Government Business Volume 16.10

MONEY MATTERS – Payment innovations give citizens a variety of ways to pay

BORDER CONTROL CONFERENCES & EVENTSPANDEMIC PLANNING

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The Mayor of London’s

Green Procurement Code

PROCuREMENT

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Dear Reader,Communities Secretary John Denham has recently urged local government to not only spend its £42bn buying power wisely, but to innovate and shape markets in the process.

one procurement initiative which is embracing innovation is the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code, where London-based organisations make a commitment to responsible purchasing. Details on this can be read on pages 69-75.

But it’s not only procurement that’s embracing fresh thinking. The payments industry is also continuously adapting and local government is benefiting greatly from offering citizens new and innovative ways to pay for public services. The uK Payments Council looks at the evolving payments industry on page nine.

We also preview the 20th Pandemic Planning summit which, unsurprisingly, has a focus on swine flu and its impact to uK business.

enjoy the issue.

MONEY MATTERS – Payment innovations give citizens a variety of ways to pay

BORDER CONTROL

CONFERENCES & EVENTS

PANDEMIC PLANNING

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www.governmentbusiness.co.uk | VOLuME 16.10

The Mayor of London’s

Green Procurement CodePROCuREMENT

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R e g i s t e r n o w a t R e g i s t e r n o w a t R e g i s t e r n o w a t www. c o u n t e r t e r r o r e x p o . c omwww. c o u n t e r t e r r o r e x p o . c omwww. c o u n t e r t e r r o r e x p o . c om

E X P O 2 0 1 014-15 April 2010 | National Hall, Olympia

Countering the Global Threat

Dedicated exhibition for companies of specialist security and counter terrorism technologies and solutions

High level conference featuring multiple streams

Comprehensive programme of free-to-attend technology and practical workshops

Networking Functions

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ContentsGOVERNMENT BUSINESS 16.10

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neWs

PanDeMiC PLanninga preview of november’s Pandemic Planning summit, which focuses on swine flu

MoneY MaTTersThe Payments Council looks at how advances in technology have changed the way citizens pay for public services

Catch up with the latest thinking and developments in e-commerce at e-commerce expo

BuiLT environMenTWhat changes can an organisation make to contribute towards a green, ‘low carbon’ economy?

The Carbon Trusts reveals simple steps to reduce carbon emissions and costs

a look at what’s on the agenda at the interbuild specifier show, a must for public sector stakeholders involved in design and build projects

seCuriTYhow is technology being used to strengthen the uK’s border control?

increasing incidents of terrorism, illegal immigration and fraud means that employee screening is now vital

The Criminal records Bureau helps organisations make safer recruitment decisions

PuBLiC safeTYThe emergency services show on 24 and 25 november will look at the importance of multi-agency co-operation

heaLTh anD safeTYrosPa discusses the importance of Portable appliance Testing

ConferenCe anD evenTsThe green Tourism Business scheme (gTBs) has been championing the cause of sustainable tourism in the uK since 1997

What makes Cornwall, somerset and Devon great destinations to hold a conference and event?

Kent Conference Bureau highlights a selection of top conference and event venues in the area

staffordshire is an ideal location for conferences, meetings, corporate hospitality and incentive travel

hr & TrainingThe challenges and opportunities facing the hr profession will be explored at this year’s CiPD annual Conference and exhibition

Devon and Cornwall Police recognise staff wellness as a crucial element towards becoming a top performing police force

ProCureMenTLondon-based organisations will celebrate their achievements in green purchasing at the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code awards ceremony

a more detailed look at what the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code actually involves

an insight into Procurex scotland 2009 on 28-29 october

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=4










Food Champion Awards launched

The food standards agency has announced the launch of the 2010 food Champion awards, which are open to all local authorities in england and Wales. The awards aim to recognise and celebrate authorities that have shown innovation and real leadership in their work to improve food safety and standards locally, or to improve the diet and nutrition of people in their communities. all applications should be submitted through the food Vision website at www.foodvision.gov.uk.

£2.2 billion spent heating vulnerable homesTwo million homes have benefited from the government’s Warm front scheme to tackle fuel poverty and fight climate change. since the scheme began in 2000, more than £2.2 billion has been spent giving qualifying residents heating in their homes during the colder months. in the last year, it has helped 233,000 homes in england, with most housing someone over 60 years old.

Local government must spend better, says minister Local government must use its buying power wisely to innovate and shape markets, Communities secretary John Denham has said. Procurement experts from the private sector, academia and the public sector met at a roundtable to identify new ways that local government’s £42bn of taxpayers’ money can be used to work harder to improve public services and create new markets. John Denham said: “i am determined to find the right savings necessary to protect frontline services but every taxpayer pound must be made to work as hard as the person who earned it did. This means councils need to recognise that creative purchasing is not simply ‘buying for less’ it is also about being innovative and shaping markets – these must become the new principles of public procurement.” The panelists discussed the potential market shaping role of local government procurement, including its ability to encourage new and innovative technologies that can be triggered by a more open approach from local authorities, including improving access for small and local business or third sector organisations.

NEWSINBRIEF

ew research shows that social care must

adapt to the digital age, as the next generation of pensioners are more likely to be traveling or tweeting on their 3-g phone rather than joining their local bowls club. 80 per cent of adults questioned by opinion Matters said they would be likely to check e-mails daily when they are 70, while 33 per cent said that they will have the latest technology. over half reckon they will spend their retirement traveling abroad. 24 per cent said they’ll be putting the latest music downloads on their MP3 players, while half the respondents said they would be going to music festivals and rock concerts at 70 years old. secretary of state for health andy Burnham said: “The challenge for government is to build a care and support system that delivers fairer, more affordable and more joined up support for older people.” he continued: “at the moment, there’s

a big gap between people’s aspirations and what is affordable under the current care and support system. That’s why we’re changing care and support and we want to get people’s views on how the system needs to change.”

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Social care must adapt to next generation pensioners

he scottish government has re-confirmed it will invest more

than £1.5 billion over three years in affordable homes across scotland. representatives from homes for scotland, the scottish federation of housing associations, shelter scotland and Chartered institute of housing attended the meeting

when the funding was re-confirmed. housing Minister alex neil said: “it was important to meet housing groups to reassure them and to set the record straight about funding levels for affordable housing. We made it crystal clear that there are no cuts to funding for affordable housing, as suggested by some commentators.”

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£1.5 billion for Scottish housing

NEWS

he government is searching for local authorities, charities and social

enterprises to take up the challenge to help communities fight climate change. Communities can apply for a share of a £10million fund as part of the Low Carbon Communities Challenge to build on existing low carbon schemes. The twenty successful communities will each receive support to pay for measures selected by the local residents. These could range from a local biomass plant to retrofitting

homes to electric car charge points. in return for technical and financial assistance, people living and working in the area will work alongside government and contribute to finding low carbon solutions from which the whole country will benefit. The twenty communities will then act as national blueprints that will be used to inform government policy development and delivery. for towns to be eligible they must demonstrate they are already making changes that result in carbon reduction.

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£10m for best low carbon communities

04 The Business Magazine for goVernMenT

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Soil protection plans unveiled by governmenta government publication has unveiled plans to protect england’s soil to combat climate change and meet the demand for food. The publication, safeguarding our soils, outlines government plans to halt and reverse the degradation of england’s soil over the next 20 years, working with farmers and other land managers, developers, planners and construction companies to manage soil sustainably. By 2050, they hope to double current food production to feed a growing population, possible only with healthy soils. england’s soil has suffered intensive farming and industrial pollution, and is now under threat from wind and rain erosion, a loss of organic matter and nutrients, and pressure for development. environment secretary hilary Benn said: “soil is one of the building blocks of life. good quality soils are essential for a thriving farming industry, a sustainable food supply, and a healthy environment.” she continued: “Britain’s soils hold more carbon than all the trees in europe’s forests and their protection is critical if we are to successfully combat climate change.” The strategy includes plans to support farmers in managing agricultural soil and to protect soils in urban areas during development and construction.

NEWSINBRIEF

new project launched between Coca-Cola great Britain and southampton

City Council will see the installation of fifty new recycling bins in southampton city centre. The ‘recycle zone’ partnership will make it easier for residents to recycle bottles and cans when they are out and about. Coca-Cola has chosen southampton

City Council as the first local authority to host a city-centre recycle zone. This builds on the work the company has been doing over the past year in partnership with Waste & resources action Programme (WraP) to launch recycle zones in shopping centres, theme parks, transport hubs and universities.

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Coca-Cola launches first city centre recycle zone

NEWS

government campaign to save everyday water usage has been launched

to limit the effects of climate change. act on Co2, fronted by TV presenter Kate humble, aims to help people cut everyday water usage by 20 litres a day with simple tips such as turning off the tap while brushing your teeth and shortening shower times. The average uK person uses 150 litres of water per day per person, but has less water available per head then many european countries. environment Minister huw irranca-

Davies said: “We are already taking too much water from some of our rivers and groundwater to meet demand but we can’t maintain this without seriously harming our environment, especially as our climate becomes warmer and drier in places.” “if we don’t act now we could lose some of our precious biodiversity forever. not only that but continued wasteful consumption of water is harming our climate for future generations due to the energy used in the supply process.”

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Campaign launched to combat water waste

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NEW PROGRAMMEPandemic Flu Preparednessfor Business and the Public SectorA Swine Flu Focus, 12th November 2009, Danubius Hotel, London NW8

Speakers includeProfessor Hugh PenningtonDr Charlie Easmon MBBS MRCP MSc Public Health DTM&H DOccMed Chief Medical Officer, Metropolitan PoliceDirector of Operational Risk, Royal Bank of ScotlandPandemic Policy Manager, DHL Supply Chain

“This day was vital in detailing all the things we should be thinking about now in order to ensure we will continue to do business throughout the pandemic. The programme gave us huge food for thought, covering areas we hadn’t yet thought of.” Chief Executive, Local County Council.

This conference covers all the latest swine flu information on• Occupational health including managing absenteeism and quarantine and vaccine practicalities• Effective and appropriate business continuity planning• How to put together a swine flu policy in a hurry• Essential legal and HR issues ALL employers must consider• How to deal with trauma in the workplace and minimise the effects of a pandemic on your staff

“This important conference brings together experts from the medical and business world to show organisations how to plan for and survive a swine flu pandemic”Professor Hugh Pennington, Virologist

For full programme details or toreserve a place (from £450 + VAT) call01983 861133 or visit www.bfi.co.uk

PLANNING FOR A PANDEMICThe 20th Pandemic Planning Summit will focus on the implications and consequences of swine flu to business

BuSINESS FORuMS INTERNATIONAL, (Bfi) the leading hr risk management group, hosts the 20th Pandemic Planning summit in London on 12 november at Danubius hotel, London. Large private and public sector organisations will address the pressing need to plan for, weather and survive a flu pandemic. over 2,000 organisations have attended the series this year alone, and this is the first summit specifically addressing the implications and consequences of swine flu to business. as of september 2009, swine flu is present globally. given that the world-wide economy has just suffered its worst battering in decades, it is imperative that organisations are as prepared as possible to manage the effects of the next outbreak. “There are organisations who may not survive a pandemic, and planning needs to start now. The programme at the first summit in January 2006 struck a chord with senior management, who were evidently struggling to combine the necessary medical, hr, risk mitigation, legal and operational elements into a robust plan,” said elizabeth smith, head of research at Bfi. “in the three years since then, we have provided up to the minute advice for thousands of major organisations, delivering expert guidance on the practicalities of pandemic planning.”

WORST CASE SCENARIOfirms are urged to consider and plan for a worst-case scenario; the most severe consequences of swine flu could lead to a reduction in global gDP of almost 5 per cent (around $us 3 trillion). only ten per cent of that will be caused by mortality – 60 per cent of these losses will occur via demand side-effects such as travel disruption or decline on non-essential shopping with the remaining 30 per cent from temporary situations caused by illness and absenteeism. Corporations have to take the threats extremely seriously, especially in these fragile economic times. The overwhelming message to the summit delegates is that preparation and planning is imperative if your company is to survive this threat. The keynote address will be delivered by the Cabinet office and will detail the government plans for containment, managing

outbreaks and delivering treatment as well as updates on travel, vaccine, school closure and other critical business concerns. other experts contributing their knowledge and advice include Professor hugh Pennington of aberdeen university and Dr Charlie easmon, an expert in public health issues. The topics to be covered will stress that comprehensive plans must cover seemingly

diverse aspects such as legal policy, staff travel, quarantine arrangements, as well as controlling rumour, speculation and scaremongering that can easily rage out of control.

SHARING EXPERIENCESThe programme also features vital real-life contributions from organisations that are updating and evolving their pandemic plans to keep up with current swine flu developments. This is a unique opportunity for delegates to learn directly from the experiences and mistakes of world-class organisations. Delegates will hear from the Chief Medical officer of the Metropolitan Police, who will be examining their practice and policy on vaccinations in order to ensure they are able

to deliver maximum service to the public during the winter phase of the outbreak. other case studies include a look at the challenges of supply chain demand for the nhs. The pandemic policy manager for DhL supply Chain will talk about putting the policy together to reflect changes in the global and national situations. royal Bank of scotland will address risk management, planning and business continuity procedures. The agenda will also include advice on managing trauma in the workplace and a look

at the key hr challenges to ensure that your flu policy is both workable and legal.

“We are repeating the lessons that were described so clearly

at the first summit in January 2006 and all our speakers

will be drawing from their exceptional knowledge and hard won experience,” said elizabeth smith

PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS as long-established hr risk specialists, Bfi have been running a series of pandemic preparedness

conferences since 2006; over 20 conferences

attracting an average of 350 top-level delegates each.

as testimony to the ground-breaking nature of this event, the

conference has been featured on radio 4 Today and BBC radio London

with extensive coverage in the sunday Times, The Telegraph, Business Week and syndicated globally in print and broadcast. Bfi has also researched and produced two further seminars: swine flu: Legal imperatives for organisations and absence Management during swine flu. says elizabeth: “Delegates have highlighted the need to examine these two key areas in more depth. The seminars give hr and planning professionals the chance to look at their current plans and make the necessary changes to ensure their organisation is protected.” The Legal seminar runs on 15 october and absence Management on 22 october.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

For all the events mentioned in this article, the full programme and speaker details are on the BFI website at www.bfi.co.uk

PANDEMIC PLANNING


Government Business | Volume 16.10 www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

TAKE A WIDER VIEW.GAIN A DEEPER INSIGHT

Get a wider view of your suppliers with Experian’s Risk Audit Plus.

With powerful information drawn from a variety of sources such as Delphi Score, Days Beyond Terms (DBT), CCJ’s and much more.

Experian’s Risk Audit Plus will help you to better identify the risk that each of your suppliers represents.

To view an online demonstration visit:www.experianbi.co.uk/riskauditplus7 or call 0115 901 6017

THE WAY WE PAY

WHAT A DIFFERENCE A COuPLE OF decades make. 19 years ago cheque use was at its peak with 11 million cheques written each day. Whereas, only this year the Payments Council announced plans to consider setting an agreed end date for cheque clearing, given that cheques are in a state of permanent decline. similarly two decades ago the prospect of internet banking, or personal and business customers being able to make near immediate payments online and via telephone would have been unimaginable. however, since the launch of the faster Payments service in May 2008, over 105 million faster Payments have been made, and more than 23 million people now use internet banking for managing their finances. Technology advances have transformed the way in which we all make payments. our old habits have had to change in order for us to make the most of the new convenient online services on offer, and the public sector, like us all, has striven to take full advantage.

NEW TECHNOLOGY, NEW HABITS?over the last decade, the number of payments that were previously made by cheque or cash has fallen by 53 and 11 per cent respectively. Many of these payments have migrated to plastic card payments or to an automated payment method, such as a Direct Debit and Bacs Direct Credit. The rise in popularity of online banking has played a role in transforming the way people in the uK pay their bills and manage their finances. 24 hour online access means many are able not only to make payments using their cards or their online banking accounts, but also to set up regular payments online. Public sector organisations have had to react to these changes by adapting the payment facilities they are able to provide and the payment options they use. When looking at the statistics over the last eight years, the changes are marked. in 2008, four per cent of council tax payments were made using cheques compared to 13 per cent in 2000. in contrast, one-off internet or telephone banking payments have become increasingly popular with six million council tax payments made this way in 2008. This compares to 0.66 million payments in 2000. automated payments like Direct Debits or standing orders now account for the vast majority of council tax payments, at almost 72 per cent of the total in 2008.

OTHER WAYS TO PAYin addition to council tax, local authorities are increasingly offering the opportunity for residents to pay for parking permits,

housing and commercial rent and business rates over their secure websites. other public services including vehicle and TV licensing now also offer online payment facilities to meet rising demand. Most of these are enabled through card accepting services. The faster Payments service has already, and will continue to accelerate these trends. The service allows customers to make phone and internet payments any day and at any time, within two hours rather than three days. This offers solutions to both the general public in making faster payments to public sector organisations, and to these organisations themselves in how they manage their own payments to suppliers and customers. The attraction of using this service is that payments can be made – end-to-end – outside of bank working hours. it is forecast that over the next few years faster Payments will help to push volumes of interbank online, phone and standing order payments from the 2008 figure of 499 million to 753 million in 2018.

The benefits of public sector organisations offering online card payment facilities are numerous. firstly, it is a flexible and convenient service that allows consumers to make a payment at any time of the day, on any day of the week. This is particularly helpful for those unable to visit a bank or Post office, or make phone payments during working hours. in addition, there are security benefits and cost savings to be made from minimising the amount of cash kept on premises. importantly, this facility also means an organisation could receive the payment quicker as there is no need to wait for a cheque to arrive in the post. Paying by card does, however, require some consideration and care to be taken. for example, if local authority departments accept card payments then the onus is upon them, as a merchant, to ensure that they meet industry security requirements on collecting and storing data. Known as the Payment Card industry Data security standard, it provides guidelines on protecting cardholder data, maintaining a secure network, using up to date anti-virus software, and implementing access control management

Advances in technology have changed the way we pay. Public sector organisations have had to embrace these changes by adapting the payment options they provide

MONEY MATTERS


Written by Sandra Quinn, director of communications, Payments Council www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

The rise in popularity of online banking has played a role in transforming the way people in the uK pay their bills and manage their finances. 24 hour online access means many are able not only to make payments using their cards or their online banking accounts, but also to set up regular payments online

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– to restrict staff access to cardholder data. The standard also prohibits the storing of sensitive authentication data, such as the credit card security code, and insists that retailers truncate card account numbers on receipts so that all but the last four card digits are withheld. organisations can visit www.retailersandcards.org.uk for more information on accepting card payments. other advice and guidance surrounding fraud prevention is available

from www.financialfraudaction.org.uk online transactions can prove useful to smaller public sector organisations too. We are already witnessing some schools accepting online payments for a school trip or for school lunches, rather than having to manage numerous cheques from different parents for different activities. in the future, we would expect the take-up of this service to increase,

as other schools begin to appreciate the merits of using online payments in this way. Local authority leisure centres may also seek to drive their online presence and minimise the administrative and security burden of accepting cash payments by offering online services. The faster Payments service has also paved the way for future innovation, because it has opened up the possibility of developing a mobile payments service for making

payments between bank accounts by using the existing infrastructure that was built for the faster Payments service. at present the Payments Council is considering the case for introducing this service. Mobile payments are already proving popular within the public sector, as seen with the payment of congestion fees via mobile phone. While some of these future developments

may be some way off, it is clear that payment innovation has played an important role in the public sector, and demand for new more efficient payment facilities, such as online services, will remain high. With the right fraud protection and simple, easy-to-understand payment advice available on public sector websites for all customers, those accepting payments for public services can make full use of online technological advances.

THE PAYMENTS COuNCILThe Payments Council is the organisation that sets strategy for uK payments. it has been established to ensure that uK payment systems and services meet the need of users, payment service providers and the wider economy.The Payments Council has three core objectives:•tohaveastrategicvisionforpayments and lead the future development of co-operative payment services in the uK •toensurepaymentsystemsareopen, accountable and transparent •andtoensuretheoperational efficiency, effectiveness and integrity of payment services in the uK. The Payments Council is a membership organisation funded by its members, with an independent chairman.

MONEY MATTERS


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Government Business | Volume 16.10

The Business Magazine for goVernMenT

While some of these future developments may be some way off, it is clear that payment innovation has played an important role in the public sector, and demand for new more efficient payment facilities, such as online services, will remain high

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Could you continue to provide essential services if your top three suppliers went bankrupt tomorrow?

REDIT CHECkING SuPPLIERS at the tender stage is a matter of course but when did you last assess the stability of

your existing supplier base? How would it affect your essential services if they became bankrupt or insolvent? What can you do to ensure this doesn’t occur? Public Sector professionals must have the most up to date, comprehensive credit information available to ensure that the service(s) they provide are not adversely affected by the financial situation of their suppliers. Experian’s Risk Audit Plus is a market leading solution providing a detailed report of your existing supplier database. It offers comprehensive information including Commercial Delphi scores to assess the probability of failure, Experian’s Days Beyond Terms payment information, which shows how long they take to pay their invoices, and it also shows any County Court Judgements they have incurred. Viewed from a secure, user-friendly web interface, Risk Audit Plus helps you to make better-informed decisions while also developing preventative actions such as effective contract management strategies. This powerful insight gives you a graphical easy to use display of your supplier risks. Take a tour of Risk Audit Plus – see for yourself how Risk Audit Plus from Experian can help you to quickly audit, assess and manage supplier credit risks, visit www.experianbi.co.uk/riskauditplus. Once you know about the risk on your supplier base, it’s critical to monitor and continually assess

the situation, especially during the current economic downturn. With a choice of over 32 data items to monitor, Experian’s Business Monitoring can notify you of newly filed accounts, a change in Directors, or of any adverse information registered against your chosen businesses providing a timely credit risk alert system. Ask about Business Monitoring being part of your overall supplier risk management package when you enquire about Risk Audit Plus today.

Experian is a global leader in providing intelligence to help organisations evaluate the financial stability of potential suppliers, monitor their ongoing financial situation and also manage their own supplier base more effectively.


For further information please call Oliver Abbott on 0115 901 6017 or visit www.experianbi.co.uk.

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CuT THROuGH RED TAPE WITH BETTER PAYMENT SYSTEMS

IT’S NOT OFTEN THAT YOu HEAR any British Prime Minister utter the ‘C word’ in public, but recently he did. four times in the same sentence, in fact, and in front of a live audience and TV cameras! Yes, the economic situation has the public sector in such a difficult position that the government has announced that cuts in public spending will need to be made to help balance Britain’s books. in gordon Brown’s own words, “Labour will cut costs, cut inefficiencies, cut unnecessary programmes, and cut lower priority budgets.” adversity is often the mother of invention and another way of looking at the situation facing gB plc – regardless of who’s in power – is that in the coming weeks, months and years, there exists an opportunity to simply do things better. MASSIVE ADVANCESone area where massive advances have been made in recent years is how citizens and businesses transact with the public sector. By default, gB plc has a massive multi-billion pounds payments infrastructure which ten years ago was about as fragmented as you can get. Things have changed. improvements to this system have culminated in massive financial savings and efficiencies, not only for government, but also in terms of how we, British citizens and businesses, spend our time and allocate our resources paying for services, from driving licenses to taxation. OPPORTuNITYhowever, there is the opportunity to do so much more, particularly as payments technology is evolving all the time. so many of our central and local public services are now online and delivered in modern ways using communications technologies, that making payments flexible, simple and dynamic is a great way to improve services whilst saving money. furthermore, these systems are highly secure, very reliable, extremely fast and capable of handling and storing vast amounts of data. since the turn of the century, ‘joined up government’ has been ongoing mantra within the halls of power, and with different parts of the system being joined all the time, making payments systems more fluid within and between different public sector

organisations has become extremely desirable. Leading British payments company, DataCash – www.datacash.com – has a history of serving the public sector with an increasingly wide portfolio of payments solutions. DataCash has worked with and supports a host of public sector bodies including many local authorities and central government departments, and provides payment services for the government gateway; an exemplar status solution managed by the DWP as Champion office. Cliché perhaps, but the company really does have a one-stop-shop of all things allied to the payments process, both in the private and public sectors. as well as providing cardholder present payment services in the physical world, the company also provides solutions

for the customer not present world in e-commerce and call centre environments. DataCash has an extremely reliable and resilient payments infrastructure. and recognising the importance of security and regulation, the company has sophisticated fraud and risk management capabilities and is fully Level 1 PCi compliant in a world where financial regulation has become extremely important, both in government and commerce generally. EXPERIENCEThe company’s experience of working with central and local public sector clients means that it has a very good understanding of government’s changing priorities and challenges. for example, not everyone has access to a PC, so electronic payment through the internet is not a be all and end all solution. not everyone has a credit or debit card and so there must be alternative ways to pay for services. DataCash

provides a range of citizen based solutions including cash-based payment solutions and is also an issuer in the pre-paid card environment with an electronic money licence. MAjOR CHALLENGEa major challenge facing public sector organisations is the ability to provide multi-channel payment options. for example, Brentwood Borough Council needed to provide a multiple payment channel for its customers and has implemented web-based, call centre and council offices payment processing with solutions provided by DataCash. The latest development is to provide telephony and email payment channels. This means Brentwood deals with one supplier/payments expert and has consolidated reporting and reconciliation.

outsourcing payments also enables Brentwood to concentrate on its core business activities and leaves the complexities of the payments world to DataCash. The Council’s requirements are not dissimilar to hundreds of other councils and other public sector organisations in Britain, all striving to provide better services with fewer resources. in summary, payment processing has proven to be a major area in government where significant improvements can be made to public services, and all whilst cutting costs.


Contact Simon Goodalesector manager – governmentTel (direct): +44 (0)20 7421 8450Tel (mobile): +44 (0)7595 271 987E-mail: [email protected]: www.datacash.com

Leading British payments company, DataCash specialise in serving the public sector with an increasingly wide portfolio of payments solutions



so many of our central and local public services are now online and delivered in modern ways using communications technologies, that making payments flexible, simple and dynamic is a great way to improve services whilst saving money. furthermore, these systems are highly secure, very reliable, extremely fast and capable of handling and storing vast amounts of data

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MONEY MATTERS

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T GENERALLY MEANS information technology, but in today’s rapidly changing world, local authorities are redefining I.T.

to mean Innovation and Transformation. Councils that want to meet the diverse needs of the communities they serve must invest in intuitive, easy to use software that will help them meet the changing demands that government and citizens are placing on them. The major areas of concern for local authorities can be broken into the four “Cs”:•Communities•Compliance•Capital•CarbonTechnology is a key enabler in each of these areas. Although relatively new in the UK, TechnologyOne has a strong presence in a number of Commonwealth countries. The company specialises in developing, selling, implementing and supporting software ideally suited for local authorities. Joseph Slattery, TechnologyOne UK Director, said: “A local authority’s main concern is the community; its residents and other customers. The major focus is how it engages with them, how it provides services, and how those services can be accessed. Technology is key to each of these areas.” “Take the role of a parking inspector. They carry a mobile device around and can record parking tickets. That’s far more efficient than writing a ticket and then going back to the office to log it into a system. And technology made that possible.”

Mr Slattery believes that the increased focus on compliance, risk and performance management – and the need for local authorities to make information available to the public – highlights the importance of clear and easy reporting. “Local authorities have KPIs they must report on and for some organisations this is very time consuming. TechnologyOne is in the business of making this kind of reporting easier – a few simple clicks and a report is running.” Capital is all about the finances of council. With the strict rules around financial management, and project and works management, access to real time information is critical. Local authorities need to show that they are financially responsible, and that they can deliver projects and maintain costs. It’s all about the bottom line. Carbon is more than just reporting. As other countries in Europe propose legislation to make measuring, monitoring, reporting and reducing carbon emissions a legal requirement, the UK is now being forced to

act. Residents and other stakeholders want to know that their local authority is improving sustainability and the environment – that it’s socially responsible. Mr Slattery said: “Councils can only meet their obligations by transforming the way they work – and they can only do this by using enabling technology. Information silos, ageing software, poor access to data and the inability to take action must become things of the past.” “TechnologyOne has a suite of integrated, easy to use software solutions that provide excellent monitoring and reporting capabilities – out of the box. Each of our products integrates tightly, removing silos because information isn’t kept in different systems.” “TechnologyOne’s systems can help local authorities move into the new decade embracing technological developments that meet the requirements and expectations of their stakeholders.”


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NFORTuNATELY, it is clear now that the financial meltdown over the last two years and the resultant

government financial support packages will have a negative impact across the whole public sector with the news full of debate on the scale of potential spending cuts. This is clearly an issue for government departments with the ever-increasing demand for technology spending. It is likely that the government’s answer will be to encourage, the participation of private sector finance to assist with the funding of these critical technology assets, i.e. asset finance and managed service programmes. However, whilst there will be a strong demand for these financing products, there are a number of pitfalls that the budget holder looking for alternative options needs to be aware of: An underestimated issue continues to be the simple availability of lending even to entities that are effectively the UK Government. There has been a loss of a number of big names from the leasing market and a lack of field resource among others resulting in those remaining being stretched to meet demand. A solution for many such finance companies is to align themselves with technology suppliers; this can have its advantages for all parties but be aware that these relationships generally exist to benefit the supplier; don’t just take the first offer; shop around with lenders who are supplier independent, because leasing is a way of smoothing out cash flow.

Additionally, ensure that the finance product you are being offered best matches your immediate and long term requirements. Many lenders like to lend into the public sector but not all will have products that suit the financing of technology assets; just as important as cash flowing the initial expense is the ability to easily keep up with technology changes – many lenders have changed their view on this “upgrade” approach to asset finance and you may find yourself locked into a long term agreement that is expensive to exit. Ask about the ability to upgrade during the agreement term and ensure you understand what you are committing to. Preferably you will want to include a wide cross section of assets under your financing facility – again many lenders have restricted the types of assets they will finance.

As government departments, you will have specific restrictions on VAT recovery for capital expenditure. However, the more creative financiers out there, may well be able to assist with products that allow full VAT recovery on these assets – monies saved that can be used elsewhere. Finally, due to the ongoing dislocation between real borrowing costs and the Bank Of England base rate, pricing can be a mine field which some lenders will attempt to hedge through the use of residual value operating leases. Again, these can be an excellent method of reducing the whole life cost of your technology, but ensure you understand the overall financial commitment and

what will happen to your assets when the agreement ends – some apparently cheap options can turn out less so over the whole agreement. In all cases, make sure you know what will happen to your equipment at the end of the agreement and quantify any additional costs. The good news is that there are many lenders out there who will work with you to ensure you get the best fit for your projects and help you keep up with technology through these hard times whilst concentrating on the important business of running your department.


Tel: +44 (0) 1689 806970Fax: +44 (0) 1689 806989Web: www.csg-lease.co.uk

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THE GROWTH OF E-COMMERCE

THE ONLINE SALES CHANNEL IS becoming increasingly competitive but no less rewarding. if you are just getting started or a sophisticated multi-channel organisation you’ll learn a lot at e Commerce expo 2009. now in its third year e Commerce expo, taking place on 20-21 october in earls Court, London, is the event for the e-commerce industry. 2008 saw 3341 visitors attend the exhibition over the two days. access to the exhibition and conference is free of charge so you can catch up with the latest thinking and developments in e-commerce and meet the companies who can provide the solutions you’re looking for. The 2008 conference was tremendously successful with over 85 per cent of visitors attending at least one conference session. google have also confirmed their participation for 2009. They will be running google university sessions on both days of the exhibition covering product areas such as adwords, analytics and Checkout.

kEYNOTESThere will be a practical series of presentations from a panel of niche retailers who have experienced compelling growth on the internet for their brands. You will hear how these businesses have developed, what kind of website activity they pursue, what resources they bring to bear and what kind of marketing works. They have all learned a lot along the way about what works and what doesn’t, fine-tuning their products and websites to hike conversions and developing new online marketing strategies to increase custom. in fact, it’s quite often not about the website! The session will involve short presentations, followed by a practical discussion of what works

and what doesn’t based on hard experience and analysis. The panel will be introduced and chaired by roger Willcocks, who owns screen Pages, the e-commerce services specialist, who has worked with many of the best known niche retailers in the uK. he will be joined by stephanie harrod from harrod horticultural, the gardening specialist and Claire allen from Thorntons, the chocolate and gift retailer.

TECHNOLOGY INTERuPTIONrudy Tambala, head of internet & innovation, Ministry of sound (MshK group) takes a close look at how the technology disruption caused by the internet, coupled with the new breed of highly trained technologists, has reduced the cost of delivering world-class D2C (retail and marketing), thereby enabling producers and content owners to engage directly with the consumer. This is a major threat to the traditional channels (retail, media, mobile) and will see catastrophic changes in the coming years. There will also be a session on search engine marketing: delivering effective and efficient paid search campaigns. hilton hotels have one of the most complex Paid search accounts within the travel sector – operating campaigns for ten brands and 300+ hotels, exceeding more than 150 google accounts which encompass more than 10 million keywords. Their campaigns are advertised in over 70 countries and more than 20 languages. The session will cover:•Utilisingcuttingedgetools,understandhow hilton track and monitor campaigns effectively•Manageyouragencyusingeffectivework flow management tools that focus their team on what is important to your account•LearnhowHiltonreducedcostsbyover30per cent and increased revenues by double digits

N COMMERCEThe oldest form of commerce is ncommerce: “nearby” commerce. Marko Balabanovic, head of innovation, lastminute.com labs will be talking about how lastminute.com’s location-based mobile apps are connecting people in cities with nearby deals, and where we see things heading for 2010. Marko is leading the lastminute.com labs innovation team focused on developing new mobile experiences. Previously he worked on personalisation and seo systems for lastminute.com and Travelocity sites across europe. amongst other informative sessions, day two will cover Customer Conversion and retention: harnessing 2-Way Conversation and engaging Customers to encourage first and repeat Purchase. This will include:•Usingcustomerreviews,mini surveys and online polls to drive an understanding of your customers •Engagingcustomersthroughonlinecontent to encourage repeat visit and purchaseall keynotes are free to attend, as is access to the exhibition and further information is available on our website www.ecommerceexpo.co.uk.

E COMMERCE SuRGERYin addition the event has an ecommerce surgery in Conjunction with Martin newman internationally renowned online website optimisation guru, Martin newman will be on hand to review the search and merchandising capability of your website and share some key tips on how to improve these key areas in order to drive higher conversion, more units per transaction, increased aoV and enhanced customer experience. Plus nick allen, one of the uK’s most experienced home shopping experts can help answer any specific concerns you have about your e-commerce channel. nick, ex Ceo of zendor, one of the uK’s leading e-commerce providers, is a vastly experienced leader in ecommerce and home shopping. he can count the early Learning Centre, Woolworths, river island, Peacocks and reiss as clients. nick and Martin will be able to help you with any issue relating to customer service, supply chain, fulfilment and distribution, marketing or any other aspect of your e-commerce business.


Web: www.ecommerceexpo.co.uk

With over 50 free seminars and eight keynote sessions, E-commerce Expo will provide unrivalled education for organisations who want to trade online




MONEY MATTERS

A LICENSE TO...

NEWTOWNABBEY BOROuGH COuNCIL is a local authority lying a short distance north of the city of Belfast. it serves a mixed rural and urban borough with a population of just under 81,000 people. Paul Townsend is responsible for the maintenance and development of the Council’s website. “Part of this redevelopment was to provide an easier to use method of communication between ourselves the Council and our community,” explains Paul.

DOG TRIALSin northern ireland residents who own a dog must by law purchase an annual dog license and their details are kept with their local authority. acting as a pilot for other transactions they hoped to bring online, the council decided to launch this as their pilot scheme for accepting payments online, with a view to eventually accept credit and debit card payments via the website for all Council services. “We wanted to initially offer our customers the opportunity to purchase dog licenses online due to their relatively inexpensive cost — £5 for a single license and £12.50 for a block license,” said paul. sage Pay was one of a number of possibilities suggested by the Council’s bank. “We had no way of knowing the exact uptake and we also intended to add more services over time”, says Paul. “so, we needed a payment gateway that could offer not only flexibility but also scalability.”

WAGGING TAILSThe 1000 inclusive transactions per quarter really appealed to newtownabbey Council, as did the fixed per-transaction pricing should they soar above the 1000pcm. The integration was straight-forward too due to the downloadable integration kits provided by sage Pay complete with example scripts and the excellent customer service. “We host our own site in house so could easily do this without the expense of a third party web company, but any questions we did have – like adding additional card types, and enabling 3D secure checks — were quickly answered by email, usually the same day!” says Paul. “one issue for our customers, and ourselves was online security; although our transaction values were small we still wanted to have a robust, reliable payment gateway with a range of solid security features.”

sage Pay is level 1 – the highest level – PCi Dss compliant and takes all the vital steps to help maintain business reputation. after soft launching the dog license payments in october, the uptake for online payments proved very successful for the Council. “We officially launched in november and since then our online transactions have continued to grow each month. This is one of the main areas we want to grow so that our customers are able to purchase a full range of Council goods and services through our website.”


For more information about Sage Pay or our payment services e-mail [email protected], call us on 020 7685 3347 or visit www.sagepay.com

When Newtownabbey Borough Council redeveloped their website, they were keen to introduce as many online services as possible to create a more accessible and convenient payment channel for their customers. Paul Townsend, E-Communications Officer tells us how a trial run converted to success



MAkING IT SAFE AND EASY FOR PEOPLE TO PAY YOu IS ESSENTIAL

Sage Pay is dedicated to delivering secure and efficient payment services that will help to improve cash-flow and debt recovery – and improve your bottom line. We process millions of secure payments each month for over 25,000 businesses, including a range of borough, district and county councils – some of which had never accepted card payments before. We can advise on fraud prevention, industry best practices and PCI DSS compliance. Our payment services range from the very simple to the most sophisticated tailored solutions and because they are easy to integrate and manage, you and your staff will have more time to spend on the valuable work you’re doing in the community.•Givepeoplemorewaystopay–Mailorderandtelephonepaymentfacilities•Outsourceyourpaymentprocessing–RemovetheburdenofPCIDSScompliance•Fightfraud–Freetoolstomitigatetheriskassociatedtoonlinefraud.

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Your legal responsibilitieson energy use andclimate change imposemany obligations. Theseimpact on all consumers,business and publicsectors. Shed some lighton the steps you shouldbe taking, visit a FREEESTA event this Autumn.

Attend a FREE ESTAevent for a comprehensiveunderstanding and practicaladvice on implementing:

• UK Low Carbon Transition plan• Carbon Reduction Commitment• Part L Building Regulations• Wider use of Display Energy

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REGISTER NOW FORYOUR FREE PLACE ATwww.esta.org.uk

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TuNNEL

THE SPEED AT WHICH NEW ENERGY programmes and regulations are being published, as well as the number of announcements about carbon reduction targets (especially in the lead-up to the global summit on climate change which will take place at Copenhagen in December), makes it difficult to plan a coordinated strategy to take best advantage of the opportunities offered, while minimising the risk of failing to comply. as an organisation focused on cutting out wastage and managing energy efficiently, the energy services and Technology association (esTa) is involved in one way or another with most of these initiatives. its series of free autumn conferences aims to give participants an overview of developments

and point out ways of targeting available resources to make most impact across the range of up and coming regulations.

MEETING MILESTONESThe Climate Change act has committed the uK to cutting greenhouse emissions by at least 80 per cent by mid-century. Wisely, legislators realised that the achievement of such a long-term target will depend upon shorter term ‘milestones’. The government has accepted the recommendation by the Committee on Climate Change to cut carbon emissions by 34 per cent by 2020 – that is only just over ten years away. and should an international agreement be reached at the Copenhagen summit, this target could rise to 42 per cent! That would

require some very aggressive action. in various pieces of european energy legislation the public sector has a duty to lead by example so the spotlight would remain firmly upon the sector. among the flagship eu programmes for cutting emissions is the emissions Trading scheme (eu eTs). The scheme works by getting firms to invest in energy efficiency (and so reduce emissions) or buy allowances to emit carbon (from others with more than they need), whichever is cheaper. By restricting, and progressively reducing, the total number of allowances available, total emissions are steadily cut while for participants this is achieved at lowest cost.

CARBON REDuCTION COMMITMENTThe uK government is now extending this

Reducing carbon emissions remains high on the political agenda, even in difficult economic terms. The government’s strategy for recovery is to focus on a new ‘green’, low carbon economy. So how can organisations adapt to the new demands placed upon them?


Written by Alan Aldridge, executive director, ESTA www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

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method to large energy users in the uK (who are not already in the eTs). The Carbon reduction Commitment (CrC) includes universities and large public sector organisations. government departments are automatically included in the scheme and so are all publicly-funded schools (although these will form part of the local authority’s responsibility). While the scheme begins in april 2010, inclusion is determined by an organisation’s electricity bill in 2008. if a body has any half-hourly metering installed (and not just the mandatory metering required for the 100kW market) and had a half-hourly metered electricity consumption in 2008 of 6,000MWh, then it will be included. The environment agency, as scheme administrator, has written to everyone with half-hourly metering to identify whether they are ‘captured’ by the scheme or not. all those contacted have to supply evidence to support their case for inclusion or non-participation. While the electricity bill is the criterion of inclusion, allowances will have to be bought to cover all carbon emissions (except those from transport). for the first three years these will be sold at a fixed price without restriction, then from 2013 a cap will be introduced and allowances auctioned and also available on the traded market. revenues raised from sales will be recycled to participants, but on the basis of a league table of performance in terms of carbon reduction. There will be incentives for early action too. The scheme is complex and final details are still being agreed, even though most of the rules are now in place. at its series of autumn events, esTa will be helping energy managers to understand what exactly is required of them and also how to best employ the scheme to improve the energy efficiency of their sites and so maximise the potential savings under the scheme.

MONITORING AND TARGETINGa key technology will be automatic Monitoring & Targeting (aM&T) – indeed implementation

of this entitles the organisation to benefit from one of the ‘early action’ incentives. it is also a way of tracking energy consumption across a site and targeting savings. Those taking part will have to account for energy usage from all ‘core sources’ (defined as electricity down to Profile Class 5 and 73.2kWh for gas) and at least 90 per cent of all energy consumption. esTa calculates that this typically amounts to an annual spend of around £7-8,000 per site at current energy prices. so should your organisation be included in the CrC you will be required to account for all sites with this size of energy bill. and if the ‘core sources’ on larger sites do not in themselves cover the full 90 per cent of consumption across the whole portfolio, then many smaller sites will have to be metered and accounted for as well.

DISPLAY ENERGY CERTIFICATESPublic sector organisations are now accustomed to dealing with Display energy Certificates (DeCs), although they may not be aware of the proposed extension of the regulations currently being debated in Brussels. This would drastically reduce the current threshold of 1000m2 for qualifying buildings down to just 250m2. esTa will be covering this at the conferences, as well as discussing the most effective ways to comply with the regulations (some aM&T systems can now produce DeCs automatically) and the ways in which they can be used to raise the standard of building energy performance across an organisation’s portfolio. esTa estimates that an improvement in rating by one band is roughly equivalent to an energy saving of about £10 per m2 per year, which is a significant amount of money across a building or estate, and DeCs can be a useful tool in persuading senior management of the case for investment. DeCs were introduced as a result of the transposition into uK law of the energy Performance of Buildings Directive (ePBD). This was also responsible for a steep uprating of Part L of the Building regulations, the part that deals with energy use in buildings and their carbon

emissions; it also extended the reach of the regulations to cover more refurbishment work. in 2010 a further significant strengthening is due to come into effect, and this will include a change in the way a building’s performance is assessed. experts from esTa will outline the new requirements and ways of meeting them.

THE SkILLS FACTORWith energy and climate policy such an important policy driver, it is clear that energy management will figure much more strongly in the operational management of organisations over the coming years. But how can we ensure that all energy management is, as near as possible, best practice? esTa has been working closely with the British standards institution (Bsi) on the development of international energy management standards. Just as the iso 14000 series established clear, internationally-agreed benchmarks for environmental management systems, so the launch of the european standard en 16001 for energy Management will provide a clear framework for establishing best practice in this area. as esTa members represented Bsi on many of the meetings of the international technical committee drafting the document, they will be able to explain both the letter and the spirit of the new standard. as the state of the economy constrains spending over the coming months and years, any opportunities to reduce expenditure and so free resources must be welcome. While the new regulations on carbon and energy may seem to be further burdens on hard-pressed managers, we believe they represent opportunities to improve performance, cut costs and move towards a greener economy. Come to the free esTa conferences in november and we’ll explain more!

The Energy Services and Technology Association (ESTA) represents over 100 major providers of energy management equipment and services across the UK.


Web: www.esta.org.uk

19



VISITOR INFORMATION

The ESTA autumn one-day conferences are free to attend. They are taking place at four venues around the country in the first half of November:- Birmingham – Aston Villa FC, Tuesday 3 November- Wakefield – Cedar Court Hotel, Tuesday 10 November - London – International Britannia Hotel, Canary Wharf, Thursday 12 November- Northwest – Mere Golf & Country Club, Tuesday 17 NovemberFor more details, and to register, visit the ESTA website at: www.esta.org.uk

CRC Timeline – Introductory Phase

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CuTTING COSTS AND CARBON

THE PuBLIC SECTOR IS RESPONSIBLE for around five per cent of the uK’s total carbon emissions – not only is this bad news for the environment, but it is bad news for public sector budgets. at a time when energy costs are rising sharply, local councils, schools, universities and hospitals should all be looking to become more energy efficient and take advantage of the vital cost savings that can be made through carbon reduction. Climate change is now recognised as one of the greatest challenges facing government, businesses and individuals across the globe – so much so, that last year, the uK became the first country in the world to legally set targets for reducing carbon emissions.

SETTING TARGETSWith the introduction of the climate change bill, the uK now has a target of reducing its carbon emissions by 34 per cent by 2020 – a bold commitment requiring a high level of action to be achieve. The public sector has a leading role to

play in contributing to this target and many organisations are already beginning to investigate how they can improve their energy efficiency, reduce their carbon emissions and play a key part in the government’s green agenda ahead of the Carbon reduction Commitment (CrC) that comes into force in april 2010. The CrC is a mandatory scheme which targets carbon dioxide

emissions from large public and private sector organisations using more than 6,000MWh of electricity per year. at the end of each year, the performance of participants in the scheme will be summarised in league tables; outlining the best and worst performers in

terms of carbon emissions. The revenues generated through the initial sale of credits will be recycled back to participants by the government, plus or minus a bonus or penalty dependent on their place in the league table.

STEPS TO CARBON REDuCTIONas such, there has never been a more important time for the public sector to

consider its environmental impact and the good news is that with the following simple steps, your organisation can save considerable amounts of money in the process: Measure how much energy is being used. unless you know what you’re paying, you won’t

What can public sector organisations do to reduce their carbon emissions, cut back on energy costs and help tackle climate change?

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know the impact of the changes you make. Keep track of your bills, and how they change when you introduce our energy–saving tips. heating, ventilation and air conditioning: air conditioning can increase a building’s energy costs by 100 per cent, so make sure your heaters and air conditioning units aren’t fighting each other – having them switched on at the same time is simply a waste of money. Keep windows and doors closed in cold weather and reduce heat loss by adding draught proofing to ill-fitting windows and doors. switch off equipment when it’s not in use: office equipment accounts for around 15 per cent of all the electrical energy used in uK offices – a single computer and monitor left on 24 hours a day will cost over £50 a year. switching it off out of hours and enabling standby features could reduce this to £15 a year each and prolong the lifespan of equipment. Lighting: Lighting accounts for around 20 – 40 per cent of total electricity costs in most organisations. Try to maximise your use of natural daylight and switch off unnecessary lighting. speak to your colleagues about saving energy: You need to lead by example, but it’s also important to make it a team effort. ask employees where they think energy is being wasted, and encourage them to think about how they can all use less.

re-plan your office lay out: Think about where you place your iT appliances – don’t put hot equipment like photocopiers near cooling vents and don’t heat unused space. Whilst these are great examples of a few simple steps that could make a huge difference to your organisation, public sector organisations must also look beyond their own organisation and encourage green initiatives amongst businesses and the wider community by using its buying power to generate broader demand for energy-efficient products and services.

FINANCIAL HELPassistance is also at hand when it comes to taking public sector organisations to the next level. The government, in partnership with the Carbon Trust and salix finance, is providing an additional £51.5 million of interest-free loans in 2009/10 to help replace old equipment with modern energy efficiency equipment. interest-free energy efficiency Loans are available on a 100 per cent funded basis for around 80 different types of energy efficiency equipment and are designed to pay for themselves through the savings in energy – essentially providing free funding to tackle energy bills. To find out more about the energy efficiency loans scheme visit www.salixfinance.co.uk/loans.

Many organisations are already realising the cost savings available by improving energy efficiency – but if the public sector is to play a key role in the fight against climate change, then it is vital that steps are taken to improve energy management.

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21



THE PuBLIC SECTOR CARBON MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

The Carbon Trust’s Public Sector Carbon Management Programme guides organisations through a peer-supported process of building a team, measuring the carbon footprint, defining carbon reduction targets and projects, and compiling a compelling case for action.Since it began in 2003/04, 436 public sector organisations have participated in the programme including over half the UK’s local authorities (236), 82 universities, 82 hospitals and NHS Trusts, and nine central government departments and executive agencies.Since being established in 2001, the Carbon Trust has delivered advice and guidance to over 2,500 public sector bodies, has helped them reduce their carbon emissions by almost 3 million tonnes per year and has saved them £94m a year on their energy bills.

FuTuRE BuILDINGSPublic sector stakeholders involved in construction design and build projects are invited to register – for free – for the Interbuild Specifier show

REACHING OuT TO PROjECT MANAGERS, planners, local authorities and even head teachers, the new interbuild specifier show provides four packed days of fact finding and networking opportunities (18-21 october). The dedicated construction exhibition will focus on all areas of the specification market including structural buildings, offsite construction, interiors, timber, roofing, iT, lighting & electrical, conservation & restoration, fire & security and doors & windows.

BuILDING FOR EDuCATION new research by glenigan for interbuild specifier has revealed that the education sector is likely to help lead the industry out of the recession with underlying construction starts forecast to rebound by over 12 per cent in 2010. This predicted spike in activity – boosted by the £45 billion Building schools for the future programme – demonstrates that public sector investment will continue to be a prime focus for the industry over the next two years. The organisers of interbuild have responded to this growing need with the launch of a major show feature within the exhibition called interbuild Bsf. it will be the only national event of its kind to bring together the education and construction sectors to face the challenges of building and remodelling Britain’s schools. Visitors to the show will be able to gain new ideas and inspiration for their own schools. Through a number of fully-functional learning spaces and room sets, such as classrooms and washrooms, they will be able to touch and experience new products in context of the environment they were designed for. a number of free seminars will also help visitors to familiarise themselves with the Bsf process and gain the knowledge to tackle the challenges ahead. Taking place throughout the show, the seminars will address key areas of the design process, as well as the practicalities of implementing and delivering the Bsf programme. sunday 18 october will be ‘educationalists Day’, with a special focus on the needs of teachers and local authorities. ian fordham, Deputy Chief executive at the British Council for school environments, says: “interbuild Bsf offers an opportunity for those within the construction industry to start a dialogue, share best practice and develop expertise, while engaging with education decision-makers at a key point in their planning and purchasing cycle.” elsewhere at the show, The Construction forum will play host to a free client-led conference covering a range of school building issues with keynote speakers including BCse’s ian fordham and robert holt, Director of education at Carillion. Both will appear for a special Bsf debate on Tuesday 20 october exploring profitability

of Pfi projects, successful bid strategies and partnering advice for all stakeholders including schools, local authorities, architects, consultants and contractors. David Pierpoint, event Director at interbuild, says: “We believe there is a real appetite from educationalists to experience and influence what their future schools and learning environments will look like. interbuild Bsf will bring that to life by enabling them to see, touch and use fully-specified and finished education environments.” LEND LEASEinternational property developer, Lend Lease, and Birmingham City Council will be two high profile parties involved with the interbuild Bsf show. Birmingham’s Bsf programme is the largest education construction programme in europe, with 80 schools being rebuilt or refurbished with a capital budget of £4bn. Key decision-makers from the Birmingham Bsf procurement team, including Bovis, Catalyst Lend Lease and Birmingham City Council will be at interbuild Bsf to see exhibitors’ innovations on show and discuss best practice with education stakeholders. Birmingham Bsf’s next procurement phase begins in the autumn and it will be bringing its project team to the show. andrew King, new Projects Director at Bovis Lend Lease commented: “We have 11 schools onsite from august 2010, so interbuild Bsf is perfect timing.” roger Thompson, education sector Director at Catalyst Lend Lease, added that there is a need to “identify the innovations we don’t know, not just those we do.” interbuild Bsf has also teamed up with Lend Lease to host and judge the first ever interbuild Bsf awards, which will bring together and reward the most innovative providers of school building services. The judging panel, comprising Birmingham City Council, Bovis, Catalyst, Vita and redstone, will examine the submissions during a full day tour of the show on Monday 19th october. Category winners will be presented with their awards during an official ceremony in the show’s Construction forum Theatre at 1.30pm on Tuesday 20th october. The categories for the interbuild Bsf awards are:•InnovationEnhancingLearning•InnovationinSustainability•InnovationinICT•InnovationinBuildingFabric•InnovationinM&E

‘GREEN’ OFFSITE CONSTRuCTION showcasing the very best in contemporary sustainable construction, leading offsite fit-out specialists, swift horsman will be setting




BuILT ENVIRONMENT

up a series of offsite constructed modules to demonstrate a range of innovative fit-out solutions, including a hotel suite, a commercial washroom, a healthcare en-suite solution, a school washroom and a laboratory, as part of interbuild specifier’s centerpiece attractions, sustainability street and interbuild Bsf. forming the largest exhibition space at sustainability street, the swift horsman ‘innovation hub’, will comprise four fully specified environments from across a variety of sectors using the company’s recently enhanced Podwall and Mediwall fit-out solutions and a range of new solutions to be launched at the show. each will demonstrate a range of technologies and products including pre-engineered modular walling panels, innovative door-sets, drop in ceilings, raised flooring systems and pre-engineered M&e solutions. swift horsman, one of the uK’s most successful specialist fit-out contractors, will also be developing two airport style lounge facilities for the show bar and ViP lounge, supplied and installed by their specialist joinery division - artezan. The interbuild Bsf Laboratory will demonstrate to visitors a real life school lab environment including all furniture, fittings and pipework. in collaboration with Durapipe and esa Mcintosh, swift horsman will be showcasing its interior and fast-trackwall solutions using its innovative swiftwall solution. Managing Director of swift horsman, gary saunders, commented: “We will be bringing four innovative fit-out solutions to the street this year – a hospital ensuite bathroom, a top end apartment room – doubling up as a four star plus hotel bedroom, a commercial office washroom and a school washroom. “each one is designed to demonstrate to visitors the benefits of offsite construction fit-out solutions and our unique approach to sustainability. installing our pre-engineered solutions can reduce waste both in the factory and on site, reduce site labour requirements, make the site safer and consolidate deliveries to single loads.” “We are excited to be bringing our sustainable and innovative offsite technology to this year’s show and are eager to see visitor’s reaction to our exhibits. Based on the sustainable principles of offsite production, our high quality structures offer lean construction and are installed at commercially attractive costs.”


Web: www.interbuild.com

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SECuRING THE BORDER

immigration has been high on the political and media agenda for the last fifteen years. The government is committed to modernising and strengthening uK Border controls and on 1 april 2009 the uK Border agency became a full executive agency of the home office. With a 25,000 strong workforce and a presence in 135 countries across the world, the creation of the uK Border agency produced a new global organisation and one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the uK. The uK Border agency will strengthen the uK’s security through strong border controls protecting the country from illegal immigration, organised

crime and terrorism, while welcoming and facilitating legitimate travellers and trade.

A jOINT APPROACHBringing the work of the Border and immigration agency, customs detection

work at the border and uK visas together has meant that we are better able to deploy our resources, including a wide range of technology, to target those people who attempt to bring people and illegal goods into the uK. Technology such as x-ray scanners,

Brodie Clark, head of the Border Force, discusses how technology is being used to strengthen the UK’s border control



The uK Border agency will strengthen the uK’s security through strong border controls protecting the country from illegal immigration, organised crime and terrorism, while welcoming and facilitating legitimate travellers and trade

“”

SECuRITY

carbon dioxide, drug and radiation detection machines and cameras are used together with the intelligence and skill of our officers on the frontline to protect our border. This joint approach is delivering real results. since the uK Border agency was formed in april 2008 we have seized 1.4 billion cigarettes – representing a potential tax loss of nearly £194 million in tax revenue – and £370 million worth of illegal drugs at the border. What’s more, in 2008 we stopped over 28,000 attempts to cross the channel illegally and searched over one million freight vehicles. We have also now set out our priorities through till 2012 in our first business plan; with new technology to detect more smuggled goods and a national Border Targeting Centre to sharpen security at ports being among the commitments for this year.

SCREENING FREIGHTin the same way that baggage is scanned at an airport, we use x-ray systems to identify smuggled illegal goods such as weapons, tobacco and drugs concealed within the vehicle. Technologies such as x-ray are non-intrusive

inspection (nii) systems, and can penetrate a container to produce an image of the contents. it allows us to carry out examinations of freight without having to unload the goods for manual searches, or intrusive examinations such as dismantling objects or crates. Throughout 2009, we will be working with our partners, to install fixed x-ray systems at Dover and at our juxtaposed controls in Coquelles, france. But it’s not just illegal goods that the uK Border agency is interested in – we also screen freight vehicles for people hiding amongst goods at the french ports of Dunkirk, Coquelles and Calais. When searching for people at our juxtaposed controls in france, we use technology such as carbon dioxide monitors and heart beat detectors – as well as specially trained detector dogs. screening of freight vehicles for people seeking to enter clandestinely also occurs at uK seaports. smugglers are increasingly organised and sophisticated in their illegal activities and it is essential that we have the necessary tools to combat this. These technologies level the playing field and provide the uK Border agency with an invaluable tool when tackling border crime.

CHANGING WORLDThe constant threat of criminality and terrorism has changed the way people

and goods travel across the world. The uK government is investing in the latest technology to ensure the uK Border agency can find dangerous materials earlier. The Cyclamen Programme is the uK’s radiation screening initiative designed to enhance counter-terrorism measures at the border. These radiation screening systems have been installed at ports and airports across the uK to detect illicit nuclear and radiological material. The radiation detection technology deployed includes fixed and mobile capabilities. The equipment is passive, in that it does not emit radiation, but merely detects the presence of radiation as it passes through the portals.

SCREENING PEOPLEin addition to screening freight, we also screen passengers to detect illicit goods. increasing passenger volumes make this a particularly tough challenge. We have installed new millimetre wave cameras at ports and airports throughout the uK which help us to identify those passengers

who may be hiding something from us. This new imaging technology measures waves naturally emitted by the human body, exposing “cold” objects such as metal, plastic, or ceramics concealed under clothing. it doesn’t generate emissions itself, but creates an image from reflected body energy. Drug tracing machines are also used to detect traces of illegal substances on a person and their clothes. The sophistication of the machines means that they can identify minute traces of drugs including cocaine, heroin, ecstasy and cannabis, even if the person had washed their hands. The resulting reading indicates how many drugs are present in the sample and at what levels.

E-BORDERSThe e-Borders programme will collect and analyse passenger and crew information provided in advance of travel by carriers. it allows us to count people in and out of the country and importantly, the new advances in technology will allow border control agencies to work closer together in minimising border security risks and reducing crime. since 2005 e-Borders has screened 94 million passengers travelling to and from the uK, leading to over 3400 arrests, including 30 arrests for murder and

95 for rape and sexual offences. There have also been significant amounts of drugs and tobacco confiscated.

LEGITIMATE TRAVELThe uK Border agency (uKBa) recognises that it needs to balance maintaining border security with the facilitation of legitimate trade and travel. Businesses and government should do what they can to make sure that the disruption caused by intercepting those who represent a higher risk is minimised. uKBa is already investing in new technology which will expedite the journey of certain categories of trusted traveller advances in technology have allowed us to install self-service ‘trusted traveller’ schemes such as iris and automated Clearance systems (aCs) which check the identity and eligibility of uniquely identified travellers before allowing them to enter the country. iris, the iris recognition immigration system, has been available at selected ports since January 2006. over 300,000 people are currently enrolled on the system and over two million crossings have taken place since its introduction. The scheme is open to British Citizens, eea nationals, those with permanent residence and frequent travellers. it requires pre-enrolment and once accepted onto the scheme passengers may use any of the iris gates at uK airports. The gates read iris patterns and verify that the individual is eligible to enter before allowing entry. uKBa began trialling automated Clearance systems (aCs) at Manchester and stansted airports in august and December 2008. over 400,000 passengers have already used this convenient, secure, self service border crossing. unlike iris, aCs does not require pre-enrolment and is available to adult eea and uK nationals with e-passports. The gates use facial recognition technology to compare the users face to the image and data held in their e-passport. feedback during the aCs trials has been encouraging – passengers have responded positively to the ease of use of the system. By august 2009 we plan to make aCs available at ten uK airport terminals, providing passengers with a secure, self-service alternative to the conventional manual control.

THE FuTuREThe uK Border agency is continuously working to strengthen the border, while facilitating trade and travel that benefits the uK. To do this we have to constantly refine the targeting of high-risk imports and people so that we can minimise delays for legitimate business and travellers. The creation of a single, integrated, force at the border means that we can, in a difficult and challenging environment ensure controlled, fair migration that protects the public and contributes to economic growth.

SECuRITY


26



The constant threat of criminality and terrorism has changed the way people and goods travel across the world. The uK government is investing in the latest technology to ensure the uK Border agency can find dangerous materials earlier

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SECuRITY AND DETECTION

FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS, L-3 security & Detection systems has been a partner in shaping security product and services by developing cutting-edge solutions to increasingly complex operational requirements and sophisticated threats. Combining innovative threat detection technologies with intelligent, flexible system designs and robust networking capabilities, L-3 systems deliver exceptional automated processing, threat recognition and throughput rates. L-3’s technologies protect the traveling public, safeguard the flow of goods and defend critical infrastructure against terrorism and other threats. L-3 systems and products span the spectrum of checkpoint security. They help the world’s busiest facilities screen people and hand-carried items for firearms, drugs and other contraband. as a provider of advanced systems for checkpoint and checked baggage screening, cargo and border security, L-3 incorporates a variety of powerful and proven technologies in its screening products: 3-D computed

tomography; automated, conventional and high-energy X-ray; active millimeter wave imaging; metal detection and energetic materials detection for trace explosives. Working together with regulatory agencies and airport operators worldwide to develop the most effective and efficient inspection systems available, L-3 remains at the forefront of technological advancements that improve detection rates and operational efficiencies.

CHECkPOINT SECuRITYevery day millions of people pass through checkpoints, hoping to do so as quickly and conveniently as possible. L-3’s exceptional screening technologies help clear the vast majority of people, who pose no threat, while helping security personnel spot suspicious items and real threats quickly and easily. from best-in-class X-ray imaging and explosives trace detection to a ground-breaking advanced image technology portal, L-3’s innovative imaging and material analysis technologies

reveal the most skillfully masked substances and keep checkpoint lines moving. L-3’s ProVision™ advanced imaging Technology (aiT) system brings the latest in imaging to checkpoint security: millimeter wave (MMW) technology. To quickly generate a three-dimensional silhouette of the subject, MMW uses extremely low-level radio waves reflected off of the human body. safe, non-ionizing MMW technology highlights all types of organic and inorganic matter, and clearly exposes liquids, ceramic weapons, plastic explosives, drugs and other contraband hidden on the body. This remarkably sensitive aiT portal generates a clear view of hidden threats in as little as two seconds. ProVision™ has a worldwide installed base of over 250 systems. additional systems are in trial at locations across the globe. Merging the industry’s most sophisticated automatic threat detection algorithms with powerful multi-view screening technology, the aCX™ 6.4-MV captures data from one, two or three views of a bag or object and provides the operator up to three high-quality images, displaying two at a time. The combination of efficient software, automated alerts and a scan rate exceeding 700 scans per hour enables airport security to accurately detect threats, reduce false alarms and accelerate checkpoint throughput. as the regulatory environment evolves, the advanced capabilities of the aCX™ 6.4-MV can help streamline checkpoint processes, such as screening laptops for explosives while they remain in bags. SuMMARYWhether screening people at checkpoints, examining checked or carry-on bags or scrutinizing the contents of air cargo, L-3 – with more than 20,000 systems deployed worldwide and the largest global field service team in the industry – is a dedicated partner helping to meet today’s security needs and tomorrow’s security challenges.


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SECuRITY

HOW WELL DO YOu kNOW YOuR STAFF?

THE uNDERLYING REASON FOR screening and vetting has remained the same throughout; to enable employers verify the honesty and integrity of their employees. The key motivators for implementing a robust screening policy will differ between private and public sector organisations and the priority of issues that they are experiencing. By implementing a truly robust pre-employment screening programme into the recruitment process, government departments and agencies can benefit in many ways.

IDENTITY FRAuD identity fraud is the fastest growing crime in the uK, rising at a rate of 400 per cent year on year. This is being fuelled by both the rise in commercial fraudsters that will always seek opportunities in times of economic hardship and the ever-increasing rise in illegal immigration, both of which have an underlying demand for high quality counterfeit identity documents. so who are the fraudsters targeting? Large commercial enterprises like banks with significant amounts of customer data and processing millions of pound daily? The answer is more frequently ‘no’ and the real answer is every organisation that stores personal data and

processes money and payments. an average local authority has the personal details of hundreds of thousands of residents, all of whom are making payments on council tax, parking fines, services, housing, and so on. in any given day a local authority can be processing millions of pounds, and the fraudsters have known this for years. That is one of the fundamental reasons government departments lost almost £5 million in staff fraud cases in 2007 alone. similarly, every employer in the uK is susceptible to illegal working. events in

september this year involving Baroness scotland who was fined £5,000 for employing a housekeeper who was an illegal immigrant proves this all too well. if the person who brought in the immigration legislation gets caught out by it, what hope have employers? The truth is that hr professionals and line managers are not supposed to be, neither are they expected to be, document fraud experts. That said the key to protecting the organisation from illegal workers and potential fraudsters is to heighten the awareness of managers on

With increasing incidents of terrorism, illegal immigration, employee theft and fraud – and the pressure added from regulatory bodies – employee screening is now a prominent subject within corporate risk and HR strategy

SECuRITY


Written by Ewan Tweedie, associate director, The Advisory Bureau www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

THE SECuRITY WATCHDOG ADVISORY BuREAu

The Security Watchdog Advisory Bureau is an independent organisation with extensive experience in security and compliance, providing innovative solutions in the audit, advisory, pre-employment and employment screening, and security recruitment fields. The company’s headquarters are in Hampshire in the UK, with offices in London, and the ability to work anywhere in the world. Currently, the company is particularly focused on Europe, the Middle East and Africa, but has experts ready to provide their advice and expertise – and their understanding of local conditions – anywhere across the globe.The Security Watchdog Advisory Bureau’s professional security consultants have years of experience of working with HR and risk professionals across almost every industry sector. They have an unrivalled wealth of knowledge about every aspect of personnel screening and vetting. They also have a thorough understanding of the risks associated with each industry sector, specific recruitment challenges and accepted common practices.

For high quality, fast and cost effective pre-employment screening, vetting and background checks, BS7858 compliant checks or seek compliance with the Baseline Personal Security Standard we are here to help.

Give your business the protection it deserves. Call in Agenda for all your pre-employment screening needs. For more information please contact us at:[email protected]

Offices in Cambridge and HullT: 08456 44 55 46 Int: +44 (0) 1964 671207F: 08456 44 55 47 E: [email protected]: www.agenda-security.co.uk

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the ground in the extent of the problem and provide them with basic training on how to examine documents, what to look for and why it is not just a paper exercise for hr. instilling a change of mindset in staff is at the heart of it. and you can go a step further by introducing ultra violet lamps in buildings so security features can be checked on passports and national identity cards. additional training can always be provided by specialist screening and fraud organisations including the uK Border agency themselves on-site.

EMPLOYMENT VERIFICATIONit is commonly known that up to 80 per cent of CVs contain misleading and inaccurate data and up to 30 per cent will have significant untruths. hr and recruitment teams are under a lot of pressure for their time and resource and where recruitment levels are high it is often impractical to conduct in depth confirmation of everyone’s employment history. however this is a practice that carries high levels of risk. it is imperative to verify the honesty and integrity of employees and the truthfulness of their application is a good marker of this. By referencing each employer you can confirm exact dates, titles, responsibilities, salaries and conduct for the candidate in question. You will also be able to pinpoint times of self-employment or un-employment. in many cases, candidates may falsely extend periods of employment or claim sabbaticals when in-fact they were carrying out a sentence in hM Prison or in some cases awaiting the result of an industrial tribunal. This is vital information that otherwise may have gone undetected and resulted in similar circumstances re-occuring for the next employer which could cost the employer extensively not only in monetary terms but in the time and resource to manage similar circumstances. This is also why a focus on ascertaining an individual’s time and attendance and sick and paternity leave taken previously can provide an invaluable insight into the potential problems that could occur with the prospective candidate in the future.

CRIMINALITYfew organisations want to employ someone who holds a serious criminal record, as it would pose too great a risk to the organisation. This is why most organisations ask this question at application stage. however, few actually verify this with the respective national criminal record database. Public sector organisations have less issues in respect to the application of criminal record checks as it has been a standard practice for many years for anyone entering positions where they will come into contact with children or vulnerable adults, where those individuals are subjected to an enhanced Criminal records Check via the Criminal records Bureau (CrB) as these roles are clearly stated as exempt from the rehabilitation of offenders act 1974. This has been further enhanced recently with the

introduction of the independent safeguarding authority (isa) Vetting and Barring scheme. Whilst this certainly provides a level of comfort and risk mitigation for those positions of trust which are easily identifiable, it does pose a bigger question. What criminal checks are done if any on roles that do not fall into this category and what happens if they don’t come from the uK originally?

BASIC CRIMINAL DISCLOSuREWhilst access to the CrB is clearly restricted to certain roles the application of a Basic Criminal Disclosure to show unspent convictions is the right of every employer. This service is facilitated through Disclosure scotland, part of the scottish home office and can be applied for by registered organisations or by the individual’s themselves. applying a basic disclosure to roles that do not qualify for a CrB will enable public sector employers to ‘plug the gap’ and prevent those with a recent history of serious crime from entering the workplace and endangering staff and taking advantage of trust placed upon them. This practice is increasingly common and from a public sector perspective, it is the preferred route. This is because basic disclosure forms a fundamental part of the Baseline Personnel security standard (BPss), which is the standard of screening and vetting recommended by the Cabinet office for all government departments. The international aspects of criminal record disclosures have been a constant black hole for employers and professional screening providers. The age old question has been: ‘how useful is a CrB check if the individual has only been in the uK for a short time? More importantly had they committed crimes in the country that they originate from?’ Whilst the CrB have offered limited guidance on selected countries on how to obtain CrB equivalents (usually termed Certificates of good Conduct), the world is clearly a large place. Clarification has taken a significant move forward recently as the Centre for The Protection of national infrastructure (CPni) have commissioned a new extensive study by KPMg

to map how employers can obtain international criminal records both from the uK or in-country. if a candidate is entering the organisation in a position where they will have access to the company’s financial systems, sensitive information, client account details or cash it is important to ascertain if the candidate has an adverse financial background. if the individual has a history of adverse credit or County Court Judgements it may be unwise to appoint them to a position where they may not be able to resist the temptation to commit fraud or theft. also if the candidate has recently been declared bankrupt, it would be inadvisable to grant them immediate responsibility for a budget or profit centre. from a fraud perspective we have seen an increase in the cooperation between organisations to share incidents of fraud to help safeguard other organisations from employing individuals with a history of financial misdemeanours. This has been facilitated by entities such as Cifas who have a staff fraud database open to its members where individuals can be cross referenced to identify if they have been suspected of committing fraud elsewhere.

EDuCATION AND QuALIFICATIONone of the key areas where information is often misleading on CVs is in the qualifications. Candidates claiming that they hold qualifications when they don’t are commonplace, as are degree forgeries and body shops. This has seen a marked increase over the last couple of years as competition for jobs has become harder. individuals are looking for the competitive edge and many see that coming through qualifications they demonstrate above other candidates. however by confirming the qualification direct with the issuing body these doubts can be quickly eliminated. The important lesson is to never assume that just because an individual and CV look credible then everything must be genuine or as it is portrayed.


Please contact Ewan Tweedie on 01428 728 735 or e-mail [email protected]

31



ABOuT THE AuTHOR

Ewan Tweedie is a management sciences graduate from Loughborough University. He joined The Security Watchdog in 2003 following a high profile career in public relations, recruitment and risk mitigation. Ewan was a natural choice to manage The Advisory Bureau, the consultancy and audit services arm of The Security Watchdog. A subject matter expert in international data protection, immigration and criminality, he advises organisations on best practice screening and vetting methodologies and cost/process efficiencies. Working with some of the largest names in industry, Ewan has successfully designed, developed and deployed best practice screening and vetting solutions in almost every industry sector in the UK, Europe and Internationally. These solutions have served as an intrinsic element within his client’s overall corporate risk mitigation strategy. Ewan sits on the European Chapter of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners and provides consultation to members of the British Standards Institute GW3/4 Committee for BS 7858:2006 (Security screening of individuals employed in a security environment – Code of Practice). Ewan is a frequent author of articles for HR trade journals and security press and has presented on pre-employment screening for the CIPD at their Annual Conference and Exhibition.

SECuRITY

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Twenty million police checks – what now?

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have assisted with many of the twenty million or so police checks carried out by the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) since its introduction in 2002. So much so, that we have become one of the major Umbrella Bodies in the Disclosure process. However that is all in the past – what does the future hold? Well, we are currently working closely with the CRB in anticipation of the new Vetting and Barring Scheme to be launched on 12th October 2009. The Scheme will greatly enhance the robustness of the current recruitment procedures for working with children and vulnerable adults. We are also one of the very few Umbrella Bodies who will be offering an end to end electronic process for obtaining a Disclosure. No more forms and delays, just a very quick and efficient solution from start to finish. We will be rolling out this service to

any organisation be it a large County Council or small private business. The cost of the service will be extremely competitive and will significantly reduce processing times for everyone. If you have any queries about the Vetting and Barring Scheme, electronic processing or in fact the Disclosure process as a whole, please contact us.


For more information please call us on 01647 252350 or e-mail [email protected]

M

VETTING POTENTIAL EMPLOYEES

THE CRIMINAL RECORDS BuREAu’S mission statement is to help protect children, vulnerable adults and society in general by providing a first-class service of criminal records information for employment and other vetting purposes. The Criminal records Bureau (CrB) is an executive agency of the home office and provides access to criminal record information through its Disclosure service. This service enables organisations in the public, private and voluntary sectors to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially work that involves children or vulnerable adults. The CrB was established under Part V of the Police act 1997 and was launched in March 2002 under a public-private partnership with Capita.

HOW THE CRB WORkSorganisations who wish to use the service can register with the CrB as a registered body or can use the services of an umbrella body. organisations can ask successful job applicants to apply for one of two types of check, the results of which are displayed on a Disclosure. employers cannot request a check on an individual without their consent and similarly, the results of the check are issued

to the individual who can then challenge the information released if necessary. The type of check required will depend upon the nature of the position applied for. These are called enhanced and standard checks; both require a fee but are free of charge to volunteers.

CRB SERVICESa standard CrB check will reveal any information held on the Police national Computer and will include current and spent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings. an enhanced CrB check will reveal the same information as a standard check but in addition will include any relevant and proportionate information from each police force where an individual has lived in the past five years. it can also include, if requested, a check of two barred lists administered by the independent safeguarding authority (isa). The CrB offers an online Tracking service to allow customers to check the progress of their application online via the CrB website www.crb.gov.uk. in addition to this, in 2008/09, the CrB implemented its first electronic application channel, e-Bulk which allows its largest volume customers to submit multiple applications online. The CrB is also

developing another e-service, e-applications which will allow all registered Bodies to make an application online via the CrB website.

CRB kEY FACTS•TheCRBhasprocessedmorethan20 million Disclosures since 2002, of which approximately 20 per cent have been issued free of charge to volunteers•98,000unsuitablepeoplehavebeen prevented from working with children and the vulnerable as a direct result of a CrB check in the last five years•94percentofCRBorganisationalcustomers are satisfied with the service provided•TheCRBreduceditsfeeforaStandard check by £5 on 1 october 2009•Thereisoverwhelmingpublicsupport for CrB checks on anyone working with children in a paid or voluntary capacity•TheCRBismakingapositivedifference in protecting children and vulnerable adults and CrB checks are useful as part of recruitment processes and improve confidence in organisation’s recruitment decisions.


For more information about the CRB, you can visit the CRB website www.crb.gov.uk

The Criminal Records Bureau’s Disclosure service allows organisations to make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates that may be unsuitable for certain roles



SECuRITY

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Government Business Magazine.indd 1 25/9/09 11:51:46

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

THE CHALLENGING AND COMPLEX nature of today’s emergencies, from natural disasters and terrorist attacks to the current swine flu pandemic, makes it essential for individual agencies to work together to ensure a more effective response. now in its fourth year, The emergency services show taking place on 24 and 25 november at stoneleigh Park, Coventry, is leading the way in encouraging multi-agency co-operation. The exhibition uniquely brings together all relevant organisations and equipment suppliers whilst the integral conference will address the most current issues, to provide an invaluable insight into the workings of the emergency services and associated agencies to promote effective collaboration. The two-day event is open to Category 1 and Category 2 responders. it is a key event for those with a role in operations, procurement, training, recruitment and emergency planning. The Civil Contingencies act 2004 calls for a single framework for civil protection in

the uK capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st Century. integral to the act is the duty of all Category 1 and 2 responders to share information and co-operate with other Category 1 and 2 responders.

THE CONFERENCEThe integral two day conference ‘Planning, response and recovery’ provides an exclusive opportunity to join decision makers from other agencies and features expert speakers to explore current strategic thinking and the past, present and future challenges in emergency response. Keynote presentations will be given by Bruce Mann, head of civil contingencies secretariat, Cabinet office and Vanessa spiller, head of uK emergency response and planning, British red Cross. Bruce Mann has been the head of the Cabinet office’s Civil Contingencies secretariat since september 2004. he had previously served as the secretary to the Butler Committee and has held a variety

of other senior positions in the MoD. in support of the government’s science and technology counter terrorism strategy which was launched in august, DCi Chris Phillips, head of the national Counter Terrorism security office, will be talking about how to work with businesses to make the work of terrorists more difficult. Commander ian Quinton, head of security, architecture and Design for the olympic security Directorate, will also be discussing an integrated approach to delivering a safe and secure olympic and Paralympic games. ian has served with the Metropolitan Police service (MPs) and norfolk Constabulary, performing a variety of uniform and detective posts. he was also staff officer to her Majesty’s Chief inspector of Constabulary. he was appointed to his current role in June 2009 and has led on developing the olympic and Paralympic safety and security strategy and national Concept of operations. he also has responsibility for the olympic strategic safety

The Emergency Services Show 2009 promotes multi-agency collaboration to improve emergency response

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and security risk assessment that identifies the key risks to the 2012 games and which informs strategic level decision-making.

BuSINESS RESILIENCEfocusing on the subject of business resilience, russell Price, chairman of the Continuity forum, will be talking about the need to align thinking, planning and response as the interests of public and private sector organisations become entwined and how this can achieved by planners to further build resilience. russell has been involved in Business Continuity and Disaster recovery for 20 years and his direct experience has made him a passionate advocate for corporate responsibility and business resilience. his experience of terrorism and disaster management has been gained internationally; russell was closely involved in the restoration efforts following the attacks on the Baltic exchange, Bishopsgate and Canary Wharf Terrorist bombings as well as the events of 9/11 and 7/7.he earned the award of “industry Personality of the Year”, which is voted for by insurance, risk and Business Continuity Professionals held in conjunction with Continuity, insurance & risk Magazine and the Business Continuity institute. stephen grogan, head of Birmingham resilience Team for Birmingham City Council, will be discussing the initiatives being implemented to take resilience to the next level. he will be sharing his experiences in Birmingham and how these have shaped his thinking on how multi-agency resilience planning should move forward. following a successful military career steve has been a professional emergency Planning and Business Continuity professional for several years. steve’s journey through the

resilience profession has seen him working in rural, industrial and coastal locations culminating with him heading the new and ground breaking Birmingham resilience Team, a multi agency team with responsibility for multi-agency resilience planning arrangements for the nations second city. steve has led the Birmingham City Council (and previous Local authority employers) emergency response and support to the emergency services through various incidents and it is these experiences that have shaped his thinking on how multi-agency resilience planning should move forward.

PANDEMIC PLANNINGin light of the current swine flu Professor nigel Lightfoot, Chief advisor for the health Protection agency, will be discussing the preparation and response to swine flu. Professor nigel Lightfoot CBe is a trained consultant medical microbiologist. he leads on emergency response and international working in the areas of pandemic influenza and emerging health threats.he served in the Public health Laboratory service from 1982-2002 when he was appointed to the Department of health as head of CBrn training and scenario development. Whilst with the Department of health he developed the first health led multi-agency exercises for CBrn preparedness, and as Director of emergency response he set up the emergency response Division of the health Protection agency from its inception in 2003 until 2006. a full conference programme is available at www.theemergencyservicesshow2009.com. over 350 trade exhibitors will form the free exhibition giving unrivalled access to

cutting edge technology. The dedicated networking zone, which is part of the free exhibition, includes the Blue Light zone for police, fire and rescue and ambulance services, and the emergency response zone, providing a unique opportunity to find out more about specific emergency responders, professional, government and voluntary organisations. exhibitors this year include the 2012 olympic security Directorate, the national flood forum, the London resilience Team and the health Protection agency. NETWORkING OPPORTuNITIESThe networking opportunities presented by the exhibition are an invaluable way to develop interagency collaborations, initiatives and strategies and The emergency services show provides an ideal environment to gain a better understanding of emergency response issues and a forum to debate these with like minded professionals. Visitors to the emergency services show 2009 can expect to: •sourcenewproducts•seeproductdemonstrations•exploreorganisationswithaunique role to play in an emergency•investigateinitiativesofindividualpolice, fire & rescue and ambulance services•keepabreastofindustrydevelopments•reinforcerelationshipswithexistingcontacts•establishnewcontacts


For further information and to register for the exhibition, Networking Zone (free to attend) and the conference visit www.theemergencyservicesshow2009.com.

WHO SHOuLD ATTEND?

Key for those with a role in operations, procurement, training, recruitment and emergency planning within:•Police•Fire&RescueServices•AmbulanceServices•MaritimeandCoastguardAgency•MoD•NGOsandtheVoluntarysector•LocalGovernmentAuthorities•Local/RegionalResilienceTeams•UtilityOperators•TransportincludingAirports and Port Authorities•GovernmentAgencies•HealthAuthoritiesand Primary Care Trusts•CommercialBusinesses•EmbassiesExhibitors include: Communications & IT, First Response Equipment, PPE, Station Equipment, Training & Education, Vehicles & Vehicle Equipment, Business Continuity, and Outsourcing.

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Blazepoint to showcase the new IP67 tablet and IP65 laptop at ESS 2009

LAzEPOINT, A LEADER IN rugged mobile technology and

engineering, will be displaying its latest ndura RUGGED® IP65 laptop and the newly launched ndura RUGGED® 8.4” ATOM™ Tablet at ESS 09, Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, on 24-25 November 2009, on the Blazepoint Stand 314. Built to withstand both high and low temperatures and vibration and shock, the ndura RUGGED® IP65 laptop features the most advanced computing technology. Its 13.3” convertible touch screen provides clear images in bright sunlightand its IP65 rating provides unrivalled protection against dust and water ingress. It has proved its ability to withstand harsh conditions accompanying yachtsman, Pete Goss MBE, on his Cornwall-Australia voyage, for which it provided crucial communications access. Goss testified that his laptop’s performance was unaffected by the knockdown effects of 14ft waves and having salt water dripping onto it throughout the night. The ndura RUGGED® 8.4” Tactical Tablet was developed this year to meet a demanding military requirement from launch customer, Selex Communications. The initial batch of 30 fully qualified units are being delivered this month. The rugged tablet device has an exceptionally low EMC signature, low power consumption, and the

flexibility to add customised user interfaces and I/O ports. It has a state-of-the-art Intel® ATOM™ processor with upgradeable and flexible computing power to support demanding field applications. Combined with a lightweight and ergonomic design, it offers the optimum balance between performance, mobility and protection. “The ndura RUGGED® 8.4” Tactical Tablet sets a new industry standard in providing customers with the ability to upgrade and support rugged computing hardware to meet changing operational requirements,” says Gary Littledyke, Sales & Marketing Director, Blazepoint. It offers durable resilient data protection to meet the

most extreme environments (MIL-STD-810F), EMC (MIL-STD-461E) and TEMPEST standards. It also has an impressive IP67 rating and meets a variety of customer requirements, with a range of optional serial ports, GPS, daylight viewable screen and purpose designed case. UK engineering company, Blazepoint Ltd has over 20 years experience in supplying, installing and supporting rugged computer hardware. It has provided rugged hardware into Army, Navy and Air Force programmes, including N.A.T.O and to the UK’s Emergency Services. Today, through substantial investment in engineering and technical facilities, Blazepoint boasts an impressive in-house product engineering capability with extensive

experience in the design, development, testing and manufacture of rugged computers and peripherals.


Blazepoint LimitedUnit 2 Tower EstateChalgrove, Oxford OX44 7XZ , UKTel: +44 (0)1865 892 030Fax: +44 (0)1865 892 031E-mail: [email protected]: www.blazepoint.co.uk

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output with its wide range of products, from the digital SLR, digital compacts and digital camcorders to portable, desktop and large format printers. Interlaced with accessories to enhance the range with data encryption, remote capture, direct DVD burning, Wifi, data verification, waterproof housings, RAW and utility software and many more. In addition to support the end-user we can offer product trials, after-sales support, bespoke service packages and training to meet your requirements. The EOS Professional Network is designed to give you the very best photographic retail experience.

When you visit a member of the EOS Professional Network you will find everything you need in store. Whether you’re new to Canon, upgrading your existing Canon kit or just looking for the latest equipment, a fantastic range of services are now available to help you. Visit http://www.canon.co.uk/eospro-network/index.asp to find your nearest dealer.


David Fidler – government account managerMobile: 07815 732 564, e-mail: [email protected] visit www.canon.co.uk

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Park Cameras – photo retail and training providers

ARk CAMERAS

IS one of the UK’s leading independent photographic retailers with nearly 40 years experience within the industry. Based in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, customers benefit from one of the widest and most diverse range of photographic products available within the industry. Our aim is simple – to provide impartial advice whilst providing unrivalled customer service, competitive pricing and excellent product knowledge. Much of this is achieved through both our website – www.parkcameras.com – and our state-of-the-art Showroom, adopting a refreshing approach to photographic retailing. In addition, Park Cameras is now far more than just a successful retailer of photographic products, as we look to extend a range of comprehensive services. Amongst these services we are able to offer our onsite ‘School of Photography’, a dedicated training service for both consumers and corporate

clients alike. Utilising our inhouse Education Suite, consisting of classroom, seminar and studio learning, we are able to help a vast range of photo-enthusiasts achieve more from the chosen hobby or profession. This aim also extends into the world of corporate training, whereby we are able to assist professional bodies in the creation and delivery of photographic-based workshops that will assist their employees in their everyday working environment.


For more information relating to Park Cameras please feel free to either visit our new Showroom in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, visit our website – www.parkcameras.com – or call a member of the Park Cameras team on 01444 237 070

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SATELLITE BROADBANDSATELLITE BROADBAND CONTINuES TO play a pivotal role in enabling the emergency services and public sector to effectively communicate from any location, particularly where traditional gsM networks are unavailable. it has become the de facto standard for delivering access to high speed broadband services enabling a wide range of voice, data and video applications to be run that allow major incidents to be managed more efficiently and operational outcomes to be enhanced. in addition, it also enables the emergency services to achieve interoperability and share information to meet their responsibilities under the Civil Contingencies act. The initial concept of providing access to high-speed broadband using automatically deployable satellite platforms was originally pioneered by excelerate Technology. The company has since installed this technology in some of the uK’s largest and most advanced mobile incident command units and smaller rapid response vehicles as well as supplying standalone transportable solutions, all of which deliver reliable and resilient communications across the incident ground. as evidence of the importance that is now being placed on maintaining uninterrupted voice and data communications with headquarters and other responders, satellite broadband is currently being deployed in a new generation of civil contingency vehicles for the Department of health’s harT (hazardous area response Teams) programme. excelerate Technology is the prime technology supplier nationally for this programme and actively recommended new and innovative approaches that would provide a comprehensive, joined up operational picture of all functions associated with major incidents and enable command decisions to be clearly and effectively communicated. according to Mark rainey, CBrn harT co-ordinator for London ambulance: “These new vehicles are constructed to the highest quality with resilient and reliable technologies that provide high levels of real-time information and communications. They will enable ambulance service personnel on the ground to make more effective decisions and enhance patient care at major incidents in any environment.” The technologies required to deliver interoperability are readily available but it can often be difficult to find a supplier with the experience and track record of delivering successful solutions in this mission critical environment and an understanding of the operational requirements of the emergency services. excelerate Technology has made a major impact on the uK market by investing in research and development as well as providing

a one-stop-shop approach to managing all the integration, real-time network operation and support issues. as a result, the company has been awarded many of the uK’s largest contracts to equip mobile command and control vehicles for organisations such as south Central ambulance service nhs Trust (sCas), West Midlands ambulance and south Western ambulance Trust as well as other emergency services including royal Berkshire fire and rescue service, fife fire and rescue service, Durham Police, Thames Valley Police, gwent Police and nottinghamshire Police. although the larger mobile iCus tend to grab the headlines, many of these customers are specifying smaller rapid response vehicles based on either a sprinter or Vito chassis and equipped with the same technologies as these larger command and control vehicles. They are also increasingly being fitted with additional mobile Bgan solutions that deliver broadband access whilst the vehicles are on the move or as a portable solution for access to broadband in hard to reach areas where vehicles cannot gain near access.

TECHNOLOGY OVERVIEWTo achieve connectivity, automatically deployable satellite platforms are now routinely fitted to new or existing mobile iCus. They can be fully operational within four minutes of arriving at the scene of an incident enabling a wide range of specialised command support applications to run including sTePs (strategic emergency Planning software), advanced gis mapping, asset management database information and risk information. it also allows the use of email, instant messaging, video-conferencing and the viewing of live CCTV footage from incident and traffic cameras or television news. as well as displaying data and imagery on touch screen displays mounted inside the main iCu, wireless networks can be deployed, enabling personnel using PDas, mobile data terminals and laptops to access tactical plans or information from sTePs anywhere within operational range. This range can be extended almost indefinitely using excelerate’s self-powered, rapidly deployable mesh wireless nodes. as part of an ongoing programme, excelerate Technology has developed a wide range of innovative and resilient communications solutions including rapidnet, a Private Mobile network system that enables mobile incident response vehicles to carry their own gsM network delivering full telecoms capabilities irrespective of the presence or capability of any incumbent national cellular network. The importance of rapidnet was recognised with the Vehicle services innovation award

which was presented to excelerate Technology at the recent global Telecoms Business innovation awards 2009. The company has also developed eCMs (excelerate Communications Management system) to provide satellite and gsM-based VoiP (Voice over iP) PBX switching functionality. it also enables different voice devices including uhf and Vhf radios, airwave, mobile and VoiP phones to be patched into each other as well as providing real-time voice recording of all voice communication channels.

BuSINESS CONTINuITYThese vehicles also have a wider role to play as part of business continuity strategies that enable organisations to meet their statutory duty to continue operations, including multi-agency working and communication, regardless of physical circumstances such as the loss of headquarters facilities. according to Mark Kerr, Chief executive of Powys County Council, which operates a fleet of Youth information service vehicles equipped by excelerate Technology: “The built-in satellite communications capability enables us to

Getting the message across with satellite broadband

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deploy the vehicles anywhere in the county at short notice to provide communications support in the event of a local disaster. They also provide us with an essential fall back should our central facilities be compromised.”

STAND-ALONE SOLuTIONSexcelerate Technology supplies many organisations with innovative stand-alone solutions that can be rapidly deployed in any environment. These include a body worn camera system that delivers high quality, interference-free images regardless of line-of-sight using CofDM Video and uhf Telemetry. This system also enables high quality images to be received from personnel operating inside buildings or in tunnels where traditional transmission

technologies will not work. also making use of CofDM transmission is a powerful dual thermal CCTV solution that combines a high resolution optical zoom camera with a sensitive thermal imaging camera in the same remote head for day and night operation. Live video streams from both these systems can be viewed on built-in displays in Peli cases or any of the large or small screen monitors used by silver Command staff in command and control centres operating at the scene of an incident. excelerate Technology also provides a comprehensive range of compact portable satellite solutions that are quick and easy for a single person to operate with motorised set-up and automatic antenna positioning.There is no requirement for special

engineering training in order to operate these systems which integrate with all standard local area network infrastructures. excelerate Technology is iso9001 accredited and is committed to working closely with users to turn ideas into reality in the most cost effective way. The company’s r&D and project engineering centre is a centre of excellence, where new products and solutions, particularly those delivering interoperability between the blue light services, continue to be rapidly developed. This facility also provides the capacity to efficiently handle an increasing number of projects, whether supplying standalone solutions, retrofitting existing vehicles or building bespoke mobile command and control units.


Excelerate Technology Ltd Willow House Pascal Close St Mellons Cardiff CF3 0LW Tel: 0845 658 5747Fax: 08700 516792 E-mail: [email protected]: www.excelerate.info

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These new vehicles are constructed to the highest quality with resilient and reliable technologies that provide high levels of real-time information and communications – Mark rainey, CBrn harT co-ordinator for London ambulance

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SIMPLE BuT VITAL

PORTABLE APPLIANCE TESTING (PAT) has been much misunderstood, and has accrued a lot of superfluous baggage. it has even acquired an unnecessary additional “testing” in its name, with many people insisting on calling it PaT testing. Currently, the ongoing drive to greater environmental responsibility means that PaT confusion may crop up in a different guise as more public sector bosses consider having staff work from home. uncertainty about what exactly PaT entails means some bosses, wary of wandering into what they perceive as a legal minefield, splash out on unnecessary training, or refuse to even countenance flexibility in working practices. happily, those considering a review of office working patterns might be pleased to know that there are more surpluses surrounding PaT than mere repetition in its name.

RISk PREVENTIONnone of this should detract from the importance of PaT however. Leads, plugs, even equipment

itself, can become damaged, resulting in electric shocks which can be fatal. no-one should have to pay such a price for negligence through such easily preventable accidents. There can be no excuse for negligence, especially when compliance is so easy. The law (regulation 4(2) of the electricity at Work regulations 1989) simply states that systems should be maintained to prevent danger, as far as is practicable. employers merely need to assess risks and take appropriate actions. But what is portable equipment anyway? in general terms, anything with a cable and a plug – from kettles to cleaners and photocopiers to printers – is covered by the description, meaning that many items in day-to-day use in both home and office are included, not all of them necessarily “portable”.

STAFF TRAININGa simple, cost-effective way to protect your staff’s wellbeing as they use electrical equipment at home, or indeed in the office,

is to train them in what to look for. Most accidents or faults will be prevented in this way, and the training need not be complicated or expensive. in fact, the health and safety executive (hse) estimates that around 95 per cent of accidents and faults could be prevented by a simple visual inspection. This, of course, does not require a qualified electrician – anyone can be trained to look for the danger signs, which include abrasion on the cable, cracked casing or bent pins on a plug, obvious loose parts or screws, or overheating. so in terms of maintenance, an electrician is not necessary for most equipment used in low risk environments. any competent member of staff can do it if they have been given enough knowledge, which can be gained by the type of simple training offered by many organisations. VITAL BuT EASYof course, there are some distinctives surrounding PaT at home. for example, if a worker’s desktop lamp pops and they discover a blown fuse is to blame, it is not enough that the fuse be replaced and work continues as before. The worker needs to get a competent person in to have a look at the lamp to identify what caused the problem in the first place. and while visual testing is entirely appropriate and should be encouraged in all circumstances, some equipment does require testing with the proper kit and by the proper person. not that “proper person” signals the need for masses of training courses for multitudes of staff. rather, train one or two people per team and get them to test equipment when you all get together at the office for team meetings – this is much more effective than throwing resources away by having a competent person visit each worker in their own home. The question of which equipment requires testing, and the frequency with which it should be tested, depends on when and where, or how, it is used. in short, PaT is vital but easy.


Please visit www.rospa.com for more information about RoSPA, e-mail [email protected] for health and safety training queries, or call 0121 248 2233 or 0131 449 9378 in Scotland. Additional information can also be found in The Health and Safety Executive’s guidance on PAT, at www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg236.pdf.

Portable Appliance Testing is essential to prevent accidents caused by faulty portable equipment, in the office and at home

HEALTH & SAFETY


Written by Pete Dixon, health and safety consultant, RoSPA www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

uncertainty about what exactly PaT entails means some bosses, wary of wandering into what they perceive as a legal minefield, splash out on unnecessary training, or refuse to even countenance flexibility in working practices

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GREEN AND CLEAN CONFERENCING

SINCE ITS INCEPTION IN PARTNERSHIP with Visitscotland in 1997, the green Tourism Business scheme (gTBs) has been championing the cause of sustainable tourism in the uK. it is the only green grading programme in the uK to be endorsed by VisitBritain and the international Centre for responsible Tourism. With interest in green issues at an all time high, can you afford not to be involved? The last ten years has seen an unprecedented growth in the supply, and purchasing of, products and services that are ‘ethical’ in some respect. This may be in terms of:•Beingenvironmentally-friendly:either preventing damage – for example, wood from sustainably-managed forests, dolphin-friendly tuna – or improving conditions, for example, organic food•Supportingtheproducer:eitherbyproviding a fair price to suppliers – for example, fair- trade coffee – or keeping money within the local area, for example, local food and drink.

ECO CONSCIOuS BRITAIN Within Britain, surveys show an openness to the idea, even if this still needs to be translated into consumers actively choosing a holiday based on its ethics:•84percentwouldchooseanattraction/ accommodation that was part of a green accreditation scheme over one that was not •68percentwoulddosoevenifthepricesof the green accredited businesses were slightly higher (english Tourism Council, 2002)•72percentwouldbeinfluencedbyagreen tourism award (Devon County Council, 2005)•74percentsaiditwasimportanttostay in accommodation with an environmental award (isles of scilly, 2005).There are, however, the beginnings of backlash against green claims and companies are being warned against ‘greenwashing’. in Britain, the advertising standards authority (asa) is reporting a boom in the number of complaints about environmental claims – up from 117 in 2006 to 561 in 2007. “What we are seeing is claims about being carbon-neutral, zero-carbon emissions and use of words such as ‘sustainable’ and ‘organic’,” says Lord smith, chairman of the asa. “Many are exaggerated or misleading.” in the tourism industry in england there is now a process to establish the credibility of a green grading system. initiated by VisitBritain, Xavier font, a specialist in responsible tourism certification at Leeds Metropolitan university has developed a rigorous validation process. “We wanted to provide clarity not

The Green Tourism Business Scheme is now fully established as the UK’s national green tourism accreditation scheme



Working with the green Tourism Business scheme has gained us further insight into what ‘responsible tourism’ really is. We’ve also focused on learning how tourism operators can benefit from introducing business practices that have both environmental and economic benefits

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ground when you need it and hides underground when you don’t. Pop Up Power Supplies Ltd offers retractable service units that provide electricity, water and air supply to public spaces ranging from historic sites and market places to town squares and parks. Pop Up Power retractable service units provide legacy for special-purpose stadiums. They offer possibilities for more varied uses, giving stadiums new life long after their planned functions. A series of standard products is available, as well as bespoke units with dished tops that can accommodate different paving.

Pop Up Power won the Green Tribute award 2007 as the installations are so environmentally friendly and harmonious as they blend so well into their local setting. Pop Up Power is the answer whenever outside power installations are needed.


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just for hotel and B&B owners on which schemes to select, but also for consumers to know what to trust,” says Jason freezer, sustainable tourism manager at VisitBritain.

GREEN BuSINESS TOuRISMThe green Tourism Business scheme is the only eco-label to have been successful in achieving this validation. The gTBs is now fully established as the uK’s national green tourism accreditation scheme and is internationally recognised as leading the field. in the past year the gTBs team has been helping new zealand Tourism green-up their quality standards. “Working with the green Tourism Business scheme has gained us further insight into what ‘responsible tourism’ really is. We’ve also focused on learning how tourism operators can benefit from introducing business practices that have both environmental and economic benefits,” says Qualmark chief executive officer, geoff Penrose. This is backed up by government and also by those tourism businesses with a green Tourism grading.•ThereislittledoubtthattheGreenTourism Business scheme has helped promote and reward environmental sustainability in the tourism sector (Dept of Culture, Media and sport, select Committee) •“Peoplecomeintotherestaurantwho would not have without the (gTBs) accreditation and once you’ve got people through the door, you can impress them with what you do,” Pig finca Café.•“Itmakescustomersfeelgoodaboutcoming to visit us,” Pennywell farm visitor attraction•“Ifindit’ssomethingguestswanttobuy into, even if they’re not green,” The hall B&B•“Peoplesaytheyareinterestedincoming to us because we have this award,” Deer Park Caravan & Camping•“Itwillcertainlyhelpinouradvertisingand will make our little corner of england different from all the others and encourage more visitors,” Traine farm Cottages.

Being a gTBs member has a number of benefits, not least that it gives consumers an easily identifiable and credible ‘green choice’ when choosing accommodation – increasingly important with the growing interest in environmental matters. a standard part of the member-package is promotion on the green Tourism website www.green-business.co.uk which has over 5,000 individual sessions per month, as well as extra promotion through tourist boards and other gTBs partners. other benefits include help in identifying cost savings whether through changes in behaviour or investing in new technologies – a pilot project with 50 small businesses in the south of england identified cost savings of £50,000 with a two-year payback period. Members also receive a monthly technical e-update and access to the members area of the website, which includes supplier discounts, technical downloads and a ‘ask the expert’-message board. a new commission-free booking website for all green Tourism members has recently been launched at www.green-tourism.co.uk and this will be a one-stop shop for consumers wanting to choose green holidays. in order to get an award each member undergoes a rigorous assessment against 150 criteria that cover all aspects of a business’s operation including management, guest communication, energy and water efficiency, purchasing, waste minimisation, travel and natural heritage. scored out of a maximum of 60 measures in order to get the Bronze, silver or gold they have to achieve at least 40 per cent, 65 per cent or 80 per cent respectively.

COMPuLSORY MEASuRESThe scheme criteria require as a minimum both legal compliance and a commitment to minimising environmental impact. in addition certain key sector requirements may be required such as a separate sanitary waste bin for public toilets. This section also includes a requirement to provide measurements of energy and water

consumption for the purposes of benchmarking. The technical sections are broken down into the following sections with some examples of the measures:•Management:recordkeeping, staff awareness, monitoring•Communication:greenpolicy,e-mail, community projects and education •Energy:appliances,lighting, space heating, water heating•Water:waterquality,lowwaterusing appliances, showers, water butts •Purchasing:recycledproducts,greenenergy, local food, crafts, and chlorine free cleaners •Waste:avoid,re-use,reduce and recycle material•Travel:localtransportdetails, cycle hire, walking information •Natural&Cultural:membership of an environmental club, native tree planting, bird boxes.The grading visit itself lasts about two hours and is made on an appointment-only basis and will be undertaken by one of gTBs’s own qualified grading advisors. The advisor will go through all the relevant criteria, explaining what each measure relates to and scoring the business based on how they perform against each. The visit is also a good time to get advice on everything from energy efficiency and cost savings to guest information and can be a very useful exercise. To sum up, Billy stevenson, senior grading advisor for gTBs says: “Most people joining the scheme aren’t sure what to expect, and we try to put people fears to rest, preferring the advisor rather than inspector approach. Many of the businesses i visit are surprised that a lot of what we ask is common-sense and that being a member doesn’t involve a lot of up front costs.”


Web: www.green-tourism.co.uk

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ESTLED BETWEEN the mountains of Snowdonia and the beautiful Menai Strait in North

Wales, Plas Menai is perfectly situated to offer a stimulating and inspiring environment for staff development and special events. Since it opened in 1983, the purpose-built centre has been at the forefront of watersports and adventure training. The coastal waters of the Strait are ideal for sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, yachting and powerboating; and the rivers, lakes and crags of Snowdonia, offer canoeists and mountaineers a wealth of adventure opportunities. Incorporating outdoor training into team development programmes has been tried and tested by many of today’s most successful organisations. Plas Menai

has been designing and running team building programmes for organisations of all sizes, across a wide range of industries using a combination of water and land-based activities, since its inception. The centre has excellent shore-side facilities

including conference facilities, twin-bedded en-suite accommodation, bar, lounge, dining room, free internet access, an indoor heated swimming pool and mountain bike track. Whether you want a conference venue or wish to combine a conference or event with a programme of outdoor or team building activities, Plas Menai has the facilities, experience and expertise to ensure you get the most out of your time at the centre.


Plas Menai , The National Watersports CentreCaernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 1UETel: 01248 670 964 E-mail: [email protected]: www.plasmenai.co.uk

More than just a watersports centre...

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It’s best when...You find the ideal

venue

Best Western Centurion Hotel, Charlton Lane, Midsomer Norton, Radstock, Somerset, BA3 4BDTel:01761 417711 Fax:01761 418357, email: [email protected], www.centurionhotel.co.uk

• Centrally located to Bristol and the Georgian city of Bath• Bristol airport only 20 minutes• Relaxed tranquil setting• A variety of conference rooms and layouts available• Capacity for 2 ~ 160 delegates• Packages tailored to your needs and budget• Dedicated & experienced conference manager on hand for all your needs• Indoor leisure complex, including gymnasium, swimming pool, exercise pool, spa pool, steam room and sauna• Large complimentary car park• 9 hole parkland golf course• Free Wi-Fi access in rooms and public areas

Telephone: 01761 417711

Cornerhouse

H O T E LT a u n t o n

The Corner House HotelPark Street Taunton Somerset TA1 4DQ T: 01823 284683 E: [email protected] www.corner-house.co.uk

Rooms from £65.00Room only

Day Delegate rates from £29.95

24 hour Delegate ratesfrom £99.95

Free Wifi

Free car parking

*Unlimited Delegate Tea & Coffee

Great British Breakfastjust £7.95

Christmas Partiesfrom £19.95 per personEarly booking discounts

available

*for delegates on day and 24 hour rate only

CHH Gov Bus Ad 18/9/09 10:23 Page 2

BE INSPIRED BY THE SOuTH WEST

CORNWALL, SOMERSET AND DEVON are becoming increasingly popular destinations for corporate events. The counties have some truly unforgettable venues in awe inspiring locations that cannot fail to impress delegates, and when the work is done some of the best scenery and adventure activities on offer in the uK will be at their fingertips.

CORNWALLThe sky really is the limit when it comes to business in Cornwall – whether you are holding an event, want to celebrate success, launch a new project, or re-invigorate your team, Cornwall is the perfect place to make it happen. There are some great venues to suit both large and small groups providing tested conference facilities, the latest communications technology and the tastiest Cornish lunch to keep delegates at peak performance. The fowey hall hotel and greenbank hotel in falmouth are perfect venues for business lunches, conferences and seminars, offering comfortable accommodation with a range of meeting rooms and facilities. The national Maritime Museum’s award-winning architectural design and unique waterside location with stunning views over falmouth harbour offers an ideal setting for any corporate event. if you want to generate ideas and bring a real sense of drama and excitement to your delegates, imagine holding your conference in

a room overlooking the atlantic coast. situated centrally between Padstow and newquay on the north Cornwall coast, Bedruthan steps hotel offers the perfect location to host any kind of memorable event. The truly unique, purpose built conference and events venue offers you state-of-the-art equipment, a light and spacious contemporary environment with a sun terrace and spectacular views. The theatre style space can cater for up to 180 delegates. set in 180 acres of beautiful Cornish countryside, the China fleet Country Club boasts extensive leisure and sporting facilities, excellent service and glorious views over the river Tamar. only a few miles from Plymouth and just one mile from the Tamar Bridge, China fleet sits in an enviable location on the Devon/Cornwall border and is easily accessible by train, car and even plane. if you want to build your team’s spirit, motivate them, or show that you really appreciate them, a few days in Cornwall will do the trick. send them to sea with a Professional Yacht Master skipper who will teach them basic sailing skills. Bring out their creative talents by challenging them to a make a short promotional video. give them the competitive thrill of a gPs guided treasure trail. or they could try surfing, laser combat, survival skills, abseiling, sea fishing, problem-solving sessions, or any one of the many exciting activities. for team building events or adrenaline activities, why not visit the

Lusty glaze adventure Centre or the extreme academy at Watergate Bay in newquay. SOMERSETThe beautiful county of somerset is easily accessible by road or rail (just a few hours from London or Birmingham). it has a host of venues to suit all tastes, from country house experiences and modern purpose built centres, to heritage locations and historic gardens. somerset is also the home to fantastic food and drink, with a real focus on local produce; any event held here is sure to be a foodie delight! Conference and enterprise Centre in Taunton, and The exchange, Bridgwater, both offer state of the art facilities for up to 200 delegates, or there’s Walton Park hotel in Clevedon which offers superior corporate accommodation, just five minutes from the M5. abbey Manor Business and Conference Centre in Yeovil is located in a 15th Century grade 1 Listed Manor house and provides modern conference facilities in historic surroundings. Country house-style venues give your event that extra something special, and there are several to choose from in somerset, including Dillington house and Barrington Court, near ilminster, and Lyngford house or hestercombe house and gardens near Taunton. Cadbury house hotel is conveniently located just off the M5 near Weston-super-Mare. The main 18th Century house has been carefully updated

It’s easy to combine business with pleasure when attending a conference or event in Cornwall, Somerset or Devon




conferences

exhibitionsproduct launches

events and corporate parties

◆ Two flexible spaces to accommodate

conferences of 100-5,000

◆ Spaces ranging from 400m2-4590m2

◆ Excellent, value for money packages

◆ Ample free parking

◆ Easily accessible by road, rail and air

◆ Professional and dedicated venue

management team

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For bookings and enquiries

please contact the Westpoint

events team on 01392 446000

or [email protected]

and so much more...

www.westpointarena.com

Westpoint

conferencing

The alternative conference room situated in beautiful

surroundings, in the heart of the South West.



A leading venue for memorable and successful events

OWDERHAM CASTLE is recognised as one of the

country’s leading venues with its many unique qualities, ensuring memorable occasions for all who choose to hold events here. It is the home of the Earl & Countess of Devon in whose family it has remained for 600 years. This magnificent Castle has a long history of hosting wonderful events and retains the same reputation today. Its setting amidst a Deer Park alongside the Exe estuary affords guests with stunning, far-reaching views. The extensive grounds offer themselves to all manner of outdoor activities from clay pigeon shooting to 4x4 wheel driving. Inside the majestic State Rooms, originally designed to impress, provide the perfect location to hold a product launch or seminar. The vast Music Room is light and airy; with a splendid domed ceiling creating wonderful acoustics. The State Dining Room has an exceptionally warm and welcoming atmosphere and unlike some stately homes the fireplace and minstrel’s gallery

are often used by guests. The splendid libraries are equally impressive, and are adaptable to the layout of your choice. Every event and occasion is unique and we tailor our service and facilities to meet your special requirements. By working together we guarantee your event will be a success and one to be proud of.


Contact Virginia Bowman Powderham Castle, Exeter, Devon EX6 8JQTel: 01626 890243 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.powderham.co.uk

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to meet the needs of today’s corporate market, with a range of rooms and formats offering flexible layouts and latest technology, whilst maintaining its original character There are plenty of first rate hotels in the region that offer conferencing facilities, including the historic Castle hotel in Taunton, the White hart hotel in Wells or the Webbington hotel and spa near axbridge. some more unusual venues in the county include the fleet air arms Museum, Wookey hole Caves, West somerset railway, exmoor falconry and animal farm or the somerset rural Life Museum. somerset County Cricket Club also offers conferencing facilities and work is underway in 2009-2010 to further enhance its offer with the creation of a new conference centre.

DEVONfew counties offer such a varied list of options for conferences as Devon. Whether it’s simply a small city-centre meeting room that’s required, or a large modern communications centre, there’s something to suit your needs. Modern technology and flexible working spaces are available in great locations within easy access of public transport and road links. The riviera international Conference Centre in Torquay is a purpose-built conference and exhibition complex with three multi-functional conference and exhibition halls plus seven syndicate rooms accommodating up to 1,500 delegates, and The university of exeter’s ‘event exeter’ boasts a portfolio of venues

which together form the largest academic conference venue in the south West. Devon’s conference hotels pride themselves on high levels of service. in fact, venues and centres in Devon have professional and committed staff, whether you need complete conference management services or simply want to be sure of having excellent levels of service and some friendly faces. sandy Park Conference Centre in exeter is home to the exeter Chiefs rugby Club and has a state-of-the-art conference centre with top-class facilities, or Plymouth Pavilions offers a multi-purpose arena and a corporate events team to help your event run smoothly. Devon also offers alternative venues for management courses, tucked away in glorious countryside or overlooking breathtaking coastline. The harry herns Centre in exeter is an example of one of the small, unique venues committed to catering for your event, and The Palace hotel in Torquay is a residential venue with stunning sea views and 25 acres of beautifully kept grounds.

OuTDOOR ACTIVITIESif your intention is to get lost deep in the Devon countryside, there is a great choice of alternative venues, whether a country house hotel with luxury accommodation – ideal for management courses, or camping in the wild and surfing as part of an action-packed weekend. The fox & hounds Country hotel in the heart of Mid Devon offers modern meeting facilities as well as traditional

activities such as fishing and shooting, and the fantastic skern Lodge, appledore, offers professional training programmes and team building activities on and around the Torridge estuary and north Devon coast. There’s an astonishingly large and imaginative list of ideas for effective team-building too, from bush craft to canoeing, archery to surfing. Corporate entertaining is also well covered, with many hotels offering private dining and menus featuring Devon’s superlative food and drink. and after all the work is done, the county’s beautiful countryside is on the doorstep, waiting to be explored. nick Thorn surf schooling can provide coaching for professional groups on the Woolacombe surf in north Devon and Canoe adventures offers team-building and bushcraft to groups of up to 11 the chance to paddle europe’s largest canoes along south Devon’s estuaries and secret creeks. Whether you choose to hold your event in Cornwall, somerset or Devon, there is a superb choice of high quality, distinctive and memorable venues and experiences that will leave delegates wanting to extend their stay or return with the family at a later date to further experience the excellent levels of service and the stunning landscapes of these counties.


www.visitsouthwest.co.uk www.corporatecornwall.com www.visitsomerset.co.uk/conferences www.visitdevon.co.uk


Rumwell Manor Hotel Conference CentreuMWELL MANOR HOTEL is an ideal location for those companies wishing to hold smaller meetings and

conferences in the Taunton area. Whilst only two miles from the centre of Taunton, the hotel enjoys a rural aspect which allows meeting delegates to fully concentrate on the matters of importance without the distractions often present in urban location. Another great advantage is the fact that the hotel is only three and a half miles away from Junction 26 of the M5, thus making it very accessible to delegates from any area. The motorway system means that Bristol is only

45 minutes away, with London and Birmingham being two and half hours and two respectively.

For visitors travelling by train, Taunton’s main line station is less than ten minutes from the hotel. Our main meeting room is fully equipped with all the facilities required and, depending upon seating layouts, up to forty delegates can be accommodated. Windows on two sides allow plenty of natural light into the room, but roller blinds can be used when blackout conditions are required. Because of its size, the room is well suited for specialised training sessions and since it is located away from the main part of the hotel, total privacy is assured.


Web: www.rumwellmanor.co.uk

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Canterbury Cathedral LodgeThe Precincts, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2EHTel: 01227 865350Fax: 01227 865388Email: [email protected]

www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

nothingcompares...

EVENTS • MEETINGS • TRAINING • PARTIES • WEDDINGS • ACCOMMODATION

Looking for a memorable event?Canterbury Cathedral Lodge offers a unique setting within asuperb modern and contemporary purpose built conference andevents venue, but with traditional values of out-standing hospitality.

...so let your mind un-wind and be inspired in the beautiful and peaceful private groundsof Canterbury Cathedral.

CCL_91x133_Coporate_Sept09_revC.indd 1 10/09/2009 15:03:25

One of Kent’s premier conference venues.Situated in Ashford, the South East’s fastest growing commercial centre.• Full Meeting and Conference facilities.• Conveniently placed for all transport links with ample free parking.• Silver rated access for the disabled with hearing loops in major rooms.• Very competitive rates with discounts for regular users and members of Kent Invicta Chamber.• Comprehensive catering available.• Professional and friendly service.

Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, Waterbrook Avenue, Sevington, Ashford, Kent. TN24 0LH.Telephone 01233 503838. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.kentinvictachamber.co.uk.

THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND

THE COuNTY OF kENT, kNOWN AS the ‘garden of england’, has breathtaking countryside dotted with orchards, vineyards, hop gardens, oasthouses and, more famously, the White Cliffs of Dover. Maidstone, Canterbury and ashford are just a few of the towns available in Kent to host your event. other popular destinations include Tunbridge Wells, Dover and Chatham.

VENuE DIRECTORYKent Conference Bureau has published a new Conference Venues Directory. The handy, a5 brochure contains all the contact information and venue capacities you need when searching for a conference venue in the County Town of Kent. The directory features historical, unusual, modern and academic venues and also features a useful contact list for reference when organising travel, teambuilding

activities and audiovisual equipment. You can get your free copy by e-mailing [email protected] or by logging onto www.conferencekent.co.uk. This year for the first time, there is a digital version of the brochure available. The interactive pages can be downloaded, printed or saved and you can even mark your favourites. The online directory can be viewed on www.conferencekent.co.uk.

IMPARTIAL ADVICEhaving developed a professional and personal relationship with all the venues, the Kent Conference Bureau can offer conference buyers free, impartial and practical advice, and a written personalised proposal offering rates and availability within twenty-four working hours. in addition the bureau can arrange visits to venues within Kent to ensure the site of your choice meets your specific needs and

requirements. The dedicated and friendly team at the Kent Conference Bureau offer event organisers and conference buyers a speedy, professional and efficient service based on excellent knowledge of Kent and its venues. Whether you are looking for a town centre hotel, a rural retreat or something just that bit different, the bureau can put you in touch with the right venue for your needs. if you are looking for something to freshen up your next meeting, why not enhance communication skills, improve office relationships, boost moral or maybe just reward the workforce with some team building activities? activities can vary from a quiet round of golf, a simple treasure hunt, a high wire forest adventure at go ape, to an adrenaline fuelled multi-activity day. Kent Conference Bureau

Kent Conference Bureau takes a look at a selection of first-class venues in which to hold your conference or event




Tel: 01233 633772 Email: [email protected]

www.boyshall.co.uk

Boys Hall has almost 400 years of history, built in 1616 and set in three acres oflandscaped gardens. Boys Hall is situated in Ashford, Kent, only a few minutes from junction 10 of the M20. The Hall has hosted many events over the years and is a perfect setting for all your corporate needs.

Boys Hall Hotel, Boys Hall Road,Ashford, Kent. TN24 0LA

can help you find the ideal venue for your office Christmas party, annual meeting, training and conferences. enter your requirements onto the website www.conferencekent.co.uk/enquiry and wait 24 hours for the availability and rates to land in your inbox in one clear document.

kENT INVICTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCEKent invicta Chamber of Commerce offers a comprehensive range of meeting and conferencing facilities, with rooms available for one-to-one interviews, boardroom style rooms accommodating ten to forty delegates, theatre style rooms for 120 delegates and reception space for up to two hundred. audio and visual equipment is available for hire. Larger rooms have hearing loop facilities and the chamber’s overall facilities have been awarded a silver rating for disabled access. The purpose-built business facility offers ample free parking and is set in a semi-rural location just one mile from Junction ten on the M20, making the venue highly accessible from all routes. alternatively, ashford international station is only a five minute drive away. Through using local suppliers the chamber can provide a comprehensive catering service ranging from general refreshments, a choice of hot and cold buffets, through to two-course hot meals. regular users and members of the Kent invicta Chamber of Commerce enjoy a generous discount off room hire rates. They pride themselves on providing a professional service with a friendly and welcoming ambience which will enhance any meeting.

AN ACCREDITED CHAMBERKent invicta Chamber is the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) accredited Chamber for the areas of ashford, Canterbury, Maidstone, and sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Malling, and Tunbridge Wells. as well as Conference facilities the Chamber provides full business support and cost-effective business services to members. The combined membership of around 1,200 businesses makes Kent invicta one of the biggest chambers in south east england. accreditation to the BCC further increases the support that Kent invicta Chamber can give to members and the influence that it has in matters of representation with local, county and national authorities. a major function of the Chamber is to represent and support the business community in all relevant matters with regard to local, county and national authorities. To this end the Chamber constitutes various committees, comprising Chamber members and representatives from local authorities and other organisations, with remits to continually assess, analyse, and negotiate on specific subjects. for instance, the economic Development groups are currently actively involved in the formation of Development Plans for the county to monitor the expansion of area and help ensure that it takes place in a sustainable manner and is of benefit to the

whole community. one of the most significant strengths of the Chamber is the networking opportunities provided by a number of formal and informal events held at various venues throughout the Chamber’s geographical area.

A MANOR HOuSEQuality without compromise, peaceful seclusion – that is the eastwell Manor experience. set in the heart of the Kent countryside with manicured lawns and beautiful gardens, the exquisite Manor house benefits from blazing log fires and discreet service. guests can dine in the award winning wood panelled Manor restaurant or the less formal but sophisticated Brasserie. Conferences and seminars are held in any of the seven delightful meeting rooms located in the Manor and in The Pavilion that can accommodate from two to 120 delegates. The ‘eastwell 9’ golf Course and estate grounds are the ideal venues for outdoor team building events and complimentary Wi-fi connection is available throughout the hotel. Delegates can stay in an elegant Manor bedroom or in one of the luxury Mews Cottage located in the grounds close to the outdoor heated swimming pool. These cottages have one, two or three bedrooms and are ideal for conference delegates. The Pavilion Leisure spa is one of the finest luxury leisure and spa experiences in the country and ‘Dreams’, the extensive beauty salon offers a full range of treatments. The new fast link rail service from London gives a 38 minute journey to ashford international and the hotel close to motorway links and the Channel Tunnel.

COMBINING GOLF WITH BuSINESSThe spectacular nick faldo-designed golf course sits in the northern reaches of the Weald of Kent in more than 200 acres of historic Kent countryside, and is just 20 miles from the M25. With outstanding facilities on all fronts Chart hills golf Club is the perfect venue for all occasions. Destroyed by fire in 2005 the club house has been rebuilt to the highest standard and offers everything that guests could need including conferencing facilities, dining and wedding facilities and of course a championship golf course, all of which make Chart hills the ideal venue for your conference or event. Being blessed with professional, efficient, knowledgeable and courteous staff is a tremendous asset which allows the club to run smoothly, giving guests the maximum comfort and discretion during their stay. add to that the fantastic 18-hole golf course – recently recognised as one of the top courses in europe by the prestigious Peugeot golf guide 2008-2009 and ranked in the Top 100 by Top 100 golf Courses and by golf World Magazine – and you have the recipe for success and a quality golfing experience on and off the course. Whether you visit for business of pleasure, you’re guaranteed

to find whatever you want at Chart hills. Meanwhile, historical Boys hall provides a beautiful backdrop to any corporate event. Quality without compromise and peaceful seclusion are a huge part of the Boyshall experience. Whether you need a private boardroom or you wish to run a large training session, the hall has flexible conference/meeting spaces which can be arranged to accommodate your requirements. The stunning landscape gardens are available for your use on the day and in addition, they are able to offer five star accommodation. its team of dedicated staff will be on hand to make sure your event runs smoothly, leaving you free to concentrate on the day’s work.

A VIEW OF CANTERBuRY CATHEDRALKent’s most uniquely located hotel is receiving a face lift! Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, a unique and purpose-built venue located within the beautiful grounds of Canterbury Cathedral, has had 15 of its 29 bedrooms refurbished to reflect the superb meeting and event product. The refurbishment forms part of an extensive development programme, which will eventually include a stylish and contemporary look throughout the Lodge. The first stage of the programme is due to be completed by the beginning of november 2009, when all double bedrooms will be upgraded to a high standard. as well as enjoying stunning views of the Cathedral, all rooms will enjoy luxury furnishing, LCD screen TVs with free-view and free Wi-fi access throughout. in keeping with the ethos of the Cathedral, good quality locally sourced food is an important part of each event at the Lodge. To complement the great food, the refectory restaurant has also been updated with new luxury furniture and polished wood flooring. James Perry, general Manager for Canterbury Cathedral Lodge comments: “our newly refurbished bedrooms fit perfectly with the overall feel of the Lodge, which is unique, tranquil and contemporary. We are excited about the creation of this stage of our refurbishment works which will provide a fantastic enhancement to the hotel.” Within a beautiful and inspirational environment, the modern and contemporary purpose-built conference centre offers delegates a truly memorable event in which to promote clear thinking, influential decision making and successful negotiation, crucial for any meeting or event. This summer hilton Dartford Bridge is refurbishing 94 guest bedrooms, with flat screen TVs, brand new cosy beds, soft lighting, contemporary furniture and stylish furnishings. The refurbishment is due to be complete in october 2009.


Call Kent Conference Bureau on 01622 602485

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THE HEART OF ENGLAND

LOCATED AT THE VERY HEART OF england, staffordshire can claim not only to be the nation’s ‘capital’ of china, brewing, literature, and fun, but also ‘the perfect location’ for conferences, meetings, corporate hospitality and incentive travel. The staffordshire stoke-on-Trent Conference Bureau represents a vast array of conference venues across staffordshire including four star Manor houses to Premiership stoke City football Club. The regent Theatre and Victoria hall in the heart of stoke-on-Trent’s Cultural Quarter can accommodate up to 1,600 delegates for corporate events. other venues include a variety of hotels including aa red-star property swinfen hall, pottery museums, stately homes for exclusive use, a number of the county’s premier leisure facilities – including the staffordshire County showground – two theme parks and uttoxeter racecourse. Multi-million pound attraction,

the Trentham estate and Trentham Monkey forest, both offer conference facilities in a unique setting. Many of the venues offer dedicated events’ staff and vehicular access for larger events and exhibitions.

NEW MEMBERS The Bureau is pleased to welcome Bretby hotel and Conference Centre and haslington hall to the membership bringing the total number of venues represented to 45. Bretby hotel and Conference Centre, meanwhile, provides extensive conference and training facilities with a range of lecture, syndicate and conference rooms. in addition to the large lecture theatre and exhibition hall, the banqueting suite seats up to 270 for dinner. extensive free on-site parking along with 39 luxury en-suite bedrooms, complement the facilities at the Centre. haslington hall is a grade 1 listed property set within 25 acres of glorious countryside. The hall itself dates back to 1545 and, following the recent completion of a £3.2

million refurbishment, has now opened its doors as an “exclusive use” venue. The Business Centre offers modern facilities within a secluded environment overlooking the estate’s two lakes. all rooms are designed to a high specification and the centre offers a relaxed and informal “think tank” area furnished with bean bags and chalkboard walls. The estate also boasts a fixed marquee catering for up to 120 guests with a view overlooking the surrounding south cheshire countryside, and as an added ‘perk’ also offers the services of a butler.

VALuE FOR MONEYVenues all offer excellent value for money and this along with excellent service makes staffordshire the perfect location for any event. Competitive conference packages including upgraded breaks and unlimited refreshments are all becoming

the norm – all in an attempt to secure the business in this tough economic climate. staffordshire’s prime location is supported by the national transport network of the M6, M1, M54, M42, M6 toll and the a50. 40 per cent of the uK population live within a two hour drive and there is now a direct rail link to stoke-on-Trent from London euston which takes just over one and a half hours, making staffordshire more accessible than ever before. The Bureau has recently launched the new-look website www.conferencestaffordshire.co.uk. in addition to providing detailed information about the free venue finding service, the website allows conference organisers to download brochures, receive quarterly e-newsletters and special offers. an organisers “tool kit” is also available with access to an image bank, downloadable copy and tips for planning a successful event. 2009 has been a busy year for various venues across the county to cater for the ever-changing requirements of conference organisers.

VENuES WITH A TWISTThe alton Towers resort, which also offers the more traditional facilities as part of its conference centre, has now opened sharkbait reef by sea Life for corporate events. from dining in the ten metre ocean Tunnel, to challenging your team to a shrimp manicure, it is the perfect setting for corporate hospitality or team-building experience with a twist. Weston Park has sympathetically restored its former 1767 granary building into a farm shop on the ground floor and an exhibition gallery on the top floor. featuring a changing display of fine art, treasured exhibits and contemporary works, the gallery offers a unique contemporary space for up to 100 delegates. This vibrant new space offers Weston’s clients further ways in which to enhance

The Staffordshire Stoke-on-Trent Conference Bureau takes us on a tour of the best places to hold an event in the region




The alton Towers resort, which also offers the more traditional facilities as part of its conference centre, has now opened sharkbait reef by sea Life for corporate events. from dining in the ten metre ocean Tunnel, to challenging your team to a shrimp manicure, it is the perfect setting for corporate hospitality or team-building experience with a twist

“

”


and personalise their events. its contemporary transformation provides the perfect backdrop for the exquisite and sometimes priceless works of art that are displayed, making it an ideal venue for drinks receptions, launch parties and networking events. Keele hall, based on Keele university’s rural campus, opened its new ‘Ballroom’ earlier this year, following a major £300,000 transformation to make it the largest conference and banqueting venue in the county. The refurbishment involved converting the 19th Century stately home’s two tier suite into a single room, creating the magnificent new spacious Ballroom that can cater for events for up to 500. The re-modelled trade entrance can accommodate a car and large exhibition stands, making it a premier event venue to rival others across the uK.


For further information or to use the free and impartial venue finding service, contact the Bureau on 01782 232076, e-mail [email protected] or log onto www.conferencestaffordshire.co.uk.

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The perfect venue for all your event needs

HE BRITANNIA STADIuM is the perfect venue for all your

conference and event needs, with commanding panoramic views over North Staffordshire and geographically convenient. The Stadium boasts; In House executive caterers, Capacity for over 1,000 people in total, a variety of function suites to choose from and the ability to house a marquee the size of 800 square meters. Britannia Stadium is an ideal location for all types of business functions special events, and conferences The Waddington suite, our largest most well known suite is a favorite

for dining and larger functions such as exhibitions, it holds magnificent views over the bowl of the stadium on one side and views over the city on the other. Executive and sky boxes with stadium views and self contained facilities are also available to hire for business meetings or as break out rooms. Contact one of our expert event teams who will deliver all the ingredients you require for a memorable event.


Tel: 01782 592233Web: www.britannia-stadium.co.uk

T

A MASTERCLASS IN HR

MANCHESTER IS THE NEW HOME OF the CiPD’s annual conference and exhibition, taking place on 17-19 november at Manchester Central. and, as well as a new location for 2009, the three day conference has a more flexible structure, with 65 sessions based around ten key areas of hr. These sessions will be delivered through a variety of different formats. Themes include performance and reward, strategy, employee engagement and leadership. Delegates can choose from keynote sessions, masterclasses, workshops, organisational and strategic insights and expert-led practical sessions. There are also ‘question time’ seminars, encouraging discussion and debate on key issues. as well as attending seminars, conference participants have the chance to meet up with fellow professionals and exchange ideas. This year’s conference features a new social programme and a series of networking

opportunities so that delegates can more easily share experience and learn from each other.

kEYNOTE SESSIONSin an opening keynote address Jim Collins, author of good to great and the recently-released how the Mighty fall, will challenge the audience to think about the key drivers that distinguish great institutions from others. Drawing on his latest research, Collins will

discuss how participants can apply some of the lessons to their own organisations, leadership challenges and personal choices, to help achieve greatness and to sustain it. The CiPD will also be showcasing its major research project, ‘next generation hr’, in another of the conference’s keynote sessions. This work explores emerging hr practice, as part of the CiPD’s ongoing commitment to shaping the profession.

People management and development professionals will find plenty to help them with the challenges and opportunities facing the HR profession at this year’s CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition

HR & TRAINING



as well as attending seminars, conference participants have the chance to meet up with fellow professionals and exchange ideas. This year’s conference features a new social programme and a series of networking opportunities so that delegates can more easily share experience and learn from each other

“

”

EAP: EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMMEAdvice on legal issues, medical information, domestic advice, debt andstress counselling. The service is BACP approved, delivered nationwideand is available 24/7. Low-cost high value support for your employees.

EMPLOYEE SUPPORT FROM BHSFARC: ABSENCE • RETURN • CARE

ARC, is a low cost, on-line absence management platform. The system gathers data on absence and its causes; tests the validity and integrity of the absence; ‘red flags’ key issues to HR within 24 hours;analyses absence trends at employee level and encourages properuse of return-to-work interviews. Can you afford the bill of absence?Talk to BHSF to see how we can help you.

• HEALTH PLANS • CANCER INSURANCE • LIFE COVER • PERSONAL ACCIDENT • OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH • BENEFIT BOOKLETS • HEALTH SCREENING • CHILDCARE VOUCHERS • RISK ASSESSMENTS

For more information call BHSF on

0121 629 1266 or email [email protected] | www.bhsf.co.uk

COME VISIT

US AT

STAND 204

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Lancashire & Blackpool Conference & Meetings offer a one stop shop for all your conference and meeting needs...

We are here to provide help and advice to ensureyour event is a success. Services include:

To receive a copy of the new Lancashire & Blackpool Conference & Meetings Directory, featuring a widerange of venues to suit all events, please telephone0845 371 4453 or [email protected]

• Free and unbiased venue finding service• Accommodation booking service• Site visits

• Preparation of bid documents• Help with partner programmes• Provision of support materials

Jackie orme, CiPD chief executive comments: “This year’s event features some of the best-known global thought leaders and management experts, together with the leading lights in the profession today. We’ve put together an exciting programme, tailored to more specifically meet the needs of people management and hr professional at every level and stage of their career.” BBC journalist and presenter of radio 4’s Today programme, John humphrys, will be facilitating a panel debate on leadership and whether a new model is needed to deal with the complexities and pressures of the ever-changing global market. sir Christopher Kelly, chairman of the Committee on standards in Public Life, will be among those taking part in the discussion. he will be joined by steve

easterbrook, President and Ceo of McDonald’s uK and sháá Wasmund, Ceo of smarta.com. Delegates will also have a chance to hear direct from David MacLeod of the Department for Business enterprise and regulatory reform, who has led the major government review on employee engagement in the uK. as well as an examination of the review’s recommendations, the seminar will look at ways of removing barriers to better engagement and give examples of organisations that are taking steps to harness employee potential. nita Claire, director of the involvement and Participation association will also be speaking in this seminar.

MASTERCLASSESThe impact of true employee engagement on business performance will be illustrated

in a Masterclass session featuring Mark adlestone, managing director of Beaverbrooks the Jewellers, named 2009 Best Company to Work for. By being passionate about their people, the organisation shows how it is achieving business success. in a seminar on ‘Transforming hr efficiency in the public sector’, Joe Dudgale, director of hr and organisational Directorate, uK Border agency and David Mcelhinney, Ceo of Liverpool Direct Limited, will provide insights into the ways in which public sector organisations are making hr a more effective, business-focused service, while implementing cost savings in iT and other areas of the business. sir howard Bernstein, chief executive of Manchester City Council will be showing how Manchester, the new location for this year’s event, is the perfect example of the transformational changes that have taken place in the uK over the last decade. in a Masterclass presentation, sir howard will share the leadership challenges of developing the

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hundreds of leading providers of hr products and services will be showcasing their latest developments at the CiPD exhibition, giving people management and development professionals plenty of practical solutions to their hr challenges and a chance to try out lots of different tools and resources at first hand

“

”

EXHIBITION OPENING TIMES

Tuesday 17 November 10 00 – 18 00Wednesday 18 November 10 00 – 17 00Thursday 19 November 10 00 – 16 00

HR & TRAINING

Bradford UniversitySchool of Management

BespokeManagement

Research SpecialistConsultancy

Part-timePostgraduate

Courses- Executive MBA

- MSc in HRM- DBA

Student Placements/Internships/MBA Projects

BespokeManagementDevelopmentProgrammes

www.bradford.ac.uk/management

For those looking to advance theirorganization and people.

Visit us at the CIPD conference & exhibitionon 17-19 November at stand no.342

Helping to improve YOURproductivity, performanceand competitiveness

TICCS is a leading and long established rehabilitation company, providing a variety of rehabilitation services such as Sickness and Accident Management, which focuses on helping you and your employee facilitate an early return to work.

Through assistance from our case managers, we can also arrange co-ordinated rehabilitation plans for more complex cases which may involve serious injury/illness resulting in long term absence from work.

TICCS has a nationwide network of physiotherapists, psychotherapists, rehabilitation and occupational case managers who provide assessment, further investigation (if required), treatment options and return to work advice.

TICCS can help sick/injured employees or injured parties who are pursuing a claim, as we have a wealth of experience in providing rehabilitation services to the insurance industry.

Our objectives are to reduce the impact of the illness orinjury on the individual, shorten the period off work,minimise the cost for the employer/insurer andpromote collaboration between the parties.

Carnac House, Carnac Court, Cams Estate,Fareham, Hampshire PO16 8UZtel: 0844 493 5060 email: [email protected]: 0844 493 5035 website: www.ticcs.co.uk

01773 [email protected]

www.ukmediation.net

In workplace disputes…

celeb

ratin

g 10 years of success

For more details of our open and in-house training programmes, then please contact us.

…put yourself in the middle

Can’t wait for CIPD?Call us on 020 8652 4653

You said itXpertHR is a valuable source of legally sound and up-to-date information. It facilitates all different HR processes including law, policies, standard letters, research and news, ensuring our HR department is equipped to manage every workplace situation.

Helena Graham, Ministry of Defence

XpertHR prides itself being the most cost-effective online information source for good practice, compliance and benchmarking tailored to HR professionals within the Public Sector.

Visit us at

stand 354

at CIPD 2009

for a

demonstration

city and how the council and its partners plan to continue to grow, diversity and augment their position as a leading european city.

EXHIBITIONhundreds of leading providers of hr products and services will be showcasing their latest developments at the CiPD exhibition, giving people management and development professionals plenty of practical solutions to their hr challenges and a chance to try out lots of different tools and resources at first hand. running alongside the conference in the iconic Manchester Central hall, the exhibition will feature a broad spectrum of solutions under one roof. employee benefits and reward, talent management, change and oD, employment law and learning and development are just some of the areas represented at the show, reflecting the range of activities that come within the role of the people management and development practitioner. While the exhibition will feature plenty of on-stand activities, product previews and one-to-one discussions between visitors and service providers, a free programme of showcases will give a further opportunity to pick up on many of the topics high on the hr and development

agenda. The exhibitor exchange Theatre will feature over 25 supplier presentations, providing ideas to improve organisational performance. The essential updates Theatre will feature bite-sized sessions on latest developments in key hr areas, such as Web 2.0, reward, and learning and development (and attendees can also find out what’s new on the CiPD research agenda). a Personal Development zone will help people to brush up their professional skills and learn about behaviours that successful hr professionals need to demonstrate. a new Myevent networking area in the exhibition hall gives delegates and exhibition visitors a further opportunity to make new contacts, share ideas and solutions. Participants will have the chance to take part in speed networking, round-table discussions and more. People management and development professionals visiting the exhibition will be able to assess plenty of practical solutions at first hand and gain some valuable insights that they can translate into practice within their own organisations.


For pre-registration, exhibitor details and a list of speakers, please visit www.cipd.co.uk

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THE CIPD PEOPLE MANAGEMENT AWARDS

The event is also the venue for the annual CIPD People Management Awards, which celebrate, recognise and reward outstanding practice in the management and development of people. The winners will be announced at a special black-tie awards dinner on the 18 November. They will be chosen from a shortlist of finalists in six categories, reflecting different areas of HR excellence: change management through HR impact; employee engagement; learning and development; talent management; and two new categories for 2009; excellence through technology and total reward. The coveted overall 2009 CIPD People Management Award will be presented to the company whose achievement transcends the individual categories.

HR & TRAINING

XpertHR – online HR intelligence

PERTHR PRIDES ITSELF on being the most

comprehensive online information tailored to HR professionals within the Public Sector. Let us show you how XpertHR can immediately benefit your organisation. XpertHR provides a single reference source for all of your HR requirements, so in addition to avoiding legal costs and fines, you’ll only need one source of information for all of your HR and employment law needs. Stay up-to-date with legislation changes to protect your organisation from costly disputes and damage to its reputation. XpertHR will ensure your HR team and line managers have the appropriate tools and support to follow procedures correctly and ensure best practice. XpertHR brings together the expertise of IRS, LexisNexis Butterworths, Personnel Today and a dedicated team of experts to meet the information needs of the busy HR professional. Our advanced search facility and personalisation options mean you will always be able to find what you need immediately and be alerted to

changes in your areas of interest. In addition to having a dedicated account manager to deal with all of your subscription queries, we also provide training on how to use the service for you and your team – ensuring you get exactly what you need from XpertHR in the most efficient way. The online service is also supported by a legal helpline for instances when you may need to speak to specialist employment lawyer via email or telephone.


Visit www.xperthr.co.uk, call 020 8652 4653, e-mail [email protected] or visit us at stand 354 for a demonstration at The CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition.

X



Transform your training with Metalog

ETALOG IS ONE OF Europe’s leading experiential

training tool providers. We offer a wide range of training tools which will enhance your training projects, dealing with topics such as Team Development, Project Management, Communication, Leadership and change management. As trainers and coaches we face the challenge of developing programmes that engage the individual, allow them to understand and experience issues first hand and translate that insight into real world situation. This is the world of experiential learning where images and actions are worth a thousand words. Metalog Training Tools help you the trainer develop metaphors for real life situations. Although new to the UK; Metalog has been firmly established as one of Germanys leading experiential learning tool providers, tools which to date have been adopted and used by leading companies, public sector

bodies, schools and Universities. To hear, see and touch Metalog Training tools visit stand 208 at the CIPD conference or go online at www.metalogtraining.co.uk and transform your training.


For more informationPlease contact one of our training consultants.Tel: +44 (0)1290 559 028E-mail: [email protected]

M

Bradford University School of Management: making knowledge work

RADFORD uNIVERSITY School of Management is a

top FT ranked full-service global business school. We have 40 years experience developing managers and organisations in the private, public and voluntary sectors; helping to improve productivity, performance and competitiveness. Our services include part-time postgraduate courses, bespoke management development programmes, professional accredited management courses, specialist consultancy projects, bespoke management research and student placements/internships. We can help all organisations from large multinationals to small start-ups achieve their business ambitions through: Executive Education – Offering management development through short , accredited or longer term bespoke programmes. Specialist Consultancy – Receive cost effective consultancy work through an MBA management project. Knowledge Transfer Partnerships – A partnership where a company draws on university expertise to support a key development. Usually comprising of one or more graduate placements

to realise a commercial aim. SME Knowledge Network – A special service for small to medium sized businesses, allowing them to benefit from practical and solution focused learning through our Evening Master Classes, The Growth Programme and The Director Support Network. Management Research – As a strong research institution, organisations can benefit from cutting edge management research from our Centre for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and the Bradford Centre in International Business.


Tel: 01274 234321E-mail: [email protected]: www.bradford.ac.uk/management

B

The Injury Care Clinics Ltd (TICCS)

ICCS IS A LEADING and long established

rehabilitation company, providing a variety of rehabilitation services such as Sickness and Accident Management, which focuses on helping you and your employee facilitate an early return to work. Through assistance from our case managers, we can also arrange co-ordinated rehabilitation plans for more complex cases which may involve serious injury/illness resulting in long term absence from work. TICCS has a nationwide network of physiotherapists, psychotherapists, rehabilitation and occupational case managers who provide assessment, further investigation (if required), treatment options

and return to work advice. TICCS can help sick/injured employees or injured parties who are pursuing a claim, as we have a wealth of experience in providing rehabilitation services to the insurance industry. Our objectives are to reduce the impact of the illness/injury on the individual, shorten the period off work, minimise the cost for the employer/insurer and promote collaboration between the parties. For all your rehabilitation needs, TICCS can help.


Contact: Neil HowdenTel: 0844 493 5026E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ticcs.co.uk

T

Keeping the peace by being in the middle

HATEVER HAPPENED to the “quiet word” as a means

of sorting out staff disputes? In increasingly litigious times employees have become all too inclined to resort to formal measures, including legal action, when they have concerns about a colleague’s behaviour. Mediation offers an alternative. By enlisting the expert help of an impartial mediator, around 80 per cent of workplace disputes can now be nipped in the bud, and need not proceed beyond a private, structured, and voluntary mediation session. UK Mediation is the UK’s foremost provider of mediation and mediation training. Working principally with Local Authorities, NHS Trusts, universities and colleges, the Organisation is now in its 11th year and continues to go from strength to strength. More and more organisations are realising that the early and informal resolution of workplace disputes can dramatically reduce the number of grievances and harassment & discrimination claims. Working relationships that have taken

years to build up can be maintained and restored by offering mediation at all levels within the organisation. The Company can offer to either provide mediators for one-off cases, or can train a body of internal workplace mediators. Representatives of the Company will be on-hand at CIPD 2009 to discuss some alternative ways of exploiting the benefits of this increasingly popular means of dispute resolution.


Contact: UK Mediation, 8 Green Lane, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 1BYTel: 01773 822222Web: www.ukmediation.netE-mail [email protected]

W

The Business Magazine for goVernMenT 65


Sickies and duvet days – employee absence

OW MuCH MONEY did your organisation lose

to employee absence last year? Very few organisations can afford additional unbudgeted expense yet less than half of all organisations monitor the cost of absence. If you have an absence problem, and you also have a desire to reduce costs, you need to be approaching employee absence with a fully integrated, proactive sickness absence management system. BHSF believe the above can be facilitated through a low-cost online recording platform known as ARC – Absence: Return: Care. A system that utilises the resource you already have and empowers your line-mangers with the responsibility of absence management, rather than landing you with a large bill. This revolutionary breakthrough in the cost of sympathetic absence management has been designed by managers for managers, with the support of HR consultancy in order to meet HSE/CIPD guidance, legal advisers and occupational health professionals. So whether you are trying to manage

spurious sickies or genuine long-term illness, ARC is a tailor-made, value-for-money, proactive solution for organisations of all sizes.


Visit BHSF at stand 204, today. Or call 0121 629 1266. BHSF can also help you with:Health plans, Occupational Health, EAPs, Health Screening and Benefit communication packages

H

Concateno – Europe’s largest provider of drug testing services

TATISTICS ON ALCOHOL and drug use in the UK reveal

the significant issues facing our society. So, how can you help your employees with problems before they become problem employees? Drug and alcohol misuse can effect fellow employees; at best through an increased workload due to absenteeism (an estimated 8 – 14 million lost work days are attributed to alcohol each year), at worst through serious oversights or accidents due to fatigue, misjudgement or erratic behaviour. The Health and Safety Executive sends a clear message to employers that they should take a proactive stance, recommending that “employers should adopt a substance misuse policy, in consultation with their staff.” A good policy needs to satisfy two aims, on the one hand serving as a deterrent, whilst on the other providing effective support. Regular drug and alcohol testing after consultation with employees can be highly effective, not only in identifying problems, but also in reinforcing the message that a company takes misuse seriously. Finally, remember that drug

and alcohol abuse is often the result of other factors in an employee’s personal or working life. An effective Employee Assistance Programme, a confidential service that combines online advice with 24-hour phone assistance, offers help on a range of issues such as financial concerns, bereavement and family problems and can ultimately help to address the causes of misuse as well as to prevent its worst consequences.


Contact us on 020 7712 8000 or e-mail [email protected]

S

Croner – helping you achieve success

RONER IS THE uk’S leading provider of information,

advice and support in the areas of employment, health & safety and environmental compliance. We offer products and services to the public sector (central government, local authorities, housing associations, police authorities, the NHS, colleges) to help meet compliance requirements, improve performance and drive financial efficiency. With a wealth of experience behind us, we can help deliver tangible improvements that can have a positive impact both on your organisation and on those who use its services. What can we offer to help?•Complianceandconsultancy support – we help you put your management framework in place and keep it up to date with new laws and changes to the regulations.•Onlinesubscriptionservices–asingle reference source in six mains areas: HR,

health & safety, environment, public sector, education, trade and transport.•Employmenttribunalrepresentation – you will have dedicated experts to support you through the entire process. We win over 85 per cent of cases that go to a tribunal and provide a competitively-priced specialist solution that gives you complete peace of mind.•HRsoftware,integratedwith our 24-hour, expert employment telephone advice, our HR software slashes the administrative burden of your personnel record keeping and management reporting.


Contact our Public Sector team today to discuss a solution for your needs and budget. Tel: 0800 634 1700E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.croner.co.uk

C

Lancashire and Blackpool conferences and meetings

S A CONFERENCE, meeting and business destination

Lancashire and Blackpool thrives. Whether you are looking for a venue to host a conference, meeting, training course, seminar, exhibition or corporate hospitality event we can certainly help! With stunning venues, impeccable service and a warm welcome there really is something to suit all budgets and taste. Sometimes business needs a breath of fresh air… to grow new ideas, to discuss and develop… to source a different solution to the market. That is why Lancashire and Blackpool is the perfect place – because it offers

such variety for hosting business events, both large and small. The new exciting Lancashire & Blackpool Conferences & Meetings Directory with additional new venues will be launched in November 2009, contact the team for your free copy.


For more information or to request your complimentary guide to conference and meeting venues visit: lancashireandblackpoolconference.com, e-mail: [email protected] or call: 0845 3714453/4454.

A

Performance

Confidence

HOW RESILIENT IS YOUR

WORKFORCE?

Want to know more about ora?It costs nothing to find out more. Please register your interest today

and receive a copy of the ORA brochure and a free ORA sample report.

Why not take advantage of our 15 minute no obligation consultation service

where you can discuss your specific requirements with one of our advisers.

Managing and improving staff/employee well-being is critical

to improving organisational health and resilience as much as it

is a matter of compliance with health and safety requirements.

While the value of better employee health is now recognised

and acknowledged, many organisations ‘struggle’ with knowing

exactly where to target action and intervention, particularly when

resources are limited and value for money is so critically important.

‘Blanket’ approaches such as (yearly) opinion surveys don’t really

help with this. They tell us something about how things look from

the point of view of employees, e.g. how satisfied staff are and how

they see managers, but they don’t really tell us ‘what goes with

what’, i.e. which factors in people’s experience of work tend to

be instrumental in yielding different outcomes.

Put simply, rather than simply knowing HOW satisfied people are,

HOW committed they are to their organisation, HOW engaged

they are in their jobs, HOW likely they are to look for another

job elsewhere, etc. we need to know WHAT factors in the job

or work environment give rise to these positive - or negative

- work experiences.

The key to this is not knowing what factors in the workplace

generally promote wellness - or conversely lead to harm - but

what factors in ‘my’ work organisation are positive or negatively

linked to such important measures of individual and organisational

performance, effectiveness and resilience as job satisfaction,

organisational commitment, symptoms of stress, attitudes

towards clients/customers, citizenship behaviour, etc.

ORA is a method and tool developed to deliver precisely this

level of knowledge and understanding about organisations.

ORA helping you understand your organisation and your people.

ORA is a surveying system that has been created by Zeal Solutions,

an organisation specialising in work psychology.

ORA offers organisations one of the most efficient and accurate ways

of understanding individual and organisational health and well-being.

Helping organisations achieve tomorrow’s goals today

ORA has helped many different organisations to confidently

deal with many different challenges.

• Sickness Absence – ORA has helped organisations

improve attendance.

• Staff Engagement – ORA has helped organisations

improve levels of employee motivation.

• Stress – ORA has helped organisations take appropriate

action for tackling stress.

• Management Behaviour – ORA has helped organisations

identify performance enhancing management behaviours.

• Violence – ORA has helped organisations deal with

work-related violence.

• Change Management – ORA has helped organisations

support their staff through times of change.

Discover workplace

features that

promote or damage

employee well-

being, motivation

and performance.

Understand

where to

invest resources

to achieve

maximum impact

and results.

ACCURATE EFFICIENT POWERFUL

Informative reports and

feedback procedures

enabling transformation

of individual and

organisational

behaviour.

Some users of ORA

Police Forces

Ambulance Services

Healthcare Trusts

New Media Agencies

Retailers County Councils

Banks Fire Services

Transport

Simply call or email and quote reference: MORE ORA

email: [email protected] tel: 0207 419 5081 web: www.zeal-ora.co.uk

Helping you understand your organisation and your people.ORA is registered product of Zeal Solutions Ltd.

Health

NEXT GENERATION MANAGEMENT

THE ERA OF INCREMENTAL CHANGE is well and truly finished in the uK public sector – three per cent change per year way of thinking has been replaced by ‘business transformation’ – the need to deliver five, ten, 15, even 20 per cent cuts in spending. But citizen/customer service demands have and will continue to become even more important. successes in local authorities, nhs Trusts, police forces and schools are now all based much more on building and maintaining the confidence and satisfaction of their customers. This trend has been recognised by the formal evaluation of performance with value for money being matched by confidence, reliability, connectivity and satisfaction criteria to provide external ratings and benchmarks of success. not only are expectations rising in terms of

quality of experience but factors like speed of service are part of the evaluation.

FEELING THE PRESSuREoften the real levels of demand for the services are also rising, not falling, which adds further challenges in terms of efficiency and productivity – the same or less resources to deliver the same or higher volumes. in terms of the ability to deliver, many managers and employees would probably state that there have been, and are, too many initiatives – the risk of burn-out has become greater due to initiative overload. Then there is the impact of an aging workforce and that many people will inevitably have to work longer before they retire. absence levels have been a focus in the

last few years in the public sector. and more recently, attention has been particularly paid to presenteeism – people coming to work when really they feel they should be absent. even more fundamental is the fact that people actually at work are under-performing due to sub-optimal wellness – their physical and mental capabilities are below the levels required to perform well. The Work foundation has estimated this to be possibly about one in four people at work.

LOW PRODuCTIVITYanthony Phillips, MD of WellKom Corporate services (www.wellkom.co.uk), has, for the last ten years or more, always stated that there is a link between the long hours culture of the uK, the lower levels of productivity of

David Mackenzie-Clarke, wellness manager at Devon and Cornwall Police, explains how staff wellness is recognised as a crucial element towards becoming a top performing police force

HR & TRAINING



the uK (versus some of its major european competitors) and the wellness levels/habits of the workforce. Traditionally the uK productivity gap has been explained away by investment differences. for example, german Mittelstand companies (the small to medium size companies) which are the power engine of the economy, invested in medium to long term investment strategies, unlike short term/under investment strategies in the uK. Then the gap was explained by education levels – much higher percentages of people go on after school leaving age to continue education. This gap has been closed over the last ten years or so. however, the uK is still low down in the wellness league tables. one recent study found the uK to be 22nd lowest in europe – but with some countries like switzerland not even included this would probably have made it worst. germany’s position, unsurprising to anthony, is near the top of the wellness league table.

BETTER PuBLIC CONFIDENCEDevon and Cornwall Police’s vision is: “in 2012 and beyond to be a top performing police force” and like all other police forces it is now primarily evaluated on public confidence. Public confidence for the force is achieved through customer satisfaction and delivering on the police pledges, such as to: “always treat you fairly with dignity and respect ensuring you have fair access to our services at a time that is reasonable and suitable for you.” “ensure your neighbourhood policing team and other police patrols are visible and on your patch at times when they will be most effective and when you tell us you most need them. “We will ensure your team is not taken away from neighbourhood business more than is absolutely necessary. They will spend at least 80 per cent of their time visibly working in your neighbourhood, tackling your priorities. staff turnover will be minimised.”

THE NEED TO SAVEThe force is, like many other public sector organisations, faced with achieving major savings over the next three years, due to funding changes. To deliver on this vision to achieve organisational success and achieve the necessary cost savings, the force over the years has, like most organisations in the uK, been upgrading and developing expertise in two main disciplines: business/organisational management and people management. under the leadership of the Chief Constable, steve otter, the wellness of all the people working at the force has been recognised as fundamental to achieving these challenges. however, steve otter, advised by David Mackenzie–Clarke, who has spent over two years researching and developing the force’s knowledge in wellness, recognised that simply investing more

in wellness was not the real answer. David and the management team increasingly recognised that there are also close inter-relationships between how people are managed, how the force is transformed, and the wellness levels of its people. so the force has been working to develop an integrated, positive, proactive approach to wellness that is not just done in isolation to these other two disciplines of people management and business management, but also recognises these inter-relationships.

INVESTING LONG-TERMas a result, from July 09 the force has taken the fundamental step to adopt, invest long term, and implement in Wellness Management; the next generation of management, which fuses all three of these disciplines together (health, people and business). The discipline of Wellness Management provides an overall approach for delivering on the strategic and operating challenges faced by the force. This approach is summarised below. Their Wellness Management partner, WellKom, has been working in this discipline in the uK, in europe and in other parts of the world over the last ten years. organisations of all types are moving to this next generation as the returns on investment of the traditional two-disciple approach have maxed out. other organisations, who are less advanced in people and business management, are also adopting Wellness Management as a way of leap-frogging years forward to transform their organisations. in the uK wellness is becoming much more recognised. The uK workforce review led by Professor Dame Carol Black has been a major catalyst for the move to a more proactive; faster and positive focus on wellness (e.g. sick note to fit note). here is an example of what is now happening in the nhs: “We have an ambitious agenda to put quality at the heart of everything we do in the nhs. for staff, the quality agenda offers both exciting opportunities and some considerable challenges as we encourage them to work in new and innovative ways. a key part of our ambition is to turn the nhs from a service focused on sickness to one that promotes and supports wellness.” David nicholson, Chief executive nhs 2009 – Boorman review “Just as we are increasing our focus on more preventive measures for our patients and the wider public, so too should we reconsider our approach to the health of nhs staff. rather than relying solely on occupational health services, we need to move towards a broader commitment to improving health and well-being across the workplace.” Lord ara Darzi, June 2009, Boorman review.

STEPS TO WELLNESS MANAGEMENTso what are Devon and Cornwall Police doing in their journey to adopt and

implement Wellness Management? They have developed a ten step implementation plan which includes these actions:•Wellnesswillbecomeintegratedinto organisational transformation processes. This will be achieved through the Target operating Model and through the work of Quest – their business process re-engineering/business improvement team.•Wellnesswillberecognisedasacore competence across all posts with the opportunity for everyone to gain a nationally recognised vocational qualification in Personal Wellness Management •LeadershipWellnessManagementwillbebuilt into their current Covey leadership programme. all leadership posts will include this competency (for the purposes of selection, development, performance management and succession planning) and offered as a national vocational qualification to all leaders and aspiring leaders.•Aninternalnetworkofnationallyaccredited Wellness Champions, Personal Wellness reviewers, Personal Wellness Coaches will be established right across the force available to all people in keeping with the force’s equality and Diversity strategy.•EveryoneintheForcewillhavethe opportunity to have their own private and confidential Personal Wellness account and access to Personal Wellness Profiling to enable everyone to understand and manage their personal wellness even better.•AnonymousWellnessManagement information will be produced to provide the force, as the employer, powerful insights into current levels of wellness. This will include the importance of investing time and money in wellness and how best to do so (based on employee led information not expert views).•Wellnessactivitiesofalltypeswillbecome more joined up and be employee led. •Adedicatedleader(DavidMackenzie- Clarke) within the force, who will have the resources/support/mandate from the Chief Constable, to integrate and implement Wellness Management has been appointed in July 09.for Devon and Cornwall Police, Wellness Management is the way high performance can be achieved (their 2012 Vision as well as major cost savings) and be sustainable for years. it will also offer employees a higher quality of life not just at work, but in life in general, as we enable them to develop, over the next few years, not just career valuable capabilities but in life skills.


If you would like more information on Wellness Management please e-mail David Mackenzie-Clarke at: [email protected] Anthony Phillips, MD of WellKom, at [email protected]

HR & TRAINING


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RESPONSIBLE PuRCHASING

IN THE CuRRENT CHALLENGING economic climate it may be tempting to think of sustainable procurement as an expensive luxury: something that would be nice to do rather than a must-do activity. however, many London businesses are realising the continuing benefits of keeping sustainability at the top of their agenda. on 26 october organisations from across London will gather to celebrate their achievements in green purchasing at the royal institute of British architects, London. The Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code awards ceremony is an annual event showcasing the achievements of London businesses that have reduced carbon emissions and diverted waste from landfill through their green procurement activities. all companies nominated for an award are members of the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code; a free support service for London based organisations committed to reducing their environmental impact through responsible purchasing.

COMMITING TO TARGETSBy signing up to the green Procurement Code (gPC), members commit to achieving progressive environmental targets and their

progress is measured through an annual survey, which asks for baseline information on their green procurement activities. The information provided in this survey is used to measure members’ environmental performance and they may achieve bronze, silver or gold level of the Code. When the survey was conducted for the first time last year only three organisations achieved the gold level, with 24 reaching silver and ten attaining bronze. This year has seen a significant increase in the number of organisations achieving the higher levels with 16 reaching the gold level, 28 getting silver and 23 achieving bronze. This improvement indicates that sustainable procurement is now a higher priority for many companies in London.

APPLAuDING SuCCESSThe results of this survey form the basis of the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code awards. These awards recognise the best-performing organisations across five key areas: people; policy strategy and communications; procurement processes; supplier engagement; and measurement and results. Public sector organisations performed particularly well in 2008, winning four of the

five awards. although last year’s awards were dominated by large public sector organisations, 22 small and medium-sized enterprises were among the 37 to achieve the bronze, silver or gold level. in order to recognise the significant achievements of these smaller companies we have introduced a new award in 2009 for the ‘Best performing sMe’. The shortlist for this year’s awards has recently been announced and once again the public sector has a strong presence with at least one public sector representative nominated for each of the five original categories. however, there is also a wide range of other organisations represented on the shortlist, highlighting the topic’s increasing importance across all business sectors. This year’s ceremony will take place in the impressive surroundings of the royal institute of British architects. an expected 200 guests will hear from keynote speaker gareth Davies of the audit Commission, on how sustainable procurement will feature in the commission’s new inspection framework, before the winners are announced. The winner of each category will be presented with a specially commissioned award made from 100 per cent reclaimed materials. The award further fits in

Organisations from across London will gather together to celebrate their achievements in green purchasing at the Mayor of London’s Green Procurement Code awards ceremony on 26 October


Written by Jodi Lloyd www.governmentbusiness.co.uk8

INNOVATIVE TROPHY DESIGN

Nextbigthing was the competition winner to design and produce the five trophies for the Mayor of London’s Green Procurement Code awards. The winning design is made from 100 per cent reclaimed materials and feature a mobius loop embedded in a teardrop of glass. Nextbigthing worked with the London Glassblowing Workshop to produce the awards, made from reclaimed copper lengths and glass off-cuts from the workshop’s other productions. Commenting on the winning trophy design, Daniel Silverstone, chief executive of London Remade, said: “The Nextbigthing trophy design captured our attention with their imaginative use of the traditional mobius recycling symbol. The title of their design ‘what goes around comes around’ supports our ethos of closing the recycling loop and symbolises the importance of sustainability at all stages of the production and procurement process.”

PROCuREMENT

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with the sustainability theme by featuring the traditional mobius recycling symbol embedded in a teardrop of glass. as well as their award, winning organisations will also benefit from publicity in the awards brochure and the newly re-launched gPC website (www.greenprocurementcode.co.uk). The award ceremony provides an opportunity to publicise the achievements of London organisations in reducing their environmental impacts through responsible purchasing. in 2008, the combined purchases of organisations signed up to gPC diverted the equivalent of 187 olympic sized swimming pools of waste from landfill, representing a saving of 22,643 tonnes of Co2. early indications are that the savings reported in 2009 will be even greater.

MAkING LONDON GREENERThe organisations taking part in this year’s awards are playing a vital part in helping London to meet its target to reduce carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2025. The benefits of sustainable procurement extend beyond the environment; they include cost savings, tax breaks, increased staff motivation and enhanced reputation and brand value. By making energy savings and leading the way in tackling the city’s waste problem, businesses are also able to reduce their fuel bills and achieve financial savings; a real help in these lean economic times The Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code awards are raising the profile of London’s commitment to green procurement while celebrating the environmental achievements of those organisations who are continuing to put sustainability at the top of their agenda. green Procurement Code Programme Manager, graham randles says: “i am confident that this year’s achievements will be even greater than last year’s and hope that they inspire others to embrace their environmental responsibilities and turn today’s best practice into tomorrow’s standard.” read more on the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code on page 73.


Web: www.greenprocurementcodeawards.co.uk or www.greenprocurementcode.co.uk

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Responsible IT disposal from Computer Aid

OMPuTERS ARE VERY resource intensive to produce,

240kg of fossil fuels, 22kg of chemicals and 1,500 litres of water are needed for the production of just one computer. Before you even turn a computer on for the first time 75 per cent of the fossil fuels that will be consumed over the entire life-cycle of a PC have already been consumed! Many companies will dispose of their old computers through a recycler – but when professionally refurbished by an organisation like Computer Aid – those computers could deliver another 3 or 4 years productive life in a school or hospital in Africa. To recycle them before this utility value has been properly recovered is a terrible waste – particularly given the high environmental price we have paid to produce them. Computer Aid is a UK registered charity with over 11 years experience in IT decommissioning. The charity provides free Blancco data wiping, full

WEEE compliance, legal liabilities for both hard ware and data, a guarantee that zero percent of non reusable equipment will end up in landfill and a full asset tracking service on all donated equipment, so you can get feed back on your old equipment in use!


For more information please visit www.computeraid.org call 020 8361 5540 e-mail [email protected]

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Evolve – recycled paper for today and tomorrow

VOLVE IS THE uk’S

leading brand of recycled office paper and has an excellent reputation for environmental performance, print results and honesty. Evolve offers three recycled papers: Evolve Business – 100 per cent recycled; Evolve Everyday – 100 per cent recycled; and Evolve 75 – made from 75 per cent recycled fibre and 25 per cent PEFC certified wood fibre. Evolve Business is ideal for high profile, colour jobs while Evolve Everyday and Evolve 75 give good, reliable results on internal and volume jobs. M-real is committed to sustainable paper production and an ethos of continual improvement. Evolve is made using a life cycle approach to minimise the impact on the environment at every stage of production, use and disposal. The Evolve recycling process helps divert up to 180, 000 tonnes of genuine recovered paper from landfill or incineration every year. The production process is predominantly powered by

biomass fuel, a renewable energy, generated with by-products of the wood pulping industry, sawmills and urban garden waste. 95 per cent of the water used in the process is recycled, re-used, cleaned and then returned to the water system. By ensuring that every stage of the product’s life is taken into account, we can ensure that all Evolve papers are as eco-efficient as possible as well as fit for purpose.


You can find more information on Evolve’s environmental credentials and products at www.evolve-papers.com or by e-mailing us at [email protected].

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PROCuREMENT

How sustainable is your marketing?Itineris is one of the UK’s leading digital marketing agencies that provide award winning website design and email marketing with extensive carbon neutral credentials

Call us on0845 862 5522

Visit us atwww.itineris.co.uk

Our clients include:

NEED A REMOVAL SERVICE?Kiwi Movers are a Professional Removal Company based in Wandsworth with a fleet of trucks tailored to service all of your needs; big or small.-Domestic Removals-Long Distance Moves-Commercial & Office Moves-Man & Van

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Chamberlaine leads the way to greener cleaning

STABLISHED FOR over 25 years Chamberlaine specialises

in providing bespoke commercial cleaning solutions with minimal environmental impact. We are dedicated to providing the highest levels of service regardless of the size or value of the contract and constantly refine our quality and supervision systems to ensure our customers receive the end product they deserve. Chamberlaine’s success is not only attributed to the importance we place upon maintaining high standards but is also due to the importance placed upon environmental protection, pollution prevention and sustainable, ethical procurement. Working closely with the Mayor of London and the Green Procurement Code we are 100 percent committed to reducing any negative environmental impacts from our activities and are determined to generate the lowest possible carbon footprint. Some of the measures we have taken include: selecting likeminded market leaders to be our main supply chain partners; reducing the amount of ‘chemical miles’ generated during

shipping and minimising plastic waste by using concentrated chemicals which are diluted into in re-usable containers onsite; extensive use of microfiber technology to reduce overall chemical usage; offering recycling and waste management services with a Zero to landfill commitment by end 2010 and always supplying paper products from sustainable sources and managed forests. Our ethos is that by working together we can make a greener world.


Web: www.chamberlaine.co.uk

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SPEND WISELY!

IN THE uk, THE PuBLIC SECTOR SPENDS annually in the region of £175 billion on goods and services, although the debate is currently raging about if, when and by how much this may be cut in the future. one thing that even most politicians appear able to agree upon, however, is about the need to spend this money wisely. Back in 2006 the government appointed an industry-led task force to determine how public sector spending could be used to advance the cause of social and environmental sustainability. The report of the task force, “Procuring the future,” and the subsequent action plans produced for central government, local government and the health service set out how this goal should be achieved.

BuYING GREENat around the same time that the uK was reviewing its policies on what is now known as sustainable procurement, the european Commission was advancing its thinking

on green public procurement (gPP). The european Commission has identified the uK as one of seven leading member states in gPP and one of the world’s leading programmes to support green purchasing is the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code. initially set up in 2001 to help develop the markets for recycled content products, the programme was re-launched in october 2007 and now, under the new Mayor, Boris Johnson, has developed to cover a broad range of green procurement issues.

The combined purchasing power of London based companies has huge potential to positively tackle the capital’s waste problem, reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the Mayor of London’s target of cutting the capital’s carbon emissions by 60 per cent by 2025. By signing up to the green Procurement Code (gPC), London-based organisations across the public, private and third sectors make a commitment to consider environmental issues when purchasing goods and services and to report annually on

By signing up to the Green Procurement Code, London-based organisations across the public, private and third sectors make a commitment to consider environmental issues when purchasing goods and services



The european Commission has identified the uK as one of seven leading member states in gPP and one of the world’s leading programmes to support green purchasing is the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code

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their achievements. in return they receive free consultancy advice from London remade that is funded by the London Development agency.

STEP ONEThe first step in the process for a new signatory to the gPC is to complete a short survey which provides baseline information about their green procurement activities in five key areas: people; policy strategy and communications; procurement processes; supplier engagement; and measurement and results. These five themes were identified as critical to implementing sustainable procurement by the government’s task force and form the basis of a model of best practice called the “flexible framework” that is now widely used in the public sector. The information gathered in the initial questionnaire is used to create an action plan for the organisation to build its capabilities in green procurement and the consultancy service provides support in implementing the action plan. This may involve, for example, developing or revising a sustainable procurement policy or strategy or putting on a supplier engagement event.

PROGRESS REVIEWat the end of the year all gPC signatories are required to complete the annual progress review survey. This involves repeating the initial twenty questions but this time organisations are expected to report on the outcomes of their green procurement activities: the green purchases they have made in the previous year. although this is not expected to be comprehensive, the participating organisations are expected to provide evidence of green purchases across a broad range of categories. green purchases are defined according to criteria set out by the european Commission in its gPP guidelines and by Defra and ogC in their Buy sustainable – Quick Wins guide. at the end of the survey organisations can submit their data for review by a third party auditor, accredited by the institute of environmental Management and assessment (ieMa) and may be awarded the bronze, silver or gold level of the green Procurement Code. in the first year, 2008, only three achieved the gold level. The 2009 progress review has just been completed and, even though standards were raised on the previous year, 16 signatories achieved the gold level. These included all five members of the greater London authority group, two leading London boroughs, greenwich and hackney, as well as six small and medium-sized enterprises (sMes), one charity, Cancer research uK, and two large private corporations, Mapeley and arup. successful companies will get the chance to celebrate their achievements at the Mayor of London’s green Procurement Code awards, which will be held at the royal institute of British architects on october 26. awards will be presented in five key categories – people; policy, strategy & communication; procurement process; engaging with suppliers; measurement and results; as well as an award for the best performing sMe. read more about the awards on page 69.

IS IT WORTH IT?so is all the effort worth it or is this merely an exercise in green public relations? We’ll leave that answer to the european Commissioner stavros Dimas, who has said that: “The ‘greening’ of public procurement is a major challenge for europe’s public administrations, but also a major opportunity to boost europe’s competitiveness and stimulate the market for environmental technologies.” in a sign of what is likely to come for the uK public sector, in a 2008 communication the european Commission proposed that: “By the year 2010, fifty per cent of all tendering procedures should be green, where ‘green’ means compliant with endorsed common ‘core’ green public procurement criteria.” There may still be a long way to go before this kind of target will be met but it is encouraging that the eC is setting this agenda. if we are to spend our public money wisely, what could be better than using it to reduce our impact on the environment and stimulate the green economy?


Web: www.greenprocurementcode.co.uk

Delphis Eco – effectiveecological, economical

E ARE THE FIRST

company in the UK to be awarded The European Eco-Label (European Commission’s award for products which are genuinely a better choice for the environment) and are the first UK company to achieve accreditation by Defra as having an effective and fully environmentally friendly range of cleaning products. Delphis Eco is proud to be a signatory to the Mayor of London’s Green Procurement Code and we can help your organisation achieve its sustainability targets as well as the targets and sustainability criteria of your customers. Our products meet both the government’s “Buy Sustainable - Quick Wins“ and the EU Green Public Procurement comprehensive criteria. Delphis Eco covers the full range of industrial and household requirements and we have the broadest range

of accredited cleaning products in Europe. The range can save money by replacing multiple, hazardous chemicals with products that will improve health & safety (for employees and customers), eliminate storage space and help the environment. Delphis Eco can provide your organisation with 3rd party accredited cleaning products that are effective, ecological and economical.


Contact Pieter Theron on 020 3397 0096, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.delphiseco.com

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fonesforsafety® – donate a phone, save a life

HE GREEN AGENDA IS more

than just reducing your carbon footprint through how you buy and how you throw away. It is also about realising opportunities that make real and positive changes to people’s lives. fonesforsafety® reconfigures unwanted mobile phones into ‘999 emergency only’ personal alarms for individuals affected by Domestic Violence, empowering and enabling those most at risk to contact the emergency services at times of crisis. Combining environmental protection with social empowerment, fonesforsafety® provides an opportunity for individuals, public bodies, the commercial and third sector to come together to provide actual, direct, practical benefit to vulnerable people across the UK. fonesforsafety® is a nationally recognized project, developing local networks across each government region and all London boroughs. It is supported by the Home Office, Greater London Authority, Comic Relief, the City Bridge Trust, Women’s Aid, Victim

Support, ACPO, London and Regional police forces. Become part of the growing movement to actively address Domestic Violence and reduce your environmental impact by supporting fonesforsafety®. Encourage your staff, clients and customers to donate their unwanted mobile phones of any age, make or condition towards this project. An unwanted mobile phone could literally save a life. Visit www.fonesforsafety.org.uk to get involved.


Address: fonesforsafety®, Unit 7-9 Brandon Street, SE17 1NA, London UKTel: 020 7740 6533E-mail: [email protected]: www.fonesforsafety.org.uk

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PROCuREMENT

Contact the Supplier Development Programme for help and advice on public sector procurement.

For more information visit our website at

www.sdpscotland.co.ukEmail us at [email protected] or telephone 0141 287 7251

The Supplier Development Programme is a business support initiative of 15 Scottish local authorities and the Third Sector.

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THE ART OF BuYING

SuPPORTED BY THE SCOTTISH government and scotland’s leading business associations, Procurex scotland 2009 will offer both attendees and exhibitors an unrivalled opportunity to meet and network with representatives from scotland’s public and private sector buying community. Taking place on 28-29 october at seCC glasgow, Procurex scotland 2009 will also be co-located with:•ScottishGovernmentFifthNational Public Procurement Conference•GovernmentOpportunities scottish Business summit•GovernmentOpportunitiesExcellencein Public Procurement awards scotlandWith over 3,000 key decision makers attending Procurex 2008, the 2009 event is one that you and your organisation simply cannot afford to miss.

EXHIBITIONnow, more than ever, public and private sector buyers are analysing every aspect of procurement spend to ensure best value whilst improving services. as a result, the need to converse with a wider supply base is evident. Procurex 2009 will provide visiting buyers with access to a diverse mix of suppliers, meeting buyers’ every procurement need while opening up a wealth of commercial opportunities for the companies showcasing their capabilities.

The Procurex 2009 exhibition will showcase over 100 suppliers working within scotland and across the uK. from sMes through to international blue chip organisations, the stage is set for scotland’s largest supplier showcase.

PuBLIC PROCuREMENT CONFERENCEThe scottish government fifth national Public Procurement Conference will take place on Wednesday 28 october 2009. The keynote address will be given by John swinney MsP, the Cabinet secretary for finance and sustainable growth. The conference will provide an opportunity to hear how organisations and individuals from across the public sector are meeting today’s challenges and what lessons can be learned from those involved in reforming procurement practices and performance. Whether you work in the public or private sector or you are a procurement professional, the owner of a procurement function, a manager or a supplier, the conference will provide you with:•AMinisterialperspectiveonprocurement and its importance in helping to support scotland’s economic growth•Anupdateonthelatestdevelopments and current policy aspects of procurement in scotland•Greaterawarenessofbestprocurement practice and what others in this field are doing

The scottish government Public Procurement Conference 2009 is the official leading forum for discussion and networking for public sector procurement personnel in scotland.

SCOTTISH BuSINESS SuMMITThe government opportunities (go) scottish Business summit, on 29 october, will undoubtedly be scotland’s business event of the year. it is hard to ignore the economic challenges facing the uK today, but instead of dwelling on the financial downside, businesses should be looking at how they can overcome such challenges and position themselves securely within the future marketplace. a huge range of opportunities currently exist for scottish and uK businesses. The go Business summit will provide an unrivalled opportunity to:•Hearaboutthepoliciesin place to assist businesses•Hearhoweffectiveprocurement can assist economic recovery•Supportstructuresavailable for your organisation•Examinethefutureforbusinesses within the economic climate•Learnfrombusinessspeakers’ personal experiences•Learnhowtogrowyour organisation with technology•Gainanin-depthinsightintothelatest developments and opportunities•NetworkwithyourpeersThe summit will especially highlight the ways in which sMes can grow and prosper during these challenging times.

GO AWARDS SCOTLANDfollowing on from the inaugural 2008 event, the government opportunities (go) scottish excellence in Public Procurement awards 2009 provide both public and private sector organisations in the ever-changing procurement marketplace with an opportunity to be recognised for excellence in their particular fields of expertise. go is the only magazine in the uK dedicated to public procurement, so when it gives an award, it does so on the basis of in-depth knowledge of the marketplace. The 2009 categories have been detailed below:•GOSustainabilityAward•GOCorporateSocialResponsibilityAward•GOHealthcareSupplierAward•GOBestServiceAward•GOCollaborativeProcurementAward•GOIndividualExcellenceAward

Procurex Scotland 2009 allows public and private sector buyers and suppliers to come together to discuss procurement strategies and establish new supply chain contacts

PROCuREMENT





Are you finding tendering confusing?

PPLYING FOR PuBLIC

sector contracts can be a daunting task so we bring you the information you need to make an informed choice. The Supplier Development Programme supports businesses that see great market opportunities in public sector tendering. We can open doors and signpost companies towards a better rewarding relationship with the public sector. Our aim is to help more and more businesses be ready and able to seek out and tender for exciting business opportunities with the public sector and successfully apply for these contracts. Providing information and advice through our website, events and e-bulletins, register now to find out more at www.sdpscotland.co.uk A business support initiative, the Supplier Development Programme is a partnership of 15 Scottish Councils. If your business is located within one of

our partner areas then you are entitled to FREE services and advice from the SDP team: Angus, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Renfrewshire, Fife, Glasgow City, Inverclyde, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Perth & Kinross, Renfrewshire, Scottish Borders, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire and the Third Sector.


Tel: 0141 287 7251E-mail: [email protected]: www.sdpscotland.co.uk

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Olympus professional dictation systems

HEN IT COMES TO digital recording solutions, Olympus

sets the benchmark for business. Professionals across the world know the Olympus brand stands for quality. That’s why Olympus significantly outsells any other company in the field of mobile hand-held digital dictation. Designed for use by the busy professional, all devices are easy to use, effective and reliable, allowing every last word to be captured. And with a variety of different features available across the range, it’s easy to choose a model that best suits the purpose. A host of accessories complement the range to ensure that every requirement can be catered for, including hands free operation. Olympus digital voice recorders are designed to capture high quality,

crystal clear recordings that are easily transferred to a computer. Effective workflow is achieved with the quick downloading of files via a USB interface whilst the removable memory generates almost unlimited recording time. Being a leader within the digital dictation market means Olympus UK is a name you can trust to implement your dictation systems; and with dedicated specialist Olympus Digital Dictation Centres across the UK able to provide comprehensive training, installation and support for the whole range of Olympus Pro Line audio products, you know you are going to get the service you deserve.


For further information on Olympus digital dictation solutions visit www.olympusproline.co.uk

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Qube – your path to a brighter future

uBE VOCATIONAL Development Ltd is the

UK’s Premier Specialist provider of Supply Chain Management Scottish and National Vocational Qualifications (S/NVQ) as well as being a CIPS registered provider. The Qube S/NVQ programme is unique as it offers a truly blended learning experience, embracing assessor-led mentoring and assessment, self study and web based learning. As an organisation dedicated to raising the level of purchasing competence in the workplace, Qube believe it is imperative to deliver innovative, holistic training and development solutions. With this in mind, we have developed the Student Resource Centre. All Qube students benefit from access to this unique online support portal as a standard feature of their NVQ programme. The portal provides a comprehensive package of support and can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week – in fact, whenever the need arises. The Student Resource Centre portal features 5 keystone applications: Qube-profiler, elearn2buy, Qube-toolbox, Qube-studentforum, Qube-portfolio.

Over the last twelve years, our regionally based team of assessors and verifiers have successfully delivered S/NVQ competence based programmes in over 1000 public and private sector organisations throughout the UK, providing both employers and students with a valid and robust alternative to the traditional examination based route to full Membership of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (MCIPS).


Tel: 0844 800 2396Fax: 0844 800 2397E-mail: nvq@qubevocational development.com Web: www.qubevocational development.comVisit us on Stand 78 at Procurex Exhibition on 28-29 October 2009.

Q

Evolve – recycled paper for today and tomorrow

VOLVE IS THE uk’S

leading brand of recycled office paper and has an excellent reputation for environmental performance, print results and honesty. Evolve offers three recycled papers: Evolve Business – 100 per cent recycled; Evolve Everyday – 100 per cent recycled; and Evolve 75 – made from 75 per cent recycled fibre and 25 per cent PEFC certified wood fibre. Evolve Business is ideal for high profile, colour jobs while Evolve Everyday and Evolve 75 give good, reliable results on internal and volume jobs. M-real is committed to sustainable paper production and an ethos of continual improvement. Evolve is made using a life cycle approach to minimise the impact on the environment at every stage of production, use and disposal. The Evolve recycling process helps divert up to 180, 000 tonnes of genuine recovered paper from landfill or incineration every year. The production process is predominantly powered by biomass fuel, a renewable energy,

generated with by-products of the wood pulping industry, sawmills and urban garden waste. 95 per cent of the water used in the process is recycled, re-used, cleaned and then returned to the water system. By ensuring that every stage of the product’s life is taken into account, we can ensure that all Evolve papers are as eco-efficient as possible as well as fit for purpose.


You can find more information on Evolve’s environmental credentials and products at www.evolve-papers.com or by e-mailing us at [email protected].

E

•GOTeamExcellenceAward•GOOutstandingContributionAward

TRAINING zONESProcurex scotland 2009 will offer three training zones which will run over the course of the event, providing delegates with procurement and business development intelligence. These free-to-attend workshops offer you the chance to improve your knowledge on highly popular topics. seating will be limited to the first 50 visitors, so to ensure you do not miss out on your chosen workshop, early arrival is recommended. gary robinson and Lee ferguson of Public Contracts scotland will take a training session on: The 3 W’s (what it is, what it can do for you, and where to find out more). This session will cover what Public Contracts scotland (PCs) is; what it does; and where buyers and suppliers can go for more information and support. We will also highlight the top three frequently asked questions about PCs and then open up the floor to gather views and opinions from buyers and suppliers on known problem areas and to explore potential solution options.

COMPLYING WITH REGuLATIONSMartin gallaher of Biggart Baillie will take a training workshop entitled ‘exploring the rules to withstand challenges’. an understanding of the Public Contracts (scotland) regulations 2006 will go a long way in minimising the chance of being challenged in your procurement decisions. This session looks at areas where procurement decisions have recently been challenged and examines how the risks can be reduced by applying the regulations effectively. owen Patterson from scotland excel will look at Collaborative Contracts: What happens next?a guide to developing ongoing strategic partnerships with suppliers. This seminar will examine how local authorities and other public sector bodies can get the most from collaborative contracts by working with suppliers to reach end users and obtain best value throughout the duration of the contract. Phil adams of supply2.gov.uk will be taking a training session on advertising Public sector Contracts Below the eu Thresolds. aimed at public sector buyers, this workshop provides an overview of the importance of advertising lower-value (typically below £100,000) contracts and demonstrates how supply2.gov.uk can be used to achieve internal cost savings whilst demonstrating best practice procurement. a step-by-step approach to publishing lower-value contracts directly on supply2.gov.uk will be provided, along with information on how becoming a partner with supply2.gov.uk can be of benefit to your local suppliers. for further details on other subject matters covered in the training zones, please visit the website.

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THE SCOTTISH GOvERNMENT 5TH NATIONAL PUBLIC PROCUREMENT CONFERENCE AGENDA

08.30 Registration & Exhibition

09.50 Chair’s Opening Address – Brian Taylor, Political Correspondent, BBC Scotland

09.55 Procurement Update – Alastair Merrill, Director, Scottish Procurement Directorate

10.15 Extending Procurement –John McClelland CBE

10.35 Scottish Futures Trust – Colin Maclean, Non Executive Director, Scottish Futures Trust

10.55Success Story: Recognising Excellence in Procurement – Grahame Steed, Managing Editor, Government Opportunities (GO)

11.15 Registration & Exhibition

12.00 BREAKOUT SESSION 1

12.45 Lunch & Exhibition

14.00 BREAKOUT SESSION 2

15.00Keynote Address – John Swinney MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth

15.40Implications of the Climate Change Act on Procurement – Councillor Alison Hay, COSLA Regeneration and Sustainable Development Spokesperson

15.15‘News Round Up’ – Learning Points – Brian Taylor, Political Correspondent, BBC Scotland

15.45 Q & A – Speaker Panel

16.00 Exhibition & Networking

SCOTTISH BUSINESS SUMMIT CONFERENCE AGENDA

09.00 Registration & Exhibition – Procurex Scotland

09.50 Chair’s Opening Address – Brian Taylor, Political Correspondent, BBC Scotland

11.00 Chair’s Opening Address – Grahame Steed, Managing Editor, Government Opportunities

SESSION ONE

11.10Opportunities within Public Procurement – Stella Manzie, Director General for Finance & Corporate Services, Scottish Government

11.40 Keynote Address – Jim Murphy MP, Secretary of State for Scotland

12.20 Helping Business Grow – Business Support Organisation Representative

12.40 Networking & Exhibition – Procurex Scotland

SESSION TWO

14.00Understanding the Opportunities within the Economic Landscape – Liz Cameron, Scottish Chamber of Commerce

14.30Making the Internet Work for Your Business Through Technology – Derrick McCourt, Regional Director, Microsoft Scotland

15.10 Achieving Success – Michelle Mone, Founder and Co-owner of MJM International

15.40 Chairman’s Closing Address

15.50 Networking & Exhibition – Procurex Scotland

PROCuREMENT

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Tortworth Court Four Pillars Hotel 46

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ADVERTISERS INDEX

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Recognising Excellencein the recycling & waste management sector

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Government Business Volume 16.10

Documents

Transcript of Government Business Volume 16.10