management in the public sector is not only about organisational effectiveness, but also about public service and responsibility, particularly in the face of change. The challenge is to bring about change, to anticipate public needs, to identify the contribution that facilities make to public service, and to manage for the effective use of public assets and resources.” Last year in a roundtable, hosted by Interserve, local government and industry bodies discussed how the economic challenge will change the way local authorities do things. As one individual at the roundtable

commented “it’s time to chew the elephant”, others commented that local authorities were going to need to radically re-think the way they procure services.The decision earlier this year by the London Borough of Croydon to renew its total facilities management contract with Interserve, targeting a potential £9 million saving by 2016, may be a sign that the elephant is at least being carved in a new way.

AN INTERESTING CHALLENGEThe London Borough of Croydon is the largest in London with around 350,000 residents and 350 properties including a listed town hall, office complexes, libraries, restaurants, sheltered housing, care homes, schools, youth and day centres, community centres, crematoria and cemeteries. Evidently, this presents an interesting challenge for facilities managers. Even in 2006, there were financial factors at the root of the decision to move to a TFM model, with the contract designed to achieve £6 million of savings over its five-year life. According to Aiden McManus, director of corporate services at London Borough of Croydon, the contract has achieved all it promised: “The total facilities management contract delivered £2m of savings in its first

year and annualised savings have been very consistent. For example, we consolidated 50 contractors into just one with Interserve and avoided having to deal with 28,000 invoices a year. We adopted a delivery model with an ‘intelligent client function’, which remained in-house and kept a strategic and operational overview, whilst we contracted a full range of facilities services to Interserve under one delivery model covering everything from workspace services to minor and major projects. Working together we have also developed joint initiatives around energy saving, carbon reduction, Fair Trade, local community engagement and, in the latter years, we have put great emphasis on customer engagement and developing a single point of contact for users. A recent independent benchmarking exercise proved the service is value for money and a customer ‘pulse’ survey consistently demonstrates performance above target.”

MAINTAINING FRONT LINE SERVICESYet in mid-2011, when discussions about the contract renewal began, it was clear that with the economic challenges it was critical for the Council to deliver further savings, whilst endeavouring to maintain front-line services. It is also mid-way through a range of significant capital programmes, including the move to the new Council offices which, as just one example of change, will lead to lower desk-to-headcount ratios, hot-desk working and more home, mobile and remote working. The ongoing turbulence of the economy is clear in the language used in the new plans, which focus on cashable savings, resilience and ‘measure what matters’. It is no surprise then that the new contract, which extends to July 2016, is targeted to achieve £9million in savings, but it is useful to identify exactly where these savings arise.£2.5 million in quick wins have been identified, primarily around the use of assets; the management structure is being transformed, with the in-house team slimmed down to a E

DRIVING EFFICIENCY IN PUBLIC SECTOR FMAs public spending cuts continue to transpire, public sector organisations are being forced to look for new ways to improve their balance sheets. In a growing number of these, facilities management is considered a viable way in which the necessary cost savings can be achieved, writes Chris Hoar, chief executive of the Facilities Management Association

Facilities Managem

ent

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT



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E team of six, focused on strategic issues with some TUPE transfer to Interserve, saving a net £2 million; and efficiencies in Helpdesk and Energy Bureau processes will save £0.5 million. However, the bulk of the savings, some £4.5 million, will come in changes to service line delivery and this, as Kelly Thoden van Velzen, general manager for Interserve explains, is where strategy and detail meet: “You have to get the strategic framework and vision right first, otherwise you are planning in a vacuum. This is hard, ‘thinking through’ complex options and consequences. Then the real delivery of savings is right down in the day to day detail. Such as introducing a new cleaning regime with three different standards of cleaning depending on the business use of each building; restricting the messenger delivery service to one delivery and pick up point per floor in a multi storey building; identifying that a service to inspect water tanks was covered by another service contract so we had duplication. These are not exciting changes but it really is the case that ‘the devil is in the detail’ when you want to make savings.” “At the same time we have to be sensitive, so there are a wide range of properties which have had no changes to their cleaning or

other services, as they are either residential or support buildings for vulnerable and high risk community members.” The final part of achieving these savings was a contribution of over £1.2 million from Interserve in the form of reduced margin and a lower RPI indexation on the contract fee. The new contract does retain some of the optimism of the earlier model, with a continued focus on sustainable development, lifecycle management, health and safety and new service options around energy efficiency.

FINDING A BALANCEIn the final analysis, this is the balance that all local authorities will have to find: between delivering a strategic vision and the reality of service reduction and cost pressures. As Keith Dorling, managing director – civil government at Interserve commented: “Research with YouGovStone in 2011 showed that many councils are still getting to grips with the scale of the efficiency savings they need to make. This fiscal challenge is likely to mean radical changes in the way services are delivered. “Croydon showed the way forward in 2006 when they moved to a total facilities management contract, which was bold for the time. Today, facing the new realities, they have shown the same level of forward thinking

in the way they have engaged Interserve in renewing and extending the contract, with a real focus on risk sharing and delivery.” Overall, the public sector is very important to the FM industry. The most recent research from MTW suggests that, whilst there may be a growing pressure on prices, the need for the public sector to continue to divest risk and seek to reduce costs through outsourcing should underpin this sector in terms of its value to the FM industry. As we are aware, the Government is looking to resurrect PFI, in the form of PPP (Public Private Partnerships), and the FM industry will eagerly wait to see what impact this has. The recent announcement of an additional £2 billion of spending on new schools in the next two years and real term growth in spending on Healthcare is offering some moderate optimism to the FM organisations that are currently working in the sector. At the same time, however, profit margins in public sector contracts are being increasingly squeezed, meaning that price competition between FM contractors will remain intense. Looking forward, we are interested to see if the PPP initiatives succeed in bringing the public and private sectors together, making the public sector an attractive place for FM contractors to be, and ensuring that FM and effective outsourcing remains a viable way for public sector bodies to drive efficiency. L

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION The Facilities Management Association (FMA) works with a variety of large FM organisations, managing TFM contracts, and also single service providers. For further information visit www.fmassociation.org.uk

Facilities Managem

ent

FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

The announcement of an additional £2 billion of spending on schools in the next two years and growth in spending on Healthcare is offering some moderate optimism to the those organisations currently working in the sector.

Local authorities plan to outsource almost a third of all services by 2014/15, suggests new YouGov researchOutsourcing has grown by six per cent in the past 12 months as councils seek efficiencies, notes a report by YouGov, commissioned by Interserve. Outsourcing currently accounts for 26 per cent of all council services. Authorities report savings of 16 per cent to date but need to achieve another 18 per cent by 2014/15. However, with 31 per cent of councils not expecting to achieve their target cuts in this timeframe, splits are emerging as to the best way forward. YouGov interviewed 100 senior managers at 100 councils. Respondents included 15 chief executives, three deputy chief executives, and 26 finance directors or heads of finance. Questions focused on council budgets as well as the role of, and their attitudes towards, outsourcing. Those councils that need to make greater than average savings (more than 25 per cent efficiency savings) or have larger budgets (more than £100 million) plan to outsource up to 60 per cent of all services. However, other councils aim to keep resources in house or share with other public sector providers, planning to outsource just a fifth of services by 2014/15. This was the third annual survey by YouGov and suggests that local authorities may have exhausted the ‘quick win’ savings and cut marginal services but are still faced with reductions that range from the “unpalatable to unacceptable” according

to one respondent. The report also found that: 44 per cent of councils state local political concerns are a serious barrier to outsourcing; 44 per cent of councils still haven’t implemented a strategy to deal with their budgetary challenges to 2014/15, down from 79 per cent this time last year; 81 per cent said outsourcing to a commercial partner had been successful, and 82 per cent believe that outsourcing has a role to play in achieving their targets; Councils expect only 20 per cent of outsourced council services to be provided by the third sector by 2015; and half to be provided by commercial providers by 2015; 16 per cent fewer councils believe that the voice of the community will affect future measurements compared with 2011’s results; 57 per cent believe that community budgets will have no effect (41 per cent) or even reduce (16 per cent) councils’ ability to meet their targets, and; councils expect a 15 per cent reduction in size of their built estate. Another respondent commented: “Given the scale of the savings required we need transformational change that delivers the same or better quality at 30 per cent less cost - not the marginal improvements usually on offer.”The full report Local services - in need of transformational change is available to download from tinyurl.com/c9es47n



GOVERNMENT BUSINESS MAGAZINE | Volume 19.414

If you are responsible for a businesspremises, the law requires that youhave a fire risk assessment. To findcompetent providers, you need BAFE. Under the provisions of the Regulatory Reform(Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Duty Holder orResponsible Person for a building is requiredto make a Fire Risk assessment to clarify thefire precautions necessary to ensure the safetyof staff, customers and property.

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Produced in association with the British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM), The FM Event has been created to help address current issues developing within facilities management and shape the future of the profession. The event will draw together thought leaders to debate current issues such as sustainability, internationalisation and the progression of women within FM. Building upon the successes of Total Workplace Management, which ran for seven years, The FM Event will focus on facilitated networking, increasing knowledge-sharing and making new business connections, the three top priorities identified by the senior FM community. To facilitate this, a brand new, high-level, peer-to-peer networking programme - The Networking Hub - has been devised.

ROUND TABLE DISCUSSIONSThe Networking Hub will be scheduled across the two days of the exhibition with three sessions based on a topical area within FM on each day. Each session will be hosted by a senior figure from organisations including the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM), BIFM and the Facilities Management Association (FMA). After a brief introduction, the attendees will break off to round table discussions. To conclude, the main host will open a group discussion with each table feeding back the results of their individual groups. The Networking Hub sessions will culminate in networking drinks for all attendees, together with breakfast rolls, lunchtime sandwiches, or afternoon nibbles. Exhibitors at the event include Viridor, KONE, Office Depot, Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH), LTT Vending, Balcan Engineering, Jackson Lifts and Grundon Waste Management. The FM Event will be co-located with Energy Solutions, the inaugural Global Security Summit London and Building Services – The CIBSE Conference and Exhibition; introducing the added benefit of uniting a diverse audience from FTSE 100 and 250 companies and leading public sector organisations. Global Security Summit London, the unique event for end users with security management and converged project responsibilities, will see specialists, suppliers and partners, specifically related to their individual needs, meet under one roof.

CIBSE CONFERENCEThe 2012 CIBSE Conference will bring together the entire building services supply chain to debate the challenges facing the industry, identify the most successful business strategies, forge and renew relationships for the future and secure the success of projects, businesses and careers. The exhibition will attract building services professionals from across the globe and provide a superior platform for suppliers to showcase their existing products and launch new technological innovations. It will also provide access to free CPD accredited seminar sessions. Energy Solutions brings together an excellent collection of exhibitors, features and education to bring visitors a

comprehensive, industry specific experience. The free education programme will be headlined by Lord Sebastian Coe KBE. The CPD accredited education programme has the full support of all the major energy associations and industry groups including BRE and the Energy Institute; and in addition, Lord Coe will provide a memorable and highly motivational speech. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONA full exhibitor list along with seminar information is available on the event website. For further information on The FM Event and its co-located exhibitions please visit www.thefmevent.com or follow on Twitter at @TheFMEvent.

The CPD accredited education programme has the full support of all the major energy associations and industry groups including BRE and the Energy Institute; and in addition, Lord Coe will provide a highly motivational speech

THE FM EVENT

NETWORKING A KEY FOCUS AT THE NEW FM EVENTReturning to London this year under its new name will be The FM Event, formerly Total Workplace Management. Taking place from October 10th – 11th at Olympia, it aims to connect senior professionals from across the facilities, estates and property management industry to network, share best practice and discover the latest products to hit the market.

Facilities Managem

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B&M Waste Services is a leading independent commercial & industrial waste management company. Family-owned, the company has over a decade of waste management expertise and is driven by service excellence.By developing tailored total waste management solutions, B&M can save your organisation money, as well as improve its environmental performance. B&M Waste Services aims to provide the best possible waste service to its customers whilst improving its environmental and financial performance. The company offers environmentally friendly solutions for a wide range of waste streams, including hazardous, clinical, offensive, food and wet waste. From internal recycling containers to FELs, skips, balers, compactors and confidential data destruction; B&M’s range of equipment

and services ensures a tailor-made service to meet your unique needs. Its customers receive all the benefits of working with a dedicated account manager from a highly motivated

and well qualified family-run company. The quality of the company is assured by the attainment of ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental) and OHSAS 18001 (Health & Safety) accreditations. From implementation, through to collection and even advice on legislation, B&M Waste Services strive to provide its customers with a quality service that they can rely on, whilst improving their environmental and financial performances.

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Robop is a creative and sustainable product that works to rid your property of pest birds. It does this without harming the birds, assaulting them with loud bangs or turning your building into a fortress covered in nets and spikes. Since 2001 Robop has gone from a Scottish inventor’s spark of genius to a robust British made product installed in 15 countries. Its clients include large industrial and commercial companies like Caterpillar, Johnson & Johnson and Scottish Widows, while in the public sector they include Liverpool,

Guildford and Richmond Councils, and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. The company is passionate about what it does and proud of what it has achieved. In short, Robop is dedicated to solving your bird control problems with a combination of expert knowledge and advanced technology. So, if you have a problem with seagulls, pigeons or other nuisance birds, why not call or email today.


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Are you frustrated by lost keys for lockers, desk pedestals, filing cabinets, cupboards, drawers and other office furniture? Do you shudder at the cost of calling someone out or the time wasted, trying other means to open the lock? Here is a better alternative. Keysplease supply replacement keys and locks quickly and cost effectively. The company has been in this specialised business for over 30 years and has over 10,000 customers. In this time it has developed a mail order service which is quick and easy to use. Most keys and locks can be dispatched to any location within a day. Ordering your replacement keys is simple. When a key is missing simply note the code number stamped on the lockface and send it with your order by post, fax, email or even order online direct. it’s as simple as that. Ammerhurst Limited has been

established for over 30 years and is an accredited member of the Guild of Keycutters within the Master Locksmiths Association. With new systems and processes to provide a more efficient service, with more staff to provide advice and assistance and with more products available than ever before Ammerhurst has positioned itself to be a major player in this special niche market as we move into the 21st Century. So, for any type of furniture and any make of lock just call us or visit the website next time someone loses their keys.

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A quick, simple way to replace lost furniture keys from Keysplease

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The UK’s road markings are vanishing at an alarming rate, with well over half of white lines in Scotland and Wales almost non-existent, and England’s road markings faring little better. A snapshot survey of nearly 500 miles shows that, on average, 50.6 per cent of the UK’s road markings examined are barely visible. The proportion of roads falling into the “emergency repairs” bracket stands at 23 per cent; while less than seven per cent of road markings score the highest rating. By contrast, a survey carried out 12 months earlier on the UK’s 10 most dangerous roads showed that 23 per cent of centre lines fell into the lowest category while 31 per cent qualified for the highest rating. The Road Safety Markings Association (RSMA) carried out the latest spot-check across a range of motorways and major A roads managed by the Highways Agency, and lesser A and B roads managed by local authorities. The results from this snapshot survey are of obvious concern to George Lee, national director of the Road Safety Markings Association. “These findings are shocking,” he says. “We could see a clear, direct correlation between deadly roads and deadly road markings when we examined the 10 most dangerous roads identified by the Road Safety Foundation. Now, just a simple cross-section of roads – arguably representative of the entire network – shows a level of deterioration that defies belief.” “We recognise that the UK is currently under huge financial pressure, but road markings are widely recognised to provide the best,

most simple navigation aid to drivers, and to be the most cost-effective road safety measure and it is time we gave drivers the vital clues they need to use our roads.” The RSMA will be conducting its comprehensive annual survey of the road markings on Britain’s roads over the summer and the results will be published in its 2012 LifeLines Report in the Autumn. In the meantime, the association is continuing to put pressure on Government so that it recognises that standards, compliance and research are the key areas it needs to address if it is to achieve the goals set out in its Strategic Framework for Road Safety. In evidence to the Transport Select Committee inquiry into the Government’s road safety framework, the RSMA has insisted that the only way the delicate balance of satisfying the demands of the debt crisis, whilst continuing to improve the UK road safety record, can be kept is by a more rigorous approach to standards and a more objective and enlightened attitude to commissioning research. The RSMA has also sounded a warning bell on the Government’s commitment to localism at any cost. The association has supported the knowledge, expertise and experience of highways engineers operating

in local authorities being used to best effect and has supported local decisions that are made in light of local and unique circumstances. However, it is concerned that central Government’s dogmatic adherence to a localism agenda may result in a lowering of standards, of road markings in particular, on local authority controlled roads.

RIGOROUS STANDARDSIllustrating the need for rigorous standards and control, the RSMA points to the fact that two-thirds of all Britain’s road deaths and serious injuries are on rural A-roads; those

roads under local authority management. Yet, of more than 60 single-

carriageway A-roads surveyed by the RSMA for its 2011

LifeLines Report, totalling more than 1,000 miles, on average 14 per cent of road markings were completely worn out; and a further 15 per cent fell into the ‘amber’ zone and should be scheduled

for replacement. Just 29 per cent of lines reached the

acceptable level of visibility. The association has warned

the Select Committee that currently there is no standard set by the Government to which local authorities should maintain their road markings, nor even a guidance note. The association claims that such technical assurances must be put in place E

ROAD MARKINGS

MAKING A MARK FOR ROAD SAFETYStandards, compliance and research are the key areas the Government needs to address if it is to achieve the goals set out in its Strategic Framework for Road Safety, says the Road Safety Markings Association, which publishes its 2012 Lifelines report in the Autumn

Transport

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of all Britain’s

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Pssst! A quick word about road maintenance and repair – Velocity!

We are the only operator adhering to the National Highway Sector Scheme 13 code of practice for velocity patching

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Spotlight on Cuthbertson Laird Group LtdThis year, Cuthbertson Laird, the Test and Measurement specialists, are celebrating 32 successful years in the business. Providing supply, hire, repair and calibration services for all types of equipment for a wide variety of customers.

The company first started out providing calibration services, and then became distributors for the sale of new products. Cuthbertson Laird are now UK distributors for the sale, repair and calibration of Test & Measurement, such as Fluke, Megger, Seaward, Flir, T&R, High Voltage Instruments, SebaKMT and Chauvin Arnoux to name just a few.

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Cuthbertson Laird Group LtdParkburn Court Glasgow RoadHamiltonML3 0QQTel: 01698 829711Fax: 01698 828363

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Cuthbertson Laird Group Ltd Unit 4 RiverparkBlackwater RoadMallusk, Co AntrimBT36 4TZTel: 02890 830302Fax: 02890 838866

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E before local authorities are given freer rein. The association has made these concerns known to the Minister of State for Transport, Mike Penning MP, and has insisted that the creation of “more room for local flexibility and innovation” as stated in the Government’s framework document must come with a guarantee of standards.

COMPROMISED SAFETY“If ‘empowerment of local citizens and local service providers’ is to be effective in terms of road safety, it must be introduced hand-in-hand with nationally recognised, set standards for the quality and maintenance of road markings,” claims George Lee. “Central standards must be set before national control is lightened. Unless these are put in place safety will be compromised and local authorities may leave themselves open to expensive legal actions as the decision as to whether or not acceptable standards are being met becomes a matter which the courts decide in light of crashes. “Localism is democratic and acceptable: loss of control of safety standards is not,” says Lee. He points out that the Government sets out its responsibilities as setting national standards for safe and responsible driving, and providing national services, such as driving tests, licensing and vehicle checks. “Worryingly, says Lee, “it does not refer to engineering or product standards.” Unsurprisingly, the RSMA has welcomed the Government’s belief that further measures can be taken that will provide high value for money and that clear improvements in road safety need to be “robustly analysed, considering all costs and benefits, the pressures on spending and the opportunity cost.” The association has been quick to point out that good quality road markings are generally considered by highways engineers and road safety organisations to be one of the most cost-effective methods of improving road safety. It cites the AA’s comment that: “Lives are being saved by some of the cheapest measures in the road engineer’s toolbox: simple white lines…without exaggeration, it is true to say that a simple pot of paint can save lives.” Likewise, the Road Safety Foundation has stated: “The high cost of emergency services, hospitals and long term care for the disabled can often be avoided through little more than the cost of a pot of paint.” The RSMA asserts that to satisfy its call for demonstrable value-for-money road safety solutions, the Government should fund road authorities in an examination of the correlation between the quality of road safety markings and the safety of roads.

IN-VEHICLE TECHNOLOGYThe Government has expressed hopes that in-vehicle technology will significantly advance safety standards. However, in response

George Lee sounds a note of caution: “Unless high-quality road markings are applied and maintained, the sophisticated in-vehicle technology is in danger of being rendered useless,” he says. Lee points to a warning given jointly by the European Road Assessment Programme (EuroRAP) and the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) last summer. The two heavyweights in road and car safety then jointly called on the motor industry and the highways sector to work together to ensure that technologies now available in the showroom reach their potential of saving thousands of lives. They stated that the condition of road markings and signs could be the greatest hurdle in reaping the benefits of new in-car safety technology. “This ‘hurdle’ is clear when you look at the most recent survey of Britain’s road markings which show that a third of the length of Britain’s single carriageway A roads have white lines so worn out that they do not meet standards directed by the Highways Agency for roads under its management,” says Lee.

HIGHWAYS AGENCYThe work of the Highways Agency and its place in the Government’s framework does not escape RSMA scrutiny. The RSMA believes the fact that the findings of its 2011 LifeLines survey of Britain’s road safety markings showed that of A roads and motorways surveyed, one in five fell below the minimum specifiable standard

for road markings and should be scheduled for replacement, while eight per cent had centre line markings so worn that they are barely visible. Thirty-nine per cent of dual carriageways and 38 per cent of motorways made the recommended rating used by the industry but there had been a significant drop in the quality since 2008, when 69 per cent of markings on duals reached this grade and 49 per cent on motorways. The RSMA’s claims that the findings of its surveys throw doubt on the Highways Agency’s commitment, or control, in maintaining the safety standards of the road markings on its network. It points out that under the Highways Agency Standard TD26, if the quality of markings falls below 100 mcd (millicandelas) they should be scheduled for replacement and if the quality rates below 80 mcd they must be replaced immediately. The RSMA says that this it is clear that this is not happening. It claims that the Highways Agency needs to do more to ensure that its own technical directives and the standards it has set are met to provide safer roads with more durable safety markings; improving safety and value for money. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONThe Road Safety Markings Association’s 2012 LifeLines Report into the state of Britain’s road safety markings will be launched at the association’s annual conference in Leeds on 15 November. For further information visit www.rsma.co.uk

“Unless high-quality road markings are applied and maintained, the sophisticated in-vehicle technology is in danger of being rendered useless”George Lee, national director, Road Safety Markings Association

TransportROAD MARKINGS



Trust GripTop because road safety simply isn’t an option

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Trust GripTop because road safety simply isn’t an option

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The GripTop Range of Anti-Skid Access Covers• Winner of the Prince Michael International

Road Safety Award for contributions to innovation in road safety

• Long term durability maintains a PSRV >70 • Kitemarked in accordance with the requirements

of BS EN 124: 1994• Compliant with the recommendations of HA

Guidance Note HA104/09• Available in a wide range of clear opening sizes,

to D400 and E600 load classifications• Manufactured in the UK

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High friction surfacing is a proven road surface treatment that increases skid resistance and reduces braking distance thereby reducing the potential for accidents. Typical locations for high friction surfacing include road junctions, approaches to traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and roundabouts as well as road stretches that have high accident levels. First used in the USA in the 1950s using epoxy resin binders, the development of a range of alternative resin processes have increased surface durability and performance. There are two types of high friction surfacing: hot applied and cold applied. Hot applied works by adhesion through heat application to the road surface whilst cold applied works by adhesion to the road through chemical bond. With a skid accident reduction of often 50 per cent being reported the success of high friction surfacing speaks for itself: it saves lives and money. Treatment with high friction surfacing makes potentially high risk road locations far safer for both drivers and pedestrians and the financial savings of achieving this are considerable. With the associated accident and investigation costs of non-motorway fatal accidents calculated to be £1.4million, the application of high friction surfacing offers considerable financial value.

MARKET DECLINEDespite the benefits of high friction surfacing and significant market growth in the UK since the 1960s, over the last few years the market has witnessed a serious decline due in large part to local authority perceived concerns about surface life (durability) and increasing costs. However, since the 1980s this cost has been able to be balanced against a broader savings strategy with allocated accident investigation and prevention budgets proving the investment savings from high friction surfacing against the cost of accidents and casualties. A third issue was the lack of best practice guidance and practical operative training. As the focal point for the road surface industry, RSTA with support from ADEPT (Association of Directors of Economy, Environment, Planning and Transport), has now put in place new industry guidance to address client concerns over product durability. Two key documents have been published: a new Code of Practice and a new Service Life document. Both of these documents have been

developed with full endorsement from ADEPT. The Service Life of Surface Treatments establishes the service life of a range of road surface treatments including high friction surfacing and by doing so provides a nationally agreed baseline for durability. Having such an agreed baseline is invaluable for lifecycle planning and asset management. The service life is dependent upon a number of important factors including site location and traffic volumes, surface preparation, method of working and workforce competence based on training and qualifications. The service life for hot applied high friction surfacing ranges from 3–5 years giving a mid-point of 4 years. For cold applied high friction

surfacing the service life ranges from 5–11 years giving a mid-point of eight years. The Code of Practice for High Friction Surfacing provides best practice guidance for ensuring that the baseline service life is achieved. Aimed at both client and contractor, the Code examines the application of both hot and cold high friction surfacing systems and provides practical guidance and technical details for their specification and installation. All issues concerning planning, health and safety and work execution are examined and full reference is made to relevant regulations, standards and training. In all, the Code provides definitive guidance on the right way to specify and apply high friction surfacing. E

ROAD SURFACING

HIGH FRICTION SURFACING: IMPROVING ROAD SAFETYDespite playing a major role in improving road safety, high friction surfacing’s acceptance in the UK in under threat from councils reducing their highway maintenance spend. The Road Surface Treatments Association (RSTA) has developed a number of initiatives to help progress and deliver best practice for its wider installation reports Howard Robinson, RSTA chief executive.

Transport

The service life is dependent upon a number of important factors including site location and traffic volumes, surface preparation, method of working and workforce competence based on training and qualifications.




8-10 October 2012, Crowne Plaza, Glasgow

European Transport Conference 2012

The Association for European Transport (AET) announces:

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Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in this year, the European Transport Conference attracts around 400 transport practitioners and researchers to an event where they can find in-depth presentations on policy issues, best practice and research findings across a broad spectrum of transport modes.

With a platform for up to ten seminars running simultaneously each day, delegates have access to a huge variety of information with extensive learning and training opportunities.

The interface of research, policy and practice in transport

Researchers, lecturers, analysts, advisers and managers will all be in attendance to share their expertise in subjects from Transport & Climate Change to Understanding Individual Travel Behaviour with Discrete Choice.

For a complete list of the conference themes and instructions on how to book your place, please visit our website www.aetransport.org or contact Sabrina Ayadassen by email at [email protected]

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Single & Twin chamber options, from 7.5 – 26 Tonne GVW with capacities ranging from 2.5 – 15 Tonnes. ND Brown Ltd also offers a wide range of tippers available for hire at 3.5 Tonne (Single & Double cab), Insulated Tippers at 7.5 & 18 Tonne and Tipper Grabs at 26 & 32 Tonne. The company sells a wide and specialised range of new and used commercial vehicles, and would be delighted to hear of your requirements.

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E TRAININGA common theme to both the Service Life of Surface Treatments and the Code of Practice is the need for practical NVQ level training to ensure operative and supervisor competence and technical knowledge. Here, the RSTA has developed training courses specific for high friction surfacing that is appropriate for both NVQ Level 2 and 3. In addition, RSTA with ConstructionSkills is developing Specialist Up-skilling programmes for a number for road surface treatments leading to NVQ Level 2 including high friction surfacing. High friction surfacing offers a wide range of benefits not least of which is saving lives and money. The RSTA is well placed to forward its wider take-up by working with local highway authorities to demonstrate that the issues over cost and durability have been addressed and that the best practice guidance and training necessary for consistent, high quality application and after-care are readily available and are being signed-up to by both clients and contractors. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONCopies of The Service Life of Surface Treatments and the Code of Practice for High Friction Surfacing are available as downloads from www.rsta-org.com/publications. Details of training courses are available on www.rsta-uk.org/calendar

TransportROAD SURFACING

Lower speed limit could raise costsUpdated speed limit guidance to help local authorities improve road safety has been published for consultation by Road Safety Minister Mike Penning. The guidance provides up-to-date advice to aid greater consistency of speed limits on local roads across England. It incorporates recent changes that have increased flexibility for local authorities to implement 20mph limits and zones where it can be shown that they benefit road safety and quality of life. It also gives authorities more information about the new speed limit appraisal web tool which will help authorities fully assess the impact of any change to a speed limit in their area. Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: “It is vital that speed limits are suitable for local conditions and councils are best placed to determine what these limits are, based on local knowledge and the views of the community. “Guidance for consultation

features a number of initiatives we have introduced to improve road safety, including making it easier for local authorities and communities to use common-sense measures such as variable speed limits outside schools.“Road safety is a top priority and the guidance – along with the speed limit appraisal web tool – will help councils make evidence based decisions to introduce local speed limits that reflect the needs of all road users.” The revision of the guidance and the introduction of an economic tool to help authorities assess the full costs and benefits of any proposed schemes were a commitment in the Department for Transport’s Strategic Framework for Road Safety published last year. The lower limit has been welcomed by road safety campaigners and environmental groups, but the Cumbria County Council’s highways authority has voiced fears of how the new

restrictions would be funded: “There would be additional expense for extra signs, engineering for traffic calming measures and also enforcement in terms of speed cameras,” a council spokeswoman said. “In this economic climate we need to assess affordability and necessity before making any changes to highways restrictions. Our preference at this stage, as one of the largest rural road networks in the country, is to focus efforts on driver education as there’s simply too big a road network to try and enforce these types of restrictions.” The final guidance is expected to be published by the end of the year. The web tool, also to be launched later this year, is being developed with input from road safety groups and local authorities.

DOWNLOAD THE CONSULTATION DOCUMENT tinyurl.com/cdvejqe

Driving testsfrom HalfordsDriving tests could soon be available from branches of Halfords.As well as using traditional driving test centres, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) is looking at working with public and private sector partners to provide driving test premises in selected areas that don’t already have a local test centre. The DSA began offering tests from local authority buildings and leisure centres last year. In March, the Agency announced plans to extend the scheme to 21 more locations, and invited proposals from businesses and other organisations. Halfords has been announced as the preferred bidder.

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From sweepers to safety equipment, fluorescent tube recycling to food waste solutions, and composting to the latest containment innovations, the RWM event will showcase answers to all of today’s waste and recycling challenges. Taking place on 11th-13th September at the NEC Birmingham, the event will feature around 700 exhibitors and an even stronger emphasis on knowledge sharing, with formal and informal networking opportunities and over 100 free CPD-accredited seminar sessions led by expert speakers across six seminar theatres. Key political figures will be on the platform in the Leader’s Theatre, highlighting the growing importance of resources and waste on the political agenda. On day one, the importance of diverting food waste from landfill will be one of the key messages from former Environment Secretary John Gummer, now Lord Deben, who chairs a new Visionary Panel on food waste. Shadow Waste Minister Gavin Shuker MP will be giving a keynote speech on day two looking at how government can support the industry in tackling the major challenges it faces, and the final day will see planning and local government minister Bob Neill MP talking about what localism means for councils and the waste and recycling sector.

WASTE MANAGEMENT IN THE FUTUREThere will also be plenty of discussion exploring whether we have the strategies, networks and infrastructure we need for the future, with speakers including IESE chairman Paul Bettison. As well as outlining IESE’s new waste collection services framework and exploring how this can support local authorities and the private sector, he will take a look at some of the first agreements that have been signed under the new framework. The theatre also plays host to the ‘Big Debate’ on day two, with leading commentators including CIWM Chief Executive Steve Lee exploring the future of recycling, including the role of targets, ensuring public participation and markets. Other keynote speakers will be providing a very different perspective. Visitors will be able to go ‘off the record’ with Alastair Campbell, former director of communications and strategy for Tony Blair, find answers to the universe with particle physicist turned TV science presenter Brian Cox OBE, and debate

what the energy market might look like in five year’s time with the leading academic James Woudhuysen, Professor of Forecasting and Innovation at De Montford University. Offering more tailored content will be the Local Authority theatre, sponsored by Amey Cespa, Balfour Beatty and UPM. The Commerce & Industry theatre (sponsored by Biffa), the Energy from Waste theatre (sponsored by Advanced Plasma Power) and the Technology & Innovation theatre (sponsored by TOMRA Sorting Solutions) and the Communications Hub, delivered by Sauce Consultancy in partnership with SLR Consulting, the Associate Parliamentary Sustainable Resource Group and CIWM. Practical sessions feature heavily, including

a timely look by Janet Viney from the Health & Safety Executive at the results of the organisation’s three year local authority inspection initiative. Assessing local authorities who are either procuring and managing waste services as clients or delivering and managing in-house services, one of the key findings of the initiative is that local authorities need to focus on improving health and safety. In the Energy from Waste Theatre, sponsored by Advanced Plasma Power, there will be expert opinion and advice from key industry speakers including Gaynor Hartnell, chief executive of The Renewable Energy Association, on the role of EfW in a sustainability strategy. Stuart Rain, biomass manager for Stobart Biomass, will E

Visitors will be able to go ‘off the record’ with Alastair Campbell, former director of communications and strategy for Tony Blair, and find answers to the universe with particle physicist turned TV science presenter Brian Cox OBE

RWM 2012

MAKING SENSE OF WASTE MANAGEMENT There will be a host of features at this year’s RWM in partnership with CIWM to help meet the challenges of planning and providing efficient waste management services and infrastructure within tight budgets, delivering waste prevention and re-use initiatives.

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One call 0870 850 1409 or one click at www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk takes care of all your materials handling needs.

Toyota Material Handling is the world’s leading name in materials handling solutions. With nationwide presence and a reputation for technical and service excellence, our industry leading range of products sets ever new standards.

As a direct organisation Toyota Material Handling UK is able to offer unrivalled levels of service and support, consisting of world-class products, long and short-term rental, fleet management, genuine Toyota and BT parts and unbeatable sales support tailored to your business.

To find out more visit us on stand 20J59 at RWM (Recycling & Waste Management) on 11-13 September 2012 to see the BT Lifter hand pallet truck equipped with weight indicator for a reading of load weight during the handling process. Or the Toyota Tonero heavy duty and reliable engine powered counterbalance forklift. Alternatively call 0870 850 1409 or visit www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk

Visit us on Stand 20J59

Toyota_One_Call_Government_Business_Magazine_0712.indd 1 7/4/2012 12:22:38 PM

E comment on ensuring reliability, quality and sustainability of biomass material plus a look at the latest contracts. There will also be a case study by Paul Carey, managing director of MVV, outlining measures being taken to minimise the impact of the Devonport EfW facility on the local area and diminishing the construction and finance risk.

COMMUNICATIONS HUBHelping the industry to get its message across more effectively is the Communications Hub programme, which brings waste professionals and communications experts together to explore how to engage better with the media, policy makers and the general public, the Hub offers one-to-one clinics on communications, technical and planning issues and politics, as well as hosting lively debates. With localism driving a more up-front, open and transparent approach to communicating with local residents and decision makers, ‘Shrinking violets or bold as brass – proactive or reactive communications?’ will look at how the industry is moving from a ‘keep quiet and carry on’ approach to a much more proactive attitude to communication. The ‘Community licence to operate – balanced and fair representation’ debate will bring together speakers including Davy Jones of The Consultation Institute, Phil Downing of Icaro Consulting, and Paula Boyce of Sauce Consultancy to discuss why the social aspects of new developments can no longer play second fiddle to the environmental aspects.

SHOWCASEOn the show floor, over 700 exhibitors involved in all aspects of waste and resource management, from the UK’s major waste contractors such as Biffa, SITA UK, Viridor and Cory Environmental, to materials reprocessors, waste treatment technology providers, vehicles, plant and equipment suppliers, and container and street furniture manufacturers, and software specialists. There are number of new names in the line-up this year, including FCC Environment, the new integrated brand for Waste Recycling Group and Focsa Services (UK). The company is inviting local authorities and industry partners to visit the stand to learn how they can benefit from a new approach to recycling and waste. There will be plenty of innovation in waste collection and transport from the likes of Ecofar UK, Heil Environmental, Geesink Norba, Mercedes Benz UK and Isuzu Truck (UK). Cutting fuel costs will be one of the highlights on the Dennis Eagle stand, where the firm will be showcasing its new Fuel Saver Pack, and Terberg Matec UK will display four innovative binlifts, as well as the PBUV plastic vehicle body for kerbside collection of food waste. Regular exhibitor Isuzu Truck returns to the show but this year with an inside stand. Isuzu supplies vehicles to over 170 local authorities throughout the UK and visitors can expect to see refuse collection and kerbside recycling

vehicles at 3.5 and 7.5t tonnes GVW on display. There are exciting developments too from some of the sector’s leading vehicle hire companies, including Collett Transport Services, Gullivers Municipal Hire Services, Noblet Municipal Services, Riverside Truck Rental, and Specialist Fleet Services Ltd. On the materials handling front, JCB will be putting on what it calls its ‘best ever display’ and a series of new Wastemaster machines, and the showfloor will also play host to a wide array of sorting, separation and processing equipment, including conveyors, shredders, grinders, vibrating and trommel screens, and drying solutions, as well as turnkey materials recovery solutions from specialists such as O.Kay Engineering and Tong Peal Engineering.

KEY THEMESFleet management, safety and weighing solutions are key themes this year. Bartec Systems will demonstrate its next generation information systems, including a new in-cab terminal for use in RCVs and other municipal vehicles, as well as highlighting the success of its Collective suite in helping over 40 local authorities improve service delivery and reduce costs across their mobile operations. Serving up new waste containment solutions will be Straight plc, who will showcase new products including the 3BoxStackTM, a multi-box recycling container that stacks neatly into one easily manoeuvrable unit and the new CantoTM Caddy, a food waste container that sits inside or outside any wheeled container. Leafield Environmental will have the new Meridian Envirobin, recently selected as a finalist for the Plastics Industry Awards for 2012, on display as well as a green approach to refurbishment. The firm recently saved a leading London borough 80 per cent on bin replacement costs by refurbishing 78 of their dual capacity bins with new inserts and labels. Two brand new features will also see all the key materials associations and social

enterprises in the waste and recycling sector brought together under one roof for the first time. With a line-up including the Resource Association, the British Metals Recycling Association, Recoup, Alupro, Confederation of Paper Industries, British Glass, the Textile Recycling Association and the Association for Organics Recycling, the new Materials Village will provide a valuable one-stop shop for anyone looking to get up to speed on the latest issues around collection, sorting and end markets for recovered materials.

ENERGY FROM WASTEThe Social Enterprise Zone, meanwhile, will provide visitors with an opportunity to connect and forge useful partnerships with some of the key third sector organisations, including Community Resource Network, E

Cutting fuel costs will be one of the highlights on the Dennis Eagle stand, where the firm will be showcasing its new Fuel Saver Pack, and Terberg Matec UK will display four innovative binlifts, as well as the PBUV plastic vehicle body for kerbside collection of food waste

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RWM 2012



VEHICLE SALESWe carry a stock of vehicles for sale and depending on customers requirements, will actively source if not in stock.

VEHICLE PARTSThe Recycled Parts stock consists of both chassis and body components which, where ever possible, are removed, cleaned and “On The Shelf” for immediate despatch.

RCV HIREWe also run a Hire Fleet of Refuse Vehicles with a choice of configurations available.

We have built up relationships with Local Authority, Private sector and Manufacturers in the supply and purchase of stock and are more than happy to address your requirements and queries.

EUROMUNICIPAL LIMITEDSpecialising in Municipal Vehicle Sales, Parts and Hire

EUROMUNICIPAL LIMITEDManor Farm Building, Stokeham Nr Retford,

Nottinghamshire DN22 0JZTel: 01777 249199 Fax: 01777 249200

Email: [email protected]

CALL US NOW ON 01777 249199

WWW.EUROMUNICIPAL.COM

E REalliance, Community Composting Network, Furniture Reuse Network, Scrapstores UK, Rehab Recycle. Fairshare, Rehab Recycling and London Community Resource Network Anaerobic digestion, gasification and other forms of Energy from Waste (EfW) will also be under the spotlight this year and the Energy from Waste Trail features some of UK’s leading technology providers in this field, including Advanced Plasma Power, Biogen Greenfinch, Covanta Energy Ltd, Energos and New Earth Solutions. Reflecting the increasing synergies between the waste, resource management and energy generation sectors, the 2012 show will also once again be co-located with the Energy Event and also with a new Renewables Event targeted at the commercial, industrial and public sector markets.

SPEED NETWORKINGNew for this year are the RWM Speed Networking sessions, designed to help visitors and exhibitors to connect with RWM’s vast network of resource efficiency and waste management professionals. Covering five themes and lasting approximately 45 mins each, the sessions provide a quick and easy way to find new business partners or suppliers or simply share best practice. The show also offers plenty of informal networking opportunities with Café Viridor

and the Stobart Biomass Networking Hub providing space to meet colleagues and exhibitors. To book sessions visit www.rwmexhibition.com/speednetworking

CATWALK AND AWARDSBringing some glamour to the NEC will be the RWM Catwalk, where fashion designers will once again be demonstrating how to turn unwanted clothes into innovative new designs. Run in partnership with the Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL), I&G Cohen and Chris Carey’s Collections, the catwalk also highlights efforts to recycle some of the 2 million tonnes of textile waste generated in the UK each year are becoming an increasingly important part of the recycling and sustainability agenda. For those looking to relax or entertain in convivial company, the CIWM Gala Dinner takes place on the night of Wednesday 12th. The 2012 CIWM Clean Britain Awards Lunch happens on Thursday 13th, and will be hosted by the BAFTA award winning comedian and impressionist Alistair McGowan. The Awards will feature high profile entries from local authorities across the length and breadth of the UK. L

FURTHER INFORMATION For registration and more information about RWM Connect, visit the exhibition website at www.rwmexhibition.com

New for this year are the RWM Speed Networking sessions, designed to help visitors connect with RWM’s vast network of resource efficiency and waste management professionals

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RWM 2012

Seminar SessionsKEYNOTE: John Gummer, the former Environment Secretary who chairs a new Visionary Panel on food waste, will be discussing landfill

KEYNOTE: Gavin Shuker MP, Shadow Waste Minister will be looking at how government can support the industry in tackling the major challenges it faces

KEYNOTE: Bob Neill MP, local government minister, will discuss what localism means for councils and the waste and recycling sector

Mandy Keepax, head of waste for M&S, and Bernard Amos, CEO of Helistrat, on how M&S has achieved auditable ‘zero waste to landfill’ ahead of scheduleLearn about specific technologies or the entire stack

Katherine Symonds, head of sustainable Olympic Games for Coca Cola on how the company has used London 2012 to drive sustainability deeper into its business

Caroline Arnold, head of waste at Kent County Council on taking a collaborative approach to maximise efficiencies

Lonek Wojtulewicz, head of planning at Leicestershire County Council, on the waste infrastructure and planning conundrum

Kerry McCarthy, MP for Bristol East on reducing and eliminating food waste in the UK and what collaboration is needed from producers, retailers and consumers

Matt Prosser, strategic director for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils on motivating householders to recycle and reuse

Charlotte Morton, chief executive of the Anaerobic Digestion & Biogas Association, on how anaerobic digestion is delivering new opportunities for food and organic waste streams

Paul Greenwell, business director for AmeyCespa on how local authorities and their contractors can work collaboratively to challenge the norm and think about the future




We help local authorities and waste management firms to:

Courses include:

Alternatively, Train-the-Trainer provides you with your own, in-house trainer. Our trainers have

extensive experience in managing public sector waste management operations and frontline staff.

AJF Waste ManagementAccredited waste management training tailored to your needs

01597 822953 / 07747 103920www.ajfwastemanagement.co.uk

Don’t let budget cuts cost lives

c1a6.indd 1 16/6/11 10:44:03

RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

& WASTE MANAGEMENT

SOLUTIONS

11-13 SEPT 2012NEC BIRMINGHAM, UKMORE EFFECTIVE RESOURCE

AND WASTE MANAGEMENT.DON’T THROW AWAY YOUR CHANCE TO BE THERE.RWM (Resource and Waste Management) in partnership with CIWM is the European event for resource efficiency and waste management.

Register for FREE entry and to:

• Source new products from over 700 suppliers

• Connect with thousands of resource management professionals

• Hear and learn from 100+ business leaders and industry experts

RWM2012. AN INVALUABLE RESOURCE

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Join us online




The Oschatz Group is an innovative company that operates globally in the fields of plant construction, energy recovery and environmental technology. With over 160 years experience, 1,300 employees and branches all over the world, Oschatz is market leader for waste heat systems in the product areas of environmental and chemical technologies, iron and steel as well as non-ferrous metallurgy. At the RWM Exhibition 2012 in Birmingham, Oschatz will be presenting its know-how in the field of Power Plant Technology. Oschatz designs, produces and assembles customised plants ready for operation, including turnkey power plants for the utilisation of refuse-derived fuels (RDF), biomass and other solid residue, and thermal disposal plants for liquid or gaseous residues (e.g. from chemical industries). Oschatz complies with all quality standards, such as

ISO 9001, ASME standard, Pressure Equipment Directive, EU standards etc. All Oschatz products are highly efficient, easy to maintain and offer easy accessibility to the individual components. The subsidiary Oschatz UK Ltd. was founded in 2011 to develop strategic opportunities and to implement plants across the UK. Oschatz UK is a member of the Renewable Energy Association (REA), which has been promoting the use of renewable energies in the UK for over ten years. Meet the company at the RWM Exhibition in Hall 20, Stand F28-F29.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.oschatz.com

Oschatz – best technology backed by experience

Recolight, the leading specialist recycling scheme for lamps, will be at RWM this year to raise awareness of the importance of recycling waste lamps, and to showcase its range of convenient and cost effective collection and recycling options. Free lamp recycling - Businesses across the UK can sign up to join Recolight’s unique network of collection points and receive a container free of charge if collecting large quantities. For smaller quantities, businesses can lease a container. With over 1,100 collection points across the UK, Recolight has one of the largest networks dedicated to the collection of commercial lamps. Of these, over 300 are open sites located at wholesalers and available for their customers and small businesses to use too. Health Board makes huge savings - Cwm Taf Local Health Board in Wales signed up for four containers to provide an efficient way of collecting and disposing of their waste lamps at two hospitals. Partnering

with Recolight enabled the Health Board to cut costs, as they no longer have to pay for recycling, nor use staff time to crush and bag lamps. You can find Recolight at stand 19S49, where staff will be on hand to discuss the various recycling options on offer.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 0845 601 [email protected] recolight.co.uk

Cut your lamp recycling costs with Recolight

Enfield Council has recently taken delivery of two new Scarab Merlin hydrostatic sweepers mounted on a Daf 7.5t chassis. The two vehicles will be replacing a 15 tonne sweeper from another manufacturer. The reasons for doing this include increased resilience within the service, improved flexibility as the service no longer requires an HGV qualified driver and improved support to residential sweeping teams operating across the borough. The Scarab Merlin’s will fit into Enfield Council’s current fleet well by offering heavy truck mount performance, with the manoeuvrability of a smaller machine. Environmental wins are an added feature of the Merlin as the sweeper offers a much lower fuel consumption and reduced Co2 output when compared to the previous twin engine sweeper. David Coventry, Street Scene

section manager said: “We are very pleased with our new Scarab Merlin sweepers. They will offer real improvements to the service in a way that our residents will recognise a difference. Like any business, improving customer satisfaction is key to our success. Our staff feel at home in the sweeper and the machines, which have arrived at a time when we need to ensure that all of London is looking at its best for the Olympics.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.scarab-sweepers.com

Enfield puts two Merlins in the starting blocks

A British company with German roots has been operating successfully for more than 10 years in the UK market. Sutco UK offers the best of German engineering and recycling technology from its central UK base in Surrey. More than 15 plants are operating successfully in the UK. More than 400 engineers, technicians, manufacturing, mounting and commissioning specialists ensure the suitable handling of each project, from the planning to implementing the operation. Sutco’s committed team provides expertise and creativity in all issues regarding the planning, implementation and repair of up-market treatment and recycling plants. The company’s solutions include sorting systems for commingled recyclables with and without glass, industrial and bulky waste, packaging

waste, paper, mixed waste from constructional sites, municipal solid waste and waste to energy. The after sales service, including the procurement of spare parts, have the same importance to Sutco as all areas of the recycling plant technology. Its team will help with local support at any time for the elimination of plant failures, exchange of spare parts and components.Sutco UK will be present at RWM 2012 in Hall 18, stand 1170.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 0115 98 75 722www.sutco-uk.com

Sutco UK offers customised management solutions

A company of the LM-GROUP

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n We will reduce your costs n We will divert your waste from landfill – great for improving your CSR n We will recycle your waste n We will ensure your compliance and fulfil your duty of care.

Delivering bespoke recycling and waste management solutions for your business. MT Waste Management is one of the UK’s leading waste management services providers; a family owned business, our portfolio of services include:

n Free waste auditsn Waste reduction & handling equipmentn Recycling of all waste streamsn Legal compliance & Duty of Caren Management Informationn Environmental & recycling reporting

MT Waste Management LimitedCountrywide House, Unit 3 Kingston

Business Park, Dunfermline Court, Kingston, Milton Keynes MK10 0BY

Tel: 0845 643 5070 Fax: 0845 643 5080Email: [email protected]: www.mtwaste.co.uk



Our Market is the World

TURNKEY SOLUTIONS FROMA SINGLE SOURCE

About the Oschatz GroupOschatz has been active in the fields of plant construction,energy recovery and environmental technology since1849. With approximately 1,300 employees and branchesall over the world, the Germany-based Oschatz Group ismarket leader for waste heat systems in the productareas of iron and steel metallurgy, non-ferrous metal-lurgy, environmental and chemical technologies.

Oschatz UK Ltd.Innovation Centre Warwick Technology ParkWarwick, CV34 6UW Phone: 01926 623 [email protected] www.oschatz.co.uk

Oschatz is your specialist for thermal utilisation plants around the globe.Drawing upon over 160 years of experience, the company specialisesin the construction and setting up of:

biomass fuel plants refuse-derived fuel plantsdisposal plants for the chemical industry.

Whether it is solid, liquid or gaseous residues: Oschatz provides individu-ally designed turnkey solutions for all specifications from a single source.

Meet us at RWM in Birmingham

Hall 20 · Stand F28-F29

AZ-Oschatz_86x125_7-12 13.07.2012 12:39 Uhr Seite 1

Toyota Material Handling is the world’s leading name in materials handling solutions. With nationwide presence in the UK and a reputation for technical and service excellence, its industry leading range of products sets ever new standards. Specialties include forklifts, warehouse equipment, materials handling equipment, forklift hire, forklift servicing, forklift parts, forklift and warehousing equipment and all types of operator training. As a direct organisation Toyota Material Handling UK is able to offer unrivalled levels of support, consisting of world-class products, rental and hire solutions, fleet management, genuine Toyota and BT parts with unbeatable sales and service support tailored to your business needs. Toyota offers a complete range of new and used

solutions to cover any application requirements. Products include: hand pallet trucks, powered pallet trucks, powered stackers, order pickers, tow tractors, reach trucks, counterbalance engine and electric forklifts and very narrow aisle equipment. Toyota has the resources and experience to provide unrivalled national support and the best possible service to its customers throughout the UK.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 0870 850 1409www.toyota-forklifts.co.uk

Toyota Material Handling’s industry leading range

Trailer Vision is the premier supplier of digital wireless camera/reversing camera systems. Unlike other companies, it only supplies camera systems that meet its own stringent specifications, and all systems utilise (new) digital wireless technology. This ensures that systems can operate, interference free, in a wide range of extreme environments, without the need for video cables and ‘suzie’ connections. Digital wireless transmission range is in excess of 200m, so use with any vehicle/trailer combination is possible. The double benefit of wireless systems, is that they are extremely quick and easy to fit. Trailer Vision systems are already employed by several

leading operators including Shell UK, which has utilised the flexible systems at both Manchester and Birmingham airports, for use with tanker trailers. Although many operators only fit camera systems to meet site access requirements, or local H&S and Risk Assessment criteria, others are realising that the relatively low cost systems not only play a part in preventing expensive potential accidents, but can also significantly reduce fleet repair costs and down time. Systems are simple to fit - the prevention of just one accident would easily offset the cost of many installations.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01775 640775www.trailervision.co.uk

Inovative wireless camera systems from Trailer Vision

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Recolight offers a complete CFL recycling solution with specially designed indoor and outdoor containers making it easy to provide CFL recycling facilities for the local community. Recolight is the not-for-profit, specialist recycling scheme for the lighting industry. If you are interested in finding out about the Bulbstores and how we can help you meet your WEEE recycling target, contact us: www.recolight.co.uk 0845 601 7749 [email protected]

FREE

JOINUS

RecolightAds2012_FINAL_QUARTER.indd 1 27/01/2012 12:15

The Skip Factory LtdManufacturers Since 1997

T: 01202 280446M: 07593 655903

Fabricators of Skips andContainers of all sizesfrom 2 yard to 60 yard

and specialist bins

Environcom operates two WEEE processing facilities within the UK. The first is on a 10 acre site on the outskirts of Grantham, Lincolnshire, with a second WEEE facility within London that services the Southern region. The business has invested over £10 million in the best available processing equipment. Environcom’s Grantham WEEE facility is one of the largest and most advanced in Europe, comprising of the latest state of the art technology aimed at achieving high levels of WEEE Recycling, Recovery and Reuse. It caters for all categories of WEEE and has a capacity to treat 100,000 tonnes of WEEE per annum. It is the largest of its kind in the UK with installed capacity to receive, treat and process a vast range of WEEE. Environcom recycles and treats all WEEE streams in a safe and efficient manner, in line with directive targets,

environmental regulations and best practices. Whole products that still have a viable life will be re-used and the company is keen to further develop the re-use levels in partnership with national charities and social enterprises such as the British Heart Foundation for whom we provide reuse appliances for sale through their high street stores. This raises much needed revenues as well as providing access to affordable refurbished appliances to consumers.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01476 [email protected]

Environcom - the UK’s largest WEEE Specialist

The Skip Factory is skip and container manufacturing business based in Bournemouth on the South Coast of England. It deals with many large, well known waste companies such as Sims, Raymond Brown and Viridor, and is now looking to expand to other UK companies, councils and even overseas. The Skip Factory has grown immensely, becoming one of the most popular companies in the industry, offering top quality containers at some of the best prices. Bins range in all shapes and sizes from stillages to 60 yard roll on/off containers. All products are manufactured to CHEM-spec standards using hot rolled steel and anti-corrosive paint. Extras can be fitted at a low cost to suit your needs and bulk discounts are to be taken advantage of on all orders over 10 skips/containers. The Skip Factory takes into

consideration that many clients require individual containers, and therefore looks forward to a challenge, welcoming any specialist requirements that may add to its complex achievements. For further information, photos, a copy of our brochure or a current pricelist contact us via the details below.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01202 280446www.theskipfactory.com

The Skip Factory looks to expand its UK offerings

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DEHYDRA GOBI ROCKET CHiP WASTE2EAU

THE FOOD WASTE EXPERTS

TURNING YOUR WASTE PROBLEMS INTO SUSTAINABLE ON-SITE SOLUTIONS

Tidy Planet, the UK’s leading food waste solutions company is proud to reveal their new range of products for the first time at the RWM. With the

addition of Food Waste to Energy Tidy Planet now offers the public sector the most comprehensive range of sustainable food waste solutions in the UK

Join us on stand 06Q90 at the NEC to see our complete range of products and see how we can help you save money and improve your sustainability

Reduce food waste volume by as much as 80% and weight by 50% to achieve significant cost savings

Convert food wastes into ani-mal feed or packaging con-taminated food waste into inert biomass

Save money and the planet by converting all your food and organic waste into nutritious compost in just 14 days

Convert your waste ccoking oil into revenue and reduce CO2

by generating electricity and hot water with it on your site

Eliminate your food waste safely via the drain using this unique enzymatic process.

For further information please telephone 01625 666798 contact us by e-mail on [email protected] or see our website at www.tidyplanet.co.uk

Imtech – an engineering and construction management contractor, working to provide engineering excellence on all types of waste and energy projects for local authorities and the industrial sector.

Visit stand 20J69 at RWM 2012 for your chance to become carbon neutral for a year.

Dedicated to providing value-added services and innovative solutions to a wide range of water, biosolids and waste and energy projects, including Food Waste Anaerobic Digestion, Gas-to-Grid, Mechanical Biological Treatment using MYT technology and Biomass.

For further information on how we can help you, please visit the Imtech stand 20J69 at RWM 2012 or contact Gavin Lawrenson, Business Development Manager, Waste and Energy on 01543 496600 or [email protected]

COME AND SEE US AT THE RWM EXHIBITION NEC - 11-13th September STAND 20A46.

nSpotandlong-termhireofHooklift,ChainliftandCableliftvehicles.nHooklift,Chainlift&CableliftTruckSales.nBin/SkipHire&Sales.nTri-axle&TandemAxleTrailerHire&Sales.nSpares&Repairs.

Informationandafullandup-to-datecatalogueofalloursalesvehiclesaswellasadescriptionofallourproductsandservicescanbefoundatwww.mhf.uk.com

Tel: 01386 792354TheNathan,Radford,Inkberrow,WorcestershireWR74LN



MULTI-FUEL BIOMASSENERGY SOLUTIONS

www.vyncke.comwww.vyncke.com

QualityQuality since 1912 since 1912

VYNCKE-14-adv-1306**.indd 1 16/07/12 09:43

VIEW AT- WESTMINSTER- TESCO EXPRESS- McDONALDS- AND STAND NO.19N36 AT RWM

BINS MADE FOR USINGCAN WE HELP YOU?

ENQUIRIES: [email protected] or 01773 830930

www.industrialbins.co.uk

Recycling and waste containers

Whether it’s recycling vehicles, tippers, gritters or gully emptiers, DAF is the only company that offers public sector operators a range of truck chassis to meet all their needs. Offering a wide range of axle, weight and power configurations for applications from 7.5 to 44 tonnes GCW, DAF has been the clear market leader for 17 years, currently selling almost one in three trucks in the UK. Every DAF sold in the UK is built in Leyland, Lancashire in a state-of-the-art plant that is Britain’s only remaining volume truck assembly facility. All light and medium weight trucks, including the award-winning LF Series, are also designed and developed at the site. A large product development team use sophisticated CAD and 3D virtual imaging technology to design award winning trucks that are renowned for the reliability, durability, fuel economy and low whole vehicle life costs. Built to world-class quality

standards, a strong emphasis is also placed on ISO 14001 environmental standards and the factory achieves Zero Waste to Landfill the first commercial vehicle plant in the UK to do so.DAF was also the first manufacturer able to deliver all models to the EEV emission standards. These trucks have ultra-clean engines that particulate emit up to 50 per cent particulates than Euro 5 requirements, as used in the new DAF LF Hybrid model which itself can save up to a further 25 per cent fuel and CO2 output.


DAF Trucks offers products for every application

Waste and recycling products company Amberol has recently turned heads by providing talking bins in London. Teaming up with Sing London and Keep Britain Tidy, the bins proved to be enormously popular as celebrity voices were used to sing or speak audible messages in return for litter being deposited. A trial showed that a reactive bin gathered twice as much waste in the same environment as a passive one. The company’s new voice box is easily programmed and reprogrammed without removing the box and can deliver any length or number of messages depending on your objective. For a more conventional bin, Amberol offers a comprehensive range of competitively priced quality litter bins and recycling units. Whether you are a school, college or university,

Amberol has an innovative solution for your general waste and recycling requirements. Almost all its bins have been designed in conjunction with its customers and waste collection teams to maximise disposal and ease collection of both general and recyclable waste. This is what gives Amberol the edge in terms of fullfilling the needs of the provider. Come and see us on stand 19N36 and experience the power of Amberol’s talking bins.


Talking bins from Amberol say thank you for litter

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Nobody can predict whether the biomass you use today will also be the best choice for the future, especially if you buy your biomass fuel for your boiler; availability and cost are the two uncertain factors. Looking ahead at the future, the key to developing a successful biomass project is by designing the system for multi-fuel in order to limit the influence of the uncertain factors. General rules and guidelines are available for proper biomass boiler design. By following these rules, the boiler itself can achieve the required availability for a state-of-the-art energy plant. Most important is the selection

of the proper combustion/furnace system. Many different systems are available in the market, each having their advantages and disadvantages. Compared to air-cooled grates/furnaces, where the combustion air is needed for cooling and protecting the grate elements/refractory, whereas a Vyncke water-cooled grate/furnace can handle a wider range of biomass fuels which allows you flexibility in fuel choice over the life time of the biomass energy plant.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: + 32 56 730 630 [email protected] www.vyncke.com

The importance of a multi-fuel combustion system

Imtech is committed to helping businesses become more sustainable. To highlight this at RWM, the company is offering a competition winner the opportunity to be carbon neutral for the year. Imtech is an engineering and construction management contractor, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Imtech NV. The company is dedicated to providing value-added services on a wide range of water, biosolids, waste-to-energy and biomass projects. With an unrivalled track record in developing award-winning, environmentally sustainable solutions, Imtech is the leading delivery partner for major AD projects in the UK. It works closely with a range of technology partners to provide the best solution for the client. Imtech works to identify, develop and deliver the full EPC project for waste requirements and support operational needs, helping to: Reduce landfill tax, BMW sent to landfill and carbon

footprint; Generate revenue streams through government incentives such as Renewable Obligation; Certificates (ROCs) and Renewable Heat Incentives (RHIs), and; Produce sustainable green energy Imtech is able to offer a range of leading technologies with AD, MBT and Thermal Technologies, and can develop sustainable, cost effective solutions to ensure buy in of the community. For further information visit stand (20J69) at RWM 2012 or contact Gavin Lawrenson, business development manager, Waste and Energy.


Imtech offers up carbon neutrality at RWM 2012

MHF is the UK’s leading dedicated supplier of vehicles equipped with demountable equipment - particularly hooklift and chainlift systems, as well as supplying its specialist vehicles to companies within the waste management sector, building and associated industries. MHF the first port of call for many Local Authorities. The companty has a very large range of hooklift trucks to hire or buy from 3,500 to 32,000 tonnes and a wide variety of chassis cabs to choose from – DAF, Scania, Renault, MAN, Volvo etc. Rental periods can extend from one week onwards, with reduced rates for long-term hire. The company can can deliver and collect vehicles to your premises very promptly if required. Some of MHF’s trucks are drawbard units, and it also has tandem & tri-axle trailersfor

hire or sale along with vast array of new and used bins and skips to choose from. The company also offer bespoke ‘builds’ undertaken to clients’ exact specifications. It can fit a fully refurbished demountable kit to any supplied chassis. The majority of MHF’s modern trucks with digital tachographs are LEZ compliant and all are regularly and rigorously inspected and serviced. Phone us for friendly service and good advice.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01386-792354 [email protected]

MHF(UK) - sales and hire of specialist waste vehicles

Machine knife manufacturer HSC Knives specialises in the manufacture of blades for the resource efficiency, recycling & waste management industries and for international OEMs. HSC’s Sheffield based staff are well versed in the technical requirements for shredders, wood chippers, granulator and compactor blades with an internal design department for bespoke or new products. The company also offers a range of safety knives to support the H&S requirements for recycling operators and a regrind/refurbishment service. HSC’s sales manager Mark Jinkinson is looking forward to RWM 2012: “HSC Knives will be flying the ‘Made in Sheffield’ flag at the exhibition. Our customers like to deal with a well established company manufacturing in the UK because of our pro-active service, stock holding and product reliability we offer. But, ultimately it is the quality of our product and

the skill of our engineers that keep our customers happy”. Council buyers and companies requiring more information can contact Mark directly or visit HSC Knives on Stand 20A072 at RWM 2012.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: [email protected]

HSC Knives operates at the cutting edge of RWM

Leisure Industry Week (LIW) will return to Birmingham NEC on 18-20 September, showcasing a diverse variety of industry leading exhibitors, 150 hours of free educational sessions and exciting features to visitors from across the spectrum of the active leisure sector. LIW is the only UK trade show to cover the entire out of home leisure industry with an exciting range of sectors incorporating play and attractions, health and fitness, sport, pool and spa, eat and drink and leisure facilities. These sectors combine to offer leisure professionals, from health club operators and public sector managers to facilities specifiers and catering specialists, inspirational and innovative business solutions.

BEST SPENDWith both local and national cuts still affecting leisure services, it is essential that operators really consider how best to spend their budgets in order to ensure maximum efficiency throughout the procurement process. LIW provides an ideal opportunity to do just that, with specialists in their fields around the exhibition floor, visitors will be able to gather all of the information they require in a face to face setting, alongside the chance to research the newest and upcoming innovations. The broad educational content will provide a comprehensive mix of keynote presentations, seminars, workshops, forums and conferences. 2012 will also see the introduction of the new Association Lounge where visitors will be able to seek advice from some of the

leading leisure associations including the Play Providers Association (PPA) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. The Fitness Industry Association also supports LIW and will be presenting a series of seminars on the newest issues facing the industry. The PPA, Association of Play Industries and the Register of Play Inspectors International, which together form the indoor play alliance “PAR”, will run a programme of ‘New Start Up Seminars’ aiming to provide independent indoor play market information to potential new start ups. This joined up approach to providing advice and expertise led by the leading operators, manufacturers and inspectors is designed to help in driving the industry forward in the coming years. Content will include business planning and defining your model, legal requirements, regulations and financing your new business, location and other key considerations when starting a play centre.

MAGIC OF THE MOUSEScott Brown, from WDD online, will deliver a keynote session entitled ‘Magic of the Mouse: Bringing the Florida theme park experience to your guests’ where attendees will discover what one of the world’s favorite theme parks can teach you about creating success, embracing change, leading your team and growing

your business. Scott is an entertaining and informative speaker that has a sound knowledge of the sector having previously delivered training in social media and group sales. The exciting Play Providers Conference line up, which is aimed at indoor play and other similar attraction owners and managers, also

includes a return for Tim Fearon of the Extraordinary Coaching

Company as well as a session highlighting the

health benefits of play in children, including the results of research with York St John’s University and a networking lunch. Speaking about

the programme, PPA chair Janice Dunphy

commented: “We are delighted to be working in

partnership with LIW to bring Scott Brown back to the UK this

September. The sessions promise to provide PPA member’s with inspirational management and leadership training relevant to our sector so that combined that with the excellent networking opportunities at the ASPIRE awards makes this an event not to be missed.” The Play & Attractions sector will be well represented with exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of products and solutions. The team at Innovative Leisure will be bringing their fully operational SkyTrail high ropes course, a climbing wall, and, for the first time at the E

LEISURE INDUSTRY WEEK

THE LEISURE PRINCIPLELeisure Industry Week returns to the NEC in September with a host of new features

Sports & Leisure

This year’s

LIW promises to

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with plenty of brand

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offer a varied and

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Greater heights. Greater lengths. Greater workout. The new Adaptive Motion Trainer® (AMT®) with Open Stride offers unparalleled

freedom of motion. The breakthrough Open Stride technology lets users adjust

stride height at will. Combined with the ability to dynamically adapt stride length,

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E LIW, a mobile zip line which will transport visitors to the Outdoor Play Area. Once outside, attendees will be able to have a go on the ‘Water Wars’ water balloon game. Offering fun and excitement for participants and great entertainment for spectators, all the products on offer continue to prove popular throughout the UK and Europe with operators of a wide range of leisure and attraction venues, as well as mobile operators and event organisers. The live demo and ‘have a go’ aspect of LIW doesn’t stop at play and attractions. The health and fitness sector provides the UK’s biggest and most diverse three day gym enabling visitors to sample a huge variety of new equipment and innovative training techniques which could bring new clients to their facilities.

FUNCTIONAL TRAINING ZOEThe Functional Training Zone will feature equipment from many of the exhibitors being demonstrated. Returning to the show after a successful launch in 2011 is the CPD Masterclass Arena. Sponsored by Les Mills, this gives personal trainers the opportunity to try out taster sessions of REPs accredited classes whilst earning CPD points at the same time. This exclusive opportunity, now on all three days of the show, is part of the REPs convention. The organisers of LIW are particularly excited to announce the brand new Bokwa Arena –

based on the up-and-coming US dance and group exercise phenomenon, comprised of cardio respiratory endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility. Bokwa uses universal sign language so that instructors and participants can signal the next move to each other, making the workout a fun group experience allowing children, adults and senior citizens to engage and become healthier and lose weight while burning up to 1200 calories per workout.

RESEARCHProviding new insight on outdoor fitness and the business opportunities it provides, Leisure-net Solutions will work with LIW to produce a report based on new research into this growing market. Results will be made available to visitors and will outline attitudes towards outdoor fitness, the potential size of the market and why it is experiencing such popularity. The Pool & Spa zone welcomes numerous new exhibitors this year including Aquavate, Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance and Splashabout; alongside returning names including RLSS UK, JC Leisure Solutions and Certikin. This range of pool exhibitors will give visitors a multitude of options for their sites - from secondary spend products to cleaning, heating and safety solutions. The Swimming Teachers’ Association (STA) will be presenting a case study as part of the Education Village outlining their work with

Shropshire Council to draw up a joint venture project: the Shropshire Swim Academy, the first of its kind in the country. This groundbreaking project saw STA and Shropshire Council work together as partners to deliver an academy programme which was rolled out across all six of the local authority-run leisure centres in January 2011. Roger Millward, STA chief executive said: “Shropshire Council has been pro-active and innovative in their approach to how they manage the county’s swimming lessons programmes. The Shropshire Swim Academy model, the first of its kind in the country, means STA is now delivering a cost-effective, top level service - a programme of high quality teaching for all ages.” This year’s LIW promises to be more focused with plenty of brand new features to offer a varied and useful visitor experience, answering the big questions faced by leisure operators day to day. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONVisitors can pre-register their details now at www.liw.co.uk to be kept up-to-date with all show developments including brand new features for 2012, product showcases and seminar programmes. Attendance is free for all pre-registered visitors. LIW is also on Twitter @L_I_W, LinkedIn and Facebook/leisure-industry-week.

Sports & Leisure

LEISURE INDUSTRY WEEK



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For 25 years, Jordan Fitness has been at the forefront of design, manufacture and supply of quality commercial grade, functional fitness equipment both in the UK and internationally. All Jordan branded products are made to their own design and specifications after thorough product development and market research. This makes most of the functional fitness equipment unique to Jordan. From home gyms to large multi-site facilities Jordan supplies at competitive prices by keeping overheads low and stock levels high. Jordan Fitness also provides training through its comprehensive REPs accredited training programme. As part of its Results Based Training (RBT) programme, Jordan Fitness also offers a full facility design and planning service. The in-house creative design

team can provide 3D visuals in conjunction with advice from the experienced sales team. From inception to finance, installation and then on-going staff training, Jordan Fitness is able to offer a package that is unrivalled within the industry.Jordan Fitness will be showcasing and demonstrating several new functional fitness products at Leisure Industry Week on Stand H650.


Product research and development gives Jordan Fitness Equipment the edge Leisure Industry Week offers

Timberplay a chance to introduce delegates to their many new partner brands. A successful 12 year collaboration with world renowned manufacturer Richter Spielgeräte, has led to Timberplay becoming one of the most respected companies in the UK play sector. Passionate and committed, they champion a holistic approach, promoting landscape design alongside high quality equipment as a means of realising increased play value. Seeking out enterprises with the same ethos to build on the reputation and add to the portfolio, Timberplay has joined forces with Barcelona based street furniture company Santa & Cole. A classic, thoughtfully designed range of products includes benches, chairs, bins, drinking fountains, and a number of innovative lighting solutions. These include unique designs such as beacons, atmospheric lights, pedestrian lighting and

street lights.To better serve the teenage market, Timberplay is also now able to offer wheeled sports areas alongside Concrete, the German-owned skate specialists. Using pre-fabricated modular units, Concrete facilitates the construction of bespoke parks to fit any space. Finally, , Sound Posts, are perfect for adding an audio aspect to play areas or attractions. Self powered, either by solar energy or dynamo, these sensory posts are popular with parks that want to add an interactive element, but do not have easy access to mains power. Timberplay is on stand A505 at LIW.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 0114 282 3474www.timberplay.com

Timberplay’s partner brands to feature at LIW

Sports & Leisure



A wide range of safe, strong and durable PVC-u fencing systems, ideal for schools, parks and sports facilities.

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Grasslands has developed over the past 30 years from generations of mainstream farmers on Romney Marsh into one of the largest growers of quality seed grown turf in the UK. As a result of its diligence and attention to detail, the company is regularly called upon to supply its turf, and frequently, its laying expertise as well, to many prestigious sites and visitor attractions throughout the South East and beyond. Already this season its work and products can be seen at HM Tower of London, the Natural History Museum, Canary Wharf, and many others. Every phase of your order is dealt with in house: office staff deal efficiently with the paper work, field staff harvest

the turf freshly for each order, and every delivery is effected on the company’s own fleet of Euro 4 compliant vehicles, all equipped with fork-lifts. Grasslands would be delighted to welcome you to its stand at Saltex 2012 where staff can discuss any requirements that you may have for quality seed grown turf, whether in standard roll or big roll.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: [email protected]

Grasslands - experts in quality seed-grown turf

Classen turf-care machinery is ideal for both the municipal and contact landscaping markets. Functionality and rugged-build quality makes Classen turf rakes, seeders, aerators and turf cutters the ideal market choice. The company’s Little Wonder Hedge Trimmers are the choice of professionals. Rugged-build quality, steel gearbox, dual reciprocating blades and up to 1” diameter cut provide the power to professionally cut hedges. Available in 110v, 230v or petrol power. Little Wonder debris management products provide the ideal clean-up solution. Truckloading and high performance wheeled vacuums utilise balanced impellors to produce maximum suction and debris volume reduction. Walk behind and self propelled blowers, using reverse angled impellor design technology, generates class leading air volume discharge.

All Schiller Grounds Care products are designed for professional use and ideally suited to be used in both the municipal and contract markets. Schiller Grounds Care UK is an operating division of Mantis UK Limited, part of the Schiller Grounds Care Inc group of companies. These products and several new launches will be shown at Saltex 2012 on stand K1.


Turf-care machinery for professionals at Saltex

Duralock is a market leader in the field of sports and equestrian fencing, with an international clientele. Manufacturing in its own facilities in the UK and supplying PVC fencing to leading sports clubs and racecourses, Duralock is approved by racing authorities and sports associations worldwide. Backed by years of experience and experimentation, with exhaustive trials, Duralock offers only the latest technology, UV-stabilised PVCu formulation of the highest quality, guaranteed for 15 years. The material has added impact modifiers and UV inhibitors to protect the PVCu from the sun, giving an attractive, strong system which will not rot, warp, peel or crack. It is strong and durable, yet flexible in the event of collision. After a hugely successful test event last summer, the company is proud to be supplying the PVCu post & rail arena fencing and the gallop racerail fencing for the London 2012 equestrian

venue at Greenwich Park. Included in its range of fencing systems is the redesigned Moveable Fencing Support Foot, which now offer imporoved benefits - it is self-supporting, light but stable, easy to assemble, dismantle and store. It is available in either post & rail or picket style, and is perfect for creating temporary areas.

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Durable, flexible fencing systems from Duralock

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The usefulness of IOG SALTEX as the ‘one-stop shop’ for all turf and open space management matters and as a showcase for new ideas and products – plus the event’s ability to enable equipment to be demonstrated outdoors - continue to dominate the reasons why industry decision-makers make their annual pilgrimage to the Windsor show. According to independent research, 88 per cent of visitors to last year’s event said it was important to see equipment working in a ‘real life’ environment. More than half (59 per cent) said the show was the one event where they could see everything they need in one place at the same time, while 58 per cent go looking for new products and ideas to improve their routines. Visitor research also reveals that 34 per cent of the 9,267 visitors to last year’s show went to IOG SALTEX to source new or alternative suppliers.

VISITOR SPENDThese latest findings complement the earlier research results that showed how IOG SALTEX attracts buyers and decision-makers - 72 per cent of visitors to last year’s show had responsibility for specifying products and services. Indeed, 32 per cent of visitors were from organisations that spend up to £50,000 a year on products and services, 19 per cent from firms that spend between £50K and half a million pounds a year, and over 13 per cent had budgets above £500,000. In addition, the research also states that 81 per cent of visitors with purchasing power said IOG SALTEX influenced their decision to find a new product/supplier or to place an order that they would not have placed if they had not visited the event at Windsor. As senior area manager for Epping Forest District Council, Mark Barltrop

has an extensive shopping list when he and his colleagues visit the showw. He says: “Everything we need can be seen and sourced there.” The council’s grounds maintenance section works across the entire 133 miles of the Epping Forest District. Its responsibilities include the management of street trees, grass and bed maintenance, provision of floral bedding displays, playground maintenance and sports marking. From mowers to playground equipment, and from shrubs and bedding schemes through to plant propagation, Mark’s requirements are wide-ranging: “Our trip to IOG SALTEX is definitely time well spent. I usually attend with grounds maintenance and tree officers, and between us not only can we see the full range of equipment that’s appropriate to our needs, but the show also provides an unrivalled opportunity to source new suppliers. As a result, we often place orders after visiting IOG SALTEX.” Douglas Allan, principal landscape officer for Aberdeenshire Council, makes a 1,000-mile round trip to the show from his home in Scotland. He stated: “The event is the ideal place to update myself on all the new developments, machines and techniques we need to do our jobs.“ The council’s Statement of Aims for its parks and open spaces, is to ‘maintain and improve the quality of life for people in Aberdeenshire by delivering first class

public services. Douglas continued: “The show certainly highlights where we can make improvements, to the benefit of our ‘customers’ as well to our own day-to-day operations, so the long journey is certainly worthwhile. As a result of attending last year’s IOG SALTEX – I usually go every three/four years – where we saw a number of new machines and devices, we were spurred into buying some much-needed replacement kit.”

TURFING PAST AND PRESENTAmong the hundreds of products being demonstrated will be a special display of turf machinery, tools and artefacts from the years

1908 and 1948 alongside their 2012 counterparts to commemorate the

historic London Olympic events – and perhaps to jolt a few

memories for some visitors. Working closely with the Hall & Duck Trust – an international collection of 1,000 lawn mowers dating from the 1850s, plus home to an extensive material

archive – IOG SALTEX will provide visitors with a range

of mechanised and pedestrian-controlled machinery and tools,

as well as a selection of interesting artefacts, photos and posters. Included in

the display will be a rare Ransomes 30 inch Patent Motor Mower of 1907 (a pedestrian machine), the like of which would have been used in 1908 for the Olympic events. The original owner was Somerset County Cricket Club and the machine is still in running order. The range of commercial vehicle companies taking stand space at the show reinforces how global motor manufacturers continue E

IOG SALTEX 2012, held on September 4-6 at Windsor Racecourse, will embrace fine turf and sports surfaces, children’s outdoor play and safety surfacing, landscaping, contractors, commercial vehicles, outdoor leisure and facilities management, as well as software and security equipment

Landscaping & Groundcare

IOG SALTEX

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E to regard the groundscare and open space management industry as a priority sales market. Visitors will be able to see a host of vans and trucks, and be able to compare capacities, capabilities, price and service back-up from Fiat, Great Wall, Iveco, Isuzu Truck and Isuzu UK, Kawasaki, KFS, Mercedes Benz, Renault, The Land Rover Centre and Vauxhall. Iveco, the commercial vehicle arm of Fiat Industrial, will have on show the New Daily 35C15 Crew Cab with Ingimex tipper body, the Daily 4x4 50C17 with Neath Coachbuilders’ dropside body and the Eurocargo 75E16 Tipper. Renault will show the new Tipper Utility Cab, the Kangoo ZE van (100 per cent electric), the Master Dropside, the Crewcab Trafic and the Master. The company’s award-winning line-up includes panel vans and factory-built conversions, plus bespoke conversions via accredited partners.

FEATURE AREASIn addition to a number of special visitor feature areas – including the custom-made off-road 4x4 course that will be specially-constructed, tested and marshalled by Polaris staff - IOG SALTEX offers visitors a comprehensive education programme of free-to-attend seminars covering a wide range of subjects. This includes a special series of day-long presentations programmed by the British

and International Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA). The BIGGA Golf Education Day on Wednesday September 5 features some of the ‘greatest hits’ from this year’s highly successful Continue to Learn programme - presented by David Cole (Loch Lomond GC), Chris Haspell (Castle Stuart GC) and Symbio’s Paul Lowe – and will be focused on the management of winter ‘kill’, the building and grow-in of a links course, and the difference between organic matter and thatch. David Cole, course/estate manager at Loch Lomond Golf Club, will start the proceedings with ‘Managing Winter Kill in West of Scotland’. In the winter of 2009/10, the Loch Lomond greens suffered from devastating winter kill, and this session will give an insight to the

damage that occurred and the precautions taken in 2010/11 to prevent similar problems. Water management best practice will be debated by an authoritative panel comprising representatives from the ‘industry co-operative’ that includes the Horticultural Trades Association, the Association of Professional Landscapers, the Turfgrass Growers Association, the Landscape Institute, the RHS and the Society of Garden Designers. It all adds up to an event that estates managers will find informative and useful. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONIOG SALTEX will be held on September 4-6 at Windsor Racecourse, Berks. To register, visit www.iogsaltex.co.uk

Landscaping & Groundcare

IOG SALTEX

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Alternatively, come and talk to us at The Energy Event Exhibition,NEC, Birmingham, September 11th & 12th, Hall 7 & 8, Stand B01

The UK is caught in a dilemma with regard to energy targets, particularly that of 2020. Not only do we have to develop renewable, clean and energy efficient technology, but we also have to do something about the infrastructure that is already in place. For example, if you consider the fact that close to 45 per cent of the country’s carbon emissions come from the housing sector, you can understand why the government has been so keen to launch the Green Deal in order to encourage improved insulation and energy efficiency. So the key challenge for the future is not only to develop new forms of energy generation but also thinking about how we can use less of it, and not just within housing. Although the Green Deal is being introduced primarily through the private sector, the public sector has a clear leadership role to play particularly when it comes to the retrofitting of buildings. Furthermore the EU’s Energy Efficiency Directive requires all member states to introduce energy saving schemes led by the public sector. In addition to its own areas of control, the public sector also has to reduce emissions by helping to drive forward market activity across the energy market. Central government needs to generate confidence in the sector largely through implementing policy measures, while local authorities have to promote the social and economic wellbeing of the communities they serve, and that also means tackling the growing problem of energy poverty within the UK. The public sector therefore stands at the heart of the country’s future low-carbon energy policy. This is a massive task when you consider all the various activities that generate excessive energy consumption – heating, lighting, cooling, ventilation, technology and equipment.

RENEWABLE ENERGYThis is why local authorities have been keen to participate in widespread renewable energy generation programmes such as community solar PV projects, but much more can be done. Energy Solutions will provide the ideal opportunity for key decision makers and industry experts to engage in discussion about the pertinent issues affecting energy management across a range of sectors, in 2012 and beyond. Focusing on how organisations can combat energy costs and consumption, comply with regulation, reduce carbon output and enhance CSR policies, Energy Solutions is recognised as the UK’s leading energy management

event. In 2011, Energy Solutions and its co-located events attracted more than 6,442* industry professionals over two days. Visiting Energy Solutions will give attendees the opportunity to share knowledge with and source advice from the leaders in energy management and to find products and services which will support energy managers in meeting ever-increasing energy targets.

INVESTORS IN EDUCATIONLord Sebastian Coe KBE will give the keynote address at Energy Solutions as part of the extensive Energy Solutions education programme. The CPD accredited education programme has the full support of all the

major energy associations and industry groups including BRE and the Energy Institute; and in addition, Lord Coe will provide a memorable and highly motivational speech. The educational content has been produced in response to extensive research with energy management professionals from a range of sectors. A new look Energy Academy will play host to the exceptional Energy Sense Conference Programme, a free-to-attend series of specialist seminars led by major energy management institutions, providing expert opinion, advice and the presentation of key case studies. Confirmed speakers include: Liam O’Sullivan, Programme Director, Low Carbon London; Karen Lawrence, Director E

ENERGY SOLUTIONS

ENERGY EVENT TO ADDRESS PUBLIC SECTOR CHALLENGESLord Sebastian Coe KBE is announced as keynote speaker at the UK’s leading energy management event - Energy Solutions takes place at London Olympia on 10-11 October

Energy

Although the Green Deal is being introduced primarily through the private sector, the public sector has a clear leadership role to play particularly in the retrofitting of buildings.





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E Development, Energy Saving Trust; David Kennedy, Chief Executive, Committee on Climate Change, and Malcolm Anderson, Environmental Adviser, National Trust. The two-day programme will focus on creating sustainable energy futures through energy management, energy efficiency improvement, exploiting technologies which are cost effective in saving CO2 and energy reduction technologies and practises. Specific sessions will devote time to the role of energy efficiency in helping the UK reach carbon emissions targets as part of a low-carbon future and look at how corporate sustainability strategies

need to evolve to ensure that international objectives, such as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are achieved. The Renewables Theatre will focus on the future prospects for micro-renewables and the critical role of renewable energy in our future prosperity. Renewables experts will discuss existing renewables initiatives such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and consider the overall business case for this dynamic, and much anticipated market. The programme will review the strategic approach to bioenergy in the UK, how energy from waste is making a positive contribution to energy and resource security and a low

carbon future and the impact will regulatory changes have on the outlook for renewables.

SUPPLY CHAINRexel Energy Solutions & Rexel Renewable Energy, Ivolt, Powerperfector, Dong Energy, Carel Ltd, Saint-Gobain, Marshall-Tufflex, Reflex Winklemann GMBH, EBM-PAPST, Kingspan Ltd will be among the industry leading suppliers to showcase technologies and services new to the market at the show. Will Fellowes, business manager for powerPerfector, and a returning exhibitor, states, “Energy Solutions is a really important event for us because it gives us the opportunity to interface with real decision makers in the business and we find that having the opportunity to talk to the decision makers, really valuable.”

ENVIROLINK HOUSEAs part of the exhibition, a selection of market- leading products will be displayed as part of a fully-powered working building, the Envirolink House. The working building will be interactive, giving visitors the opportunity to test market innovations, and find out how technologies can work together to reduce energy consumption and carbon footprint first-hand. Energy Solutions is part of the Working Buildings Series which includes Building Services – The CIBSE Conference and Exhibition, Global Security Summit London and the FM Event, bringing the added benefit of uniting a diverse audience from FTSE 100 and 250 organisations and the principal public sector institutions. L

FURTHER INFORMATION For further information about Energy Solutions 2012 and its co-located events or to register free of charge, visit www.energysolutionsexpo.co.uk. Twitter: @energysol_expo

Specific sessions will devote time to the role of energy efficiency in helping the UK reach carbon emissions targets as part of a low-carbon future

Energy

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building and managing complex monitoring, control and automation solutions that include applications for building control, facility management, industrial automation, medical equipment, security, energy management, telecommunications, smart

homes, machine to machine (M2M) and smart services. Manufacturers who have adopted the Niagara Framework technology are enabled to move their products to the web, reduce development time, migrate legacy systems, develop new service offerings and open up new markets. Niagara products can provide true open solutions, combining open protocols, and legacy systems or technologies. End users receive multiple

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ESP has the perfect solution that not only saves money and saves energy – but also stops the replacement of perfectly good, existing light fittings. ESP Sensors have the ultimate solution for the very latest in state-of-the-art technology in the retro-fit market. It works by ESP supplying and retro installing the latest technology microwave occupancy detectors into 95 per cent of existing light fittings. This saves the need to disrupt services in a working building or the need for wiring or disturbance to the building cosmetics. Experience in various buildings and service areas have shown that a majority of sites surveyed can see a return on investment within 18 months of the installation. “We show considerable savings to office buildings, government institutions, apartment blocks, car parks even retail display floors – anywhere where light is not needed unless occupied. This, has a significant impact

on the eventual savings” explained Jamie Willsdon, managing director. To date ESP has installed systems in major blue chip corporations and government buildings throughout the UK, including Transport For London, Land Securities, BNP Paribas, Hendersons Group, Emcor uk and Prupim. ESP offers a free assessment of the buildings and will even calculate the energy and cost saving over a set timeline, when estimating the install costs.


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EcoCooling will be demonstrating its low energy evaporative cooling technology at the Energy Solutions exhibition at Olympia this year. This simple technology uses fresh air and evaporative cooling to provide low energy cooling solutions which can be used as an alternative to air conditioning in most buildings including schools, offices, leisure centres, server rooms and data centres. Suitable for both retrofit and new build, EcoCoolers are low in carbon output and their low energy requirements allow power savings to be utilised for expansion. One EcoCooler covering an area of 250sqm or a 15m diameter circle can provide 30kW of cooling from just 1.5kw of electricity. For a 100kW server room this could represent an

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When industry has to be energy conscious, the renewables sector is selling solar panels to office blocks leaving lights on all night. Facilities Managers want accuracy when colleagues ask them payback periods on energy saving measures. Founder Rod Mountain is passionate about clients saving energy. He completed his Environmental Sciences B.Sc. in the 70s at Sussex University, then became a commercial energy assessor and carbon auditor. Now, the team includes air-conditioning inspectors, display energy assessors, and synergistics experts. Partners include renewable energy consultants from a variety of technologies and the proudest appointment yet is an experienced customer service director. Rod Mountain comments: “We started doing commercial energy assessments four years ago and could not believe how rarely assessments were used diagnostically. Assessors were

spending hours measuring, inputting data, producing the EPC and then leaving it cold. We started to use the wealth of information gathered to help managers reduce energy costs and CO2.” “The difference between Eco-Economix and other consultancies is that we look individually at clients’ needs, assess priorities, calculate savings, then guarantee contractually that annual savings will be at least twice our single initial fee; 100 per cent refunds if not.”

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The Energy Consortium (TEC) provides energy solutions to public sector organisations and is regarded as one of the country’s leading proponents and providers of collaborative energy procurement, particularly to universities and colleges. With other public sector purchasing bodies it is committed to sharing best practice and cost saving advice in energy to a broad spectrum of public sector organisations. As a not-for-profit body, TEC offers far greater transparency and accountability in its dealings, and policy decisions are made with the interests of the Membership

as a key priority - the company becomes your partner in energy cost management. TEC has a complete range of services created to meet all energy requirements which include flexible and fixed price term gas and electricity contracts, biomass contracts, bureau services including bill validation, retrospective cost auditing and EU – ETS/CRC advisory services. TEC has over 175 members and manages an annual energy spend worth over £160m.

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Since September, there have been further developments with regard to talking unwanted fire signals; in February 2012 the Government gave Fire and Rescue Authorities the power to go to public consultation on whether to charge for attendance at automatic fire alarms. This would apply to ‘persistent offenders’ at non-domestic premises activated by proven malfunctioning or badly installed equipment. The idea being that this will encourage businesses to properly maintain their fire alarm systems and fire safety management, resulting in reduced time and money lost by fire services. It is not yet known how the charging would work or who would be responsible for paying the bill: the Alarm Receiving Centre or building owner? The FIA estimates that these invoices will be £350 or more per attendance depending upon where the premises is located and how many fire engines are called out. Many people attribute false alarms to a malfunction in the alarm system but in reality, most false alarms are due to poor premises management. The FIA is very concerned about the changes in brigades’ attendance policies as lives, property and jobs could be put at risk. The Association is particularly concerned that fire alarms may be turned off to avoid a charge due to persistent false alarms, which could prove devastating for fire safety. The rationale of the Building Regulations in the UK is that, ‘in an emergency the occupants of any part of a building should be able to escape safely without any external assistance’ (Approved Document B to the Building Regulations). Often the building designer or the owner may want to go further and increase the level of fire protection installed in the building.

PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERSIn 2008, the FIA carried out a survey into the usage of portable fire extinguishers which showed that 80 per cent of the fires fought with them were successfully extinguished and that in 75 per cent of cases there was no need to call the fire and rescue services. Based on these findings there is no doubt that portable fire extinguishers play a very important role in the preservation of life and property. Portable fire extinguishers can reduce the risk of a small fire, for example, a fire in a waste paper bin developing into a large one. In particular, for educational premises they may mean the difference between a

complete and no evacuation. The safe use of a fire extinguisher to control a fire in its early stages can significantly reduce the risk to other people in the premises, allowing people to assist others at risk or who are particularly vulnerable. Training must be supplied to people who would be expected to attempt to extinguish a fire. All staff however, should be familiar with the location and basic operating procedures of the portable fire extinguishers provided, in case they need to use it. All fire safety equipment should be installed and maintained by a ‘competent person’. Under the Fire Safety Order, a person is to be regarded as competent where he/she has sufficient training and experience or knowledge to enable them to properly assist in undertaking the preventive and protective measures. A competent person should be able to advise on the number of fire extinguishers required for the risk in the premises; the appropriate locations (i.e. on escape routes at each floor level) and suitable signs to indicate the location of extinguishers may also be necessary.

Portable fire extinguishers are tested, tried and trusted and evidence from the market proves that they are successful in dealing with small fires. Their installation could save lives, property and preserve the ongoing success of the educational premises. The FIA strongly recommends that portable fire extinguishers be properly maintained by personnel that can prove their competence through membership of a scheme such as the ‘Portable Fire Extinguisher Service Technicians Scheme’ from BAFE. The FIA believes that building owners should consider the use of more fire protection in buildings that are critical to the community. The FIA feel that the value of keeping these buildings operational far outweighs the small additional cost of an extra level of fire protection. Extra fire protection could mean the difference between school buildings surviving or not in the event of a fire. L

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fia.uk.comwww.bafe.org.uk

The FIA believes that building owners should consider the use of more fire protection in buildings that are critical to the community.

FIRE SAFETY

FIRE SAFETY: MAKING SURE YOUR BUILDING ISN’T AT RISKGraham Ellicott, CEO of the Fire Industry Association, updates Government Business readers on the latest developments in fire safety and how to reduce the risk of unwanted fire signals

Fire SafetyBUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk




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The CIBSE Conference & Exhibition will bring a new look conference together with the success of the UBM event previously known as the M&E – The Building Services Event. Providing a platform for the industry to share knowledge, the latest thinking, new technological innovations and the opportunity to discuss future market trends and the strategies that will enable them to drive their business, Building Services will establish itself as an annual meeting for the industry and its related sectors. Held on October 10-11, 2012 at Olympia in London, the event for this year will be structured to ensure that participants enjoy the most relevant and thought provoking content. With input from over 30 expert speakers, the conference will provide insights from both a local and international level, and feature debates and interactive roundtable workshops. Plenary sessions will cover: Collaborating across the procurement chain; Delivering sustainability from start to finish in a cost-effective way; Overcoming funding challenges; Retaining, recruiting and developing a robust pool of talent, and; Benefitting from BIM.

CONFERENCE The 2012 CIBSE Conference will bring together the entire building services supply chain to debate the challenges facing the industry, identify the most successful business strategies, forge and renew relationships for

the future and secure the success of projects, businesses and careers. Each day the conference will split into two streams after lunch for delegates to be able to tailor their own agenda and visit the exhibition. Speakers include Paul Morrell OBE, chief construction adviser, HM Government, Craig Sparrow, head of green business & technology at Skanska UK, Sarah Cary, sustainability executive at British Land, Frank Connolly, design manager at Balfour Beatty and Myles McCarthy, managing director at Carbon Trust. The CIBSE Conference is expected to attract a significant number of senior managers and decision makers from across the built environment and will be of importance to anyone with an interest in the future of the industry. As CIBSE’s flagship event, the exhibition will attract building services professionals from across the industry and provide a superior platform for suppliers to showcase their existing products and launch new technological innovations. Exhibitors include: Pegler Yorkshire Group Limited,

Bosch Thermotechnology Ltd, Mitsubishi Electric

UK, Samsung and many more. Designing, engineering,

integrating, managing and collaborating are key themes for

the exhibition which will offer access to free CPD accredited seminar sessions. Building Services – The CIBSE Conference and Exhibition is part of the Working Buildings Series which includes Energy Solutions, the FM Event and Global Security Summit London. L

ABOUT CIBSEThe Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) is considered the standard setter of professional practice and authority on building services engineering. It publishes guidance and codes which are internationally recognised as authoritative, and sets the criteria for best practice in the profession. For more information visit www.cibse.org. For further information about the CIBSE Conference and Exhibition visit www.buildingservicesevent.com

BUILDING SERVICES - CIBSE CONFERENCE

BRINGING TOGETHER THE BUILDING SUPPLY CHAINThe future of the industry explored at Building Services - The CIBSE Conference & Exhibition - which takes places at London Olympia on October 10-11

Building

The

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Ruskin Air Management is a market leader in air distribution and fire and smoke control. It combines Actionair; Air Diffusion; and Naco and boasts 520 years combined sales experience. The companies work together to provide complete hvac solutions for the built environment. The group operates out of two modern production centres in the UK. One is at Bridgnorth in Shropshire where Air Diffusion grille and diffuser products are designed and assembled together with Naco metal and glass louvre ranges. The other is in Whitstable,

Kent where Actionair fire and smoke control dampers and fan coils are fabricated. Actionair has been producing fire, smoke and air control products, including a full range of dampers and fan coil units, for over 36 years. Air Diffusion began manufacturing grilles and diffusers in 1972 and is now recognised as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers. Naco produces glass louvres, standard metal louvres, natural air ventilators and sunscreens / brise soleil. It has been manufacturing since the early 60s offering the

full design, draw, supply and install service. Both factories have recently been upgraded with new machinery and rationalised production systems. All three brands will be represented at the Building Services Show with experts on hand to demonstrate how Ruskin delivers full design, manufacture and technical support services to installers and clients.

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This year’s visitors to office* will enjoy an unrivalled opportunity to learn from some of the best corporate and celebrity PAs in the business, says event organiser Diversified Business Communications UK following the announcement of its 2012 Keynote line up. With Sir Richard Branson’s former executive PA Penni Pike, Julian Clary’s PA Merryl Futerman, and Josephine Green – PA to Shakespeare in Love star Joseph Fiennes, now all confirmed to appear at the office* show’s third edition on 12-13 September at Olympia, London. As the UK’s leading event dedicated to meeting the business, training and networking needs of Britain’s office professionals, office*’s free Keynote programme is renowned for attracting big ‘inspirational’ names from the world of business; with former headline

Keynote speakers including Karren Brady, Michelle Mone and Jacqueline Gold. This is year is no exception – and it’s top entrepreneur Deborah Meaden’s turn to draw in the crowds for 2012. Best known as one of the dragons from BBC2′s hit show Dragons’ Den, Deborah’s session (11.45am-12.30pm on Thursday 13 September) will include insights and anecdotes garnered from a hugely successful business career.

SUCCESSKnowing what it takes to succeed is something that Debbie Georgiou, founder of designer jewellery brand Jinkksy, is also very familiar with having previously been a medal-winning Olympic gymnast. A recent addition to the office* Keynote programme, her session ‘Why I started my own business’ illustrates how hard work can lead in unexpected directions and charts her rise from nine times British gymnast

champion to celebrity jeweller to the stars. Two business women that have plenty of experience of demanding schedules are celebrity PAs Merryl Futerman and Josephine Green. Founders of boutique training provider PA Access All Areas, their courses are aimed at sharing techniques and strategies gained working as PAs for such household names as Jonathan Ross, Anne Robinson, Emilia Fox, Alexander Armstrong, Ben Miller, and Miranda Hart.“We are constantly surprised at the crossover between our roles and those of a corporate PA,” say Futerman and Green about their highly-anticipated session at office*. “We will lift the lid on what we do – revealing some truths and busting some myths! We are passionate about being PAs and will enjoy sharing that with the office* delegates.”

“I’m delighted to be involved with office* and National PA Day,” agrees Penni Pike, who was Sir Richard Branson’s Executive PA for 31 years until her retirement from Virgin in 2005. “They both underline that, as the world gets ever more complex, an outstanding PA remains one of the keys to success.” Widely regarded as one of the very best personal assistants in the world, Penni initially joined Virgin in 1974 as a backroom helper in the first Virgin Megastore in Oxford Street. During the time she served as Branson’s right-hand woman, she witnessed every twist and turn of the company’s fortunes across the globe – from Virgin Records to the creation of Virgin Atlantic and much more. “We are delighted to welcome such a prominent industry figure to the office* Keynote stage,” says Ali Mead, event manager of office*. “Penni Pike is an inspiration to all those lucky enough to hear her story and

she’s the perfect ambassador for this year’s National PA Day. We’re anticipating a capacity crowd for her session at this year’s event.” The office* Keynote programme will complement the show’s comprehensive training and development programme of 32 seminars and master classes across four dedicated theatres. Topics being covered include successful networking, personal effectiveness, saving time with Microsoft and tips for managing multiple bosses.

TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENTVisit to the event will benefit from a comprehensive training and development conference and the major trade exhibition showcasing all the latest products, services, technologies, recruitment solutions, hospitality providers and venues on offer from many of the UK’s leading business to business suppliers. Already the go-to show for office professionals wishing to utilise the latest tools, products, services, and technologies they need to meet the unique challenges of their constantly evolving roles, the 2012 event promises to be bigger and better than ever. One of the show’s key draws is its dynamic exhibitor line-up and this year’s is no exception, with an impressive number of new business-to-business suppliers ready to mark their show debut with a host of new innovations for this important buying group. New for this year is the Business Travel Village feature area. The debut of this bespoke village follows recent news that another of the event’s new additions, the HBAA Village, developed in association with the Hotel Booking Agents Association, has sold out of all its current exhibition space. Other HBAA Village participants – all of which will be making their first appearance at the show – include the National Motorcycle Museum in the West Midlands; Holiday Inn London – Stratford City, one of the on-site hotels for the London 2012 Olympics; London event venue hire specialists Canvas; Midlands-based venue sourcing agency Conference Care; and Ellis Salsby, one of the leading conference and hotel reservations companies in the UK.

DESTINATION & VENUE VILLAGEOne association keen to continue to promote its excellent reputation for choice is the Meetings Industry Association (MIA), which returns to the show with its AIM Accredited Destination and Venue Village. Featuring venues from right across the UK, new participants for 2012 include Worcester Warriors’ Sixways Stadium; Lingfield Park Racecourse; and Eynsham Hall, a Grade II listed Manor house nestled in 3,000 acres of Oxfordshire parkland. They join returning AIM-accredited exhibitors Stoke Rochford Hall; The Scout Association’s Baden-Powell House and Gilwell Park conference centres; and Friends House Hospitality – the historic headquarters of Quakers in Britain. Commenting on the MIA’s success at last year’s office*, chief E

One of the show’s key draws is its dynamic exhibitor line-up and this year’s is no exception, with an impressive number of new business-to-business suppliers ready to mark their show debut with a host of new innovations

OFFICE* 2012

PA BECOMES THE STAR OF THE SHOW AT OFFICE* 2012The third edition of office*, the dedicated event for the PA, EA and office manager community, will take place on 12-13 September at the new venue of London’s Olympia.

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E executive Jane Longhurst said: “The feedback we received from venues and destinations that exhibited alongside us at office* 2011 has all been very positive and enthusiastic. The show and the stand worked well for all, so I am delighted to say that, by popular demand, the AIM Accredited Destination and Venue Village will be back at office* 2012, offering those with AIM another opportunity to reach office professionals with buying responsibility within their core target markets.”

ACCOMMODATIONNew venue and accommodation suppliers also looking to win fresh business at the show include Starwood Hotels and Resorts; Venue-Select®; Yorkshire-based Rudding Park Hotel and Spa; Signing Tree Conference Centre in Birmingham; the Park Plaza Victoria London hotel; and Hand Picked Hotels, with its exclusive collection of luxury country house hotels. Whilst returning exhibitors within this category include Britannia Hotels; Venuedirectory.com; Church House Conference Centre; The Ascott Limited; London Bridge Hotel; venue consortium The Westminster Collection; St Ermin’s Hotel; Club Med; and the Old Swan and Minster Mill in the Cotswolds. “The number one reason given by attendees that came to office* last year was to ‘meet with new suppliers’,” says event manager Ali Mead. “Given that no two PAs or office managers jobs are ever identical it’s important that office* showcases as many new ideas and innovations as possible, from boutique venues and niche recruitment services to international office stationery and equipment manufacturers. The show provides real solutions for office* professionals looking to improve the way they work and do business – that they simply won’t find at any other UK show.”

EXECUTIVE PA MAGAZINE AWARDS Launched in 2000, The Executive PA Magazine awards, which are usually held in October, have joined forces with the Hays PA of the Year Award (launched as the Hays/Times PA of the Year in 2006) to create the first Executive PA Magazine/Hays Awards. The Awards Gala Dinner is being held at The London Film Museum, and offers a unique opportunity to reward hard work and professionalism within the PA community. Now, more than ever, winning an Executive PA Magazine/ Hays Award is the ultimate accolade for high-level office professionals. “There’s no question that the Hays team takes the PA and EA role (and the awards) as seriously as we do. We are delighted to have Hays on board and are proud to unveil the 2012 Executive PA Magazine | Hays Awards,” explains Executive PA Magazine’s publisher Andrew Organ about the merger of the two awards. “We strongly urge bosses and PAs across the UK to get involved with our on-going search for Britain’s finest.”

The five categories for this year’s awards are: PA of the Year (nominee must have been a PA for over four years); Newcomer of the Year (nominee must have been a PA for less than four years); Best Organised Event (nominations welcome from PAs, EAs, secretaries and office managers); Employer of the Year (nominations welcome from PAs, EAs, secretaries and office managers), and; Boss of the Year (sponsored by Corporate Traveller – Nominations welcome from PAs, EAs, and secretaries)

PRIZESFinalists for each of the five awards categories will automatically receive an invite to the gala dinner in London on Thursday 13 September, as well as a chance to win a prize arranged by the sponsors of each award - this includes an Arabian break for two for the winner of the PA of the Year Award. Anyone is free to nominate themselves, a colleague or their boss. To submit a nomination, please visit www.executivepa.com/awards. The deadline for nominations is Tuesday 31 July 2012. The judging panel for the awards includes Executive PA Magazine’s publisher Andrew Organ and editor Cora Lydon; Geoff Simms, managing director at Hays PA & Secretarial; Victoria Darragh, EA to group HR director at Hays, and; Katie Clifford, PA to Jacqueline Gold (CEO of

Ann Summers). Executive PA Magazine, an official media partner of the office* show since its launch in 2010, and Hays will both be exhibiting at this year’s office*.

EVENT SUCCESSEvent organisers Diversified Business Communications UK says the significant increase in new exhibitors specialising in providing venues and accommodation for 2012 can be attributed to last year’s visitor survey results, which found that over 58 per cent of attendees came to source this category. “Last year, 93 per cent of our visitors came to office* to meet with new suppliers, whilst 89 per cent were looking to research new products and services” says Ali Mead. “Providing our visitors with lots of fresh new venue ideas and accommodation options helps keep things interesting show after show. And I’m delighted to say that our 2012 event will have more new exhibitors to choose from than ever before” L

FURTHER INFORMATIONoffice* is taking place at London’s Olympia on Wednesday 12 and Thursday 13 September. For further information and to register for a free entry pass, visit www.officeshow.co.uk and quote priority code OFF144.

One association keen to continue to promote its reputation is the Meetings Industry Association (MIA), which returns to the show with its AIM Accredited Destination and Venue Village

Administration

OFFICE* 2012





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BabyBlooms is dedicated to people who want to send their love, congratulations and best wishes to new parents with a perfect baby gift. Many people are involved when a new baby arrives. The company has created ranges for products that cater for all situations. Baby gift baskets, for example, can include gifts and pampering products for the mum and newborn baby to enjoy together. There’s a baby present section, with great ideas for presents for the infant, such as comforter blankets. Not forgetting new mums – there are many great ways to spoil them. For slightly older babies, there is a fantastic range of baby soft toys, selected especially to appeal to small babies. And for older siblings there are presents to make them feel important. Each product makes a perfect

gift for colleagues celebrating a new arrival. Taking the hassle out of present buying, the website is easy to use, and promises a speedy delivery (next working day, with a worldwide service available). All gifts are uniquely packaged to give extra ‘wow’ factor. Also, BabyBlooms run a customer loyalty reward scheme as a way of thanking the people who regularly order BabyBlooms baby gifts for their employees, clients or friends.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01454 272474www.babyblooms.co.uk

Celebrate new arrivals with gifts from BabyBlooms

Fortnum & Mason, was established 1707 in Piccadilly London, and is one of the world’s finest stores, renowned for its wonderful hampers and a legendary Food Hall. From origins as a grocer and tea merchant servicing the requirements of Mayfair residents, Fortnum & Mason now presents a luxurious hamper offering, alongside the best in food, tea, coffee and wine to customers all over the world. The venerable building contains five different restaurants, all of which can be hired for private functions. Additionally you will find an elegant suite of beauty rooms, and departments specialising in homewares, perfumery, exclusive gifts and much more. Fortnum & Mason also offers a dedicated Corporate Sales Department, available to cater to your every gifting requirement. Whether hampers for colleagues as seasonal tokens of esteem, gifts to clients or corporate incentives, our expert team

can assist you throughout the entire giving process. Should you have a special idea in mind, there is also a bespoke hamper service available to create something unique and personal. Whatever gift you choose you be supported by the impeccable service that has made Fortnum & Mason trusted by the most demanding clientele.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 0207 973 5602Email: [email protected]

Elegant specialist gifts from Fortnum & Mason

Mitsubishi Pencil Co. is inviting PAs and office managers to join them for an office* party as the leading stationery brand celebrates 125 years of bringing innovation to the writing instruments market. Taking centre stage on stand 7000 will be the new uni-ball Eye Needle; a liquid ink rollerball that has a strong durable tip to maintain the pen’s sharp line from the first stroke to last. Office workers will also be impressed with the tamper-proof qualities of uni Super Ink and the unique ‘uni-flow system’ that ensures a consistent ink flow to the very last drop. Party bags and cupcakes are also on offer as visitors are encouraged to sample Mitsubishi Pencil’s most popular products including the Vision Elite, Signo 207 and Jetstream 101. A new category management stand, which holds every product within

the range, will also be on display. The office* show is held on the 12-13th September at Olympia, London. Mitsubishi Pencil Co. is once again headline sponsor for the event with its name showcased throughout the cafe area, on all outdoor POS, show bags and pen dispensers.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.uniball.co.uk

Mitsubish Pencil Co invites PAs and office managers to celebrate 125th anniversary

The Corporate Team is a specialist hotel booking agency which has been delivering savings on hotel and conference expenditure to government sector clients for over 14 years. The company understands that public sector organisations have always been under pressure to control costs and now more than ever attention is focused on this. Working closely with government client organisations to control expenditure on hotels and conferences but without compromising on quality has always been The Corporate Team’s aim. Its service includes: bespoke booking systems configured to make the booking process convenient while ensuring travel policy compliance (its first system was designed for a government organisation in 1998); integrating payment and invoicing procedures into the booking system to reduce administration; experienced

teams of reservations consultants trained to deliver a consistently reliable service for individual, group and conference hotel and venue bookings; maintaining a thorough and proactive approach to account management. Based in London’s Victoria, The Corporate Team places great importance on the public sector market and will continue to invest in systems and procedures suitable for government clients. Visit The Corporate Team on stand 5031 at Office 2012.


The Corporate Team helps to reduce public sector spend on conferences

Administration

Based in Loughton, Essex, Public Sector Information (PSI) Group is a leading magazine publisher and events company. Its portfolio of titles includes Government Business, Government Technology, Education Business, Health Business, GreenFleet and the recently-launched Counter Terror Business. The group focuses exclusively on the public sector. Despite the ongoing economic downturn, the PSI Group is expanding rapidly, having grown at a rate of around

10 per cent year on year. It currently has 56 staff and is actively recruiting. PSI Group now runs three business units at Loughton: one focuses on magazine production, one on managing a range of high profile public sector awards including the Government Business Awards, the Good Communication Awards and the Health Business Awards and a third dealing with advertising and magazine sales. The nature of PSI’s business means that printers are in constant use and are of critical

importance in the day-to-day running of the company. As such, delays caused by a printer being out of action, due to a breakdown or lack of toner, can be costly and need to be kept to a minimum. Additionally, the group’s existing fleet of printers were increasingly unable to handle its growing need for high-quality printing capabilities.

FINANCIAL VISIBILITYPSI decided it would benefit from a solution that would enable it to consolidate its devices to drive cost efficiencies and provide predictable budgeting, enhanced service and support as well as rich functionality. To achieve these objectives, PSI turned to OKI and its Flatrate service. PSI took up Flatrate when it installed a colour A3 OKI

OKI FLATRATE: THE PROOF IS IN THE PRINTING FOR PSI OKI’s Flatrate Programme offers a fixed monthly cost with fully inclusive print/copy volumes. This is delivering the goods for for PSI, Essex-based event organiser and publisher of quality magazines for the education, health, government and transport sectors.

Adve

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C9850 printer, to help streamline the process of producing its range of public sector magazine titles. Customers of OKI Flatrate pay a fixed monthly cost with fully inclusive print/copy volumes. They gain access to a dedicated website enabling them to order consumables for printers/ multifunction printers (MFPs) as well as allowing them to log calls for support. The package includes a fully inclusive service plan for the life of the contract including next day on-site service, helping to support maximum productivity. As Graham Lowes, marketing director, OKI, says: “Opting for Flatrate gives customers the total financial visibility they need for predictable budgeting and cost control. They also get all the benefits of hassle free printing with absolute peace of mind.” Following the implementation of the OKI C9850, which is primarily used for pre-proofing titles, PSI has added a further five OKI printers to the Flatrate scheme. These are an OKI MC860 colour MFP device, used primarily

by the production department for scanning purposes; an OKI MB480 multifunction printer in the sales office, an OKI C711 and an OKI B730 mono device and an OKI MC561 A4 colour multifunction printer (MFP). The B730 is used for printing business cards and general day-to-day black and white prints. PSI uses the MC561 to show clients how their advertisements will appear by scanning in negatives, described as “a useful feature”. It also reports that despite heavy use with more than 20 people printing emails, A3 call sheets, colour advertisements and photocopying, there have been no technical problems with any of the OKI devices.

PRODUCTION PROOFIn the production department OKI equipment is used for all types of colour pre-proofing before it is sent to their printers. The OKI C9850 uses a postscript RIP, which enables the production team to accurately view what the final print run of a publication will look like, allowing the identification of post-script problems or incorrect fonts, for example.

This is essential as correcting errors at ‘plate stage’

is a big expense. Speed is another

key advantage of the C9850, which can process and print a 140 page magazine in just 15 minutes. Karl

O’Sullivan, production

editor at PSI adds: “This has

made a big difference to us, providing more flexibility if we do need to make a change and encouraging greater diligence; the fact that it’s not such a hassle to re-rip it and reprint it makes you want to get everything just right.” “The OKI C9850 is used to print at least 150 A3 sheets per week and almost the same number of A4 pages,” says O’Sullivan. “Using Flatrate enables us to accurately monitor our print usage and toner levels and allocate costs accordingly. This kind of tight budgetary control is particularly important to us because we are intensive users of printing and Flatrate also enables us to manage

our consumables much more efficiently. “Previously, we bought in new toner cartridges on an ad hoc basis,” he concluded. “With Flatrate, we have the reassurance of knowing that consumable supply and printer service and support are taken care of as part of the fee, helping us to keep our costs under control and keep downtime to a minimum.”

A RESOLUTION FOR SUCCESSPSI Group chairman, David Devoto, is extremely pleased with the company’s relationship with OKI and with the quality of the machines themselves: “The individual staff members that use the machines have reported positively on both quality and performance,” he says. “The machines are also extremely robust and reliable. We have had some for two years – and we have only ever needed to call out an engineer twice. On both occasions, we received a very speedy response.” “Being able to use the OKI Flatrate scheme to order consumables for multiple machines as and when required allows us to reduce our carbon footprint through not having to stockpile various consumables on site. Also having the ability to make active use of OKI’s toner recycling collection service is playing a key role in making us a greener organisation.” continues Devoto. Steve Day, PSI Group says: “We have experienced huge benefits from ensuring that all of our ‘key machines’ are from one organisation. If we have had a problem and we haven’t had that many, we have found that that has been sorted out very quickly. “From the financial perspective, the use of Flatrate has allowed us to eliminate consumable overheads. All organisations are looking to cut costs where they can. We are no exception to that rule – the OKI devices and the Flatrate scheme have been a revelation to us.” Due to the print quality, resolution and the colour accuracy of the OKI printers and the flexiblility afforded by Flatrate, PSI is extending the use of the system to include business card production and developing business packs and media presentations. The PSI Group is so confident in the OKI solution that it is currently migrating all of its remaining devices to OKI. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONwww.oki.co.uk

Customers of OKI Flatrate pay a fixed monthly cost with fully inclusive print/copy volumes. They gain access to a dedicated website enabling them to order consumables for multifunction printers (MFPs) as well as allowing them to log calls for support.

Advertisement Feature

PRINTING & PUBLISHING

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www.governmentbusiness.co.uk




Ruth Gibson MA CIPD (Grad), PO Box 803, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 9AL. Tel; 08000 91 27 48

Single Status & Harmonisation – TUPE Transfers - Reorganisation – Restructuring Policies – Organisation Development & Performance Management

Absence Management - Pay & Reward – Job Evaluation

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For an informal discussion, call us on: 08000 91 27 48 or Visit our Website on; WWW.HR-Resolve.Com/intro

(This website contains much information, including downloadable documents)

Central & Local Government

HR-Resolve “Matching the Pace of Change”

In-print & Onlinewww.trainingjournal.com

Read all the latest news and fi nd out what’s happening in L&D. Make sure that you log in to www.trainingjournal.com every day so that you don’t miss out on the latest developments. You can comment on news stories, fi nd out what your peers think, and join in the conversation.

Want to read the latest issue, or need to refer back to an article you read in TJ before? All the back issues from the past 18 months are available to download online - and we’re increasing the depth of our content and number of back-issues daily.

Watch video clips, listen to podcasts, download documents - and you can even contribute your own multi-media content to share with other members.

If you have any questions or comments, we would love to hear from you.

You can call us on 020 7593 5758

or email [email protected]

Written by Rebecca Clake, research adviser, CIPD

Despite high unemployment, employers across all sectors are struggling to recruit and retain the people they need. And the biggest rise in recruitment difficulties has been seen in the public sector, where 82 per cent have experienced problems filling vacancies, compared with sixty six percent last year. Those are the findings from Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development /Hays latest Resourcing and talent planning survey, launched this month. With over 500 responses (92 from the public sector) the survey provides valuable insight into the issues facing senior managers, line managers and HR as they grapple with resourcing challenges in a cost cutting environment.

ATTRACTING THE SKILLS YOU NEEDWith so many organisations reporting recruitment difficulties at a time of high unemployment, clearly there is a mismatch between the skills available in the market place and those employers are managing to access. CIPD’s data relating to the public sector reveals that the recruitment of managers and senior level staff within the public sector is a particular problem. 38 per cent surveyed reported that it was

especially hard to fill vacancies at manager and specialist levels and a further 19 per cent reported problems with finding candidates for senior manager and director level roles. Pay freezes coupled with a perceived reduction in benefits as a consequence of pension reforms may be responsible, as one in four cited pay as one of the reasons for their difficulties. There’s evidence from CIPD’s survey research that employers need to think about the current image of the public sector and how they can allay the concerns of would-be applicants. At a time when cost cutting measures are making headlines, the public sector was also almost three times more likely (24 per cent compared to 9 per cent) than private sector services to report that the image of the sector/occupation /organisation was a problem in terms of attracting new recruits.

MAINTAINING ENGAGEMENT AND TRUSTIn the current economic climate, and in the context of reduced budgets and reforms, it is vital employers in the public sector engage their employees so they understand and are motivated to deliver organisational priorities. At a time when many organisations are required to change and re-organise, senior leaders need to make sure they invest time and effort in bringing their employees with them on their journey. The importance of maintaining the trust of employees during challenging times is highlighted in CIPD’s report Where has all the trust gone? published in March 2012. The report features case study examples from the public sector including Sunderland City Council and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. E

There’s evidence from CIPD’s survey research that employers need to think about the current image of the public sector and how they can allay the concerns of would-be applicants.

RECRUITMENT

RETAINING KEY STAFF: FACING THE DIFFICULTIESThe public sector is experiencing its biggest rise in recruitment and retention challenges, notes Rebecca Clake, research adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

Human Resources





Outhouse-UK provides top quality virtual administrative support for organisations looking for a cost effective alternative to employing administrative staff. Outhouse VAs are highly experienced executive assistants with experience at corporate level and within local and central government. They are passionate about what they do, and know what it takes to keep busy departments running efficiently. Owned and managed by Stephanie Middleton, an experienced PA and project manager, Outhouse-UK has one aim - to remove the burden of time consuming office work, and free up time for busy manager and executives to concentrate on their core duties - to push forward and grow. Because Outhouse is virtual, you’ll never pay for lunch or coffee breaks,

downtime, holiday or sick leave or any other costs associated with employment. Outhouse is billed to the nearest minute, and you only ever pay for the work that it undertakes. For organisations needing part time or occasional support, perhaps to provide temp cover or to lend a hand during busy periods, working a virtual assistant makes perfect sense.


Cost-effective virtual admin support from Outhouse

Think – every communication begins with thought: who are you speaking to and what message do you need to convey? The thought then triggers the breath. Breathe – the way you breathe affects both your physical and vocal presence and provides the power behind your speech. Speak – when your body is centred and you are using your voice to full effect, you are able to inspire and influence your audience. RADA in Business provides training courses which focus on improving communication skills and personal impact using the techniques used by actors. Through interactive training, its expert tutors build on the tools of effective communication to develop confident and authoritative speakers. Delegates experience dramatic changes in the way they communicate

with a clearer awareness of their own presentational style and how others view them. They return to the workplace with renewed enthusiasm, a dynamic approach to their working relationships and a more effective and confident executive style. From councillors, officers and mayors, to ambassadors and chief executives, RADA in Business has a proven track record within local and central government across the UK, providing training and coaching to bring about real change.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 020 7908 [email protected] www.radaenterprises.org

RADA in Business creates confident public speakers

The right venue is key to ensure your event is a success. DF Venues offers a personal service to deliver against your brief whether it is a conference, training event or a company social event. And best of all, its services to you are absolutely free. You simply advise the team of the forthcoming events. DF venues will then search for the most suitable locations that match your requirements and budget, submit the options to you having confirmed availability and rates, leaving you to make the final decision. This allows you more time to focus on the content of your event. The company’s commission is taken directly from the venue, but

due to its existing relationships and purchasing power DF Venues can negotiate rates that are better than going direct yourself. DF Venues has been in business for 15 years and hold an extensive database of hotels and conference venues worldwide, which is constantly updated. The company’s personal and professional approach has resulted in clients coming back year after year. So, whatever your venue requirement please get in touch, DF Venues is happy to help.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONTel: 01737 [email protected] www.dfvenues.co.uk

DF Venues offers a free event venue finding service

Insight and communications agency Tribe listens, thinks, creates and delivers. The company provides a full service, integrated and multi-channel approach to campaigns, projects and programmes that gets you closer to your customers, employees and communities. Tribe engages, inspires and empowers – capturing and retaining audience attention, bringing subjects and issues to life, and providing the knowledge and resources needed to shift attitudes, change behaviour and make a difference. Its insight-led creative solutions help you achieve a deeper understanding, build better relationships, innovate and create higher value for your products, services and teams. Through social marketing programmes, employee engagement, stakeholder relations and community impact programmes, Tribe unifies

purpose, pride and passion to achieve measurable success. The company has captured hearts and minds in multiple service delivery areas at national and local levels, including health, education, economic development, housing, social services, children’s services, environment, leisure, diversity and inclusion – with particular skill in working with ‘hard to reach’ groups and tackling inequalities. Contact Tribe to hear how it can support your programme and help make a positive difference.


Creative solutions to get you closer to your communities

Hum

an R

esou

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E The Resourcing and talent planning survey underlines the need for public sector managers to take seriously the issue of employee retention – and what keeps people working for their organisation. The survey indicates a particular increase in retention challenges for the sector. However, at the same time public sector organisations were twice as likely not to have taken any steps to address retention compared with

the private or not-for-profit sectors. The most effective retention methods used in 2011, according to the survey research, were increased learning and development opportunities, improved line manager people skills and improved employee involvement.

DELIVERING FUTURE PRIORITIES Finally the survey rings some important warning bells about future skills and

capability of public sector workforces (at a time when many employers are making headcount reductions and risk losing valuable experience). In a context of reduced budgets and the requirement that in future services will be delivered in a very different way – it’s essential that talent management and development is not neglected. The survey reveals the public sector is currently less likely than others to continue develop more talent in-house or to invest more time and effort in recruiting quality candidates. Encouragingly the survey does show a strong preference for ‘reducing headcount but preserving key talent’ (thirty seven percent of public sector respondents in 2012) compared to ‘reducing headcount and losing key talent’ (seventeen percent). Continued focus on talent management is needed now more than ever, as talented and experienced individuals are required at senior levels of public sector organisation to help steer them through times of change. L

FURTHER INFORMATION The 2012 Resourcing and talent planning survey report, produced in partnership with Hays, examines organisations’ resourcing and talent planning strategies and practices, and the key challenges and issues they face. To view the 2012 report visit tinyurl.com/dxzl9lf

Human Resources

RECRUITMENT

Additional CIPD research findingsOn average the number of permanent vacancies organisations attempted to fill in 2011 remains much lower than before the 2008 financial crisis

Half of the organisations surveyed report that the economic climate has had a negative impact on their organisation’s resourcing budgets for 2012/13 with the public sector most likely to report reductions

Over a quarter of organisations report they will be reducing the number of new recruits they hire in 2012 and a fifth (19 per cent) will be implementing a recruitment freeze. At the same time, however, more organisations report they will be recruiting for key talent/niche areas in 2012 (60 per cent) compared with 2011 (50 per cent)

Half of organisations report that the current economic situation has led to an increased focus on talent management. There is more emphasis on developing talent in-house (2012: 70%; 2011: 43 per cent) and more time and effort being spent investing in the quality of candidates hired (2012: 53 per cent; 2011: 33 per cent) and share knowledge

CIPD partners with Health & Safety Executive to launch new online stress management toolThe CIPD has launched a free stress management tool, developed with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), designed to help equip managers with the skills to manage positively and prevent stress in their staff. CIPD research identified stress as the number one cause of long-term sickness absence and poor management is one of the top causes of work-related stress. The tool, available on the CIPD/AXA PPP Employee health and wellbeing website, is designed to hold up a mirror to managers so they understand how their behaviour impacts on the people they manage – and provides on-line learning materials to help improve their management style. Ben Willmott, CIPD Head of Public Policy, commented: “It is in employers’ interests to ensure managers have the necessary people management skills to manage and prevent stress. Stress is a major cause of sickness absence and lost productivity and is linked to a higher risk of accidents at work. Prolonged exposure to stress is also linked to conditions such as depression, anxiety and an increased

risk of heart disease.Willmott continued: “Managers can either cause or exacerbate stress or help prevent and manage it. This tool enables managers to understand how their management style impacts on others and can help them change their behaviour over time.” The tool contains online resources for managers to help them manage their staff in ways that prevent and reduce stress within the team, along with learning materials to help HR practitioners to support managers to manage their staff in ways

that prevent and reduce stress.Peter Brown, head of the HSE Stress Team added: “This tool is designed to help people become better managers that manage stress rather than add to it. Poor management can cause stress for both staff and the manager; relieving that stress makes work a more positive place and delivers benefits for both staff and employers.” Dr Mark Winwood, Clinical Director for Psychological Health at Axa PPP healthcare said: “The online tool, takes line manager training and competency in managing stress at work to another level. Constructive and supportive, it

will help managers to look at how their behaviours and actions affect others and encourage even experienced managers to take a positive approach to supporting employees with mental health issues. These easy-to-use resources will benefit people managers in organisations of all sizes.”

FURTHER INFORMATION For more information on the stress management tool visit preventingstress.cipd.co.uk



Yarnfieldparktraining & conference centre

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In Telford and Shropshire, we’re on the threshold of an incredibly exciting phase of development in the business tourism industry – both in terms of major redevelopment schemes on the ground, and in terms of a brand new pro-active national marketing campaign. Meet Telford & Shropshire are the official Convention Visitor Bureau for the area and gateway to the destination for UK and international event planners. If you’ve never considered bringing your event to Telford and Shropshire before, now is the time to take a closer look at what we have to offer. With more than £500 million invested in our tourism and visitor infrastructure in the last decade alone, combined with a world famous history, our destination is destined for great things and offers all the ingredients for an outstanding event whether it’s for a meeting for 10 or a convention for 2000.

SOUTHWATER DEVELOPMENTWe are now on the threshold of a new era thanks to the £250million Southwater Development which is transforming Telford as a place to meet, visit, live and invest. A major part of the investment is the development of a Convention Quarter for the destination and these plans include new hotels, bars, restaurants, leisure facilities and retail. Over the last 12 months, good progress has been made on the development including

expansion of The International Centre and it conference and exhibition facilities. The International Centre is one of the UK’s top 10 convention centres and is owned by Southwater Event Group. The venue has expanded significantly with the development of the brand new Ludlow Suite offering a 1300sq m events space, additional seminar rooms and a dedicated banqueting kitchen to serve the new facilities.

FLEXIBILITYSouthwater Event Group chief executive, Tom Gray, said: “The new suite means The International Centre now has over 15,000sq m of event space and can offer greater flexibility and capacity to host all kinds of events from small boardroom meetings right through to large scale conferences and exhibitions. “We unveiled our incredible new facilities at a fantastic gala weekend. The event hosted by Meet Telford & Shropshire and sponsored by Southwater Event Group attracted over 150 of the UK’s top Event industry buyers”. The weekend was a great success and within three weeks of the event, we had over £2.2million worth of business and event bids in the pipeline. The unveiling of the expansion at The International Centre and developments within the Convention Quarter signals the start of the next phase of the Southwater Development to develop a thriving E

Telford and Shropshire’s reputation as a major player in the events industry is growing and it is now recognised as one of the UK’s hottest prospects for meetings and events. Business tourism manager Sarah Bird from the Meet Telford & Shropshire, the Convention Visitor Bureau explains why the area has been hailed as the UK’s newest convention capital and why investment is key to success.

Conferences & Events

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

A NEW ERA FOR TELFORD



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E night-time economy at the heart of Telford. Visitors can look forward to some really exciting developments over the next three years. This will include the creation of a leisure hub which will feature an 11-screen multiplex Cineworld cinema, facing onto the new Southwater Square, which is being promoted by developer Citygrove Securities PLC, in collaboration with Telford & Wrekin Council.

UNIQUE EVENT ENVIRONMENTThe Citygrove proposal also includes an 82-bedroomed hotel and seven bars and restaurants, all of which will be key in kick-starting the vibrant leisure offer that will be central to the vision for Southwater. The development represents a £20 million investment in Southwater and will create around 260 full and part-time jobs. Citygrove and Telford & Wrekin Council have now submitted a joint planning application for the cinema, hotel, bars and restaurants, as well as a new multi-storey car park with 600 spaces. Construction is set to begin later this summer and the project is due for completion by the end of 2013. The multi-storey car park will be directly accessible from Coach Central and support the exciting leisure development and provide significantly improved pedestrian links between Southwater, the bus station and the rest of the Town Centre.

CONVENTION CAPITAL Telford’s 450 acre Town Park is also attracting major investment. A new Town Park Visitor Centre has just opened and will include a cycle hire centre, refreshment and visitor facilities and an educational space. Telford and Shropshire is now positioned as the UK’s newest Convention Capital. It has grown in popularity over the last five years and is attracting more and more capacity events from the UK Association and blue chip corporate organisation looking for something distinctive. The ongoing investment has played a vital role in this and we believe that investment in our product is investment in our client. In fact, Southwater Event Group, which owns The International Centre, Telford, has seen three major associations sign up to hold their events at the venue since its £10 million expansion was unveiled. The British Veterinary Nursing Association will be the first of the three new events at the venue when they bring their event to Telford in October, and next on the events calendar will be the Ladies Association of British Barbershop Singers. The third new deal is with The British Cattle Veterinary Association who will come to The International Centre in November. Tom Gray said: “We’re very pleased that our investment has seen such immediate and impressive results, and it’s great news that our commitment to continually upgrade our facilities is paying dividends.” And it’s not just The International Centre that’s seeing great business results. Meet Telford & Shropshire represents over 40 venues across the destination from convention centres and stately homes to resort hotels, academic and training centres and some of the most unusual venues that offer a unique environment for events. So if you’re an event organiser looking for a new destination – whether your event is for 4 or 4,000 delegates, Telford & Shropshire has something special to offer. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONFor more information contact the Convention Bureau team on 0845 075 0552 or visit www.meet-telford.co.uk

Telford’s 450 acre Town Park is also attracting major investment. A new Town Park Visitor Centre has just opened and will include a cycle hire centre, refreshment and visitor facilities and an educational space.



Roger Black and Tom Gray outside the Telford International Centre



SWINFEN NR . LICHFIELD STAFFORDSHIRE WS14 9RE TELEPHONE: (01543) 481494

SWINFEN HALL HOTEL

Swinfen Hall Hotel is a magnificent 18th-centurymanor house, set in 100 acres of beautifulparkland. Situated at the heart of England onthe A38 only half a mile from the M 6 toll road. This independent hotel, the only AA 4 Red Starhotel in Staffordshire, offers a relaxed andprofessional environment for conferences,meetings and presentations.

• Centrally located and easily accessible by road, rail and air

• Relaxed tranquil setting

• On-site secure parking

• A variety of rooms and layouts

• Flexible packages

• Exclusive-use available

• Experienced conference manager

Join our Christmas parties or black tie casino for a fabulous Christmas night out

A pleasure doing business

www.swinfenhallhotel.co.uk



prio

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e Looking for cost effective room hire?Give us your money... and we’ll give it backPriory Street Centre is a dynamic conference facility in the heart of York:

n Six roomsn Wide range of audio-visual equipment,

including video conferencing

n Packages tailored to suit every budget

n Experienced staff to support a variety of events and conferences

n Ideal venue close to York Railway Station

Book a room with us and your money is re-invested in the local communityBy hiring a room at Priory Street Centre you get great service, the technology you’d expect from a city centre conference centre and flexible packages to suit your needs and budget. All that, with the added good feeling that you’re giving something back.

t: 01904 621133 e: [email protected] w: www.priorystreeytcentre.org.uk

10% off Room Hire using this code GBM1

Valid on bookings made July-September* *Terms and conditions apply.

The Waddington Suite is a popular choice for many functions with its capacity to hold up to 350 people banqueting style for dining, as well as even larger events including exhibitions, conferences and other special business occasions.

For an event thatcan’t be matched

Contact Stoke City’s events team on 01782 592233

An unrivalled venue for eventsStar quality is not confined to the hallowed turf of Stoke City Football Club’s Britannia Stadium these days . . . all of which ensures that the entertainment is every bit as memorable for off-the-field events.

Everyones a winnerWhether it’s celebrity chef Marco Pierre White, tribute acts for Take That, Tom Jones and Abba or some of the top performers on the comedy circuit, the stadium has demonstrated that it is ‘Premier League’ in every sense.

With excellent public transport, motorway and airport links, the county is easy to reach from anywhere in the UK. Major rail routes serve both the eastern and western sides of the area – visitors can leave central London by train and be in Derby in 91 minutes, and can take advantage of special discounted rail travel negotiated by Conference Derbyshire. The motorway network – including the M1 and M6 – and four airports – Manchester, East Midlands, Robin Hood and Birmingham, are right on its doorstep. Yet when delegates arrive, they’ll have a wonderful feeling of ‘getting away from it all’. When it comes to a wide variety of venues, the selection in Derbyshire is second to none, with classic country house hotel settings amid stunning scenery, or a chic, state-of-the-art

city venue with eco credentials that rival the very best in Europe. Prime locations in or near the Peak District National Park – the very first of its kind in Britain - or the fast-moving pace in the dynamic cities of Derby and Sheffield provide plewnty of choice. When business is done for the day, there’s no better place to unwind. You can organise everything from challenging team outdoor pursuits – including abseiling, climbing, kayaking and canoeing and days out at premier theme parks. Some of the finest stately homes and most popular film locations in the country are situated in the area, and exciting nights out can be planned at a music, theatre or sports event at a big city venue, or opt for a visit to one of the smaller, classic venues, which feature everything from comedy to drama and jazz to rock.

FURTHER INFORMATION Conference Derbyshire offers a complimentary and stress-free venue finding service. For full details, visit www.visitpeakdistrict/conference – where you’ll also be able to sign up for our free monthly newsletter, giving details of all the latest accommodation, travel and activity offers, and enter prize draws.


DERBYSHIRE’S PEAK PERFORMANCEMixing business with pleasure couldn’t be easier in Derbyshire – a great place for a ‘Great Escape’, right in the centre of England. A variety of venues gives conference organisers plenty of choice

Conferences & EventsBUSINESS INFORMATION FOR LOCAL AND CENTRAL GOVERNMENT – www.governmentbusiness.co.uk


the place to Meet.Any hotel can offer ‘conference facilities’ but here at the Crowne Plaza Nottingham we can offer you a huge choice of meeting space at a very low cost exclusive to Government agencies. Set in the heart of Nottingham the hotel features 17 meeting rooms, 210 air-conditioned bedrooms, an on-site gym and a restaurant and bar giving you everything you need under one roof.

To discuss your requirements call us on 0115 9369900 and quote ‘GBM’

NOTTINGHAM

crowne plaza nottInGhaM T. 0115 9369988 F. 0115 9475667 E. [email protected] W. crowneplaza.com/cpnottingham A. Wollaton Street, Nottingham, NG1 5RH



Enjoy a special rate for Government Business readers

£135 per 24hr delegate*£30 per day delegate

With state of the art facilities catering for up to 280 guests, free Wi-Fi and a convenient location near Junction 29 of the M1, Casa Hotel, Chesterfield, is the ideal venue choice for effective business meetings.

Enjoy delegate lunches that are prepared by rosette-awarded chefs using only the finest locally sourced ingredients, and take advantage of our 24 hour delegate rate to spend a night in one of our award winning beds. Just quote GOVJUN12 when booking

*Based on a minimum booking of 10 delegates per event. Subject to

availability. Valid until 31st August 2012

Complete conference solutions

Casa Hotel, Lockoford Lane, Chesterfield, S41 7JB 01246 245 999 www.casahotels.co.uk

Paris 322 miles

London 109 miles

Edinburgh221 miles

Cardiff133 miles

Manchester57 miles

Liverpool80 miles

Bristol119 miles

To discover more, visit nottinghamconferences.co.uk or call us now on 0115 846 8000 quoting GB0812

Four venues, one solution:• A dedicated conference centre, offering a flexible range of meeting spaces• State-of-the-art meeting spaces & modern en-suite accommodation in award-winning surroundings • Traditional meeting space and accommodation set in 330 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland • An inspirational rural escape, yet only minutes away from the M1 and East Midlands Airport

East MidlandsConferenceCentre

Destination NottinghamWith a choice of four stunning locations at the University of Nottingham,featuring landscaped parkland, award-winning architecture and withexcellent transport links and plenty of parking, we have just the venueyou’re looking for.

And in November 2012 a new boutique hotel, incorporating 202contemporary bedrooms, an executive lounge, 160-cover restaurant andbar will open. Sited adjacent to the EMCC, it will feature floor-to-ceilingwindows, bespoke furniture and unique décor throughout.

To be kept up to date with progress of the hotel, visit

www.nottinghamconferences/hotel

UniversityPark

JubileeCampus

SuttonBonington

Finding the best possible venue can sometimes be rather tricky. Gathering as much information as possible in the early stages of the event planning, will ensure your event runs smoothly. The Bureau represents over 40 venues and support services across Staffordshire and operates a free and impartial venue finding service, where organisers can access the local knowledge and expertise necessary to help with every aspect of a conference or corporate event. Staffordshire is one of the greenest counties in the UK. Many of its venues offer tranquillity and relaxation. Located at the very heart of England, 40 per cent of the UK population live within two hours drive time, making the county an excellent choice for conferences and events. The M6 and M1 either side of the county and the M54, M6 Toll Road and M42 to the South make it easily acessible by road. Stoke-on-Trent and Stafford mainline rail stations offer direct routes to London Euston within just an hour and a half. The county is served by three international airports

Manchester, Birmingham and East Midlands. Staffordshire is home to an abundance of high quality and first class venues for those events requiring a touch of luxury. Swinfen Hall Hotel, near Lichfield, is an Inspectors Choice 4 red AA star venue and sits within 95 acres of stunning parkland, formal gardens and a wild deer park. The Best Western Stoke-on-Trent Moat House can accommodate up to 650 delegates in theatre style, whilst Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium offers delegates a superb view of the pitch. Hoar Cross Hall, the impressive stately home, has been restored and offers a range

of luxurious spa facilities. It’s the perfect setting for business incentives, meetings and corporate hospitality and houses 96 bedrooms to ensure delegates truly relax. Moddershall Oaks spa with its new, recently opened conference & events space ‘the Venue’ can seat up to 130 delegates.

FURTHER INFORMATIONTo request a copy of the latest Staffordshire Conference Guide or for a free venue search visit www.conferencestaffordshire.co.uk or email [email protected]



IN THE HEART OF ENGLANDThe Staffordshire Stoke-on-Trent Conference Bureau aims to make events as successful as possible



Outstanding hospitality in the heart of YorkYorkVenues

The Hospitium is a unique & historical venue Situated in the beautifulMuseum Gardens it is aperfect venue for:

• Conferences• Meetings• Presentations• Networking Events• Award Ceremonies• Exhibitions

For further information call our award winningconference & events team on 01904 687 671

www.yorkvenues.org.uk

If only all Service Management decisions were this easy to make

business

Cherwell makes it easy.Empower your users and customers. Streamline and automate common service requests. Cherwell’s newest offering is a self-service portal as you’ve never seen before!

Flexibility and agility. Things change – often. Thanks to Cherwell, there’s no need for consultants or developers to make changes. You can do it – it’s easy!

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Anytime, anywhere access. Out in-the-field or away from your desk? Use the iCherwell app to keep track of calls and add notes to activities. Love the GUI!

Social IT. Be where your customers are. Use social media tools to prevent an influx of calls to the service desk. Then, you can focus on getting the job done.

Cherwell offers a fully integrated ITSM solution for internal IT and external customer support. 11 ITIL v3 PinkVERIFY accredited processes right out-of-the-box in one integrated platform. Choose as many, or as few, processes as you like without incurring additional license fees.

Find out why Cherwell says ‘yes’ to better business. Contact us on

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ITIL® is a registered trademark of the Cabinet Office. The Swirl logo™ is a trade mark of the Cabinet Office.The Service Catalogue Management, Change Management and Request Fulfilment modules within the Cherwell Service Management™ solution enjoy endorsement from the Official ITIL Accreditor.

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Hate Crime app wins Ordnance Survey competitionIdeal For All, an independent living organisation for disabled people based in the West Midlands, has created a smartphone app to help people report hate crime incidents to the Police. The company won one of three runner up prizes in this year’s Ordnance Survey GeoVation Challenge.Matthew Green, project manager, said little hate crime data is currently available, and it is not localised. “We’re trying to provide high resolution data in real time, so local authorities and their partners can see what is happening and do something about it.”

Leeds ICT chief on CIO CouncilLeeds City Council’s head of ICT, Dylan Roberts, has been appointed as a Local Public Services CIO Council representative on the National CIO Council. Roberts will be responsible for a number of areas including

representing large cities and focusing on regional/sub-regional implementation of Public Services Networks. Commenting on the appointment, Jos Creese, chair of the Local CIO Council, said: “The stronger the representation we have with the National CIO Council the better, in helping to develop and to implement national IT strategy and policy.”

Socitm launches service to help LAs with cookie managementSocitm has launched an updated version of its Cookie Management Service for local authorities and other public service website owners. The Cookie Management Service,

delivers a managed online service that enables public service website owners to meet the requirements of so called ‘cookie law’ that was introduced in 2011 and which is now being enforced by the Information Commissioner’s Officer (ICO).

Libraries could start to charge for e-booksA proposal for libraries to charge for e-books is to be considered The idea was put forward by Justin Tomlinson MP, who warned that the future was bleak for town hall libraries without radical action. He said that 94 local authorities offered e-books, but told ministers they had little stock because the big six publishers would not release the books. That was because the private label rights (PLR) arrangement which gives publishers and authors 6p every time a physical book is lent out does not apply to e-books. The MP said that it was highly unlikely that any government would ever “write a very large cheque” to release these e-books.

TO READ MORE PLEASE VISIT... tinyurl.com/cekj637

A new Police ICT Company has been set up jointly by the Association of Police Authorities and the Home Office in order to reduce costs while improving the quality of police ICT. It is intended that the company will be responsive to local operational needs. Its aim is to free up chief officers from in-depth involvement in ICT management and enable greater innovation in police ICT so that officers can spend more time on the beat tackling crime whilst having access to the best new technologies. “While some police IT is good, such as the new Police National Database, much of it is not. There are 2,000 systems between the 43 forces of England and Wales, and individual forces have not always driven the most effective deals. We need a new, more collaborative approach and

greater accountability, utilising expertise in IT procurement and freeing police officers to focus on fighting crime,” said Nick Herbert, minister for Policing and Criminal Justice. Chairman of the Association of Police Authorities (APA), councillor Mark Burns-Williamson, said that better use of technology was “vital when fighting criminal networks that have a sophisticated national and international reach”. The new company is to be handed over to police and crime commissioners following elections in November. Police forces will be key to determining how the new company operates and what services it provides. It will be responsible for providing strategic ICT advice and guidance to forces and the procurement, implementation and management of ICT solutions for forces.

New company aims to improve police ICT quality

POLICE ICT

The Department for Transport has awarded Capita Symonds a contract for a rail passenger counts database system, worth £1.9m. The database will allow all train operating companies to upload data about the number of passengers on train services into a single, standardised, database. “The data will then be used by DfT for statistical purposes and to monitor trains, demand and crowding. Each TOC will be able to access data for their own services for monitoring and operational purposes. Data can also be shared with third-parties when the relevant TOC has agreed to the sharing,” a spokesman for the department told Government Computing. DfT published a tender in the Official Journal of the European Union for the five-year deal in February 2010. The original estimated contract value was £3m. The department said the procurement is part of a drive for the increased automation of passenger counting technology on trains. The database, which should be operational in early

2013, will provide a range of information on the numbers using rail services, which the government hopes will enhance the planning information available to the industry. The original tender notice said that in conjunction with other data sources, passenger counts data has the potential to fill significant gaps in the DfT’s current understanding of passenger usage patterns.Capita’s solution will be expected store passenger counts data supplied by TCOs and allow data from other sources to be imported and linked. The firm will host and maintain the database. Josh Hewer, transport analyst at public sector market intelligence firm Kable, said: “This contract award reflects not only that the winners of the future rail franchises will have to prove that they are improving the conditions of commuters, but also the importance of ICT in facilitating this.”

DfT awards Capita £1.9m rail database contract

CENTRAL GOVERNMENT IT

TO READ MORE VISIT tinyurl.com/cygklqh



Harrow reports considerable success in reducing customer contact costs through ‘MyHarrow’ accounts

CUSTOMER CONTACT

The London Borough of Harrow’s ‘MyHarrow Account’, a web based information service signposting council services, has increased internet-based contact with the council by 62 per cent; reduced telephone enquiries by 30 per cent and visits to council ‘One-Stop-Shops’ by 17 per cent. This ‘channel shift’ has seen the cost of individual transactions fall by 65 per cent from £2.33 to £0.77 and the value of payments via the online channel soar to over £720,000 per month. At the same time citizens, businesses and landlords have benefitted from over 80 online services including payments, applications for facilities, licenses, discounts and incident reporting via a simple to use web interface. The MyHarrow Account has been facilitated through back-end systems integration, not least with the council’s own local address dataset. Over 14 council service delivery systems now utilise this dataset as the sole source for addresses. When a citizen or business logs in to their MyHarrow Account the information pulled from various backend systems is based on that user’s address and the UPRN (Unique Property Reference Number). The UPRN acts as the key, enabling the MyHarrow Account to display a single view of council services relevant to individual users. As well as its local address dataset, Harrow

has used mapping and other data supplied by Ordnance Survey under the Public Sector Mapping Agreement (PSMA). This location information is also used for map based reporting and other services such as enabling residents to view nearby planning applications on a map. Current trends indicate Harrow’s investment in the MyHarrow Account will be recouped in less than a year. Channel shift and the savings it promises to deliver has been a major aim of transformation initiatives across local authorities for some

time. The Harrow website is now receiving over 74,000 unique visitors per month and over 7,500 citizens now have a MyHarrow Account. Ben Jones, senior project manager at the Authority, said: “Not only does it provide citizens with an attractive, easy to use way of transacting with the council, but also introduces significant efficiencies and savings. It demonstrates our commitment to being an open, accessible and efficient organisation that is here to serve the needs of its citizens using the best technology currently available.”

DATA PROTECIONICO annual report reveals tough stance on public sector data breachesThe Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has confirmed that it has issued 21 data breach fines totalling £2 million since April 2010. The data protection watchdog was given powers to issue financial penalties against organisations that fall foul of the Data Protection Act (DPA) in April 2010. The news comes as the ICO publishes its annual report with the Information Commissioner, Christopher Graham, saying he hope these penalties send a clear message to both the public and private sectors and spur organisations to take better care. “We hope these penalties send a clear message to both the public and private sectors that they cannot afford to fail when it comes to handling people’s data correctly,” he said.

A collection of regional government websites is now being archived by The National Archives as part of a pilot project with local authorities. Last year, The National Archives announced it would be piloting a web archiving model with seven local archives, covering 20 local authorities, to share the expertise it had developed in archiving central government websites. Those selected for preservation

included: Taylors of Harrogate, VisitDorset, Diocese of Lichfield, Surrey Wildlife Trust and The Culture Vulture. Oliver Morley, chief executive and keeper of The National Archives, said: “This project has enabled us to share our innovation and expertise beyond central government by working alongside local authorities across the country to capture and preserve the digital history of their communities.”

National Archives pilot preserves regional sites

WEB ARCHIVING

Residents and visitors in the West End of London have been given unlimited access to free wi-fi Internet services through a landmark scheme launched by Westminster City Council. Initially covering the heart of the West End - Oxford Street, Regent Street, Trafalgar Square, Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus and Parliament Square – the new network offers unlimited access to all users at no cost after a once-only registration process has been completed. The programme will soon be expanded to cover other parts of Westminster, with Covent Garden next in line to go live. Compatible with all wi-fi enabled devices – smartphones, laptops and tablets – the six-year contract with mobile operator O2 will ensure the service remains totally free of charge after the Olympic Games have ended – at

no cost to the council. Mayor of London, Boris Johnson said: “With millions of extra people coming to town for the Games, we want to ensure we showcase the capital as the best city in the world to work and visit, and the addition of free wi-fi to some of our most popular landmarks is crucial in helping to maintaining that reputation.” Westminster leader, Cllr Philippa Roe, hailed the network as a fantastic success for the London borough’s residents, businesses and visitors. She stated: “With London playing host to the greatest show on earth, O2 wi-fi is not only a valuable service for those who want to share photos, keep in touch and celebrate in the city, but rather a long term project to help make London one of the most technology friendly cities in the world”

tinyurl.com/dyb2lna

Westminster Council launches free wi-fi scheme in time for the Olympics

CONNECTIVITY

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The 4th Annual Traffic Management and Bus Priority Conference26th September 2012, London

As in previous years the Conference incorporates the 8th Annual Bus Priority Conferenceas it is recognised that many practitioners working on bus priority initiatives are alsoinvolved in general traffic management projects. The organisers have therefore devisedthis event to encompass all aspects of traffic engineering and management.

The event will be directed towards good practice in the UK, Ireland and elsewhere andpractical issues of implementation. It will be multi themed and targeted at youngprofessionals, experienced technical staff and middle managers.

The conference is aimed at UK and Ireland traffic management engineers andtechnicians drawn from Governments and local authorities and those companiesthat advise them. It is designed to encourage the involvement of younger members of the profession as a way of enhancing their career development.

SponsorshipThere are also sponsorship opportunities available. For more information please contact Julia Sharp at PTRC.

Conference Themes

• Traffic Management Casestudies - UK, MainlandEurope & World wide

• Monitoring & evaluation

• Funding

• Walking

• Marketing & Communications

• Managing the road network

Plus more!

PTRC Education & Research Services Ltd, 1 Vernon Mews, Vernon Street, London W14 0RL Tel: 020 7348 1979 Fax: 020 7348 1989 E: [email protected]

Education andResearch Services Ltd

www.ptrc-training.co.uk

For the fouth time traffic engineers and technicians have access to an affordableconference aimed at providing updates on the latest ideas, techniques andexperiences in the traffic engineering and management field.

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Written by N

eil Mellor, PSN

GB

When asked by a journalist what was most likely to blow a government off course, Harold Macmillan reportedly replied: “Events, my dear boy, events”. No-one can deny that the four years since 2008 have brought more than our fair share of events and that the economic reverberations of these now challenge every part of the public sector. But even before the financial crisis took hold, work was already underway on a programme that today holds the potential to help mitigate the impact of the fiscal squeeze on public services and to provide a catalyst not only for cash savings, but also tangible improvements in service. In 2006, led by the Cabinet Office, collaborative work started between the public sector and key communications suppliers that paved the way to the Public Services Network (PSN). Working together in a way unprecedented in any country or industry, the technical standards, security, service management, governance and commercial framework took shape for what is effectively a secure internet for public services providers. With the completion of that work, the UK now has a unique opportunity.

NETWORK OF NETWORKSPSN is the foundation of the Government’s ICT Strategy, providing an assured ‘network of networks’ for sharing services as well as encouraging efficiency and collaboration

across public sector organisations. The past twelve months have seen the vision of the Government ICT Strategy come into sharper focus, driven by the need to reduce cost whilst protecting or improving the quality of public services, and PSN’s pivotal role in that vision is fast being realised. The Codes or standards that define PSN have been in place since July 2011 and now suppliers and users are completing PSN certification to verify their

compliance with these and gain common information assurance, applicable right across government. The fact that Local Authorities are amongst the vanguard achieving early PSN ‘Code of Connection’ certification as users highlights that although Central Government is mandated to achieve PSN compliance by 2014, there is equal or even greater appetite for adoption at the local and regional level. The two national PSN Frameworks have

also now been let, allowing customers across the public sector to procure network connectivity and services more efficiently and making tangible an open, competitive and accessible marketplace for interoperable ICT services. Some of the largest public service providers including major Central Government Departments, Health, Police and Local Authorities are already planning to use the PSN Frameworks.

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONAnother significant step has been the incorporation and launch in June this year of the PSNGB, the industry association for PSN suppliers, with membership already extending to nearly thirty companies, both large and small, that are collectively working with the Cabinet Office to bring PSN to life. PSNGB is a formal part of the PSN Operating Model and brings industry expertise and commitment E

By putting in place a ‘common gauge railway’ for ICT across the public sector, PSN can be a catalyst for public service innovation – bringing opportunities to transform working practices, collaborate much more effectively

PUBLIC SERVICES NETWORK: EXPLORINGNEW WAYS TO SAVE

With the launch in June 2012 of the PSN Services framework comes opportunity for a real change. Neil Mellor, marketing director of the recently formed industry association for PSN suppliers, PSNGB, which is working with the Cabinet Office to bring PSN to life.

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The Office of Budget Responsibility’s budget forecasts to 2061 have added further gloom to this age of austerity. These concluded that public sector finances are unsustainable unless addressed, as spiralling demand for care from an ageing population outstrips current financial provisions. The public sector’s current efforts to re-engineer services while making structural savings are dwarfed by this challenge. Government and its partners know they have little time to get multiple business processes and ICT systems aligned and thereby enable the sharing of resources at sufficient scale to handle future workloads. They have yet to properly harness its ICT buying power to drive economies of scale. For their part, suppliers, especially small firms, have long struggled to jump through time-consuming and expensive procurement hoops. Despite these unpromising conditions, the public sector has quietly engineered a remarkable way to lift the shackles on its – and its suppliers’ – efforts to rethink services and drive innovation.

REVOLUTIONARYThe Public Services Network (PSN) is a revolutionary way for government and its partners to acquire services. On one level, it’s a simple ‘network of networks’, based on best commercial practice and open standards. From 2015, it will see or enable a majority of the five million public sector employees able to share resources, switch suppliers and refocus efforts on front line services as never before. However, it’s also a deregulated market with streamlined procurement, using previously competed frameworks, where demand is aggregated and buying cycles are reduced. Drawing on common technical standards, PSN user organisations will know that product and services work while PSN suppliers will be mandated to sort out performance issues. The public sector’s buying power will be harnessed and its procurement teams will enjoy consumer-style protection on services they procure. It could, using PSN, generate cost savings of up to 25 per cent, against comparable services, over a three-year business plan from activation of service. In addition, the PSN avoids duplications

of effort seen in previous government ICT programmes through an agreed operating model. User organisations and suppliers must sign up to the network’s standards while the PSN Authority also applies ‘light touch’ to regulation but includes a strict security regime - ensuring that innovation matters just as much as sound business practice. All parties worked to create this level playing field. The Cabinet Office, central and local government and industry suppliers spent four years agreeing relevant technical and commercial constructs. Everyone now understands how the PSN operates, how

suppliers work and the commercial opportunity for vendors supporting them. The network requires a move away from long-term contract commitments, towards a pay-as-you-use model, thus in a changing world, PSN will supply cost effective aggregated solutions for users who can only commit to short term contracts.

UNIFIED COMMUNICATIONSThe PSN’s huge scope will boost operational efficiencies and support the front line. From 2015, public sector employees will be able to log in at any point on a growing network with devices and tools they are comfortable with. Moreover, public sector organisations will be able to swap between different suppliers’ service platforms as never before. Take unified communications (UC): one specialist alone will be serving 2.8 million users. This will provide a nimble, scalable infrastructure: any local office can access a range of communications services on demand, rather than reinventing specifications to modernise operations. For their part, suppliers and developers will know where they stand, promoting innovations from the dynamic SMB sector. With a clear path for suppliers, public sector

organisations will gain access to much richer applications and content. These enhancements will unleash public servants’ creativity and know-how in service delivery. The PSN provides secure and scalable networks for collaboration and information exchange across public organisations. It’s the foundation for the much-vaunted G-Cloud (the government’s Cloud services) to deliver applications from secure data centres. Government, councils and NHS services will be more flexible. They will consume far fewer smaller computing resources and need smaller property estates and enable greater

mobility for public sector service teams. The PSN also turns government-level security into an enabler of work sharing and collaboration. As well as encryption and identity assurance for transactions, the network operates at a minimum base of Impact Level 2, ensuring resilience for future operations. Promised ICT and cost transformation aside, what will be the front line impact? Whilst information can only be shared by certain government departments currently, the PSN removes such technical barriers. Public organisations will, for example, no longer need security personnel in situ to watch over CCTV cameras - surveillance images will be streamed via UC directly to the ‘bobby on the beat’ while a hospital purchasing software will have the same rights that the consumer enjoys. The PSN is revolutionary: a deregulated market for the public sector and expert suppliers, modernising our public services while transforming the economics of service delivery.

FURTHER INFORMATIONwww.siemens-enterprise.com/uk/psnTel: 0800 158 5236

Drawing on common technical standards, PSN user organisations will know that product and services work while PSN suppliers will be mandated to sort out performance issues.

A MARKETPLACE FOR RETHINKING PUBLIC SERVICES PSN is revolutionary, and has the potential to transform the economics of service delivery

Michael Bowyer



E to the programme, helping to grow an open and competitive marketplace for members’ services and to highlight to customers and industry the benefits of moving to PSN. Across the public sector, the transition to PSN has started, with many organisations already developing plans to become compliant. But whilst this is undoubtedly important they must also look beyond this to what the PSN will ultimately enable for their organisation – in other words, the innovation that follows PSN certification and the interoperability it delivers. For example, how can networks and voice or unified communications services used by a Council be shared with others in the region, aggregating demand to improve value for money, creating a common infrastructure and cutting support costs? How can storage and processing or applications from data centres best be shared? Can the existence of PSN and secure cloud services be used as a catalyst for regional economic development, encouraging the growth of small, innovative application developers? Or how can public service workers can work more flexibly and securely from different locations whilst sharing appropriate information across organisational boundaries?

MORE THAN AN OPPORTUNITYThe PSNGB sees the transition to PSN as more than just an opportunity to simplify and lower the cost of networking, though this in itself is significant. By putting in place a ‘common gauge railway’ for ICT across the public sector, PSN can be a catalyst for public service innovation – bringing opportunities to transform working practices, collaborate much more effectively, improve efficiency and make a tangible difference to communities and citizens across the UK. As well as saving cash on ICT in the short term - by 2014 central government departments alone could be saving up to £130m a year because of the PSN - the public sector can reap much greater financial and service benefits from a more joined up approach to working, breaking down barriers between different agencies and authorities. By making it easier for public service organisations to buy and connect ICT networks and to share services, PSN is creating opportunities that haven’t existed before. In practical terms this could mean Local Authorities, Health and Police working together with a common network serving them all at appropriate security levels. It can mean a Health Trust collaborating through conference calls and shared information with Social Services, doctors and voluntary groups or community projects to smooth the process of hospital discharge, freeing beds and ensuring continuity of care for patients. It can mean ICT services used by one Local Authority being shared with others to remove duplication, improve sustainability and promote good practice. It’s clear, however, that managing the transition to PSN and the business change

required to realise significant improvements isn’t always easy. Even something as seemingly straightforward as sharing information on a conference call between agencies involves different working practices and a cultural shift in the way organisations behave. Research commissioned by different PSNGB members has highlighted a common conclusion; that the greatest barrier to PSN adoption and innovation is the cultural challenge involved, closely allied to a lack of awareness amongst the non-technical community of PSN.

WHERE DO WE STAND?The research also revealed that there are many in the public sector who are less clear about what PSN is and can enable, or even where their organisation stands in adopting it. This reinforces the recent recommendation from the Public Administration Select Committee that more needs to be done to make sure knowledge about how modern information systems and technology can be used to improve public services is shared effectively across professional groups within the civil services and not restricted to the IT crowd. But there’s also very encouraging news in the research findings, revealing widespread optimism towards the PSN programme – with many public servants considering it crucial to their organisation’s efficiency drive. More than two-thirds (69 per cent) of public servants who consider themselves well informed about PSN regard its adoption to be important or very important to their organisation’s efficiency programme. The same research found that many public servants underestimate the role that PSN can play as a platform for innovation but unless they start to take this view, PSN risks being seen just as centralised procurement rather than also an unprecedented opportunity to rethink how public services operate and deliver. The PSN is all about enabling innovation and transformation rather than being an end in itself, and the PSNGB is now playing a leading role in emphasising the benefit of

services running across PSN and new ways of working and delivering services. As a first step, PSNGB is running a series of events, in partnership with the Cabinet Office, to provide an update on the latest progress of PSN, explain the Frameworks and offer advice on how to achieve PSN compliance, transition to PSN and to reap the wider benefits it offers.

LEADING ROLEPhil Gibson, Chairman of PSNGB, said: “We are delighted to be taking a leading role in making the PSN real and vibrant. Together with the Cabinet Office and GPS we are encouraging the public sector to work with our members to see how transition can be effected and to realise the benefits. PSN is very much open for business. Our members, who are both larger suppliers and SMEs, have PSN services available today. Now the procurement route is open to make PSN benefits tangible, accessible and achievable to user and supplier alike. We look forward to the July events and to growing our association to further benefit the industry in future.” Craig Eblett, PSN programme director in the Cabinet Office, said: “I welcome the incorporation of PSNGB and their leadership on behalf of industry in delivering the PSN Roadshows with the PSN Programme team. PSNGB recognise and are encouraging the increased competition the Frameworks will bring and I look forward to PSNGB continuing to help enable innovation and savings for the public sector and create good business opportunities for industry.” L

EVENTS & FURTHER INFORMATIONAimed at potential PSN users across public sector organisations, PSNGB is to hold events around the UK in September, taking the message to a wider audience and enabling potential PSN adopters to talk first hand with the people who created and are now delivering the PSN programme and services. More information will be published through the PSNGB website at www.psngb.org.uk

There are many in the public sector who are less clear about what PSN is and can enable, or even where their organisation stands in adopting it

PSN

PSN



Offering the best service possible to citizens is paramount for all public sector organisations. With all the technology and solutions out there to help, it should be easy to provide first class service first time every time. However, the needs of citizens need to be balanced with the realities of logistics, personnel and of course budgets. So where do you start? How can you prioritise the issues and challenges that have the biggest impact on your organisation? Call Centre & Customer Management Expo offers ideas for low-cost technology implementations and people practices that can help reduce costs, while maintaining or boosting citizen satisfaction. Offering a blend of integrated customer products and services, a cutting-edge educational programme and unique networking opportunities, it can really help you to learn about what’s available to help. Plus with the move to London last year it’s now easier than ever to network with fellow public sector practitioners, as well as private sector peers.

THE STRATEGY FOR SUCCESSCall Centre & Customer Management Expo is committed to showcasing how customer service excellence is the best strategy for success, and how taking pride in being at the forefront of the contact centre industry. With a fantastic range of features to give provide a great event experience, this year’s show will help visitors: source new products, and learn about innovative best practice whilst having access to unrivalled networking opportunities. It also means you can save valuable time by addressing all your performance improvement requirements over just two days out of the office. Having made a successful move to London in 2011 with a large increase in visitors, Call Centre & Customer Management Expo will once again be held at London’s Olympia. Just two days out of the office gives you unparalleled access to all the solution providers and industry experts you need to help meet your business goals and objectives. Over 200 suppliers of the latest

customer contact and customer management solutions will exhibit their products and services. Visitors will be able to research, compare and test out a leading product or service first hand before committing to a purchase. Confirmed 2012 exhibitors include: Cisco, BT & Avaya, Oracle, Sennhieser, SAGE, Salesforce.com and many more.In celebration of the industry is the the Customer Service Excellence Arena. This brand new arena on the show floor of Call Centre & Customer Management Expo will bring together experts, industry practitioners, and notable luminaries to celebrate contact centres as a driving force within the UK. Don’t miss this exciting combination of high profile plenary speeches, interactive keynotes, interviews, contentious debates, and case studies taking place over the two days of the

event. Speakers already confirmed include: Deloitte, BT and Henley Business School.With staff morale of such high importance, visitors can be inspired to learn the latest motivational techniques by visiting the Motivation & Incentives Area. Dedicated to helping find solutions to inspire, encourage and retain your team, companies include H Samuel, Ernest Jones, Leslie Davis, Corporate Rewards, Red Letter Days, Maxchoice and Wellkom, will be on hand to talk about rewarding and thanking employees. If you are looking to develop your team in key areas, the Learning and Development Zone is the place to meet companies that specialise in the field of customer service and contact centre training. Skills training and vocational qualifications, in-house and outside workshops, accredited in-company E

CALL CENTRE & CUSTOMER MANAGEMENT EXPO

CUSTOMER CONTACT: THE CENTRE OF ATTENTION AT LONDON OLYMPIATaking place on 2-3 October at the National Hall, London Olympia, Call Centre & Customer Management Expo examines where customer service is heading

Contact Centres

The European Call Centre & Customer Service Awards promote best practice and innovation in customer service and contact centre excellence and highlight its importance in today’s business climate - www.callcentre.co.uk/awards





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E courses including NVQs, and BTECs certificate programmes can all be found here. Visitors can forge valuable industry contacts and swap ideas and strategies in an informal environment at the Networking Bar, sponsored by Oracle - the ideal place to take a break from the showfloor for lunch or a drink. Learn more about the solutions suppliers provide across four dedicated solution theatres. These 20 minute product tasters and overviews will provide visitors with everything they need to know about the latest solutions key suppliers have to offer.

CONFERENCEMaintaining high levels of customer service and productivity levels while reducing costs is no walk in the park. The prestigious Call Centre Focus Conference, which runs alongside the exhibition, offers high-level strategic sessions which showcase learning experiences to inspire the very best ideas and forward-thinking conversations. The aim of this year’s programme is to stimulate debate and discussion around some of the most challenging topics around, including the social future of businesses, cloud computing, the real drivers of customer satisfaction, zero-speech contact centres, how to use Twitter and webchat, and how combining marketing, sales and service could be the future. With speakers from organisations such as

goflbreaks.com, Lebara, Barclays Wealth, Ernst &Young, Wokingham Direct, Shop Direct and The Office of National Statistics you are certain to hear some unique stories that you won’t find anywhere else. Go to www.callcentre.co.uk/conference_goVtech reserve your place. Those that register before September 7th can bring a colleague for free.

E-COMMERCE EXPOTaking place next door is eCommerce

Expo, which features the largest gathering of suppliers in the UK who can assist organisations to sell more online. 50 plus seminar sessions across four theatres, in topic specific streams, makes eCommerce Expo the place to learn

how to achieve ecommerce success. Strategic presentations

from top practitioners take place in the Keynote Theatre, with case

studies showing the latest ideas in action and practical sessions from industry experts that can teach you all you need to know. eCommerce Expo has the most comprehensive free educational programme in the UK. With a joint offering of suppliers, seminars and keynotes covering everything from quick delivery, to user friendly websites and platforms; from great customer service to effective acquisition; and from efficient call centres to mobile commerce, attending both shows will ensure your company is equipped to deliver on every level. L

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.eccomerceexpo.co.uk

Contact Centres

CALL CENTRE & CUSTOMER MANAGEMENT EXPO

European Call Centre and Customer Service Awards - Categories

Best customer service in financial services

Best customer service operation

Best high street, travel and leisure customer service

Best improvement strategy

Best newcomer

Best online customer service

Best outsourcing partnership

Best improvement strategy

Best use of technology

Complaints team of the year

Customer service business leader

Employer of the year

Frontline professional of the year

Frontline team of the year

Innovation of the year

Large contact centre of the year (+100 seats)

Manager of the year

Outsourcer of the year

Small contact centre of the year (-100 seats)

Support professional of the year

Support team of the year

Team leader of the year

Visitors will be able to research, compare and test out a leading product or service first hand before committing to a purchase

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to abide by the Code of Good Practice for PsychologicalTesting. If you hold our Certificates of Competence, butare not on the Register, you have until 4th September

2013 to reinstate your entry on the Register.

How can I find out if my Register entry has lapsed?Check your status on the Register at

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Government Business Ad_Layout 1 31/05/2012 11:55 Page 1

The UK’s premier learning event, now in its 20th year, takes place on 2 and 3 October at the NEC, Birmingham and features an agenda-setting conference reflecting the current business market and the future direction of the industry. It addresses the key issues facing L&D professionals and provides valuable insight and interesting case studies from industry experts. Michael Barton, deputy chief constable, and Gary Fraser, leadership development at Durham Constabulary will be among the practitioners taking part. Together with Sharon Young, lead consultant at Pearlcatchers, they will explore how to harness existing talent to drive measurable improvements in their organisation in their seminar ‘A different approach to developing leaders of the future’. This highlights the importance of collaboration as a way to drive learning and development across an organisation, covering its varying departments, employees and culture. Drawing on their own work with Pearlcatchers, specialists in drama based training, motivational activities and experiential learning, Michael and Gary will explain how to use action learning to support innovation and improvement.

APPRENTICESHIPSIntegrating apprenticeship schemes effectively into your organisation’s learning strategy is another of the many interesting themes at the conference. Rod Kenyon, director of the Apprenticeships Ambassadors Network, is partnering with Ann Brown, vice president technology and outsourcing specialists Capgemini, to deliver this seminar. Apprenticeships are considered to be a valuable way for organisations to develop talent within their local communities and ensure that they have a workforce equipped with the skills it needs for today and tomorrow. Because of their success, the expansion of the apprenticeships programme is a high priority for the Government, and over the past few years there has been a huge rise in the number and range of businesses offering apprenticeships as a way of tackling skills shortages. Rod and Ann’s seminar explores how to maintain a pipeline of talent through these schemes and ensure managers are equipped to develop apprentices and help them realise

their potential within the business. The World of Learning Conference covers everything from elearning and mobile learning to experiential and classroom learning. Director of people and policy at BT, Caroline Waters OBE, delivers the opening address at the event, entitled ‘How will L&D have to adapt to the changing workforce’. This will explore the challenges of a multi-generation workforce and the role flexible working can play. Caroline will also discuss how businesses can create strong communities and how this can support staff development. Her role at BT involves developing leading-edge people strategies which empower individuals, generate revenue and contribute to the community.

Steve Wheeler, associate Professor of learning technologies at the

University of Plymouth, will explore some of the

emerging technologies and how they can be used in L&D. This will cover mobile devices and ‘on the move’ learning as well as social media and mixed

reality learning. Steve has spent his entire

career working in media, technology and learning,

specialising in research on elearning and distance education. The second day of the conference will be opened by Sue Miller, metro and corporate L&D manager at Hilton Worldwide. She will share details of how Hilton Worldwide developed into a learning organisation to drive

performance and profitability. Developing a long-term strategy to change attitude and culture, inspiring an entire workforce and measuring ROI will be explored.

INSIGHTFUL EXHIBITIONVisitors to the exhibition will find companies offering the latest ideas in all sectors of L&D. Organisations taking part include Impact International, e2train, Unlimited Potential,SML Training & Consultancy, Impact International, Belbin, and Mdina Partnership. The event also offers live workshops, one-to-one consultations and free seminars. New features for this year include the LSIS Learning and Skills Theatre where visitors can listen to practical advice and tips from the organisation responsible for quality improvement in the further education and skills sector. Drawing from their experience within training and education, speakers from the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) will provide a range of case studies with useful ideas that visitors can take back to the workplace and put into practice. The World of Learning 2012 is held in association with the British Institute for Learning & Development and is supported by the following associations and industry titles: Personnel Today, HR Magazine, Training Journal, TrainingZone.co.uk, the eLearning Network, PersonnelZone.com and Learning Magazine; Government Business and Government Technology are public sector media supporters. L

FURTHER INFORMATIONFor more details about the World of Learning 2012 and to register for the event, head to www.learnevents.com

WORLD OF LEARNING

AN AGENDA FOR LEARNINGFostering and encouraging future leaders is an issue that will be dealt with in depth at this year’s World of Learning Conference & Exhibition, with an informative and engaging seminar from renowned experts in the public sector

IT Events

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According to the Cloud Industry Forum, 85 per cent of IT executives now consider Cloud as a viable option for delivering IT projects; with three out of four organisations that have purchased a Cloud service saying they will purchase further services in 2012. Predictably, ‘traditional’ Cloud services such as data backup/disaster recovery, email and data storage services are the ones organisations say they’re most likely to increase adoption of in 2012. However, executives also say they’re interested in receiving additional communications services from the Cloud - with 26 per cent of executives stating that they expect to adopt more collaboration services, 20 per cent expecting more CRM services and 18 per cent more unified communications services. This growing interest in Cloud communications services will come as no surprise to contact centre IT professionals who have witnessed a huge rise in Cloud adoption in recent years. Indeed, one leading Cloud analyst firm has suggested that the global Cloud contact centre services market grew by over 40 per cent in 2010 with similar figures estimated for 2011 and 2012.

SEASONAL REQUIREMENTSThere are many reasons why Cloud services are the ideal way to deliver contact centre services. Many customer contact requirements are short term or seasonal, for example, so pay-as-you-go services that can be turned on and off as demand dictates can be far more economical than buying an Automatic Call Distributor (ACD) or Dialler and then committing to a large number of advisor licenses. Because there’s no need for upfront capital investment, the Cloud also brings advanced (and relatively expensive) new technologies such as speech recognition and campaign optimisation within the reach of much broader audiences. Other typical benefits of Cloud contact centre services over Customer Premise-based Equipment (CPE) include: the ability to quickly launch new customer campaigns, less requirement to carry out internal system integration, inbuilt business continuity and disaster recovery, and support for virtual contact centre working, including homeworking. Perhaps the killer benefit of Cloud contact centre services though is much more obvious. When an organisation employs the services of a Cloud contact centre vendor it hands over

more than just the running of its contact centre technology to a third party. It hands over control of a vital element in its operations – and the effectiveness of a Cloud partner can affect efficiency, productivity and ultimately customer experiences and sales/service results.

DECADES OF EXPERIENCE Specialist Cloud contact centre vendors such as Ultra employ experts with decades of experience in running the

operational and technical aspects of leading UK contact centres – and it is how we use that expertise to enhance operational efficiency that’s key to why many organisations have turned to Ultra. For clients that contact us with requests and problems, we deliver unmetered 24 x 7 x 365 support. However, our support is not just reactive. We also work proactively to monitor calls for performance issues such as traffic fluctuations, advisor availability and network glitches – liaising with clients to suggest improvements on an on-going basis. Many organisations have already bought into the idea of Cloud-based real-time performance monitoring, choosing to use network-based specialists rather than employ in-house managers and analysts such as ACD and Dialler managers. Other organisations have chosen to supplement their in-house teams with Cloud infrastructure, operational and telephony experts, using their skills to spot problems, identify opportunities to improve productivity, and create new strategies to improve quality. All types and sizes of customer contact

operation – from five person service teams to advanced multichannel centres with thousands of advisors – are now benefitting from Cloud services. The bottom line is that a Cloud contact centre solution offers the same technology benefits as CPE, plus a whole lot more, to contact centres of all shapes and sizes. In addition, with Cloud service vendors such as Ultra, you get an extra proactive level of performance monitoring support that provides the assurance that you have experts looking after your technology, leaving you free to look after your customers.

FURTHER INFORMATION Tel: 0207 965 [email protected]

Because there’s no need for upfront capital investment, the Cloud also brings advanced (and relatively expensive) new technologies such as speech recognition and campaign optimisation within the reach of much broader audiences.

THE CLOUD - THE FUTURE FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE?Robert Bates of Ultra Communications explains the benefits that cloud services can bring



Those that provide the most in terms of operational efficiencies, cost savings and ease of implementation are likely to be those that stick around for years to come. Services such as cloud storage, remote desktops and telephone hot desking have the most potential to meet all the criteria. A combination of all three can enable staff to work from any desk in the office, at home or on the move with a laptop or smartphone. However, the concept still divides opinion in the public sector, with debate circling on whether these technologies genuinely facilitate flexible working or if they are simply cost-cutting measures. So what is the answer? Peter Gradwell, who built £5 million telecoms and internet service provider Gradwell on these technologies, explains: “Cloud computing, remote access and hot desking have become public sector buzz-words in recent years, with plenty of organisations adopting the technologies, implementing them across their teams and seeing all the benefits. While it is obvious to point to tough efficiency targets and severe budget cuts as driving take-up, for many organisations and teams, they bring significant long-term benefits of a more flexible workforce.”

FLEXIBLE WORKING“In my experience, flexible working helps to save money, encourages staff to communicate more and ensures expensive office space is being used efficiently. Importantly, it also provides staff with the freedom to work from their most productive environment. They can use technology to create their own virtual, portable office, wherever they are. All they need is the flexibility and the tools to do so.” The management decision to implement cloud storage, remote desktops and hot desking is often met with mixed reviews, as not everyone prefers this open method of working. The barriers within a team can be organisational, physical, technological and cultural. Some people do not like change, particularly if they have spent their working life at one desk. Some people may not like opening these doors to employees, preferring to give them one option of working, and one option only. These mind-sets can be difficult to change. They may ask why as they

already have a familiar work culture with everything they need to hand, regardless of how costly or inefficient it may be. The advances in technology mean that business can be done from anywhere. We are no longer dependent on having a seat where we have to work, where our computer and landline phone reside. We are mobile these days. For example, we can use WiFi networks to access emails, or introduce services like Gradwell VoIP into the office network to redirect calls to the phone of our choice.We created the Gradwell VoIP service to provide organisations with the flexibility to work from any location, but still be contactable on their landline phone number. Users can integrate Gradwell VoIP with an existing phone system, so they can become part of a call group even though they are out of the office. They get all the same features as on their desk phone, but also the benefits of being on the move. A good place to start when considering cloud storage, remote desktops and hot desking is whether the current system marries with reality. If workers are out of the office often, they won’t need a designated desk. If they are office-based, managers should decide whether more flexibility is appropriate. This decision

will change the layout of the office and whether some staff work from home or other offices; these decisions could mean a reduction in the costs of potentially unnecessary desks, the cost of IT and telephony connectivity, parking spaces and equipment.

BENEFITSClearly the greatest benefits are felt by truly mobile workers, who might be in the office one day per week. However, these technologies are less useful for purely desk-based workers, as these individuals will already have all the technology they need at their desk. The concept of flexible working undoubtedly represents a significant cultural change for many public sector workforces. It is not right for everyone, however it is becoming apparent that for many it can genuinely revolutionise working practices – to the advantage of staff, management and citizens alike. As technology advances the benefits, to an organisation’s employees and its pocket, become greater and greater. L

FOR MORE INFORMATION:Visit http://campaigns.gradwell.com/phoneservices/


FLEXIBLE WORKING: IS THE TECHNOLOGY DELIVERING RESULTS?There are lots of new technologies around that are supposed to transform the way that business works – but are any of them actually delivering?

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Why do so many office workers complain about back pain? They have done for over 50 years. They go home in pain, they stay away from work, and sometimes need to have spinal operations at huge expense, taking months or even years to recover. Surgeons reap huge fees, employers lose huge time and then, frequently, it all starts again. So what can be done?

WHY DO WE GET BACK PAIN?A very few postural ergonomists have been telling us, warning us and showing us why for over 60 years. Weird you say. Yes it is. It was recognised in Sweden 60-70 years ago that we all sat too low at our desks and that both chairs and desks needed to be both higher and adjustable to suit individual stature. Strange that the Swedish Police forces were the first to have been issued with correct chairs and desks. These were grown men, but like many officers under stress, they often sat at desks for very long hours, originally sitting in uncomfortable postures determined by bad chairs and desks. Furniture designed to look good and to last, but not to provide a good sitting position. This was before most of us even began to spend our leisure slouched in front of the TV and exercise less. Furniture designers in the ’50 and ‘60s, often used dimensional data provided by the American Henry Dreyfuss. All correct statistically, but illustrated in a manner which indicated an upright and flawed posture. Nobody noticed that the 90/90 posture which appeared alongside the dimensions, bears no relation to how our bodies actually work. What about the angles? There was no understanding of how the ischia (bum bones) and hips interact to give either lordosis, the balanced curvature of the spine, or kyphosis, which is the slouched curvature of many. Most did not understand that the hip joint only allows a curvature of 60 degrees, leaving the remaining 30 to be achieved by frontal compression of the lower three discs. The vital interaction between the Ischia and seat affects posture. Most office chairs are both of the wrong profile and too soggy.

CAMPAIGNING PROFESSIONALSTwo notable persons did understand the problem. Dr Chresten Mandal – a surgeon from Klampenborg, Copenhagen, who suffered himself from back pain - and Professor Dr Nigel Corlett, from Nottingham University, worked, lectured and wrote tirelessly from all parts of the world for over 50 years.Meanwhile designers and manufacturers understood less than half the message. They

began to call new products ‘ergonomic’ without the faintest idea of what that meant. Worse still, the Society of Ergonomics spawned ‘Professors’ whose profession and training had covered many man/workplace relationships but infrequently that of posture. On behalf of the universities they serve several have obtained grants for often inconclusive short term research. Industrialists must begin to use universities with more understanding of the specialisms they require, and not be swayed by jargon.

COMPLYING WITH STANDARDSOK but most desks and chairs do comply with international standards, and standards are revised periodically. Most recently FIRA recognised that because people were now on average taller than thirty years ago, that the height of desks should be raised so that everyone could actually get their knees underneath. In itself this recognition was thirty years too late and provided no recognition for the need to match the desk/chair relationship. Those companies supplying the better and

frequently very expensive chairs do spend time setting them up for customers, but often the very adjustments are so complex that staff are perplexed and frequently fail to understand the range of adjustments and how they affect long term outcomes. So we adjust the chairs, but what about desks? In Scandinavia one very rarely sees fixed height desks and many with electric lifts enable users to either stand or to sit at work, a choice facilitating variation according to the task. Many also prefer use of height adjustable saddle stools which by encouraging an ‘open’ posture and a balanced stance, which also alleviate neck pain when used with computer screens set at eye level. Some 40-60 per cent of workplace absenteeism results from back pain and much of it results from sitting badly, often from an early age. Rotten school chairs have led to increasing distress in children as young as six or seven years. L

FOR MORE INFORMATIONwww.aalborgdk.com


SIT UP STRAIGHTFor many, a large proportion of the working day is spent behind a desk, leading to somedegree of back pain. Anthony Hill asks what can be done about this modern day complaint

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psn services framework

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