|
|
We were delighted to see new faces and old friends in-person at our first networking event post Covid-19, the atmosphere was super. Thank you to our sponsors Hartley Fowler LLP and Metro Bank Wimbledon for hosting us. Looking forward to the next one! This month we have included links to some useful sources of support for businesses looking to address skills gaps, make the most of their apprenticeship levy and start on the road to net zero.
|
|
|
|
We have also included two guides from the National Cyber Security Centre on protecting against cyber security breaches. Sadly a very topical issue.
In Merton over 10,000 of our businesses classify as micro businesses. Did you know if you pay the Apprenticeship Levy but don’t need it, you can gift it to help another business take on an apprentice? You can find out more on your Apprenticeship Levy account. A great, and free, way to support economic recovery in Merton.
As ever, please get in touch if we can support or connect your business.
Best wishes,
Merton Chamber CEO
|
|
IN-PERSON NETWORKING IS BACK |
|
|
|
A huge thank you to Hartley Fowler LLP who sponsored our first in-person networking event on 6th April. The evening saw 45 local business people connecting again, sharing ideas and rekindling old friendships. Also a big thank you to the amazing Metro Bank Wimbledon team for providing the wine and nibbles and for making our first post Covid in-person networking event such a success!
|
|
SPONSORS RETURN TO SUPPORT MERTON BEST BUSINESS AWARDS |
|
|
|
The 2022 Merton Best Business Awards will officially launch at New Wimbledon Theatre on Tuesday 24th May, with a new set of categories to celebrate and recognise businesses that have not only survived the events of the past two years, but continue to show resilience, excellence, innovation and best practice. Now in its tenth year, the awards could not go ahead without the generous support of our sponsors. We are delighted to welcome back WSM Advisors, London Borough of Merton, Hartley Fowler, Morr & Co, Centre Court Shopping, Love Wimbledon, New Wimbledon Theatre, Andrew Scott Robertson, Merton Giving, South Thames Colleges Group, Qudo Cloud – and new this year CHAS. We also welcome back award partners Time & Leisure Creative and Wimbledon Business Studio.
|
|
|
|
|
Skillwise 95% discount on professional development programme
Skillwise are offering our members a £4,500 professional Leadership and Management programme for just £225. If you are an Apprenticeship Levy payer you could use it to pay the £225 too! To sign up contact sarah@mertonchamber.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
Get Back on Track - Cyber security alert! New London Chamber of Commerce figures show the frequency of cyber attacks is increasing. • Almost 31% of businesses and 26% of charities said they now experience breaches or attacks at least once a week. These guides provide simple steps on how to protect your money and data.
Cyber Security - Small Business Guide Cyber Security - Small Charity Guide
|
|
|
|
|
Use your Apprenticeship Levy for good!
The Apprenticeship Levy is paid by businesses who have an annual pay bill of more than £3 million and is paid at a rate of 0.5% of an employer’s annual pay bill.
Did you know you can use your Apprenticeship Levy to support local businesses by opting in to transfer your apprenticeship Levy?.
You decide which businesses and apprenticeships you support.
Find out more here.
|
|
|
|
|
Ukraine conflict and what it means for UK energy supplies
The British Chambers of Commerce recently published this interesting article. Key points include: 5-6% of UK gas comes from Russia Energy UK has warned the price cap may rise to £2,400 in October Our increasing use of renewable energy has seen electricity prices rise at a slower rate
To read the full article click here.
|
|
|
|
|
Road to net zero - Free online clinic Green Business Online Clinic:
London Chamber of Commerce is hosting an event on Wednesday 20 April 2022, 10:30-1130am, aimed at helping businesses take the first steps on their net zero journeys.
|
|
|
|
The panel chaired by Mark Jenkinson of Crystal Associates includes:
- Maggie Berry OBE, Director, The Heart of the City
- Rob Allison, Carbon Solutions Director, Auditel (U.K.) Limited
- Joe Gallagher, Director, Advanced UK
- Rory Capper, Head of Sustainability, Paper Round
- Katherine McCullough, Development Director (Head of UK Property), Merchant Land
Register for the event here.
|
|
|
Better Futures+ Better Futures+ is the fastest growing sustainability programme for London’s SMEs. It provides free support to help jumpstart your journey to net zero. Webinar based programme launches 25th May.
|
|
|
|
Businesses gain access to a comprehensive package including a 1:2:1 carbon footprinting session with a business advisor using a carbon management platform and reduction planner. Sign up now here.
|
|
|
Emergency First Aid at Work Wednesday 27th April 9.30am - 4.30pm This course is ideal for smaller workplaces that present few health and safety risks. During this full day course, you will learn basic life saving first aid and workplace health and safety regulations.
|
|
|
|
Fire Warden Marshal Training
Thursday 28th April
9.30am - 12.30pm
This hands-on practical workshop is aimed at those employees within the organisation who have a key role to play within the management of fire safety in the workplace.
|
|
|
|
Common Ground Launch
Thursday 5th May
4.00pm - 6.00pm
We are pleased to invite you to celebrate the opening of Common Ground, by Spacemade.
Join us to find out more about Common Ground and network with other local businesses over some delicious canapes and drinks.
|
|
|
|
Merton Best Business Awards Launch
Tuesday 24th May 3.30pm - 5.00pm
Join us to help us kick off Merton’s business awards season in style! The launch of the Merton Best Business Awards, on the stage of the iconic New Wimbledon Theatre, will provide guests with an ideal opportunity to meet past winners, our fabulous sponsors and network with other Merton businesses.
|
|
|
|
Wombledon Rounders, BBQ and Disco
Friday 17th June
5.00pm - 11.30pm
We are delighted to announce that after two years, Wombledon Rounders is back! The event is a fun evening, full of friendly competition, a delicious BBQ and a disco. What more could you want from a lovely summers evening?
|
|
|
|
AGM and 30th Birthday Celebration - SAVE THE DATE
Thursday 30th June
6.00pm - 9.00pm
We look forward to hosting our AGM and 30th birthday celebration in the stunning setting of Morden Hall. More information to follow. Watch this space!
|
|
|
|
|
Merton Council recently launched a local e-commerce rewards app. The app features local deals, businesses, events, attractions, and more, all accessible from the palm of your hand. |
|
|
|
|
PRIVILEGE CARD DISCOUNT OFFERS |
|
|
Work in Wimbledon Town Centre? Unlock great discounts in town.
Apply for Love Wimbledon's Privilege Card to take advantage of great shopping, dining and entertainment offers.
|
|
|
|
|
MEMBERS' BUSINESS DIRECTORY |
|
|
Are you looking to work with other Chamber members? Search our comprehensive members’ directory by clicking the button below.
|
|
|
|
|
Merton Giving is
currently working with a number of local businesses to enable them to give
locally in a way which fits with their priorities.
If you’d like to have
a chat about how you can work with Merton Giving to support our local community
then get in touch at hello@mertongiving.co.uk
|
|
|
|
|
OUR THANKS TO OUR PATRON MEMBERS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT |
|
|
|
|
Working with Merton Council to support local businesses in Merton.
|
|
|
|
|
|