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Our hearts go out to all those in Ukraine. I am working with the Council and partners to develop a ‘Welcome’ service for those who come to Merton.
If you are interested in joining me in what I am currently calling a ‘Befriending Service’ please email me directly and I will keep you updated as plans unfold.
It has been a busy month. We were delighted to mark International Women’s Day with local entrepreneurs and MPs at a House of Commons event.
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There is no doubt that local businesses of all sizes are at the beating heart of our country’s recovery. We will continue to support and connect local businesses to help you recover and grow, whilst influencing policy and decision making to ensure your interests are represented. Merton Chamber CEO
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NEWSFLASH: CUSTOMS EASEMENT FOR EXPORTS TO UKRAINE |
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If you are sending aid to Ukraine from GB ports, HMRC has just introduced changes to customs procedures. You will no longer need to complete and submit electronic customs declarations to HMRC before exporting these goods.
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Smaller movements will also no longer need to use the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) to pass through ports where it is in operation. For full details see here.
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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY |
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Last week saw International Women’s Day and we were delighted to meet over 60 inspirational local entrepreneurs at Time and Leisure’s IWD networking breakfast.
Our own Diana Sterck shared her career experiences, noting that whilst things have moved on a great deal, one of the biggest barriers to success is a woman's lack of self-belief.
It was also great to hear about the journey of local author Aliya Ali-Afzal: from City head-hunter to published author.
Merton’s women in business are an inspiration!
Thank you to Lucy Kane and the team at Time & Leisure for bringing us all together. Great event! #IWD2022 #BreakTheBias.
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Diana
and Sarah
pictured with Margaret Beckett MP
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Local MP Siobhain McDonagh invited CEO Diana and new Chair of the MCC Board Sarah Austin to join her at a House of Commons event to mark IWD.
At the event, Diana and Sarah were pleased to hear MPs restate the importance of local businesses in the economic recovery of our country.
The work of all Chambers across the country is vital as we support and connect businesses in our communities.
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Network and Connect
Venue: Metro Bank Wimbledon Wednesday 6th April 5:30pm - 7.00pm
We are delighted to be working with Hartley Fowler Chartered Accountants to host a series of networking events in Merton. We welcome businesses across all industries and stages to join us on for the first networking event of the year,
as and opportunity to build relationships, connect and share ideas. Drinks and nibbles will be provided by Metro Bank.
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BIG Innovation Support Programme - Free taster
Venue: Online Wednesday 6th April 09:30am - 11.00am
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Fire Warden Marshal Training Venue:
Trinitarian Bible Society, Wimbledon Thursday 28th April 9:30am - 12:30pm
If you have a key role to play within the management of fire safety in the workplace, then please join us for a practical workshop and undertake practical demonstrations including extinguishing different types of fire and using fire extinguishers.
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KICKSTART EMPLOYERS UPDATE |
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Don't forget if you are eligible for wrap-around training for
your 16-24 year old Kickstarter as part of the Government’s Kickstart Scheme, they can attend our free workshops. The workshops help them
build valuable skills as they look for permanent employment.
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CANONS HOUSE - A HIDDEN GEM |
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Canons House in Mitcham has been restored to its former glory, thanks to funding from The National Lottery and support from lots of community groups. It's a fantastic space, showcasing the rich heritage of Canons House and its surroundings. We will be hosting a series of networking events and workshops later this year at the house. More news to follow soon and we’re looking forward to meeting and supporting businesses in the area.
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BIG South London facilitates collaborations between businesses and universities across South London. They are offering a great free to all, support programme, open to any of our members this spring.
They know change is the only constant so whatever stage your business is at on its innovation journey, they can help.
“From early-stage start-ups, social enterprises and charities looking to lay the foundations for success to established businesses needing extra support to move to the next level of growth – there is an element of the programme that will suit your needs.” BIG South London. Applications close 10th April 2022 - the course runs from 18th April-17th June.
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NEW BUSINESS APP - MERTON LOCAL |
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Merton Council has
partnered with bubltown, a technology provider, to create Merton Local, a
mobile application and associated website exclusively for businesses in the
borough. It will help you to promote and sell your products and services
directly to residents.
It takes less than five minutes to register
so sign up now and get started!
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GET BACK ON TRACK WITH MERTON CHAMBER |
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Have you taken advantage of our FREE Get Back on Track service yet? Give your business a helping hand with any challenges post Covid-19.
Our specialist advisers will help you devise deliverable and practical solutions.
The team working with us have real industry experience and know just how tough it is to get a business back on track.
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MEMBERS' BUSINESS DIRECTORY |
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Are you looking to work with other Chamber members? Search our comprehensive members’ directory here.
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Did
you know that supporting Merton Giving means any benefit stays right here in
our borough and makes a positive difference to local people on our
doorstep? We can help you link into the local
charitable community through a range of different ways to suit different
business priorities and needs. Find out
more about Merton Giving and contact us at hello@mertongiving.co.uk to have a
chat about how we can work together.
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OUR THANKS TO OUR PATRON MEMBERS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT |
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Working with Merton Council to support local businesses in Merton.
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