1. business and industrial

Edition 118: Week commencing Monday 21 November 2011
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Finding what you want!
Headings in Essex Voice of Business Online have now been colour coded to make it easier for you
to find the items that interest you most.

Events – a full listing of events through until 2012 can be found at Essex Events

Tender Opportunities

Workshops and Seminars

Apprenticeship Opportunities

FSB Updates

Lobbying and Campaigning Issues

Information and Consultations

Special Offers and Discounts for FSB Members

Business Awards

Advertisements
Maldon Voice Of Business Breakfast Briefing: LAST CHANCE TO BOOK! How
To Win Public Sector Contracts, Fast Broadband and Growing your Business
FREE to attend for Maldon Businesses
Tolleshunt Knights: Wednesday 23 November 2011 7.30am until 9.30am
Winning public sector contracts is the topic for this breakfast briefing run in partnership with Maldon District
Council, Essex 2012 Legacy Team, Crowne Plaza Resort Colchester Five Lakes and Business Link.
Speakers include experts from Maldon District Council and the Essex 2012 Legacy Team PLUS find out
about the grants and help available to grow your business and detail so of the new high speed wireless
broadband launched in Maldon last year.
See for yourself the improvements at this prestigious venue following a £1 million plus investment.
Book Now!
Rainham Voice of Business Briefing: LAST CHANCE TO BOOK! Let’s Get
Ready For The Olympics PLUS Transport for London on the Low Emission
Zone Expansion PLUS Research Grants for Your Business FREE TO ATTEND
FOR FSB MEMBERS
Rainham: Wednesday 23 November 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm
If you drive into London you need to be at this event which will explain the expansion of the Low Emission
Zone from January 2012 and answer your questions about road closures and changes for the 2012 Games.
If you‘re looking for money to help grow your business then come along and find out how the Government
can help finance your Research and Development.
Add to that good networking and a presentation on accessing Government support for your business
research and it‘s an action packed evening of information.
Book Now!
Epping Forest Business Conference and Launch of One Shops Local FREE
TO ATTEND FOR EPPING FOREST BASED BUSINESSES
Loughton: Tuesday 29 November 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm
What is Epping Forest doing to help local businesses?
The launch of One Shops Local will help answer that question!
Come along and question senior councillors about their policies and network with fellow local businesses
while discovering how One Shops Local can boost your business.... at no cost to you!
Book Now!
Thurrock Voice of Business Briefing: Let’s Get Ready For The Olympics PLUS
Getting the Right Insurance for Your Business PLUS No Win, No Fee Debt
Recovery FREE TO ATTEND FOR FSB MEMBERS
Thurrock: Wednesday 30 November 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm
Making sure your insurance cover is at the correct level can save your business if a problem arises and
getting payments from customers is also essential for business survival.
This evening gives you advice and help to achieve both plus good networking activity.
Book Now!
We Need Your Voice!
Essex FSB uses data from members to help its lobbying and campaigning – each month there is a Voice of
Small Business Survey which gathers data on current economic conditions and key issues of concern to
members.
The data gathered is used for national and local lobbying.
More than 4,400 members are already participating in that survey panel taking 10 minutes each month to
tick the survey boxes which apply to them.
BUT WE NEED YOU TOO!
The more members who participate in the survey the better the quality of data we have available so if you
are not already receiving that monthly survey please sign up for it here.
Redbridge Voice of Business Briefing: Let’s Get Ready For The Olympics
PLUS Transport for London on the Low Emission Zone Expansion PLUS
Cutting Fuel Costs FREE TO ATTEND FOR FSB MEMBERS
Little Heath: Tuesday 13 December 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm
If you do business in London you need to be at this event which will explain the expansion of the Low
Emission Zone from January 2012 and answer your questions about road closures and changes for the
2012 Games.
Add to that good networking and a presentation on accessing Government support for your business
research and it‘s an action packed evening of information.
Book Now!
Do You Need To Strengthen Your HR Team Next Summer?
Essex FSB has received this message from an undergraduate at Anglia Ruskin University – can you
help?
―I am looking for a summer placement, preferably working in HR, where I can bring to your business my
skills in independent research, self-motivation and team developed while studying a BA (Hons) Business
Management degree at Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford. I graduate on 2013 and believe the nature
of my current degree course has prepared me to work as part of a business management team I have also
gained valuable insights into retail through my work at Sports Direct in Braintree.
If you are interested in finding out more about what I can bring to your business please contact Jade King‖
Championing the UK's Real-Life Entrepreneurs
London: Thursday 08 December 2011 6.00pm until 9.30pm
You are invited to join the FSB Greater London Region for this free Real Life Entrepreneurs Event,
supported by the London Apprenticeship Company
The evening will commence with networking to be followed by a tale of two halves
The Politicians view of Real Life Entrepreneurship
We will be joined by London Mayoral Candidates: Jenny Jones AM (Green), Ken Livingstone (Labour) and
Brian Paddick (Liberal Democrat) who will give short speeches on their vision for London's own Real Life
Entrepreneurs.
The Real Life Entrepreneur's view
Serial entrepreneur, best-selling business author and weekly Financial Times columnist
Mike Southon will be giving a highly interactive presentation on the FSB's new campaign to promote Real
life Entrepreneurship
This presentation will feature material from Mike Southon and Chris West's bestselling books The Beermat
Entrepreneur, Sales on a Beermat, Finance on a Beermat and Marketing on a Beermat, as well as his
experiences from mentoring over 1,000 people in the last 10 years.
Mike will also provide strategies for business growth through increased revenue, building high-performance
teams, how to find and be a mentor, dealing with the banks, raising funds, exit strategies and The Meaning
of Life – how to do all the above and still enjoy life!
Book Now!
Focus Group For Businesses In The Thames Gateway Corridor
Thurrock: Thursday 12 January 2012 6.00pm until 8.30pm
If you are a business based in the Thames Gateway corridor this is an opportunity to identify, share and
discuss the challenges that are standing in the way of business growth:
 Is it infrastructure or venture capital?
 Is it access to marketing and markets?
 Is it the regulatory requirements and if so which ones?
 Can the tax system be more responsive and if so what would work for you?
A great chance to voice your thoughts and ideas and thinking about the next step for your business and the
Thames Gateway Corridor.
Information provided will be treated in confidence and a summary will be given to the
Thames Gateway Partnership and the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.
Book Now!
New Network Group Being Launched in 2012
Canvey Island: Thursday 12 January 2012 7.30am until 9.00am
This is the first meeting of a new FSB Network Group based in Canvey Island, which is the first such group
to be launched in the Castle Point District Council area.
The group will meet monthly on the second Thursday of each month and is coordinated by Fred O‘Brien of
TaxAssist Accountants.
Book Now!
Business Network Groups
Essex FSB supports a number of regular Network Groups which have a good track record of helping
members win new business.
Eastwood: Monday 21 November 2011 4.00pm until 6.00pm
Book Now!
Rawreth: Wednesday 23 November 2011 11.00am until 12.30pm
Book Now!
Redbridge: Friday 25 November October 2011 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Maldon: Friday 25 November 2011 4.00pm until 6.00pm
Book Now!
Colchester: Friday 25 November 2011 4.30pm until 6.30pm
Book Now!
Hornchurch: Friday 02 December 2011 7.30am until 9.00am
This event is in partnership with The Queen‘s Theatre, Hornchurch.
Book Now!
Chelmsford: Friday 02 December 2011 4.30pm until 6.30pm
Book Now!
Witham: Friday 02 December 2011 4.30pm until 6.30pm
Book Now!
Westcliff-on-Sea: Wednesday 07 December 2011 7.30am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Billericay: Thursday 08 December 2011 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Rainham: Tuesday 13 December 2011 7.45am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Holland-on-Sea: Wednesday 14 December 2011 7.30am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Wickford: Wednesday 14 December 2011 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Thurrock: Thursday 15 December 2011 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Brentwood: Thursday 15 December 2011 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Leigh-on-Sea: Tuesday 20 December 2011 7.30am until 9.00am
Book Now!
Basildon: Wednesday 21 December 2011 7.30am until 9.30am
Book Now!
Canvey Island: Thursday 12 January 2012 7.30am until 9.00am LAUNCH DATE FOR NEW
GROUP!
Book Now!
Counter Terrorism and Extremism awareness event FREE TO ATTEND
South Ockendon: Thursday 24 November 2011 5.00pm until 9.00pm
How would you deal with a Counter Terrorism Operation in Thurrock?
Find out about the key role you would play at an event hosted by the Thurrock Community Safety
Partnership, Essex Police and Thurrock Council.
 Identify issues that require a partnership approach.
 Consider the implications of a terrorist incident in a public place.
 Develop a media approach in response.
 Identify key contacts in the community.
 Agree how to develop a strategy and action plan to manage consequences.
Tess Wisbey and Jane Morgan, Essex Police will lead the hands on event which will include a scenario of a
terrorist event and how planning can help control a situation.
Book Now by email
Hornchurch Business Exhibition and Network Event - FREE TO ATTEND
Hornchurch: Monday 28 November 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm
The Queen‘s Theatre once again organises this popular annual event which attracts
many visitors.
In the vibrant surroundings of the Queen's Theatre, guests can take advantage of
valuable networking opportunities, get a solid feel for the local business environment, learn new skills and
make new contacts as they meet exhibitors from organisations based all over the region.
Cllr Michael White, Havering Council Leader, will give an opening speech and delegates can enjoy a
champagne reception and a delicious free buffet. A series of Coaching Taster Sessions will also offer the
chance to gain insight into business training, development and leadership.
Entertainment highlights include: exclusive sneak previews of this year's Queen's panto Cinderella, with
tours to watch part of the dress rehearsal; raiding the Theatre's colourful Wardrobe in a Dressing-Up
Session; a Prize Draw offering a Queen's Jump the Q Season Ticket and a bottle of bubbly; exclusive ticket
discounts at Queen's performances; and the chance to book free backstage tours.
Book Now!
Havering Council Leader’s Business Briefing
Gidea Park: Wednesday 30 November 2011 5.30pm until 7.30pm
As Leader of the Council, Councillor Michael White, will give a short round up of Council news before
handing over to David Silvey from TfL who will be joining us to give valuable information which allows both
freight operators and businesses to plan around road restrictions during the Games.
There will be an opportunity to ask questions, followed by networking with other businesses while
refreshments and a buffet are served.
Book Now by email
New To Business: Everything You Want To Know About Starting And Running
A Company FREE TO ATTEND
Harlow: Thursday 01 December 2011 4.00pm until 7.00pm
Organised as part of a programme involving the West Essex Enterprise Group this event will have experts
available to answer your questions on starting a business.
Book Now by email.
Essex Connections Networking Event
Warley: Thursday 01 December 2011 6.00pm until 8.00pm
Essex Connections returns to Brentwood.
Book Now!
Innovation, Research and Development Grant Funding Workshop
Colchester: Thursday 01 December 2011 9.30am until 1.00pm
This free to attend workshop covers funding available locally, nationally and from the European Union.
More details by email
CoastNet Conference
London: Monday 05 December 2011
CoastNet research has shown that a disproportionate amount of deprivation in the UK is to be found in
coastal settlements. For example, about a third of England‘s population live in coastal areas whilst over 40%
of the most deprived neighbourhoods are to be found there. Similarly, the economy of coastal areas, and
this is not just seaside towns, underperforms when compared to inland areas by over 20%. (Click here to
view the report.)
More details
4N Networking Groups
Basildon: Friday 25 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Bishop’s Stortford: Thursday 01 December 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Braintree: Tuesday 29 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Chelmsford: Thursday 24 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Colchester: Friday 02 December 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Dunmow: Tuesday 29 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Harlow: Friday 25 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Leigh-on-Sea: Wednesday 30 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Maldon: Tuesday 22 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Romford: Thursday 01 December 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Saffron Walden: Tuesday 22 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Waltham Abbey: Friday 02 December 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Witham: Tuesday 22 November 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
These groups meet fortnightly.
More details
Bishop’s Stortford Breakfast Club
Much Hadham: Wednesday 14 December 2011 8.00am until 10.00am
Book Now!
Bishop’s Stortford Business Connections
Much Hadham: First and Third Tuesday of each month 6.00pm until 8.00pm
Book Now by email
BNI Witham
BNI launched a new group in Witham in September which means there are vacancies in all business
categories.
More details by email
Breakfast for Business..... And Lunch Too!
Colchester: Wednesday 30 November 2011 6.45am until 8.30am – then fortnightly
Colchester: Thursday 24 November 2011 11.45am until 1.30pm
Witham: Thursday 01 December 2011 6.45am until 8.30am – then fortnightly
Book Now by email!
Brentwood Business Biscotti Network Group FREE to attend for FSB Members
Brentwood: First Friday of each month 10.00am until 12 noon
Business Biscotti is not like other networking groups, it is very informal with no restrictions. It is free to join
online and free to attend the meetings so you can just drop in when you want to.
For all those of you out there this could be your answer to meeting more people to do business with.
More Details
BRX Stansted Airport
Stansted: Every Thursday 7.00am until 9.00am
More details by email
Business United BNI.
Dagenham: Every Friday 11.45am until 1.45pm
Book Now by email
Catalyst Network Group
Colchester: Every Wednesday 6.45am until 8.30am
What makes Catalyst Business Networking unique is our approach, we hold cutting edge ‗business clinics‘
and ‗business education‘ slots which turn our group into a think tank geared for your success.
You may also be surprised to hear that our primary goal is NOT referrals. Our prime focus is on the growth
of the business and the business owner, because of this deep relationships are built and high quality
referrals naturally follow.
Book Now by email
Chafford Hundred Mum’s Business Club
Chafford Hundred: Monthly Meetings
This is a networking group that meets at least once a month and it is for mums in business, about to start a
business and not sure of the business idea.
Mums business club gives us an opportunity to chat in an informal environment with the kids too and
explore new possibilities.
More details
Chelmsford Business Connections
Chelmsford: First and Third Thursdays of each month 7.00am until 8.30am
No Membership fee, £25 per month for two breakfasts.
More details
Chelmsford NetLinked Group
Chelmsford: Alternate Wednesdays 7.30am until 9.00am
More details
Chingford Business Network
Chingford: Second Tuesday of each month 12 noon until 2.00pm
More details
CM Connected Network Breakfast
High Ongar: Friday 09 December 2011 7.30am until 9.30am
Networking event in partnership with CM Connected magazine. Essex FSB will have an information stand at
this event.
Book Now by email
Colchester Connected Networking Breakfast
Feering: Friday 25 November 2011 7.30am until 10.30am
Regularly more than 200 local business people attend this event – are you missing out?
Essex FSB will have an information stand at this event.
Book Now by email!
Colchester Jelly Network Group
Colchester: First Friday of every month 9.30am until 5.30pm
This is a free to attend network group.
Book Now!
Colchester NetLinked Group
Colchester: Alternate Wednesdays 7.30am until 9.00am
More details by email
Damsels In Success
Chelmsford: Monday 12 December 2011 6.30pm until 9.30pm
Book Now!
Danbury Business Networking
Danbury: Third Wednesday of every month 4.30pm until 6.30pm
More details
Dragon Jelly Network Group
Leigh-on-Sea: Wednesday 30 November 2011 9.00am until 5.00pm
This is a free to attend network group.
Book Now!
East London And Essex Networking
Aldgate East: Second Monday of each month 11.00am until 2.00pm
Barking: Usually first Tuesday of each month 11.00am until 2.00pm
Hornchurch: Usually last Tuesday of each month 11.00am until 2.00pm
Stratford: Usually third Monday of each month 11.00am until 2.00pm
The meeting pattern for these groups does vary and you are strongly advised to check on the website.
More details.
EBANG Essex Business Advisers Networking Group
Eastwood: Third Monday of each month 4.00pm until 6.00pm
Book Now!
Essex Business Club
Chelmsford: First Tuesday of each month 7.30pm until 9.30pm
Ideal for the new business start-up, feeling its way into the business community, and small business wanting
to expand. The Essex Business Club is a member-run networking and support organisation for businesses
in Essex. Our members include start-ups, micro businesses and larger enterprises across a wide range of
products and services. Our December meeting [6th] incorporates our AGM [very short] and is followed by a
fun-filled festive quiz. Members and guests are welcome to attend the quiz - there is a small fee of £5 per
head to cover the cost of nibbles and light refreshments and prizes are awarded to the winners. If you want
more details, or would like to come along, please register your interest [we have a limit on numbers] to
[email protected]
More details
Essex Business Forum
Great Warley: Every Thursday 6.30am until 8.30am
More details
Essex Business Network
Basildon: Thursday 24 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Billericay: Thursday 01 December 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm – Christian Business Network Group
Billericay: Thursday 08 December 2011 6.00pm until 8.30pm – Social Networking for Business
Brentwood: Thursday 24 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Chelmsford: Friday 25 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Chelmsford: Friday 25 November 2011 12 noon until 2.00pm – Lunch Group
Romford: Wednesday 23 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Southend-on-Sea: Tuesday 22 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Witham: Friday 25 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am
Essex Business Network offers relaxed and informal business networking with no gimmicks, committees or
grading of networkers.
Book Now!
Essex EventNet
Bishop’s Stortford: first Tuesday of each month 12 noon until 2.00pm
Chelmsford: last Tuesday of each month 12 noon until 2.00pm
Colchester: Third Wednesday of each month 12 noon until 2.00pm
Southend-on-Sea: Third Wednesday of each month 7.00pm until 9.00pm
More details
Essex Property Network
Brentwood: Tuesday 10 January 2012 6.30pm until 9.30pm
A networking group for anyone involved in the property industry.
Book Now!
Grapevine Network Group
Chelmsford: Friday 25 November 2011 5.00pm until 7.00pm
Book Now by email
Harlow and District Chamber of Commerce
High Wych: Wednesday 14 December 2011 12.30pm onwards Christmas Lunch
Book Now by email!
Hello Network Group
Harlow: Monday 21 November 2011 08.00 until 10.00am then fortnightly
More details
IN8 Networking Groups
Westcliff-on-Sea: Every Tuesday 7.00am until 9.00am
Brentwood: Every Wednesday 6.30am until 8.30am
More details
LLEA Network Event
Colchester: Third Thursday of each month 6.45pm until 8.30pm
More details
Network Group at CEME
Rainham: Every Friday 7.00am until 9.00am
Why not give this new network group a trial?
Book Now by email.
Newport Business Association Breakfast
Newport: Last Friday of each month 8.00am until 9.30am
Book Now by email
Nexus Networking Group
Great Warley: Every Thursday 6.45am until 8.30am
Book Now!
PING (Park Inn Network Group)
Harlow: Third Friday of each month 8.00am until 9.30am
PING combines face-to-face breakfast networking with hints and tips about the effective use of social
media.
Book Now!
Saffron Walden Business Forum
Saffron Walden: Tuesday 06 December 2011 12 noon until 2.00pm
Christmas Lunch and Networking Event
More details by email
Select Network Business Breakfasts
Brentwood: Every Friday 7.00am for 7.15am start until 9.00am.
Chelmsford: Every Wednesday 7.00am for 7.15am start until 9.00am.
Visitors £15 for first breakfast meeting, then FREE voucher for next meeting.
More details
Stansted Business Breakfast Network Group
Stansted: Friday 25 November 2011 7.00am until 9.00am and alternate Fridays
Book Now!
Stansted Professionals Lunch
Stansted: Friday 02 December 2011 12 noon until 2.00pm
Book Now by email
Southend Network Group
Southend-on-Sea: Friday 02 December 2011 1.00pm until 3.00pm
A free to attend network event.
Book by email.
Southend Peers Business Network
Southend-on-Sea: Every Thursday 7.00am until 8.45am
This network group is looking for new members.
More details by email
The Business Allotment
Waltham Abbey: Second Monday of each month 4.00pm until 7.00pm
A monthly business development club that helps you grow your business with a unique mix of business
coaching, skills training, ideas and inspiration.
Book Now!
2
The Lead Generation Club Network Group
Braintree: Every Tuesday 7.15am until 9.00am
Book Now by email
Dunmow: Every Wednesday 7.30am until 9.30am
Book Now by email
The Professional Network Group
Stansted: First Friday of each month 2011 12.30pm until 2.30pm
Book Now by email
Thurrock Mum’s Business Club
Thurrock: Monthly Meetings
This is a networking group that meets at least once a month and it is for mums in business, about to start a
business and not sure of the business idea.
Mums business club gives us an opportunity to chat in an informal environment with the kids too and
explore new possibilities.
More details
Wake Up Business Club
Basildon: Every Tuesday 6.45am until 8.30am
Book Now!
Work Related Learning Expo - Stand Bookings now being taken
Rainham: Tuesday 22 November 2011 9.00am until 12.30pm
Organised by Havering Council the aim of this event is to offer businesses the opportunity to meet and
explore ideas with senior managers, WRL co-ordinators, curriculum managers, career advisors and staff
within our learning establishments who have direct or indirectly responsibility to embed Employer
Engagement and Work Related Learning into their curriculum.
More details by email
African Entrepreneurs Business Exhibition and Networking Event
Dagenham: Saturday 03 December 2012 9.30am until 3.00pm
A new exhibition aimed at promoting the work being done by African Entrepreneurs in Essex and East
London.
More details by email
Business East 2012 Business Exhibition - Stand Bookings now being taken
Colchester: Wednesday 07 March 2012 10.00am until 4.00pm
More details by email
Harlow Business Exhibition - Stand Bookings now being taken
High Wych: Tuesday 12 June 2012 7.30am until 4.00pm
More details.
Maldon Business Exhibition
Maldon: Friday 15 June 2012 9.30am until 4.00pm
More details to be announced.
Update Your FSB Email Preferences
FSB members can now update their email preferences easily by logging onto the FSB Update Facility. You
can update your email addresses, select whether or not you wish to receive general emails from the FSB
and also how you wish to receive the Annual Report paperwork.
Havering College’s Apprenticeship Scheme
Havering College is developing an Apprenticeship Training Association which will be specifically designed to
support employers who wish to take on an apprentice but are unable to in the current economic climate.
In particular we can support employers whose order book will not currently allow them to commit to
employing an apprentice for the full period of the Apprenticeship, but know that they will need fully trained
employees when the economy picks up.
The distinctive feature of our ATA model is that it is the ATA who acts as the apprentice employer and
who places them with a host employer. The host employer pays the ATA a fee for the apprentices‘ services;
this fee being based on the wage agreed with the host and the ATA management fee.
Havering College‘s ATA model offers other benefits for the employer.
These include:
 Support with recruitment – we will help you find the right apprentice to meet the your needs
 The ATA will take on the responsibility for wages, tax, National Insurance as well as
administration and performance management
 Supervision of the apprentice during the Apprenticeship period
 Links with an approved training provider and support to both the apprentice and host employer
throughout the Apprenticeship
More details by email
Essex Apprenticeship Scheme Subsidies
Essex County Council has announced details of funding it has received to support the salaries and training
of apprentices in Essex – in some industry sectors this can be 100%.
If you are considering taking on extra staff the Essex Apprenticeship Scheme could be a cost effective way
of recruiting.
More details
Would Your Business Benefit From A Higher Apprenticeship?
Higher apprenticeship frameworks currently exist in; Accounting, business and administration, contact
centre operations, engineering technology, food and drink, IT and telecoms, Financial advice and leadership
and management but there are opportunities to develop new frameworks.
There is now an opportunity to build upon the methodologies of our already successful activity under the
Diversity in Apprenticeship programme, in which Association of Colleges in the Eastern Region (ACER)
have project managed a group of providers working at the local level to identify and address local needs
with significant success.
The programme runs from 2011 to March 2013 and will be focused on achieving learner starts and long
term sustainable outcomes.
Essex County Council is exploring what Higher Apprenticeships may be needed by businesses in the
county to make submissions under this scheme.
Send your suggestions to Essex FSB Development Manager Keith Brown
Apprenticeships: Support and Guidance
The National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) has responsibility for the development and growth of
Apprenticeships in England.
Locally the NAS is working with partners, including Essex FSB, and businesses to support the expansion of
Apprenticeship opportunities in the county.
To find out how Apprenticeships can be good for your business in Essex.
More details
Or call one of the Employer Services Managers below:
Dorothy Holland (Thurrock, Brentwood, Epping, Harlow and Uttlesford) T: 07766 780737
Rachel Dawson (Southend, Rochford, Castle Point and Basildon) T: 07810 757254
Apprenticeship Subsidies Available in Southend-on-Sea!
The Low Carbon Business Programme is now offering subsidies to help SMEs take on
apprentices.
In addition to the business audits, signposting and grants already available through the Low
Carbon Business Programme we can now offer financial support in taking on an apprentice.
What's in it for you?


The Programme will provide a significant contribution towards the wages of the apprentice
The apprentice will receive a FREE sustainability workshop place so they can measurably help your
business improve and grow
More details
Apprenticeships: Innovative Training – Staff development opportunities for
FSB members!
Lota Training are an innovative training provider with sites across Essex, delivering Apprenticeship training
with a real understanding of the needs of the employer. Lota was created to bridge the gap between
education and business and now offers a wide selection of courses to compliment businesses in Essex.
Lota strives to be the provider of choice for employers and learners alike. Our commercially experienced
staff are committed to delivering quality training solutions that have a real impact on the individual and the
success of any organisation.
Lota delivers Apprenticeships and business training in the following occupations:
Business Administration
Customer Service
Hospitality & Catering
Engineering
IT Professional
Construction (multi-trades)
Childcare
Team Leading
Management
Motor Vehicle Repair
In addition, to ensure our apprentices are more mobile in the current job market, Lota offers FREE DRIVING
LESSONS
(terms
and
conditions
apply)
to
all
learners
on
an
Apprenticeship.
Why don't you benefit from our free apprentice recruitment service and start to "Grow Your Own Talent"!!
Contact Wendy Twydell for further information.
CUT THE COST OF RECRUITING BY TAKING ON AN APPRENTICE
LifeSkills is a National Training Provider based in Basildon catering for all ages but especially the 16 - 18
year olds across Essex. We operate The Apprenticeship Training Programme, where we match suitable
employers with high calibre 16-18 year olds while they are studying for their Level 2 Certificate in Business
Administration Apprenticeship or Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service Apprenticeship.
Should you be currently recruiting or looking to expand your business LifeSkills can act as your “Free
Recruitment Service” giving you a very cost effective solution.
Taking on an Apprentice couldn‘t be easier, just give us a brief idea of what you‘re looking for and we will do
the rest. We have a pool of students, ranging from 16 year old School leavers looking for their first job,
through to more experienced 18 year olds studying towards their level 3 Apprenticeship. We carefully match
candidates before sending them along for you to interview and make the final decision.
Your financial contribution is minimal; from just £100pw you can employ an Apprentice on our
Apprenticeship Training Programme with day release for college.
Alternatively, should you require a full time Apprentice with no day release we can deliver the
Apprenticeship in the work place, with a learning adviser visiting you every fortnight.
We can also offer “Free” NVQ training packages to your existing staff, for example, business admin,
customer service, retail, team leading and management.
If you would like to find out more, please email Stuart Goudge
Register To Receive Tender Opportunities
If you want to bid for public sector contracts register your details here to receive regular email alerts.
Procurement Website Opens For Business
The Government has launched its Contract Finder website and a feedback form if you have any problems.
Have You Experienced Problems With The Procurement Process?
You can now report any problems you have with the procurement process to the Government through the
Extended Supplier Feedback
Tender Opportunities
Information Service
via
Essex
County
Council
Libraries
Business
Below are details of a selection of tenders issued by public sector organisations in Essex, Havering and
Redbridge.
London: Repair and maintenance of Gas and non gas fired appliances (Reference: 328980) Deadline:
Wednesday 23 November 2011
Witham: Personal Development Training Services (Reference: 344673) Deadline: Monday 05 December
2011
Redbridge: Provision of Passenger Assistants on Transport for Young People with Special Educational
Needs (Reference: 14368) Deadline: Thursday 08 December 2011.
Rainham/Ingrebourne: Ingrebourne Hill Vegetation Maintenance Contract (Reference: 2798) Deadline:
Wednesday 04 April 2012.
For more information on any of the above contracts please contact Essex County Council Libraries
Business Information Service at [email protected] or telephone 01245 492535.
South East LEP Tender Opportunities via Essex County Council Libraries
Business Information Service
Below are details of a selection of tenders issued by public sector organisations in the area covered by the
South East Local Enterprise Partnership
Canterbury: Provision of banking services (Reference: 340585) Deadline: Friday 25 November 2011
Lewes: Provision of radio, telecommunications and related equipment (Reference: 340720) Deadline:
Monday 28 November 2011
Canterbury: repair and maintenance of hospital equipment (Reference: 344796) Deadline: Tuesday 29
November 2011
East Sussex: Highways Maintenance Services (Reference: 344219) Deadline: Wednesday 30 November
2011
East Sussex and Kent: Highways Maintenance Services (Reference: 344223) Deadline: Wednesday 30
November 2011
Folkestone: Estate and Saloon Cars (Reference: 355415) Deadline: Wednesday 07 December 2011
Kent: Cut paper and Card (Reference 14954) Deadline: Friday 09 December 2011
West Malling: Photocopier paper (Reference: 344570) Deadline: Friday 09 December 2011
Eastbourne: Medical Consumables (Reference: 355328) Deadline: Monday 19 December 2011
Eastbourne: Taxi Services (Reference: 176456) Deadline: Monday 11 January 2012
East Sussex: Coastal flood risk modelling (Reference: 6964) Deadline: Monday 20 February 2012
Sussex: Analysis of date on adult reoffending (Reference: 13572) Deadline: Sunday 07 October 2012
For more information on any of the above contracts please contact Essex County Council Libraries
Business Information Service at [email protected] or telephone 01245 492535.
Tender Opportunities via Basildon Borough Council
1. Construction of Toilet and Trading Hut at Victoria Park, Laindon. Deadline for expression of interest:
12:00 noon, Tuesday 22 November 2011
2. Schedule of Rates for Miscellaneous Repairs and Maintenance Services (OJEU Reference: 11/S
203-330753/EN).
Deadline for return of pre qualification questionnaire: 12:00 noon, Monday 28 November 2011
More Details
Make Sure You Have Your Say On The Issue Of The Day
The FSB ‗Voice of Small Business‘ Survey Panel is growing and the data gained from it is being used not
only in the media, but in Parliament to give strength to arguments put forward on behalf of members, and to
ensure the interests of small firms are at the top of the political agenda.
FSB members can have their voice heard by signing up to the FSB Survey Panel.
Find out more about the survey.
Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards (up to 6 x £1,000 each month)
If you're aged 16-30 and need funding to get your new business idea or project off the ground, the Shell
LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards offers up to 6 x £1,000 prizes every month to the most innovative ideas
submitted by new businesses (in their first 12 months of trading).
Winners of the monthly Shell LiveWIRE Grand Ideas Awards will also be offered a range of 'value-added
prizes' throughout the year.
You've got until the last day of the month to enter the awards so apply now by logging in at the bottom of
this page!
Each month, the three Grand Ideas Award winners with the highest judges‘ scores will automatically be put
through to our ‗Hot 40‘ shortlist for the £10,000 Shell LiveWIRE Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, with
the remaining winners added to a pool of ‗sift entries‘.
Read more about our Changes to the Shell LiveWIRE Awards.
Apply online now for the chance to win £1,000 and £10,000 for your business.
Big Business Bullying
The BBC news website is looking to speak to suppliers that have received a letter from bigger businesses
demanding that they cut their prices. The BBC news website is investigating the racket in which retailers
demand that suppliers provide them with rebates or price cuts, in apparent breach of current supply terms,
but with the implicit threat that the supplier will lose future business if they do not comply. Email your
experiences.
Early Day Motion On Real-Life Entrepreneurship Campaign
Adrian Bailey MP has tabled an EDM in support of our campaign. Please encourage your MP to sign it.
New Small Claims Service
The Government has confirmed that a new small claims service will be introduced at the Patent County
Court helping small and medium sized businesses protect their copyright, patents, trade-marks and designs.
Currently small firms are often put off enforcing their Intellectual Property rights by high costs. The new
process will limit fixed costs and allow damages of up to £5,000 per case. New figures from Intellectual
Property Office estimate that around 150 firms will benefit from the service every year, providing an annual
boost to UK business of £350,000.
Public Procurement
Have you experienced any issues or barriers when bidding for public sector contracts in the past year? In
particular we are interested to hear from members who have found that financial requirements or eligibility
criteria imposed by the public sector buyer have prevented them from effectively bidding for a product or
service. We are currently collecting case studies on this issue and if this has happened to you, please
contact Matthew Pinner
Save Our Pubs
The FSB is speaking at an All Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group rally on 22 November in Parliament,
to persuade MPs to join the call for Government to act and introduce pubco reform, as recommended in the
recent Business and Innovation Select Committee report. Email if you are a licensee and would like to
attend.
Small Firms Code Of Conduct For Collecting Societies
New figures from the FSB show that a fifth of small businesses would like to see robust codes of conduct,
overseen by an independent ombudsman put in place to help improve the practices of collecting societies.
Read the press release and view the one pager.
As a result of FSB lobbying PPL has changed its charging policy for home and sole workers, meaning that it
will not charge if the music is not audible to visitors – something that PRS already does.
New Fraud Factsheets For Business
The Fraud Advisory Panel has issued two new factsheets for small businesses to help with identifying
internal fraud indicators and the risks to be aware of when using cloud computing technology.
Championing Real-Life Entrepreneurs – Tell Essex FSB Your Story
The FSB has launched its Real-Life Entrepreneurship campaign at the Liberal Democrat conference and is
urging the Business Secretary, Vince Cable MP to promote a more stable environment for Real-life
Entrepreneurs to thrive. Read the press release, view the manifesto, and find out more.
Essex FSB will be featuring Real Life Essex Entrepreneurs in each edition of our Essex Voice of Business
magazine so if you are based in Essex, Havering or Redbridge and have developed an unusual business,
have been in business for a good number of years and are celebrating a special anniversary, started small
and now employ many people, have opened up an unusual market or are launching a new business please
send details to Development Manager, Keith Brown
Tackling Retail Crime Together
Tackling Retail Crime Together is a website that enables retailers to share best practice of how they are
supporting their local communities and/or policing teams to reduce crime and criminality.
Network To Safeguard Rural Services
The FSB is working with the Rural Services Network to create a network of councils, schools and business
organisations in rural areas to develop best practice to safeguard services in rural communities. Visit the
website to find out more.
London 2012 Guide To Businesses
In response to requests from the business community, CCS has been working with Government
Departments and Olympic delivery partners including LOCOG, ODA and GLA to produce a guide for
businesses highlighting the key impacts that the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games could have
on the running of business.
The guide covers areas such as: staffing, internet and homeworking, telecoms, energy and water supplies,
security and travel disruption and offers some basic advice on how to manage these impacts. The guide is
aimed at businesses of all sizes, but will be particularly useful for smaller enterprises.
More details
Rochford Shop At My Local Scheme
The Shop At My local Scheme in Rochford now has more than 420 businesses registered. If your business
has a base in the Rochford District take a few minutes to visit the Shop At My Local website at where you
will find:
 News items – are you up to date with what‘s happening in the Rochford District Council area. Shop
at my Local news is updated on a regular basis and has a live feed from the Council‘s website. If
you have any news that you would like to share or feel would be relevant to other people in the
district please contact us.
 Events – don‘t miss out on local events in the Rochford District Council area. Along with local news
the events calendar is updated regularly. There are currently details about the Christmas Lights and
events taking place in Hockley, Hawkwell, Rochford and Rayleigh nearer to Christmas.
 Business Directory – please have a look at your business profile and make sure that it is up to date
with your current details to make sure that you don‘t miss out on any potential customers. If a
shopper or another business wants to use your services then this is where they will be able to see
your details. Make sure the information is up to date to so that you can be contacted easily.
 You can also follow the scheme on Twitter @ShopAtMyLocal.
Proposals To Charge For HSE Inspections Will Hit Small Firms Hardest
Proposals to charge small firms for 'material' faults found during inspections by the Health and Safety
Executive could damage relations and may be seen as a way to raise revenue rather than improving
compliance, the FSB has warned. Read the press release
FSB Full Member Survey 2011
The FSB launched its Membership Survey, the ‗Voice of Small Business‘ Member Survey, this week to
create a profile of members and establish views on key policy areas. This survey underpins the work of the
policy, public affairs and press teams at a national, devolved and regional level. The 2011 survey has been
emailed out to members and we urge as many of you as possible to take part. Members can also sign up to
the Survey Panel to give views on topics throughout the year.
Business Waste Commitments
Defra has launched a new recycling charter to help boost recycling rates and tackle the issues smaller
businesses face in getting access to waste services. Read the FSB‘s comments on BusinessGreen and
LetsRecycle and the press release
Consultation On Reducing Financial Reporting Regulations For Small Firms
More than 100,000 UK businesses could save more than £600 million in accountancy and administration
costs every year under proposals to reduce financial reporting requirements. The consultation on Audit
Exemptions and Change of Accounting Framework sets out plans to allow more small companies and
subsidiaries to decide whether or not to have an audit. To share your views on this please contact Sietske
de Groot before Thursday 29 December 2011.
London Low Emission Zone Expansion
From Tuesday 03 January 2012 the London Low Emission Zone is expanding and will now include small
commercial vehicles such as vans.
You can find more information here.
Transport for London has released details of discounts available via various commercial van providers
(details here) however the feedback the FSB is getting is that they are not really suitable for all commercial
use.
Will you and your business be affected by these new regulations? If so what impact will they have and what
will be the cost to your business? Please send details to Development Manager, Keith Brown so we can
raise these concerns with Transport for London and Ministers.
FREE Maldon Business Support Service
Essex FSB has worked with Maldon District Council, NWES, and Maldon District Business Partnership to
launch the Maldon Business Support Service.
This provides free to use, confidential business support and advice for any business operating, or looking to
start up, in the Maldon District
The advice is given face to face by experienced, qualified business advisors either at the NWES Maldon
office at Bentalls Shopping Centre in Heybridge or at your own premises.
More details
Book an appointment: 0845 60 99 99 1
PLUS Free Office Accommodation For Essex FSB Members
Bentalls Shopping Centre is offering FSB members three months rent free accommodation on offices up to
600 sq ft in size where an annual contract is signed.
More details from Nick Mann on 020 7482 8890 or 07958 539078
Red Tape Challenge – Employment Regulations
The Government‘s ‗Red Tape Challenge‘ has now moved to focus on railway regulations.
Reduce Mobile Phone Theft
Essex FSB and Essex Police are working together to try and reduce the incidence of mobile phone thefts in
the county and YOU can help by easily protecting your own handsets by registering your mobile phone and
IMEI number at www.immobilise.com
To find your IMEI (international mobile equipment identity) number key in *#06#
Your IMEI number will appear as 14 to 17 digits on your mobile phone screen – this number is unique to
your phone. If your phone is stolen, contact your mobile phone operator with your IMEI number so your
phone can be ‗disabled‘ and so useless to the thief.
This information is automatically placed on the National Mobile Property Register, which is searched
regularly by all UK police forces. Registering the details makes it more likely that you will become reunited
with your mobile phone if it is recovered by police.
FREE Cost & Carbon Reduction Support For Thames Gateway Businesses
The Low Carbon Business Programme has a number of FREE services available to SMEs in
the Thames Gateway South Essex region, from green business audits to help you identify
quickly where you could cut your operating costs by at least 10% to dedicated consultancy to
help you achieve a more sustainable business.
More details
Where Can You Get THIS Much for only £120 a Year?
If you are not yet an FSB member then you need to ask yourself why not? Subscriptions start at £120 per
year and the benefits available are many including free business banking, free 24/7 legal advice line, tax
investigation cover, preferential rates on credit and debit card processing and discounts on petrol and
diesel.
More details
Subscription Rates
Check out the details on Recruitment Video.
NWES News – Maldon Business Support Service Launched
NWES is offering free business support and advice from qualified staff at your premises or
the NWES office in Heybridge for any business based in the Maldon District Council area.
PLUS free advice for would be entrepreneurs in Maldon District.
If you are looking for business advice please call 0845 60 99 99 1 or visit
www.nwes.org.uk .
SPECIAL OFFER: 10% off conferencing at Harlow Enterprise Hub if you mention
FSB1011 before the end of October. http://twitpic.com/6hawlt
Follow us on Twitter @NWES_Group or @NWES_Harlow
You Can NOW Join Essex FSB Online – New Initiative Launched!
Business people wishing to join Essex FSB can now do so in less than 10 minutes thanks to the online
joining scheme launched this week which allows you to sign up online and pay your subscription by debit or
credit card.
With annual subscriptions from just £120 there has never been a better time to get the protection of being
an FSB member.
More details
Green Business Forum Expands To Thurrock
The highly successful Basildon Green Business Forum has had its remit extended and now operates in
Thurrock as well.
If you have any questions on environmental related issues then contact Thurrock Green Business Forum.
Asbestos Awareness Training
The Health and Safety Executive is running free asbestos awareness training courses for small firms in
England, Scotland and Wales until Friday 25 November 2011. Find out more about the training and book a
place.
Beware Of Postal Scam
As Christmas is fast approaching The Royal Mail and Trading Standards Office are making people aware of
the following scam.
A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) suggesting that
they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 (a Premium Rate
number).
DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating from Belize.
If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already have been billed £315 for
the phone call.
For more information, see the CrimeStoppers website
Forums For Your Views And Comments
Three new ways to make your views known and communicate with fellow small business people have been
launched by Essex FSB.
Online forums have been launched this week for Essex, Havering and Redbridge and once registered you
can add your views and comments on topical issues or seek advice and guidance on a problem you are
facing.
Registration is free.
You can access the FSB Essex forum here
You can access the FSB Havering forum here
You can access the FSB Redbridge forum here
Beyond 2010 – 70% Grants Available
Beyond 2010 has been supporting businesses in the East of England via funding for training that focuses on
improved business performance for over 3 years.
Businesses can receive up to 70% support towards the net cost of training from the programme.
Availability of the funding is limited to training which can be fully completed by the end of November 2011.
To qualify for this funding, businesses must be located in the East of England and be classified as operating
within one of the following sectors:
 Advanced Manufacturing
 ICT & Audiovisual
 Financial & Business Services
 Food & Drink Chain
 Tourism in support of Olympics
 Life Sciences
 Energy
 Social Enterprise
 Sustainable Communities & the Built Environment
 Transport Gateways & Logistics
To apply for support businesses must complete an initial application form with the help of one of our sector
specialists.
Beyond 2010 sector specialists will work with the business to select a training programme that can best
address the challenges that they face.
More details.
Free Support For Businesses Making Staff Redundant
TCHC manages the EEDA and ESF funded Response to Redundancy project in Essex and the broader
East of England. We have noticed that smaller organisations may be losing out on the benefits of this
project, which is very unfortunate. I have thereby drafted a news release (attached) that I‘m hoping you‘ll
consider for inclusion in your newsletter, as I think this project could help FSB members to minimise the
impact of redundancy. As you may be aware the project assists those who are at risk of redundancy to
better prepare for the job market through advice and retraining opportunities.
We know that making individuals redundant can be very stress full for business owners, but this support
(free to businesses) helps to ensure that staff can get the best support available to help them find new
employment.
We can offer support to all members until mid December of this year
More details by email
Chelmsford FM and Southend FM Business Of The Week
Sunday Live presenter Tracy Cooper‘s favourite thing in the world is eating out, so nominate your
Restaurant of the Week. Do you own or know a shop that‘s a hidden secret but really needs shouting
about—then it should be Shop of the Week.
Send details by email
Can You Share Your Expertise With Local University Students?
The University of Essex is looking for dynamic speakers for their weekly enterprise workshops. Do you
have a business start-up story to share? Or an expertise that would help develop crucial skills? Interested?
Then please contact Charlie Wheeldon.
Leaving The Armed Services? Be Your Own Boss!
The BtB scheme is now open to all UK Armed Forces service leavers, regardless of their discharge date
(previously, only leavers discharged since October 2001 were eligible).
BtB is a service offered through the Royal British Legion aimed at supporting service leavers to plan, fund
and grow their own small businesses. Funded by BIS, the Legion
and its partners offer training in small business set-up, assistance in writing a business plan and financial
forecast, funding to assist in the launch or growth of a business, periodic health checks and business
mentoring to applicants from across the UK. The programme consists of the following two types of funding:
 Business Grant - a grant of up to £7,500 can be provided for eligible applicants to assist with the
costs of starting up in business.
 Business Loan - a loan of up to £30,000 can be provided to support businesses.
Interested parties are required to register on the British Legion sponsored website and submit a business
plan, before completing the online application form.
Pensions
From 2012, changes to pension‘s law will affect all employers with at least one worker in the UK. The FSB
has launched a new scheme to help its members provided cost effective pension schemes for their staff
details at FSB Pension Service.
To help prepare for the changes, The Pensions Regulator has produced some interactive tools for
employers who are new to pensions, plus a series of guidance that explains the new duties in detail. To
make sure that these tools work for small businesses, we want to hear your feedback.
Keep In Touch With The South East LEP
The South East Local Enterprise Partnership, which covers Essex, is developing a number of initiatives
aimed at helping businesses including on:
 procurement
 broadband
 energy security
 food security
 transport infrastructure
Follow on Twitter @SouthEastLEP
You can get the free weekly email newsletter issued by the LEP by sending your email address to
[email protected] to keep up to date on conferences and projects involving the LEP.
Courses To Help Rural Businesses
LandSkills East has been set up to provide rural businesses with improved access to skills and training
courses in Essex.
Bursary funding is available between £500 to £3000 per application and is worth 50% of the cost of the
training activity with a minimum application of £1000.
More details
Resource Efficiency Review Tool
Resource Efficiency East has developed a simple Resource Efficiency Review Tool, which can identify
where a business might be spending too much on resources. The Review Tool offers a good starting point
to identify areas where resource efficiency improvements can be made within your business.
The Business Resource Review
Our team of specialists can examine your use of energy, water and materials (waste) via our free core
service. The Review is a fully funded, onsite examination of resource use, conducted by one of our team of
advisors. From the Review the advisor will provide a report including recommendations and guidance on
how you can increase your resource efficiency. The advisor will then provide follow-up support by email and
telephone to assist you to implement the recommendations contained in the Report.
More details
£1,000 For Your Training!
A match funded grant of up to £1,000 can be spent on leadership training and coaching that helps grow the
business, improving productivity and competitiveness. The programme also includes a free consultation with
an expert adviser before the training commences, as well as a free follow-up to discuss the impact of the
training and any further skills needs.
SME leaders should contact the Leadership and Management Advisory Service to book their free personal
leadership and management assessment.
Download programme application form
3Sixty To Help Essex And East London Businesses
Epping Forest College is committed to working closely with the local community, and offers a range of
training, apprenticeship, recruitment and education services ideal for businesses in south-west Essex and
north and east London.
The College‘s dedicated employer responsive unit, 3SIXTY has the independent expertise to assess and
advise on the relevant training and funding available and how this can be delivered in a time a place to suit
the employer needs.
More details
Low Carbon KEEP Programme
The Low Carbon KEEP Programme is a unique opportunity for SMEs in the East of England to access
funding to support knowledge transfer partnerships with expert knowledge bases such as universities and
colleges.
A successful project under the Low Carbon KEEP programme would see an appropriately qualified
graduate employed by the knowledge base partner, but working as a fully engaged member of staff within
the recipient SME and supported by an expert academic for half a day every week. The project itself must
have a low carbon theme, however how carbon (or carbon equivalent) savings can be achieved is limited
only by the imagination of the project itself. Savings can be created within the business itself, perhaps
through a resource efficiency project, upwards through its supply chain or downwards into its customer
base, via the development of a new product or service. Innovative projects are encouraged but simple
projects with a high degree of replicability have equal value to the success of the programme. Funding is
available now and until the end of December 2013 and the knowledge base can be located anywhere within
the UK.
More details
University of Essex Jobs Online
Promote your part-time or full-time opportunities to the University‘s students and graduates on the newly
enhanced Jobs Online vacancy board.
Register here for this free service offered by the Career Centre.
£8 million Available For Low Carbon Investment
The Low Carbon Innovation Fund (LCIF) is a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) supported
venture capital fund. It is seeded with £8 million from the ERDF and matched with private sector investment
and will run until December 2015.
The fund will make early-stage equity investments into small and medium sized enterprises within the East
of England that are developing new and innovative products or processes in a low carbon, environmentally
sensitive manner.
The definition of low carbon companies also includes companies producing low carbon products, supplying
low carbon services or companies seeking to invest in low carbon equipment or processes to become low
carbon in their operational activities. This could include those developing alternative energy sources or
reducing existing carbon emissions amongst others.
More details
Free Website Development – Easy To Follow!
Getting British Business Online is a campaign that Enterprise UK runs in partnership with Google, along
with other partners including BT and e-skills UK.
The scheme is aiming to give free business websites to 100,000 businesses and entrepreneurs in Britain to
tackle the current situation where more than 1.5 million businesses have no active web presence.
More than 45,000 businesses in the UK have already launched a new website for their business as a result
of the Getting British Business Online campaign which is a joint initiative led by Google, BT, Enterprise UK
and e-skills UK.
One Essex business owner we know has already used this service to develop his own website. Former
Essex FSB Development Manager now has a website for his business Terry Taber Talks and you can see
for yourself the type of site you can construct.
New Enhanced Credit Check Service – special for FSB members!
Regular readers of this newsletter will know that Essex Libraries Business Information Service provides free
Company Credit Checks. This gives you a chance to check out who you are doing business with and
whether they are reliable and credit-worthy – essential information in the current economic climate.
But wouldn‘t it be useful to know about any significant changes to those companies that you regularly do
business with? Well, now you can!
Just tell the Business Information Service the companies you are interested in (up to a maximum of 5) and
they will send you an email every time a change is registered. This includes:

Change in credit limit

New annual accounts

A writ or CCJ added

Change in director‘s details

Company status change
To request a credit check report or register for the alerting service send an email to
[email protected] or call the Business Information Service on 01245 492535 quoting your
FSB membership number.
Setting Up A New Company?
Essex County Council Business Information Services has added a new service to its portfolio aimed at
helping set up new firms in the county. The service includes:

A free company name check

Certificate of Incorporation

Memorandum and Articles of Association

Minutes of the first meeting

Share certificates

Unlimited resubmissions should your application be rejected for any reason

Free telephone support
The application process takes about 15 minutes and your company will usually be registered within 24
hours.
More details
Local Authority Consultations
Braintree: Local Development Framework Core Strategy
More details
Hadleigh: Town Centre Masterplan consultation
More details
Rochford: Budget 2012 - 2013
Deadline: Friday 09 December 2011 5.00pm
More details
Southend-on-Sea: Draft Licensing Policy
More details
Southend-on-Sea: Selective Licensing of Homes in Multiple Occupation Policy
More details
Thurrock: Economic Recovery and Growth Plan
More details
Need a Free Company Credit Check?
Essex Libraries Business Information Service has always provided free reports on Limited Companies, but
now we can provide you with free credit checks.
In the current economic climate it‘s become even more important to check out with whom you‘re doing
business. Do you know that they are reliable and credit-worthy? Why not save yourself some time and
money by getting us to email a CreditSafe report direct to your desktop. In addition to director information
and balance sheets, reports also include credit ratings and limits, County Court Judgements and
mortgages.
More details by email.
£10 For Every New FSB Member Recommended By A Friend!
If you are already an FSB member you KNOW the benefits membership brings including:

Free legal and tax advice

Access to free business banking

Discounts on fuel

Preferential rates on credit and debit card processing
plus much more and all for an annual subscription that starts at £120!
With 210,000 members nationally the FSB is the largest business organisation in the UK BUT we aim to get
bigger!
Here in Essex around 50 new members are joining each month but we want to double that number
with your help.
More members means a stronger voice representing small businesses which is why the FSB has launched
a new scheme encouraging existing members to recommend business colleagues join too.
For every referral YOU make who joins £10.00 is available as a ‘thank you’ for the referral.
Joining the scheme is easy just log on to Recommend a Friend, enter your membership number and Vcode
(on your membership card or available from Essex FSB Development Manager, Keith Brown) then enter
your colleagues details and leave the rest to the FSB.
Business Courses On Offer From NWES
SPECIAL OFFER: 10% off conferencing at Harlow Enterprise Hub if you mention
FSB1011 before the end of October. http://twitpic.com/6hawlt
More details or follow on Twitter: @NWES_Harlow
Book Now by email
Basildon Business Clinics
Basildon: Thursday 01 December 2011
FREE Business Clinics for Basildon Borough Businesses organised by Basildon Council. Make an
appointment with our group of both private and public sector specialists for a confidential, 45 minute, one to
one session. Email to book a place and get more information.
Customer Service Course
Purfleet: Wednesday 07 December 2011
This course covers the WorldHost Principles of Customer Service.
More details by email.
Marketing and Sales Seminar 20% discount for FSB Members
These courses are run by University of Essex Business School.
Colchester: Tuesday 01 May 2012 More details! Book Now!
CEME Conference Centre – Free Business Courses
Rainham: Wednesday 30 November 2011 9.00am until 5.00pm – Looking To Raise Money
Rainham: Wednesday 07 December 2011 9.00am until 12.30pm – An Introduction to
Understanding Finance
Rainham: Wednesday 11 January 2012 9.00am until 12.30pm – An Introduction to Understanding
Finance
Rainham: Thursday 12 January 2012 9.00am until 5.00pm – Looking To Raise Money
Rainham: Wednesday 01 February 2012 9.00am until 12.30pm – An Introduction to Understanding
Finance
Rainham: Wednesday 08 February 2012 9.00am until 5.00pm – Looking To Raise Money
Rainham: Wednesday 29 February 2012 9.00am until 5.00pm – Looking To Raise Money
Rainham: Wednesday 07 March 2012 9.00am until 12.30pm – An Introduction to Understanding
Finance
Book Now by email
COLBEA Courses Discounts For Essex FSB Members
Colchester: Tuesday 22 November 2011 9.30am until 4.30pm
Let‘s Talk Starting In Business – Free to attend
Colchester: Wednesday 23 November 2011 9.30am until 12.30pm
Conducting Appraisals
Colchester: Wednesday 23 November 2011 9.00am until 4.30pm
Sell less to sell more - getting the phone to ring! FSB Discount Code: dcsmpr103
Book Now by email!
Harlow Council Free To Attend Courses
Harlow District Council‘s Economic Development Team is running a programme of HMRC courses to help
local businesses:
Harlow: Thursday 01 December 2011 11.00am until 1.00pm – Self Assessment Online
Harlow: Thursday 19 January 2012 11.00am until 1.00pm – Self Assessment
Book Now!
HMRC Free To Attend Courses
Harlow: Thursday 01 December 2011 11.00am until 1.00pm – Self Assessment Online Book Now!
Southend-on-Sea: Tuesday 06 December 2011 11.00am until 1.00pm – How VAT Works Book
Now!
Grays: Wednesday 07 December 2011 9.30am until 12.30pm – Starting A Business Book Now!
Southend-on-Sea: Tuesday 17 January 2012 11.00am until 1.00pm – Newly Self Employed Book
Now!
Harlow: Thursday 19 January 2012 11.00am until 1.00pm – Self Assessment Book Now!
Southend-on-Sea: Thursday 26 January 2012 11.00am until 1.00pm – Business Expenses and
Capital Allowances for the Self Employed Book Now!
Southend-on-Sea: Thursday 02 February 2012 11.00am until 1.00pm – Introduction to
International Trade Book Now!
Thurrock Learning Centre Courses FREE For Essex FSB Members
Grays: Wednesday 30 November 2011 9.30am until 12 noon. Business Start-Up in a nutshell
More details by email
St John’s Innovation Centre – Free To Attend Courses
Chelmsford: Thursday 01 December 2011 8.30am until 1.00pm – Understanding Business For
Finance. Book Now!
Epiphany Training Courses Discount For Essex FSB Members
Let the IT Translator help you get more from your computer, all FSB members get a 15% discount on public
scheduled courses:
Thursday 01 December 2011 10:00am until 11:00am Tools for Projections and Forecasts - Webinar
£30 (£25.50 for FSB Members)
Monday 05 December 2011 9:30am until 12:30pm iPhone Discovery Course - Course £90 (£76.50 for
FSB Members) Learn how to be able to do work with your iPhone.
Tuesday 06 December 2011 10:00am until 11:00am New Features of Office 2010 - Webinar £30
(£25.50 for FSB Members)
Tuesday 06 December 2011 2:00pm until 3:00pm Pivot Tables - Webinar £30 (£25.50 for FSB
Members)
12 - 16 December 2011 Train the Trainer - 5 Day Course £2,250 (£1,912.50), Learn about the learning
process, learning styles and how to design a lesson.
NEW ON DEMAND TRAINING http://epiphanytraining.co.uk/training/
Training when you want it. These courses are online and can be worked through at any time. Introductory
prices available for a limited time only. (Register for the FSB course using the Enrolment Key of FSBM)
Free Videos - http://epiphanytraining.co.uk/training/course/category.php?id=18
 Increase your websites page ranking
 Excel 2007 Screen Overview
iPhone and iPad Courses - http://epiphanytraining.co.uk/training/course/category.php?id=23
 iPhone Basics (£4.25 FSB rate)
Excel 2003 courses - http://epiphanytraining.co.uk/training/course/category.php?id=20
 Conditional Formatting (£4.25 FSB rate)
 IF Statements (£4.25 FSB rate)
More details
Versatile Training Courses Discount For Essex FSB Members
Invest in time to save time Workshop - £190 (only £171 for FSB members)
Monday 28 November 2011, 9.00am until 5.00pm
Learn how to plan your time effectively so you can get more done with less effort.
Book now.
Business And Performance Coaching And Training – £1,000 Towards Your
Business Development
Angela Kimberley Limited provides support designed to improve your business efficiencies and performance
to save you time and money. Our sessions will provoke, challenge and inspire you to work on the business
and not just in it. All sessions can be delivered on 1-2-1 or group basis at your premises with times to suit
you.
More information by email
How Good Are You At Getting Your Business Out There?
CK Academy is able to offer funded training for you and your team to a value of £1500
More details
SME Leadership Training Master Classes – Essex FSB Discount + £500 free!
Chelmsford based Essex FSB member Pro-Action is offering a 10% discount to FSB members booking on
one of their business improvement courses.
Funding is currently available for these courses £500 unmatched and a further £500 matched so business
leaders/ owners can have £1500 of invaluable training for a net spend of £500.
They are not sure how long this funding will remain available given the current climate so would suggest
those that qualify take full advantage.
More details
Safety Courses – Discounts Available For FSB Members
AM Safety Specialists Limited runs a programme of courses covering many aspects of health and safety at
work.
Discounts are available for FSB members quoting membership number when booking.
More details.
Book Now by email!
Unlimited Online Backup for PC and Mac Discounts Available For FSB
Members
Business or Personal. £15 off for FSB members - only £24.99 per year.
Temerity Media Ltd have a limited number of backup accounts, Our software runs silently in the background
and backs up all your important files. All data is stored in the UK and so meets FSA requirements.
More details
Brentwood On Ice Discounts Available For FSB Members
Brentwood On Ice is offering FSB members a 10% discount on corporate packages and off-peak skating at
the winter spectacular, which runs from 26 November 2011 to 21 January 2012.
Brentwood businessman Dan Yardy, who is running the event at the Brentwood Centre, says he‘s glad to
give the discount.
―Owners of small businesses work hard all year round, and deserve to have some time off now and then!
Brentwood On Ice is a great venue for all the family to come and have fun, with plenty of skating options for
everyone.
―In addition, we have excellent corporate packages, which could be the perfect way to show your
appreciation to your staff this Christmas.‖
More details
There are also still a few opportunities for concessions at the event. For further information on this or on the
corporate options more details by email
Special Offer For Boosting Business In Basildon – Discounts Available For
FSB Members
www.BasildonOffersTheBest.com will be launched by the end of November 2011 with some great offers
aimed at stimulating the local community to buy local. Many of the retailers will be FSB members and can
gain an advantage if they want to be involved.
5 Full Colour Call-to-Action Promotions will Generate New Customers for just a few pence a day!
You get 5 full colour promotions that can be used to quite simply promote your business or can be
redeemed in store either by printing or by presentation on a Smart Phone. Unlike most other media you are
in control of your promotions and can change them whenever you wish, allowing you to react to market
changes, special occasions or new opportunities. The system is built to allow you to login and edit your
promotions yourself or we can change them for you FREE of charge whenever you wish.
Sign up before the official launch at end of November and its free until 31 December 2011 and £75 off the
annual fee of £250 now £175 - exclusive to FSB members.
Need A Safe? – 20% Essex FSB Discount
Gold Command is offering Essex FSB members a massive 20% discount on safes for business and in the
home. Deal includes installation and delivery at cost as well as digital lock at cost.
Safes are British made and exceed all UK Insurance requirements.
Importantly the safes are delivered and installed by two technicians that are fully vetted
More details.
Free Book From Your UK Sales Mentor
Your UK Sales Mentor and Essex FSB member Steve Clarke is offering free copies of his e-book.
Download here
Essex Technology & Innovation Centre – 20% Essex FSB Discount
Based in Ongar this centre offers state-of-the- art Conference Room along with Meeting Rooms available to
hire - 20% discount.
Office space ranging from 150sq-ft - 340sq.ft available now. FREE onsite parking. 24/7 CCTV
Pleasant location near main A414 Chelmsford to Harlow route.
M11 J7 few minutes away, London, Cambridge and Stansted Airport within easy reach.
Small Business rates available.
More details
Book Now by email
Saint FM Advertising Rates – 20% Discount For FSB Members
Saint FM has devised a unique package for FSB members which includes a further 20% discount on our
prices.
Advertising starts at £25 per week, with a minimum of a 1 month contract. This would buy a minimum of 3
plays a day, 3 days per week. As a special promotion Saint FM is also offering within this price, a hyperlink
from our website to the customers.
Please be aware that there is also a £100 fee for the production of the jingle.
Saint FM also accept payments in instalments.
More details by email
SME Discounts.com - 40-90% Discounts on Marketing, Operations, IT and
Financial Services
SME Discounts.com is the ―Groupon for B2B services‖. We send exceptional deals on business products
and services to our members (Free to sign-up) via email.
Exceptional in Price (40-90% discounts on RRP) and on Quality (we pre-qualify each supplier before they
are allowed to create deals).
So you can cut costs and rest assured that you‘re engaging with credible suppliers.
We also offer a £6 referral fee for every new member you invite to the site (credited to your account when
they sign-up and make their first purchase).
Warehouse and Storage Needed
An Essex FSB member is looking for around 100 square metres of warehouse or storage space with a small
office within 15 minutes drive of Basildon.
If you can help email
Dragon Enterprise Centre Half Price For FSB Members
As a special promotion Dragon Enterprise Centre would like to offer you 50% off the normal price the next
time you hire our boardroom or conference rooms for the day.
So if you are thinking of planning that next meeting or training day then why not take full advantage of our
great offer and have full exclusive use of the room between the hours of 08:00 – 18:00 with complementary
tea, coffee making facilities and biscuits for you and your attendee‘s throughout the day all included in the
discounted fee.
The Boardroom - Seats 12 people with a normal price of £79.00 – You would only pay £39.50
The Conference room – holds up to 70 people with a normal price of £99.00 – You would only pay £49.50
More details by email
Need Office Space In South East Essex? – 10% Discount For FSB Members
Dragon Enterprise Centre off Progress Road in Leigh-on-Sea is offering this special deal for Essex FSB
members on their easy in, easy out, purpose-built serviced office space which includes telephone and
internet access.
More details by email
Are You Reaching Your KPIs Or Are You Unsure? – 33% Discount For FSB
Members
We will help you measure your KPI‘s so that you can monitor your company‘s progress. 33% discount to all
FSB members.
More details
Discounted Ergonomic Chairs
All FSB members a 15% discount across all of our products at www.uniqueposturalsolutions.co.uk
To take advantage of this offer members should email orders to [email protected] so the
discount can be applied and an invoice generated.
Generate More Business With Printable Discount Vouchers! - £10 OFF For FSB
Members
Every month townvoucher.com, the No. 1 Discount Voucher Scheme for Colchester, publishes discount
voucher features in the Colchester Gazette and the Colchester Circle Magazine. Small, local businesses
can potentially reach up to 77.000 customers each month with their voucher offer by combining these
features and the free of charge online opportunity of townvoucher.com.
townvoucher.com uses modern media channels like facebook, twitter and the iPhone to get the discount
voucher offer to as many potential customers as possible.
FSB members pay just £89 for a voucher spot in the feature of their choice.
Contact by email and quote FSB Offer
Ricoh A3 Colour Copier offer - with Free delivery! Special Offer For FSB
Members
While stock last, DOTS have a very special offer for FSB Members only. This is for the brand new Ricoh
colour MFD the MPC 2030, which prints and copies at 20 pages per minute in full colour improving the
quality of your output. This fantastic machine will also scan directly to your network enabling you to
communicate information faster.
The kit is serviced by the manufacturer directly which ensures fantastic reliability. At only £15.00 per week
this kit is normally cheaper to run than a standard A4 desktop printer.
To enquire please email David Broomfield quoting 'Ricoh FSB offer'.
Special Radio Advertising Packages From Phoenix FM
Major Sponsorship Packages
Weather, Travel, Local Events Guide or Sponsorship of our daily Breakfast, Lunch or Drive Shows
Guaranteed minimum 24 mentions per day
As a FSB Member you also get our spot advertising package worth £1,995 per year FREE of charge
Spot Advertising
Your 30 Second advert broadcast 4 times a day, 365 days a year
FSB Members get 1 extra free advert per day and get another EXTRA FREE advert per day so that‘s 6
adverts a day for your money.
Show Sponsorship
Sponsor credit given throughout a weekly 2 hour show and show promo with sponsor credit aired an
additional 3 times a day
FSB Members get an additional show promo with sponsor credit each day 365 days per year
More details by email
CEME Savings For FSB Members!
As a result of the partnership developing with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), CEME CC is
offering a discount of 20% on room hire bookings to all companies that belong to the FSB.
CEME CC has been working with FSB for six months by providing a venue free of charge for networking
events. CEME CC hosts these Network Events on the second Tuesday of every month; and in November
the FSB Rainham Voice of Business Briefing is held.
This offer is available to all FSB members and includes The Pod, The Box and The Boardroom. For further
details and Terms and Conditions please call 020 8596 5151 or email [email protected]
Driving Lessons Offer – 20% More For FSB Members!
Essex FSB member Farrah Driver Training is offering FSB members wishing to learn to drive their first 12
hours @ £15.00 per hour for FSB Members. Normal website offer is first 10 hours @ £15.00 per hour for
the general public.
More details of geographical areas covered.
Book Now by email.
A Picture Paints a Thousand Words – Less Than Half Price!
So speak to your potential clients with the right images using this special offer.
www.KeithHoskinsPhoto.com is offering a package, of half a day photography, full edit and image
enhancement for just £99 (usual price £200).
This includes all images on disk with full copyright release. There are only six per month available for
February so be quick as its first come first served!
Contact: [email protected]
Opportunity for Experienced Business Consultants
The Organisation for Responsible Business is looking for experienced business consultants throughout the
UK who would like to include ORB consultancy in their repertoire. The new Bronze, Silver & Gold Standards
are auditable accreditations applicable to businesses of all sectors and all sizes, although predominantly
designed for SMEs.
More details
Half Price Business Coaching for FSB Members
Loughton based business coach Sue Taylor is offering Essex FSB members half price coaching on
Mondays.
More details by email
Waltham Abbey Marriott Hotel – 20% Discount on Lunch in Thyme Restaurant
for FSB members
The Waltham Abbey Marriott is situated on Junction 26 on M25.
At present we do business lunches at Thyme Restaurant from 12.00 to 2.30pm. We guarantee to serve
three course meals in 45 minutes. We are delighted to offer 20% discount on business lunches for all FSB
members, where they can have a quick lunch meetings.
Special Offer For Essex FSB Members in CM6, CM7, CM77, CB10 and CB11
Postcode Areas
Essex FSB member Activ Web Design is offering fellow Essex FSB members a half price e-mail marketing
campaign with a brochure or e-commerce website (£125 instead of £250)
More details
Book Now by email
Special Officers From Advanced Digital Graphics
Discounts 20% discount on outdoor PVC banners and a 10% discount on roller banners are available for
Essex FSB members from Witham based Advanced Digital Graphics. Quote your membership number to
receive the discount.
More details
Order by email
Free Health and Safety Tips From Helmsman Services
Directors and Senior Managers, whether you like it or not YOU are responsible for your organisation's Health and Safety and YOU could be prosecuted if there is a
problem.
Download your FREE '12 TOP HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS FOR DIRECTORS AND OFFICE
MANAGERS' that will help you understand more about what is expected of you
And remember, the minimum fine that has been recommended for a prosecution under the Corporate
Manslaughter Act is a crippling £500,000!
For your free booklet, click here
Banners And Promotional Items
Image On offers a vast range of personalised clothing, Banners and Roll up Stands in addition to Business
Cards, Personalised Gifts and Vehicle Graphics to name just a few, all with a minimum order of just one
item across the range.
Essex FSB members can receive discounts between 10% and 20%
More details
Order by email
Office Space In Braintree...
Modern Office space in Braintree, close to all amenities, small private estate, reception area, ample free
parking, kitchen area, toilets desk, part or whole office for rent.
More details by email
...And In Brentwood...
Mews location on a secure site in central Brentwood near the High Street, railway station and M25 Junction
28. Would suit small start up business.
Single office approx. 185sq.ft. for £2,590 p.a. including all services except electricity and communications.
Small business rate relief applies.
One car parking space plus visitor‘s space adjacent to the office. Conference room also available.
More details by email
... And In Brentwood Again...
Close to Brentwood Railway Station and available Monday to Friday 9.00am until 5.00pm
More details by email
...And in Galleywood...
Located on the main road between Galleywood and Great Baddow this office space would suit a start up or
young business.
More details by email
... And In Rochford...
A freelance web designer is offering free office space in Rochford with the opportunity for some work too.
More details by email
...And Office And Storage Space in Romford
An Essex FSB member has the following newly built premises available in Victoria Road, Romford

1 x 750 sq ft Storage area with roller shutter door.

2 x 250 sq ft Offices

1 x 750 sq ft Office space
Plus car parking, Communal toilets and kitchen facilities and services.
More details by email.
Discounts Available at University’s Enterprise Hub
Essex FSB members can receive a 10% discount on conference and meeting room hire at the University of
Essex Business Hub, Gateway Building, Elmer Approach, Southend on Sea SS1 1LW.
More details by email
Corporate and Promotional Supplies
Our in house embroidery and screen-print ensures most competitive prices including preferential rates for
FSB members.
Suppliers to FSB, if it takes a logo we supply it
More details.
Business Coaching Available
Essex FSB member and Loughton businesswoman Sue Taylor of All About You, Life Coaching and
Educational Consultancy is offering FSB members a 10 per cent discount on coaching and mentoring
sessions.
More details
Don’t Hide the Good News!
Essex Voice of Business Online has proved very popular with lots of positive feedback and we know that
leading councillors, some MPs and even the Government Office in the East of England are reading it every
week.
To date we have more than 10,400 subscribers and want that number to increase so please forward this to
business colleagues you think may also benefit and encourage them to subscribe using the link below – this
is a FREE service supporting businesses in Essex, Havering and Redbridge.
Please keep sending your comments and items for inclusion to Essex FSB Development Manager Keith
Brown.
To subscribe free of charge to Essex Voice of Business Online, please send a blank email to
[email protected] and type SUBSCRIBE in the subject. (Leave the body blank).
Essex FSB On Air
Essex FSB now has a weekly slot on two local radio stations sharing business news and comment.
You can hear us each Thursday at 5.00pm on Phoenix FM to discuss business news from Brentwood,
Billericay and surrounding areas. You can listen at 98FM or online
You can hear us each Tuesday at 10.15am on Saint FM to discuss business news from Maldon, Burnhamon-Crouch, Danbury, South Woodham Ferrers, Tiptree and surrounding areas. You can listen at 94.7FM or
online
Copies of each week‘s briefing notes can be viewed at Essex Voice of Business on Radio.
If you are a business in those areas and have an item for inclusion on the news email details to Essex FSB
Development Manager, Keith Brown, by Friday of each week for the following week‘s broadcast.
Copies of the weekly scripts can be found at Essex Voice of Business on Radio.
Twitter
You can now follow FSBEssex on Twitter to keep up to date with latest news and offers.
More than 2,500 people already follow us – make sure you don‘t miss out!
Forums For your Views And Comments
Three ways to make your views known and communicate with fellow small business people have been
launched by Essex FSB.
Online forums have been launched this week for Essex, Havering and Redbridge and once registered you
can add your views and comments on topical issues or seek advice and guidance on a problem you are
facing.
Registration is free.
You can access the FSB Essex forum here
You can access the FSB Havering forum here
You can access the FSB Redbridge forum here
Linked In Group For Essex FSB
Essex FSB now has a special group on Linked In where members can share views and discussions as well
as keep up to date with the latest media news and events from Essex FSB.
More details
Follow the FSB on FaceBook
You can follow the activities of the FSB by joining our official fanpage on FaceBook. Become a fan to view
regularly updated events, photo galleries, lobbying information and have the opportunity to add your own
photos and discuss current small business issues.
The Small Print!
To stop receiving Essex Voice of Business Online, please send a blank email to
[email protected] and type UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject. (Leave the body blank – not
even your email signature).
Inclusion of any event or offer in this newsletter is for information only and does not imply that it is endorsed
by Essex FSB in any way and details should be confirmed with the organiser direct.
While every care has been taken in the compilation of this newsletter errors or omissions are not the
responsibility of the compiler or of the FSB.
Unless specifically stated goods or service mentioned are not endorsed by the compiler of the FSB which
does not accept, endorse or accept any liability for any goods, services or events featured in this newsletter.
AccessAbility Help
Please contact [email protected] if you would like this document in an alternative format or if you
require any AccessAbility help.
Essex FSB represents more than 4,000 businesses in Essex, Havering, Redbridge,
Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock local authority areas.
You can keep up to date with the latest news from Essex FSB by following us on Twitter
or by
subscribing to the free Essex Voice of Business Online newsletter - just send a blank email to
[email protected] and type SUBSCRIBE in the subject. (Leave the body blank)
Keith Brown
Essex Development Manager
FSB (Federation of Small Businesses)
T: 01277 365244
M: 07917 628928
W: www.fsb.org.uk/essex
The information contained in this email is strictly confidential and for the use of the addressee only. Notice is hereby given that any disclosure, use
or copying of the information by anyone other than the intended recipient is prohibited and may be illegal. If you have received this message in error
please notify the sender immediately by return email. Neither the sender nor the FSB accept liability for any damage sustained as a result of
software viruses and advises that you carry out your own virus checks before opening any attachment.
National Federation of Self-Employed and Small Businesses Ltd (Federation of Small Businesses) Sir Frank Whittle Way, Blackpool Business Park,
Blackpool FY4 2FE. Registered in England No: 1263540 VAT No: 529502349