8.3 C
Manchester
Saturday, April 18, 2026
Home Blog Page 99

DOORS OPEN FOR NEW PR APPRENTICESHIP FROM THE JUICE ACADEMY AND SMOKING GUN

Businesses open to employing a PR apprentice are being sought for a new industry-led Public Relations and Communications apprenticeship.

A maximum of 20 businesses will join the first cohort, adding a junior member to their marketing or communications team whilst they study for a Level 4 Public Relations and Communications apprenticeship scheme.  The programme is being launched by The Juice Academy and Apprentify and taught by practitioners from leading PR agency, Smoking Gun.

The new training scheme was announced at The Academy’s recent tenth birthday celebration with Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham in attendance describing the Juice apprenticeships as “pivotal” in Manchester’s  educational overhaul and future plans. The Juice Academy has already trained over 600 apprentices in digital marketing to date via its existing apprenticeships.

Teaching will begin this 31st August at Smoking Gun’s office in Manchester City centre with the apprenticeship lasting between 12-18 months. All recruitment and vetting of apprentices is covered by The Juice Academy for a small fee of £450 with the employers interviewing and selecting their choice from a shortlist. Employers could also be subject to a £1,000 Government incentive if criteria are met.

Smoking Gun managing director Rick Guttridge says; “We’ve spent years perfecting our proven process to help clients achieve both communications and business goals resulting in over 70 peer judges award wins including 7 global effectiveness awards. Bringing that level and depth of PR expertise to the fore in teaching a new generation of practitioners is hugely energising for our highly experienced senior team.

“With the highly publicised talent shortages in creative sectors and the collapse of undergraduate solus PR degrees in the UK, we hope that this apprenticeship will prove popular and successful in attracting talent to the industry. We’re working with The Juice Academy to reach as wide an audience as possible and encourage applicants from all walks of life.”

Juice Academy Director, Sandy Lindsay MBE, adds: “As we look to build on the success of the last ten years of The Juice Academy, this new accreditation is another step forward in our plans to help more candidates launch their careers. Partnering with Apprentify and the best practitioners in their field is the secret of our success and we look forward to this continuing with Smoking Gun at our side.

‘We see the many benefits that businesses large and small alike enjoy from adding an apprentice to their ranks, not least fresh thinking, leading industry insight and a cost effective addition to their headcount in a time when many marketers are being tasked with doing more with less.”

Businesses wanting more information about what’s involved in taking on an apprenticeship should visit https://www.juiceacademy.co.uk/

IPRS MTS Introduces Advanced Medical Transportation Services in the United Kingdom, Prioritizing Clinical Excellence

0

In West Sussex, a new venture called IPRS Medical Transport Services (MTS) has emerged, with future plans for expansion in the upcoming year. Their extensive range of specialised ambulance transport services covers the United Kingdom as well as transportation to and from Europe.

IPRS MTS operates under the IPRS Group, an independent organisation that delivers clinical products and services to both the public and private sectors. Focusing on achieving clinical excellence, compliance, and an exceptional patient journey, IPRS MTS has developed four distinct medical transportation services. They collaborate directly with NHS trusts, commissioning bodies, private ambulance services, and the public to cater to the unique transportation needs of patients.

Their service portfolio includes high-dependency transfers from intensive care units, secure transportation services for individuals with mental health conditions, bariatric transfers for patients requiring medical assistance during transport, and non-emergency repatriation services to and from Europe.

Phil Bayliss, the Director of IPRS MTS, expresses his delight in the official launch of IPRS MTS, stating, “I am thrilled to announce the inauguration of IPRS MTS. We are enthusiastic about introducing our services to the market and firmly believe that we offer something truly distinctive. By aligning ourselves with the Greener NHS initiative, embracing cutting-edge technology, and emphasising clinical expertise, we aim to make a significant impact. It is an exhilarating time to be a part of IPRS MTS, and I eagerly anticipate the growth of our organisation in the months and years ahead.”

Ensuring the delivery of the highest standard of medical care remains paramount for IPRS MTS. Each member of their paramedic team is registered with the Health Practice Associates Council, the regulatory authority for pre-hospital clinicians in the United Kingdom. Additionally, they undergo rigorous training to guarantee that patients receive an optimal level of care and compassion during transportation.

IPRS MTS places a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. To provide a safe and comfortable service, their fleet of ambulances is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment utilised by their paramedics to deliver exceptional clinical care. For the secure transportation of patients with mental health conditions, specially equipped vehicles with Home Office Category B cells and seating arrangements that facilitate assessments and conversations during the journey are employed. Rigorous audits of their services are conducted to maintain high levels of patient satisfaction and ensure adherence to quality standards.

Despite only recently launching earlier this month, IPRS MTS has already set their sights on growth, with plans to introduce new services and expand their presence throughout the country and into Europe. They are actively recruiting for new positions within the United Kingdom.

Martyn Jackson, CEO of the IPRS Group, states, “As part of the IPRS Group, we continuously explore opportunities to expand our current skill set. Our expertise in repatriation positions us favorably to build upon it with the establishment of IPRS MTS. We have already assembled a team with extensive experience in this field, and I am highly enthusiastic about the future growth of this organisation.”

Benefits of the Founder Innovator Visa for International Entrepreneurs

0

As an international entrepreneur, expanding your business into new markets can be an exciting prospect. The United Kingdom offers a unique opportunity for talented and innovative individuals through its Founder Innovator Visa program.

What is Founder Innovator Route

The Founder Innovator Visa UK is a remarkable opportunity that enables talented entrepreneurs from across the globe to explore and expand their business ventures in the thriving UK market. Introduced by the UK government, this visa category aims to attract innovative minds who have the potential to create successful businesses and contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Benefits of the Founder Innovator Visa

1. Business Opportunities

The Founder Innovator Visa opens up a world of business opportunities in the UK. Entrepreneurs can tap into the vibrant and diverse market, connect with potential investors and partners, and access a large customer base. The country’s strong economy and supportive business ecosystem make it an ideal destination for ambitious entrepreneurs.

2. Fast-Track to Settlement

One of the key advantages of the Founder Innovator Visa is its pathway to settlement. Successful applicants can stay in the UK for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of extending for an additional three years. After five years of continuous residence, entrepreneurs may be eligible to apply for settlement, also known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR). This can eventually lead to British citizenship, providing a stable and secure future.

3. Freedom to Innovate

The UK values innovation and creativity. The Founder Innovator Visa allows entrepreneurs to bring their unique ideas and innovations to the British market. This freedom to innovate fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and provides a supportive environment for turning groundbreaking concepts into successful businesses.

4. Spouse and Dependent Rights

The Founder Innovator Visa also extends certain rights to the spouse and dependent family members of the main applicant. They can accompany the entrepreneur to the UK and enjoy access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. This ensures that the entrepreneur’s family can share in the benefits of living in the UK and contribute to their overall well-being.

Application Process

Obtaining the Founder Innovator Visa involves a well-defined application process designed to assess your business acumen and entrepreneurial potential. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the application procedure:

  1. Initial Assessment. Begin by evaluating your eligibility for the Innovator Visa UK. Ensure that your business idea meets the required criteria and aligns with the endorsing bodies’ expectations.
  2. Endorsement. Secure endorsement from a trusted endorsing body recognized by the UK government. This endorsement validates your business idea and showcases its potential for growth and innovation.
  3. Application Submission. Prepare a comprehensive business plan outlining your vision, market analysis, financial projections, and expansion strategies. Submit your application along with the necessary documents to the UK Home Office.
  4. Immigration Fees. Pay the Immigration Fees, Health Surcharge and schedule a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
  5. Decision and Visa Issuance. Await a decision on your application from the UK Home Office. Once approved, you can proceed with the visa issuance process.

The Founder Innovator Visa presents a remarkable opportunity for international entrepreneurs looking to establish and expand their businesses in the United Kingdom. With its business-friendly environment, supportive ecosystem, and potential for growth, the UK offers a fertile ground for ambitious individuals to thrive. By leveraging the benefits of the Founder Innovator Visa, entrepreneurs can unlock their full potential, make a lasting impact, and position themselves at the forefront of innovation in the British market.

Japan vs Peru TV channel Friendly Match Online Broadcast

0

Peru, meanwhile, failed to secure a World Cup place after losing to Australia in the intercontinental playoff. After a couple of disappointing friendly outings in March, they returned to winning ways on Friday with a 1-0 win over South Korea. Bryan Reyna scored the sole goal of the game.

WATCH LIVE: CLICK HERE

Japan were excellent victors over El Salvador in their friendly last week. They found the back of the net on six occasions in that game as they avoided a fourth straight game without a win and they will look to build on that as they take on Peru.

Whereas Peru also picked up their first win of the calendar year when they defeated South Korea 1-0 on Friday. Juan Reynoso’s men lost 2-0 at Germany and recorded a goalless draw with Morocco in March’s friendly matches.

Japan started their preparations for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup in January next year and played a series of friendly matches. Their last game ended in a 6-0 demolition of 10-man El Salvador, which featured goals from six different players. This included Al-Rayyan defender Shogo Taniguchi scoring his first international goal.

There are many combinations in terms of the system and combination of people. Hopefully tomorrow’s game will give us more options. The player base is not just one team, but two, three, etc. I want to be able to make the best selection for every match and tournament. Of course we have to look at the competition in each position, but we have as many players as possible with the same ability in each position. I want to be ready for anything.

The visitors will be tough to beat having lost just one of their last six games and having edged South Korea last time out, keeping their fourth clean sheet in their last five outings, the Peruvians should be able to claim at least a draw from this contest.

Shadow Robot unveils robotics consulting and advisory services

Shadow Robot, the pioneering UK-based robotics firm renowned for its Dextrous Hand series, has officially launched its Robotics Consultancy Service.

Shadow Robot, a London-headquartered company specializing in cutting-edge anthropomorphic robot hands and systems, is introducing its robotics consultancy service to assist enterprises in leveraging robotic hand technology within their products and processes, fostering innovation.

The robotics consultancy service will offer businesses expert guidance and recommendations on optimizing performance, efficiency, and competitiveness through the design and utilization of robotic hand technology. Leveraging their in-house engineering and production facilities and teams, the service will provide tailored solutions and support to address specific challenges and requirements.

The range of services comprises: Technical expertise – offering comprehensive advice on all aspects of robotic hand design, development, and implementation, encompassing feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, and validation. System integration – seamlessly integrating robotic hands into existing systems through hardware and software solutions, accompanied by comprehensive training and support. Application development – creating new applications for robotic hands, enhancing existing products and processes.

Director of Shadow Robot, Rich Walker, expressed enthusiasm about the launch of their robotics consultancy service, stating, “We are thrilled to unveil our robotics consultancy service and share our expertise and knowledge with companies seeking to drive innovation through robotic hand technology. We have been encouraged by the increasing number of enterprises developing their own robot hands, and we aspire to offer the unrivaled expertise of leading robot hand developers to the wider business community. We firmly believe that robotic hand technologies hold tremendous potential to revolutionize various industries and sectors, and we are eager to assist our clients in realizing their goals and visions.”

With over two decades of experience in designing and developing robotic systems for research and industry, Shadow Robot has collaborated with esteemed clients including NASA, ESA, OpenAI, Google Brain, MIT, University of Oxford, and University of Cambridge, among others. The company has garnered numerous accolades for its innovative and exemplary contributions to the field of robotics, including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation in 2019, the AIconics Award for Best Innovation in AI Hardware in 2019, and the E&T Innovation Awards for Excellence in R&D, Intelligent Systems, and Tech for Good in 2020.

The robotics consultancy service is now accessible to companies worldwide.

Wake Forest vs LSU Live TV channel Baseball College World Series 2023

0

Coach Jay Johnson’s team will look to change that on Monday night when the Tigers face off against Wake Forest. The winner will secure a spot in the College World Series semifinals on Wednesday, while the loser will have to face either Stanford or Tennessee in an elimination game on Tuesday.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH NOW

The Cardinal tag Tennessee ace Chase Dollander for two first inning runs as Carter Graham scored on an error by the catcher, and Alberto Rios shot an RBI double down the left field line to score the inning’s second run.

During the 2023 college baseball regular season, only two teams have ever ascended the rankings to reach the top overall spot. On Monday, the two will face off for the first time to get in the driver’s seat for a spot in the College World Series final.

The LSU Tigers will take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in the College World Series with the chance to advance to the semifinals with a victory over the No. 1 national seed.

He enters this start with a 2.28 ERA and has racked up 131 strikeouts over 86 innings pitched. While the lefty has struggled over his last three starts, his 1.89 SIERA points to him bouncing back.

With an ESPN Plus account you can not only watch the Wake Forest and LSU NCAA Tournament Super Regionals baseball game, but many other 2023 NCAA Tournament games this summer. Plus there are tons of other sports and original series, including every 30-for-30 documentary, ready to stream when you want to watch them.

It’s important to note that Hartle is a dominant left-hander, and LSU has struggled against left-handed pitching this season. There isn’t much data to show their issues, but in their last three games against left-handed starters, the Tigers failed to score more than four runs — half of what they average on a per-game basis.

Emerging Wreath Company Embraces the Growing Demand for Sustainable Home Décor

Responding to the increasing demand for sustainable home décor, a new entrant has emerged in the UK market. Wreaths.co.uk is capitalising on the desire for natural, environmentally conscious decorative products by offering a captivating range of seasonal wreaths and wreath-making kits.

Allied Market Research forecasts a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% for the global sustainable home décor market from 2022 to 2031. This growth trajectory will elevate the market value from $331.0 billion in 2021 to an impressive $556.3 billion a decade later. Buyers who prioritise creating visually appealing and sustainable homes are the driving force behind this upward trend.

Tom Yates, the Director of TYSR Limited, the parent company of Wreaths.co.uk, affirms, “The demand for high-quality, sustainable decorative home furnishings has experienced significant growth in the UK over the past few years. Wreaths embody a timeless beauty that aligns perfectly with this trend, and we are delighted to meet consumer needs with our extensive collection of products at Wreaths.co.uk.”

From the understated elegance of a simple foliage circle to the intricate craftsmanship of seasonally adorned designs, wreaths exude a natural charm that effortlessly transforms any door, wall, or table into a captivating focal point. Wreaths.co.uk presents a diverse array of seasonal wreaths, as well as designs tailored for specific occasions, ranging from weddings to Christmas celebrations.

Customers can explore options such as floral wreaths, eucalyptus wreaths, dried flower wreaths, and pampas wreaths. In addition to ready-made selections, craft enthusiasts have the opportunity to purchase wreath-making kits, allowing them to infuse their homes with a unique touch of creativity.

The team of skilled florists at Wreaths.co.uk is dedicated not only to handcrafting each wreath with meticulous care but also to providing exceptional customer service. The company offers a comprehensive learning zone brimming with valuable tips and free guides, including tutorials on creating pumpkin and pompom wreaths using wool, as well as essential wreath-making fundamentals.

“Customers seeking beautiful and sustainable decorative items demonstrate a clear concern for the planet,” remarks Director Tom Yates. “We want to demonstrate our shared commitment—to the environment and to our customers.”

Wreaths.co.uk offers its products to customers throughout the UK, accompanied by an introductory offer of 10% off the first order for shoppers who subscribe to the company’s mailing list.

For more information, please visit www.wreaths.co.uk or contact press@wreaths.co.uk.

Andrew Stephenson MP gives thumbs up to Barrowford development

Andrew Stephenson MP has visited the latest development from award-winning housebuilder, Northstone, in his Pendle constituency. Andrew was given a guided tour of its Keld development in Barrowford to discover more about how the company behind it is supporting the local community and paving a way for a new style of luxury living in the borough.

The new housing scheme, by Northstone, will comprise 239 two-, three- and four-bedroom homes once complete and includes a range of innovative and sustainable solutions and initiatives.

Mr Stephenson undertook a tour of the scheme, hosted by Craig Nutter (Operations Director) and Richard O’Brien (Design Director), where he learnt more about Northstone’s plans for the site and beyond.

Northstone was named ‘Housebuilder of the Year’ in the recent Insider North West Residential Property Awards 2023, with judges saying it “has achieved something others should aspire to” and that they “admired Northstone’s approach which elevates it beyond mainstream housebuilders”.

Complete with pedestrian-led streets, flexible ground floor layouts, large gardens and a number of energy efficiency measures, each of the homes at Keld have been intuitively planned with a ‘people first’ approach.

Mr Stephenson said, “I was pleased to be invited by Northstone to see their new Keld development in Barrowford, and to learn more about their ideas around how it can add to the town’s existing community.

“Developers should aim to be more than housebuilders and I was reassured to know Northstone sees its role as building a neighbourhood and not just a new housing estate.”

Craig Nutter, Operations Director at Northstone, said: “It’s wonderful that Mr Stephenson took time from his very busy schedule to come and see all the added-value activity we’re doing at Keld over and above just building homes.

“As a relatively young developer committed to building a more neighbourly world, we do our utmost to deliver a community, rather than just properties, which complement the area and enable us to leave a legacy for current and future residents.

“In a post-Covid era, homebuyers want more than just bricks and mortar and the range of ongoing and forthcoming initiatives we’ve got underway at Keld do and will help contribute towards it being a great place to live.”

Investing finances and resources into the communities within which it builds, Northstone is the only housebuilder to partner with the Wildlife Trust. The company has also donated towards a new running track at Barrowford St Thomas’ C.E. Primary School as well as supporting local events such as the Pendle Powerfest.

Situated just off Barrowford Road, nearby to Nelson and Colne College and Victoria Park, Keld, defined as a deep, smooth, still part of a river, comprises two-, three- and four-bedroom homes with a three-bedroom home in the latest phase released priced from £269,950.

To find out more about Northstone’s Keld development, visit www.northstone.co.uk/development/keld

Mark Flanagan Honoured as Top Entrepreneur

Mark Flanagan, Founder and CEO of Manchester-based Shield Safety Group, a leading UK provider of professional services and software solutions across food safety, health and safety and fire safety, has been named a NW regional finalist in two categories in the prestigious Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2023.

Mark has been honoured with the accolades of Innovation Entrepreneur of the Year and Global Entrepreneur of the Year in the highly regarded awards initiative which ‘celebrates the exceptional achievements and impact of entrepreneurs across the United Kingdom, showcasing their outstanding contributions to their industries and communities.’

Shield Safety, which employs 123 people, is now the largest employer of Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) in the UK, and supports businesses of all sizes from independent and large chain restaurants, bars and gyms, to major grocery chains.

The company, which saw sales of £8.86 million in 2022, has grown significantly since its formation in 2003, thanks to its trail blazing, highly innovative approach, led by Mark and his senior team. Notable achievements include the introduction of RiskProof, its bespoke, award-winning risk management software, protecting clients against risks to their business and their customer’s health and safety, reducing annual insurance premiums and improving their environmental footprint.

Mark Flanagan, CEO of Shield Safety Group comments: “I feel honoured to receive such high-profile recognition. My passion about all aspects of environmental health and safety have been the driving force to challenge the status quo and bring about major improvements in rationalising systems and paperwork, reducing the massive burden faced by businesses and improving the protection for their customers.

“There certainly has been challenges, the most daunting of which was the COVID-19 pandemic, however I feel privileged to have made a difference on a UK-wide scale at a time of global uncertainty, panic and nervousness, with a safety initiative that brought protection and confidence to food business operators, employees and customers alike.

“I am very fortunate to have such a great team at Shield Safety, and am grateful for their dedication and support in delivering a best-in-class service to our clients over the past two decades. I am looking forward to the next step of our journey together.” 

___

About the Great British Entrepreneur Awards

The Great British Entrepreneur Awards gala final, often referred to as the “Grammys of Entrepreneurship”, will welcome finalists for an unforgettable evening of celebration and networking on 20 November at Grosvenor House, London. The event serves as the most prominent platform to recognise and honour the accomplishments of these exceptional entrepreneurs, providing them with national exposure and valuable connections within the business community.

About Shield Safety

Shield Safety is the trusted name in food safety, health and safety and fire safety. For over 20 years they have been protecting people everywhere, using their expertise to advance safety, so that businesses are able to meet and maintain the highest possible standards.

The business combines the highest level of safety expertise in the sector along with their award-winning software ”Riskproof’, to deliver safety solutions that give operators peace of mind and make safety easier, so they can focus on what they do best: running businesses, delighting customers, and securing their own success

For more information on Shield Safety Group please visit: https://shieldsafety.co.uk/

Europe’s largest rental platform, HousingAnywhere to launch in cities in the UK as part of global expansion

London, June 15 2023 – HousingAnywhere, Europe’s largest mid-to-long-term rental platform, announced its official expansion to the United Kingdom by covering London, Manchester and Birmingham. HousingAnywhere has extended its global footprint to meet the rising demand of internationally-mobile talents, including students and young professionals, seeking a flexible lifestyle.

HousingAnywhere provides an innovative, safe and easy to use platform via which potential tenants are matched with accommodation providers. The company specialises in mid- to long-term rentals, with international mobility at the forefront of its functionality. With only online viewings, HousingAnywhere ensures fair access for all, as many prospective tenants might not be in the UK at the time of searching. Being able to specify move-in and move-out dates, and including a 48 hour warranty system, the platform provides a safe yet flexible alternative for potential renters that can book months in advance.

London, Manchester and Birmingham

In 2021/2022 there were almost three millions students at UK higher education institutions with a  record number of applicants applying to study in 2020, 2021 and 2022, despite the pandemic, according to UCAS (The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), and HousingAnywhere data reveals that searches on the platform for accommodation in London have been growing considerably over the last few years.   Searches for rentals in London rose by 37.7% in 2022 compared to the previous year, and have continued its growth by 37.9% in the first quarter of 2023.

Similarly, with the high concentration of universities in both Birmingham and Manchester, and their healthy real estate development pipeline, HousingAnywhere aims to provide the most technologically advanced solutions to both landlords and tenants in these popular cities.

Housing challenges, opportunities and new developments

Like other European cities, popular cities in the UK are facing housing challenges due to a structural lack of supply of available housing, driving rental prices to increase. However, with the increase in serviced apartments, monthly rentals, co-living and PBSA in London as well as in other cities in the country, HousingAnywhere aims to partner with these providers and landlords alike, to set the new standard of renting. The company is confident in the long term potential of the market and follows its purpose to be a positive force for change for both tenants and landlords.

In addition, HousingAnywhere has a successful track record of partnering with around 300 European universities to help both inbound and outbound students find their new home, and the company has strong ambitions to further expand this collaborative approach in the UK and at an international scale.

“Entering the UK was clearly the next step for HousingAnywhere, as we aim to match the rising demand of internationally-mobile students, young professionals and expats in London, Manchester and Birmingham. With this expansion, we are enabling people to safely find a new home not only in mainland Europe, but also in the UK and in more corners of the world”, says Djordy Seelmann, CEO of HousingAnywhere.

A global footprint

The entrance into the UK markets comes at an exciting time of global expansion for HousingAnywhere. The company also announced its entry  to key US cities – beginning in four major cities: New York, Los Angeles, Boston and Chicago. Since Covid-19, the US has seen a 3.8% yearly increase in the number of international students after a downward trend in the previous years, resulting in a strong demand for rental accommodation.

HousingAnywhere is enabling people to find a home in more than 125 cities in the world. With its headquarters based in Rotterdam, HousingAnywhere currently employs 260+ global talents from 47+ different nationalities.