Shows
NENC Providers PodcastInside North Cumbria's New Endoscopy UnitDeborah Gibson, Lead Nurse Endoscopist at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, helped shape the new Endoscopy Unit at the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle.In this episode of the NENC Providers Podcast, Deborah shares her journey in nursing and explains how the new unit is improving care. She talks about the procedures carried out, the benefits of lead-lined rooms and how the space supports staff and patients.The unit is helping reduce waiting times and making it easier for patients to get care closer to home. Deborah also discusses early feedback, national targets and...
2025-09-0818 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 33: The University of Cumbria's new campus in Barrow.This month we are joined by Matt Ryder the Principal Lecturer at the University of Cumbria. The topic of our conversation is the opening of the new university campus in Barrow. We discuss the different courses that the university will be running and how the campus community will affect Barrow's local economy. Click here to learn more about the Barrow Campus - https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/student-life/locations/barrow-in-furness/.
2025-08-0616 min
NENC Providers PodcastReflecting on a Year of ProgressKen Bremner MBE is Chair of the North East and North Cumbria Provider Collaborative and Chief Executive of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.In this episode of the NENC Providers Podcast, Ken reflects on a year of progress across the region’s NHS services and looks ahead at the collaborative’s priorities for 2025 and beyond.Ken shares insights into the Provider Collaborative’s standout achievements — from the opening of new Community Diagnostic Centres to national-leading elective care performance — and discusses how partnership working is transforming patient care across the North East and North Cumbria.
2025-07-0933 min
Behind The SceneryEp. 33 Andy Smith, LA23 and Kendal Calling May 25For a few days every summer Andy Smith is in charge of thethird biggest town in Cumbria. Kendal Calling, which he set up when still a teenager, has grown to the point where its size has eclipsed the actual Kendal.It's a stat that Andy looked back on with pride during aninterview with Tom Speight celebrating the festival's 20th anniversary at a networking event held by LA23NET atEden Arts’ base the Old Fire Station, in Penrith. Lessons he shared: never say no to a music agent, knowing Blondie's songs doesn’t help if you don’t...
2025-05-2841 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 30: How to take your business global with Martyn StaveleyThis month on the podcast, we're joined by Martyn Staveley, Director of Three Peaks Consulting, to discuss all things international trade and to breakdown our new Export Consultancy service. We discuss: Challenges and opportunities for Cumbrian exporters The impact of global events on international trade Businesses Martyn has helped succeed in exporting Our new Export Consultancy Service including the different levels of support given to new and well-established exporters How the service will work How to get involved Whether you're a seasoned exporter or thinking about getting started, we can provide you with a holistic service tailored...
2025-05-0917 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 29: Leadership challenges and how to tackle them with Alec Pearson CoachingThis month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub Podcast, we're joined by leadership coach Alec Pearson to explore our new Leadership Mentoring Programme. We discuss... Current trends within leadership and leadership challenges facing the UK economy The 'accidental manager' Specific areas leaders are struggling with How the programme will work and expected outcomes for delegates Delivered by Alec Pearson, Cumbria Business Growth Hub's new leadership mentoring programme will provide practical guidance to help leaders make confident decisions, build resilient teams and drive their business forward. Learn more here: Mentoring Programme | Cumbria Growth Hub
2025-04-0916 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 28: Innovation Support for Cumbrian Businesses with Tracy Eyres of Innovate UKThis month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast, we welcome Tracy Eyres, Senior Innovation and Growth Specialist at Innovate UK. In this episode, we explore how Innovate UK helps businesses drive innovation, the financial support available for Cumbrian businesses, real-world case studies of successful innovation projects, and opportunities for local businesses to expand into international markets. Tune in to discover how your business can benefit! Learn more: https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/
2025-03-1316 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 27: Tackling food waste with Guardians of GrubThis month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast we're joined by Gemma Procter Sustainable Tourism Officer at Cumbria Tourism. We discuss food waste, its impact on the environment and steps businesses can take to reduce it. Learn about the national scheme 'Guardians of Grub' and the tools available to help your business reduce its food waste. Go to the Guardians of Grub website by clicking the link below It's time to rise up and tackle food waste • Guardians of Grub
2025-02-1219 minBehind The SceneryEp. 30 Emma McGordon and the Catalyst project Feb 25The Catalyst project is an ongoing collaboration between the University of Cumbria, Art Gene, the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership and the Cumbria Arts and Culture Network.Its aim was to find three artists with Cumbrian connections– to fund them to the tune of £25,000 each, to give them an opportunity to make a substantial piece of new art connected to the county over a year. Over 220 people applied.Emma McGordon was one of the three award winners. She’s a poet, writer and storyteller originally from West Cumbria. She’s making a film about the area she’s f...
2025-02-1124 min
Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 7 - Young People and Nature ConservationIt's the start of a new year and in this episode you'll hear about how Cumbria Wildlife Trust helps young people make a start in a career in nature conservation. We hear from apprentices, and previous apprentices about their experiences getting their first role with us and their plans for their future.
We also hear from students in Carlisle about what inspires them to make time to improve nature in their school grounds.
Our host Joe Murphy, Head of Nature Reserves, talks to guest host Danny Poland a previous young Trustee of Cumbria Wildlife Trust.
2025-01-2738 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 26: Social Value - top tips on getting started with Claire Louise ChapmanThis month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast we're joined by Claire Louise Chapman of the Shared Value Business. The topic of our conversation is Social Value. We discuss: definitions and differences between Social Value and Corporate Social Responsibility; the benefits of embedding social value into a business strategy; top tips for small businesses getting started; and how Social Value looks to evolve in the coming years. Keep an eye on our website for upcoming Social Value training: https://cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk/grow-your-business/train-your-team?st=trainYourTeam Learn more about the Shared Value Business here: h...
2025-01-1429 minCumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 6 - Cumbria Wildife Trust's 2024 YearIn episode 6, our host Joe Murphy, Head of Nature Reserves, welcomes CEO Stephen Trotter, and Head of Fundraising, Hazel Jones, to talk about the ups and downs of the 2024 year for Cumbria Wildife Trust - with significantly more ups!
Hazel gives us insight into the raising the money to purchase Skiddaw Forest, the major event to mark our year. The conversation reflects on bog restoration, birds including osprey, hobby and bittern, beavers and red squirrels, welcoming people at Gosling Sike and growing rare plants.
2024-12-1932 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 25: Claire Aindow on education and business at the University of CumbriaIn this episode, we sit down with Claire Aindow, the Pro Vice Chancellor for Growth and Development at the University of Cumbria. Claire discusses her new role and the university's new campus in Barrow-in-Furness opening in 2025. She also shares how the university is working closely with local businesses to create educational opportunities that meet the needs of the community and economy. Click here to learn more about the Barrow Campus - https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/student-life/locations/barrow-in-furness/.
2024-12-1621 min
NENC Providers PodcastPortability AgreementThe ‘portability agreement’ supports the effective temporary movement of staff between organisations across the North East and North Cumbria. All Foundation Trusts in the region have signed up with the aim of cutting down on the usual lengthy recruitment timelines and support operational service delivery.On the latest episode of Providers Podcast we're joined by Terry Phillips who is the Clinical Network Manager of the North East and North Cumbria Congenital Heart Disease Network as well as County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust’s General Manager of Children and Young People's Service, Julie Southern.T...
2024-12-1316 minCumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 5 - Beavers and red squirrels in CumbriaMammals are amoungst our most-loved wildlife. They are usually cute and we'll go to quite a lot of effort to see them as they give so much joy.
In this podcast we talk to Elizabeth Ogilvie, Ecologist for the Lowther Farming Partnership, about the enclosed beaver trial on their estate, and with Joshua Adams, Cumbria Wildlife Trust's Red Squirrel Ranger.
You'll learn about these secretive animals' behaviour and what's being done to help these species thrive in Cumbria into the future.
2024-11-2935 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 23: Financing business transformation with River CapitalWe catch up with Head of Debt John Gray and Investment Manager Jonathan Nelson following River Capital's recent expansion into Cumbria after securing the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II Smaller Loans Fund. We discuss investment solutions currently available to Cumbrian businesses; getting investment ready; common challenges and how River Capital can support; sectors in Cumbria with growth potential over the next five years and some of the transformative work businesses have done with funding from River Capital. Cumbrian businesses looking to learn more should do so via River Capital's website here: https://rivercapitaluk.com/
2024-10-1624 minCumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 3 - Skiddaw Forest - creating England's highest nature reserveCan Cumbria Wildlife Trust bring nature back to the Lake District and create England's highest nature reserve? In this episode we hear about plans to fundraise and purchase Skiddaw Forest, a 3,000 acre wilderness in this iconic National Park.
David Harpley, Cumbria Wildife Trust's Director of Nature Recovery, takes us on a tour of Eycott Hill Nature Reserve, explaining what he's learned about putting nature back into the uplands and how this knowledge can be applied at Skiddaw Forest.
Danni Chalmers, Staveley Woodlands Officer, describes the Atlantic rainforest at Staveley Woodlands Nature Reserve and how this...
2024-09-2634 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 22: Discussing the Brighter Futures programme with Deborah Naylor and Claire SandsThis month on the podcast we discuss the Brighter Futures programme with Deborah Naylor (Inspira) and Claire Sands (Cumbria Youth alliance). Brighter Futures aims to support young people in Cumbria who are leaving care, through a range of activity inlcluding mentoring, work experience placements and life skills development. Click below to learn more about the different ways employers can get involved... Cumbria Community Foundation - Connecting People Who Care With Causes That Matter (cumbriafoundation.org)
2024-09-0520 minCumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 2 - Cumbria's wild coast & the Irish SeaIn our second podcast we visit Cumbria's amazing coast and hear about our annual celebration of marine wildlife at Seafest. Listen to two of our passionate and knowledgeable volunteer Marine Champions talk about what can be found on our shores and in the Irish Sea.
Our host and Head of Nature Reserves, Joe Murphy, chats to Marine Officer Amber Gould about what makes the Irish Sea special and their favourite places on the coast to visit.
2024-08-2134 minBehind The SceneryEp.26 Behind the Scenery August 24Alison Critchlow is a contemporary British painter based in Bowness on Solway – right on the northern edge of Cumbria.
She paints mainly in oils. She’s recently been shortlisted for the Contemporary British Painting Prize 2024, an annual event which promotes the best of contemporary painting produced in the UK.
Alison is also one of the organisers of the annual Around the Island open studio art trail which takes place in September in north west Cumbria.
Tom Speight went to meet her in her studio – but began on the crunching shores of the Solway…
2024-08-2025 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 21: "Unlocking confidence and clarity" A conversation with business mentors Jacqui Jackson and Keith JacksonWe discuss Cumbria Business Growth Hub's Mentoring Programme with business mentors, Jacqui Jackson and Keith Jackson. Join us to hear about the mentoring process and the powerful effect it can have, supporting business owners to achieve their goals and deliver the business they want. We also discuss some of the success stories of mentoring clients who took part in the pilot mentoring programme last year, the challenges they faced and the progress they made. We're currently recruiting mentees for this year's programme, starting in September. To find out more and get involved click b...
2024-08-1424 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub podcast episode 20: Tim Bloomer of Fell BreweryA conversation with Tim Bloomer, co-founder of Fell Brewery, about the business's project aimed at bringing down carbon emissions at their brewery in Flookburgh. We cover: How the business started from two friends brewing beer into a well-known brand with over 40 employees Tim's thoughts on carbon offsetting Carbon accounting - identifying which parts of the business produce the most carbon Steps to reduce emissions including solar PV Support from Cumbria Action for Sustainability's Westmorland & Furness Green Enterprise Hub Electric vans Donating to South Cumbria Rivers Trust Tim's advice to other small businesses looking to become more environmentally sustainable Fi...
2024-07-1130 minCumbria Wildlife Trust’s PodcastEpisode 1 - Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve & ospreysIt’s our first ever podcast! Listen to Keziah talk about our long-term restoration project at Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve and volunteer Alasdair shares his amazing knowledge on ospreys.
Our host and Head of Nature Reserves, Joe Murphy, talks to Volunteering Co-ordinator Ruth Alcoft about the huge difference our volunteers are making for wildlife across Cumbria. Each gives a shout out to their favourite place to visit right now.
Links:
https://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/foulshaw-moss
https://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/wildlife/cams/osprey-cam
https://www.cumbriawildlifetrust.org.uk/nature-reserves/barkbooth-lot...
2024-06-1732 minBehind The SceneryEp. 24 Behind the Scenery May 24How can we be smarter about funding our work at a time of real challenge for the cultural sector in Cumbria ?
That was the question being discussed at the most recent Cumbria Arts and Culture Network Big Meet in May.
Star of the show was Edinburgh based Bernard Ross, Director of =mc consulting, a leading training and consultancy organization working to transform the performance of value-driven organizations worldwide.
He knows a thing or two about fundraising too.
So for this special edition of Behind the Scenery, Tom Speight asked delegates to help him...
2024-05-0718 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastLaunching our Supply Chain Programme with Martyn StaveleyLaunching our Supply Chain Programme with Martyn Staveley This month we're joined by Martyn Staveley of 3 Peaks Consulting. Martyn is leading on our new Supply Chain Pilot Programme, which will offer 1-2-1 support to twelve businesses in Cumbria who are looking to enter new supply chains. In our conversation we discuss… Martyn's background working in national and international supply chains and supporting businesses to access new opportunities; what businesses on the programme can expect (including a meet the buyer event); the need for a supply chain programme in Cumbria; demystifying procurement processes; an...
2024-03-1312 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastLaunching our Supply Chain Programme with Martyn StaveleyThis month on the Cumbria Business Growth Hub podcast we’re joined by Martyn Staveley of 3 Peaks Consulting. Martyn is leading on our new Supply Chain Pilot Programme, which will offer 1-2-1 support to twelve businesses in Cumbria who are looking to enter new supply chains. In our conversation we discuss… Martyn’s background working in national and international supply chains and supporting businesses to access new opportunities; what businesses on the programme can expect (including a meet the buyer event); the need for a supply chain programme in Cumbria; demystifying procurement processes; and the im...
2024-03-1312 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow businesses can help Cumbria reach net zero by 2037 with Steve Curl of Zero Carbon Cumbria We're joined this month on the podcast by Steve Curl, Chair of the Strategic Oversight Board for Zero Carbon Cumbria, an initiative which brings together efforts to reduce carbon emissions across Cumbria. We discuss: What is Zero Carbon Cumbria and what are its aims? How are we going to reach net zero by 2037? What does this mean for businesses in Cumbria? How can they get involved? So why should businesses and industry decarbonise, what's in it for them? How big a challenge is this? Do we really think we can achieve net zero in Cumbria by 2037? Find o...
2024-01-1021 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastColin Bell on 'High Performance FLOW'Colin Bell is the Founder and Director of Leap the Crowd and Co-founder and Director of WeDo Content. We've been working with Colin recently to deliver High Performance FLOW training to business leaders in Cumbria. High Performance FLOW is a programme designed to help ambitious and hardworking business owners to break through to their next level of growth and performance. Tune in to find out more about how the concept of High Performance FLOW can help you take your business or career to the next level! We discuss: Colin's experience and background Ho...
2024-01-1031 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastIntroducing the Westmorland & Furness Green Enterprise HubWe're joined by Molly Hogg of Cumbria Action for Sustainability and Lesley Robinson of Cumbria Business Growth Hub to discuss the launch of the W&F Green Enterprise Hub, a dynamic initiative dedicated to supporting local organisations on their journey towards decarbonisation and sustainability.
2023-12-1214 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe benefits of volunteering with Judith Smale of Cumbria CVSWe talk to Judith Smale of Chamber member Cumbria CVS about the benefits of volunteering for individuals and businesses. Our talk also covers CVS's new volunteering database where individuals can register and search for opportunities (volunteering.cumbriacvs.org.uk); employer supported volunteering (ESV); support for businesses; and the ESV subgroup.
2023-10-1725 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastStaying competitive in a disruptive world (part 2): discussing the findings of the Cumbria LSIP final reportCumbria's Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is an employer-led and locally owned initiative which aims to set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy. August 2023 saw the release of this year's LSIP report for Cumbria. Find out more. To discuss the findings of the report we're joined by Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Engagement Manager, Kevin Warman, and Chamber member and Certified Career & Leadership Executive Coach Alec Pearson. Our conversation is spilt into two parts: P...
2023-09-0433 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastStaying competitive in a disruptive world (part 1): discussing the findings of the Cumbria LSIP final reportCumbria's Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is an employer-led and locally owned initiative which aims to set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy. August 2023 saw the release of this year's LSIP report for Cumbria. Find out more. To discuss the findings of the report we're joined by Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Engagement Manager, Kevin Warman, and Chamber member and Certified Career & Leadership Executive Coach Alec Pearson. Our conversation is spilt into two parts: P...
2023-09-0436 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCybercrime update July 2023 with DC Jon HillWe're joined by DC Jon Hill of Cumbria Police's Cyber and Digital Crime Unit to discuss recent updates in cybercrime which businesses need to be on the lookout for. Our conversation also covers the range of current free resources available for businesses to protect against cybercrime. Useful links discussed in the episode can be found below: Police Cyber Alarm: https://www.cyberalarm.police.uk/ North West Cyber Resilience Centre: https://www.nwcrc.co.uk/ NCSC Early Warning system: https://www.earlywarning.service.ncsc.gov.uk/ Cumbria Chamber of Commerce cybercrime advice page: https://www.cumbriachamber.co.uk/business-support...
2023-07-0720 minBehind The SceneryEp.12 Behind the Scenery May 23We’re just coming to the end of another Spring season of what’s called Rural Touring across Cumbria.
That’s the name given to getting professional performance art – be it music, theatre, magic, even dance – into rural areas, usually village halls but also schools, pubs and even libraries. There are about 25 organisations that do it across the UK. Here in Cumbria, it’s run by Cockermouth based Arts Out West for west Cumbria, and Penrith based Highlights Rural Touring for most of the rest of the county. About 50 venues altogether are on the schemes.
Behind the S...
2023-05-1616 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe Directors Club Episode 10 - Following the path of knowledge with Caroline LanghamJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Caroline Langham, owner at Cote How Lake District Weddings - https://www.cotehow.co.uk/ . 'Following the path of knowledge' 'takes us through Caroline's career and how she ended up in Cumbria hosting elopement weddings at the beautiful Cote How on Rydal water in the lake district.
2023-03-281h 27
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastGiving back with Cumbria Community Foundation and HerdyIn this episode of the Cumbria Chamber podcast, Joe is joined by Caroline Adams from Cumbria Community Foundation and Spencer Hannah director and co-founder of Herdy. The conversation centres on the many ways that local businesses can donate through Cumbria Community Foundation and how Herdy does this as a fund holder, supporting rural communities and upland fell farmers through the herdy fund.
2023-03-1633 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe Directors Club Episode 9 - Do a little bit of everything with James Stephens mixdownJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to James Stephens, Managing Director of English Lakes Ice cream lakesicecream.com/. 'Do a little bit of everything' follows James' life from ice cream wholesale, through rebranding and the importance of doing a bit of everything in the business.
2023-02-2738 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastSkills Bootcamps with Amanda Wharton and Naomi Morgan from Cumbria LEPJoe interviews Amanda and Naomi from Cumbria Local Enterprise Parternership about their upcoming Skills Bootcamps. The bootcamps offer training in a variety of areas including 3D printing, project management, and leadership and management for the visitor economy. Tune in to find out more!
2023-02-0319 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe Directors Club Episode 8 - Hands on Learning with Johanne MillerJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Johanne Miller, Managing Director of Twoey Toys. 'Hands on Learning' follows Johannes life from cooking Sunday dinner for 60 people to how she treats her staff like family and the importance of getting stuck in.
2023-01-311h 32Behind The SceneryEp.7 Behind the Scenery Dec 22This month, Behind the Scenery is all about the creation of sound in Cumbria.
Sound creator and creative Dan Fox is Director of Ulverston based Sound Intervention. He says there are five ways of making sound - hit, pluck, blow, bow and sing. He was commissioned to create an 18 minute soundscape for the Westmorland Dales Landscape Partnership . Dan talks about where his interest in sound came from, and how he went about recording sound for the commission.
For the occasional series of the sound of Cumbrian creatives at work, Julie Jackson got in touch from...
2022-12-1930 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDirectors Club Episode 7 - All for the love of Cheese with Denise GosneyJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Denise Gosney, owner and founder of Razzamataz theatre schools. 'All for the love of cheese' follows Denise's story from shy schoolgirl to franchise owner and all of the adventures along the way.
2022-12-0657 minBehind The SceneryEp.6 Behind the Scenery Nov 22This month Behind the Scenery takes a trip to the farm.
But it’s not just any old farm – it’s photographer Amy Bateman’s 900 acre farm Croft Foot at Docker just outside Kendal, a mixed farm which she runs with her husband Colin. It forms the basis for a book she has written, alongside publisher Dave Felton, called Forty Farms, profiling agriculture and farming across Cumbria in 2022. Tom Speight has been to interview her to find out how her project came about.
In this edition he also talks to Harriet and Rob Fraser, two environm...
2022-11-1136 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastCumbria Business Growth Hub Podcast - Access to finance with Maria RamsdaleJoin us as we talk to Maria Ramsdale about the new access to finance service available through Cumbria Business Growth Hub
2022-11-0810 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDirectors Club episode 6 - The liberation of realisation with Laura CadmanJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Laura Cadman, owner and founder or Laura Cadman Ltd. 'The liberation of realisation' takes us through Laura's story of realising she wasn't OK in her CEO role and why that's one of the most liberating things that's ever happened to her.
2022-10-251h 18Behind The SceneryEp. 5 Behind the Scenery Oct 22This month Behind the Scenery takes time to find out what makes one of Cumbria’s cultural leaders tick.
Liz Stevenson has been Artistic Director at Keswick’s Theatre by the Lake for 3 years. Just months after she arrived the covid pandemic led to the theatre having to completely shut – leading to huge challenges for its staff and its leaders. It’s now back at full throttle, but as with all venues, is having to work hard to bring back audiences and build confidence.
Tom Speight went to meet her as final rehearsals for The Beauty Q...
2022-10-1323 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCumbria Chamber of Commerce - HR but not what you think it isJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber as she speaks to Martin Norris and Claire McLean of Realise HR about their upcoming workshops. To book your space click here https://www.trybooking.co.uk/BSKR Remember the HR tech webinar is free to all!
2022-09-2817 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDirectors Club Episode 5 - A little self belief gets you a long way with Alison WeltonJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Alison Welton, Partner and Practice Manager at David Allen accountants. 'A little self belief gets you a long way' shows us just how Alison believed in herself and never took no for an answer to get where she is now.
2022-09-2644 minBehind The SceneryEp.4 Behind the Scenery Sept 22This month Behind the Scenery visits Whitehaven, St Bees, Keswick and the Langdales, to get under the bonnet of the arts and culture vibe in Cumbria.
Tom Speight bases himself at The Beacon Museum overseeing Whitehaven harbour, where seagulls join him in chatting to Aldo Rinaldi, the chief curator of Deep Time, the ambitious multi million pound public art project backed by Copeland borough council. He also chats to Eric Barker from the council, to find out where the project came from and how it fits in to wider attempts to revitalise the Copeland coast.
...
2022-09-1532 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDirectors Club Episode 4 - Rachael Bell - Finding strength in vulnerabilityJoin Eve Halliday, Head of Commercial and Business Growth at Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Rachael Bell, founder of Rachael Bell wealth Management and a Directors Club sponsor. 'Finding strength in vulnerability' takes us through Rachael's career to date, some of the trials she's faced and how being vulnerable has such huge advantages.
2022-08-251h 21Behind The SceneryEp. 3 Behind the Scenery late Aug 22Two podcasts for the price of one in August ! Based at the recently renovated art deco Old Cumberland Pencil Factory in Keswick, Tom Speight finds out how August seems to be a particularly busy time for exhibitions all across Cumbria. First it's a visit to the always busy EVAN, or the Eden Valley Artistic Network, whose appropriately named FACTORY festival of creative arts has recently been exhibiting there. He meets EVAN's organisers and some of the artists involved. Then to Carlisle and the Historic Quarter Arts Festival, now in its second year. Run by Intro PR, it's managed to...
2022-08-2229 minBehind The SceneryEp 2. Behind the Scenery - Aug 22Based this month at Wordsworth Grasmere, Tom Speight discovers how the museum and attractions there have been recently developed to really bring William and Dorothy’s story alive – and discovers the joys of finding poetry in coffee cups.
Curators Jeff Cowton and Melissa Mitchell take Tom on a tour of Dove Cottage, the newly developed museum and café, and finish up with a section of Wordsworth’s “To A Butterfly” poem in the garden.
There’s also a chance to get behind the scenes at Eskfest, one of Cumbria’s micro-festivals, and Tom hears what gets Ulverston...
2022-08-0537 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDirectors Club Episode 3 - Physics and the Science of Rum with Edmund Wood.Join Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Edmund Wood, founder and creator of Belgrove Rum. 'Physics and the Science of Rum' covers Edmund's journey through his career to date and why science, detail and dedication are so important.
2022-07-251h 36Behind The SceneryEp 1. Behind the Scenery - Jul 22Based this month at Rosehill Theatre in Whitehaven, hear how Soundwave in Workington is making young musical dreams come true, how the writer of The Climbers at Theatre by the Lake in Keswick, Carmen Nasr, was inspired by a trip by her brother to Kilimanjaro, listen to an award winning poem from the Kendal Poetry Festival - and find out why David Bowie appeared on stage in west Cumbria as a mime artist....
Behind the Scenery, the podcast from Cumbria Arts & Culture Network, find out more at: cacn.co.uk
2022-07-0735 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe Directors Club - Episode 2 - Never stop asking questions with Eddie BlackJoin Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Eddie Black, CEO of The Eco Group. 'Never stop asking questions' covers Eddies's journey through his career to date and why he'll never stop asking questions!
2022-07-011h 10
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe Directors Club Episode 1 - Divine Data with Andrew Burrell, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce.Join Eve Halliday, Business Growth Manager of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce as she speaks to Business owners, leaders and characters of Cumbria and beyond. In this Episode Eve speaks to Andrew Burrell, Managing Director of Enable success. 'Divine Data' covers Andrew's journey through his career to date and why he loves data so much!
2022-06-061h 16
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastTapping into University expertiseFind out how Lancaster University Management School can help your business develop and prosper. Pete Cornwall from LUMS discusses programmes specifically for SMEs in Cumbria covering leadership, productivity, digital technologies for manufacturers, innovation and – new for 2020 – family businesses. Many of these programmes are available to qualifying businesses free or at reduced cost through Cumbria Business Growth Hub. For information on Cumbria Forum click here, for the Made Smarter Leadership Programme here, for the Innovation Development Programme here, for Productivity Through People here, for the Family Business Excellence Programme here and for information on unde...
2020-01-0630 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastTapping into University expertiseFind out how Lancaster University Management School can help your business develop and prosper. Pete Cornwall from LUMS discusses programmes specifically for SMEs in Cumbria covering leadership, productivity, digital technologies for manufacturers, innovation and – new for 2020 – family businesses. Many of these programmes are available to qualifying businesses free or at reduced cost through Cumbria Business Growth Hub. For information on Cumbria Forum click here, for the Made Smarter Leadership Programme here, for the Innovation Development Programme here, for Productivity Through People here, for the Family Business Excellence Programme here and for information on unde...
2020-01-0630 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHow to supply ENGIEWhat SMEs need to know about working with ENGIE, which has won significant contracts to build extra care housing in Cumbria. Operations Manager Paul Young discusses the opportunities, ENGIE’s procurement criteria and what it looks for in suppliers and sub-contractors. To find out about how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help SMEs get work with ENGIE and other large businesses, click here.
2019-12-1109 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow to supply ENGIEWhat SMEs need to know about working with ENGIE, which has won significant contracts to build extra care housing in Cumbria. Operations Manager Paul Young discusses the opportunities, ENGIE's procurement criteria and what it looks for in suppliers and sub-contractors. To find out about how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help SMEs get work with ENGIE and other large businesses, click here.
2019-12-1109 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhat Brexit means for your businessSimon Hart and Richard Arnott from the accountancy specialist RSM explore last-minute Brexit preparations and the likely impact of Brexit on Cumbria and the wider economy. Simon is RSM's national lead Brexit partner, who spends his days analysing Brexit risks and advising clients how to manage them, while Richard is a consulting director based in Cumbria.
2019-09-2537 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastWhat Brexit means for your businessSimon Hart and Richard Arnott from accountancy specialist RSM explore last-minute Brexit preparations and the likely impact of Brexit on Cumbria and the wider economy. Simon is RSM's national lead Brexit partner, who spends his days analysing Brexit risks and advising clients how to manage them, while Richard is a consulting director based in Cumbria.
2019-09-2537 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastWhere does the economy go from here?One of the UK's top economists outlines the prospects for the UK economy as the October 31 Brexit deadline approaches. Suren Thiru is Head of Economics and Trade Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce. We recorded this podcast when he visited Cumbria to speak at a joint event with the Bank of England. He considers the implications of a no-deal Brexit and the outlook for growth, interest rates, recruitment and investment. Click here for the Chamber's Brexit Insight guide to Brexit planning.
2019-08-0728 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastProtect your business against cyber crimeOne-in-five businesses are affected by cyber crime in any one year. Don’t be the next victim. In this podcast Jon Hill, a detective with Cumbria Constabulary’s new Cyber and Digital Crime Unit, and Peter McCall, the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, look at how businesses can protect themselves. Click here for a training video, links, tools and advice on the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce website.
2019-07-1026 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastProtect your business against cyber crimeOne-in-five businesses are affected by cyber crime in any one year. Don't be the next victim. In this podcast Jon Hill, a detective with Cumbria Constabulary's new Cyber and Digital Crime Unit, and Peter McCall, the county's Police and Crime Commissioner, look at how businesses can protect themselves. Click here for a training video, links, tools and advice on the Cumbria Chamber of Commerce website.
2019-07-1026 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow businesses can make a differenceHear how Cumbria Community Foundation helps businesses in the county to make a difference to disadvantaged people. The charity, set up in 1999, has made grants totalling £44m so far. In this podcast, Chief Executive Andy Beeforth sets out how the Foundation channels donations from businesses and enables them achieve their corporate social responsibility objectives. For more information, click here.
2019-07-0117 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHow to make your business more productiveIn this podcast, organisational development specialist Hazel Lowndes and Suzanne Caldwell, of Cumbria Business Growth Hub, explore ways to boost productivity. UK productivity – measured in output per worker – lags behind that of Germany, France, the US and most other developed economies. This podcast asks why that is the case and looks at what we can do about it. Contrary to popular myth, boosting productivity isn’t just about investing in high-tech equipment. Working on people and processes is just as effective. Click here to find out Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your busine...
2019-06-0521 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow to make your business more productiveIn this podcast, organisational development specialist Hazel Lowndes and Suzanne Caldwell, of Cumbria Business Growth Hub, explore ways to boost productivity. UK productivity – measured in output per worker – lags behind that of Germany, France, the US and most other developed economies. This podcast asks why that is the case and looks at what we can do about it. Contrary to popular myth, boosting productivity isn't just about investing in high-tech equipment. Working on people and processes is just as effective. Click here to find out Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your business impr...
2019-06-0521 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastSexual harassment at workHow businesses can deal with sexual harassment in the workplace and avoid harassment claims from employees. In this podcast Michael Bauer, of Cumbria Employment Solicitors, explains the legal definition of sexual harassment and the responsibilities that employers have, then sets out measures businesses can take to eliminate harassment and reduce the likelihood of claims from employees.
2019-04-2529 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastRadical rethink for Made in CumbriaWe’ve relaunched Made in Cumbria, the Chamber’s initiative to help the county’s food, drink and craft businesses find new routes to market. In this podcast, Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston talks about the new Made in Cumbria website, featuring stunning photography and telling the stories behind member businesses. He also outlines big plans for the Made in Cumbria retail outlet in Kendal, our social media campaign and the Made in Cumbria hampers. Made in Cumbria is open to food, drink and craft businesses whose products are wholly produced or substantially manufa...
2019-04-1816 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastRadical rethink for Made in CumbriaWe've relaunched Made in Cumbria, the Chamber's initiative to help the county's food, drink and craft businesses find new routes to market. In this podcast, Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston talks about the new Made in Cumbria website, featuring stunning photography and telling the stories behind member businesses. He also outlines big plans for the Made in Cumbria retail outlet in Kendal, our social media campaign and the Made in Cumbria hampers. Made in Cumbria is open to food, drink and craft businesses whose products are wholly produced or substantially manufactured and finished...
2019-04-1816 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastExporting the Oxley wayFind out how Oxley Developments of Ulverston became one of Cumbria’s most successful exporters. Oxley’s Marketing Manager Jayne Moorby talks about trade missions, using overseas agents, how the company overcomes language and cultural barriers, and the help it receives from the Department for International Trade. Oxley began exporting in the 1970s and now sells its LED lighting and high-specification components in 34 countries across five continents. Click here for information on how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your business to export or call us on 0844 257 84 50.
2019-04-1015 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastExporting the Oxley wayFind out how Oxley Developments of Ulverston became one of Cumbria's most successful exporters. Oxley's Marketing Manager Jayne Moorby talks about trade missions, using overseas agents, how the company overcomes language and cultural barriers, and the help it receives from the Department for International Trade. Oxley began exporting in the 1970s and now sells its LED lighting and high-specification components in 34 countries across five continents. Click here for information on how Cumbria Business Growth Hub can help your business to export or call us on 0844 257 84 50.
2019-04-1015 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHelp for manufacturers in CumbriaSteve Wilkinson, of Cumbria Manufacturing Service, sets out the help and advice available to SME manufacturers including grants of up to £5,400. Steve has recently been appointed as an adviser with Cumbria Manufacturing Service. In this podcast, he explains his how he can help qualifying manufacturer SMEs to streamline their processes, drive up production capacity, innovate, improve business systems and access new markets. To find out more about Cumbria Manufacturing Service, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
2019-03-0513 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHelp for manufacturers in CumbriaSteve Wilkinson, of Cumbria Manufacturing Service, sets out the help and advice available to SME manufacturers including grants of up to £5,400. Steve has recently been appointed as an adviser with Cumbria Manufacturing Service. In this podcast, he explains his how he can help qualifying manufacturer SMEs to streamline their processes, drive up production capacity, innovate, improve business systems and access new markets. To find out more about Cumbria Manufacturing Service, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
2019-03-0513 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastThe ultimate Brexit podcastThis is the Brexit podcast businesses have been waiting for. Luke Donockley, a solicitor and Brexit expert with law firm Muckle LLP, explores what businesses can do to prepare for Brexit and what the ramifications are likely to be. He covers how to go about a Brexit risk assessment, imports and exports, tariffs, obstacles for hauliers, excise duty and VAT, business travel in the EU, trademarks, IP and data protection. Cumbria Chamber of Commerce and Muckle are running a Brexit Breakfast Briefing at Carlisle Racecourse on Thursday February 28th, from 8am to 10am.
2019-02-2046 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow to supply BoothsFind out how food and drink businesses can get their products onto the shelves of regional supermarket chain Booths. Cumbria Business Growth Hub's Supply Chain Opportunity Club recently hosted an event with Booths where food and drink businesses were able to meet the supermarket's buying team. In this podcast, recorded at the event, Matt Bruno, Innovation Manager at Booths, explains Booths' procurement process while Eva Chua, Supply Chain Development Manager at the Growth Hub, sets out how the Growth Hub can help businesses to meet Booths' criteria. For more information on selling to...
2019-01-2917 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastGet ready for BrexitJohn Scott, of Cumbria Trading Standards, looks at sensible measures businesses can take to be ready for Brexit. Click here to complete our Brexit preparedness survey. Here to access the Government's 'Prepare for EU Exit' website. Here for a tool to help you prepare for EU Exit. Here for official advice on 'no deal' planning. Here for the British Chambers of Commerce's Brexit Hub. And here for advice from the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
2019-01-2319 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastMeet our new export adviser TiffanyTiffany Solender is a successful entrepreneur who uses her knowledge and expertise to help other Cumbrian businesses sell overseas. Her company, Pogu, based at Staveley near Kendal, supplies road safety products for children to customers all over the world. In this podcast, she talks about her new role as an International Trade Adviser with the Department for International Trade and outlines the range of help available from workshops to export finance and trade missions. To find out more about the help available to exporters, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
2018-11-2812 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastMeet our new export adviser TiffanyTiffany Solender is a successful entrepreneur who uses her knowledge and expertise to help other Cumbrian businesses sell overseas. Her company, Pogu, based at Staveley near Kendal, supplies road safety products for children to customers all over the world. In this podcast, she talks about her new role as an International Trade Adviser with the Department for International Trade and outlines the range of help available from workshops to export finance and trade missions. To find out more about the help available to exporters, click here or call Cumbria Business Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50.
2018-11-2812 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastDo your bit to stop domestic abuseDetective Superintendent Vicki Ellis of Cumbria Police explains how businesses can help to stamp out the scourge of domestic violence. Domestic abuse is endemic. Cumbria Police respond to 7,500 incidents every year, of which 4,500 are logged as crimes. In this podcast, Detective Superintendent Vicki Ellis sets out how employers spot warning signs, which may indicate that an employee is suffering domestic abuse, and how they can support staff who are victims of abuse. For more information from Cumbria Police click here and for details of the training events for employers in Barrow, Workington and...
2018-11-1915 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastDo your bit to stop domestic abuseDetective Superintendent Vicki Ellis of Cumbria Police explains how businesses can help to stamp out the scourge of domestic violence. Domestic abuse is endemic. Cumbria Police respond to 7,500 incidents every year, of which 4,500 are logged as crimes. In this podcast, Detective Superintendent Vicki Ellis sets out how employers can spot warning signs, which may indicate that an employee is suffering domestic abuse, and how they can support staff who are victims of abuse. For more information from Cumbria Police click here and for details of the training events for employers in Barrow, Workington...
2018-11-1915 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastCould you mentor a young person?David Leadbetter of Inspira explains how employers can get involved in a programme to raise the aspirations of young Cumbrians. Inspira's Employer Mentoring Programme is designed to raise the aspirations of young people at secondary school. It is currently running in North and West Cumbria. In this podcast David Leadbetter, Contract Manager with Inspira, explains why the programme was set up, the benefits to employers who take part, how youngsters are selected for mentoring and how you can get involved. Click here to find out more about the programme.
2018-10-3016 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastTom Samson offers fresh hope for MoorsideThe man driving plans for a nuclear power station in West Cumbria explains his strategy to save the project. NuGen’s £15bn plan for a nuclear power station at Moorside, next to Sellafield, would be the biggest private-sector investment Cumbria has ever seen. But the project is in trouble. NuGen’s owner Toshiba wants out while the Korean company that had been poised to replace Toshiba is having second thoughts. Currently, NuGen is shedding two-thirds of its workforce. In this podcast, NuGen’s Chief Executive Tom Samson sets out his strategy to save the Moor...
2018-10-1131 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastTom Samson offers fresh hope for MoorsideThe man driving plans for a nuclear power station in West Cumbria explains his strategy to save the project. NuGen's £15bn plan for a nuclear power station at Moorside, next to Sellafield, would be the biggest private-sector investment Cumbria has ever seen. But the project is in trouble. NuGen's owner Toshiba wants out while the Korean company that had been poised to replace Toshiba is having second thoughts. Currently, NuGen is shedding two-thirds of its workforce. In this podcast, NuGen's Chief Executive Tom Samson sets out his strategy to save the Moorside project ag...
2018-10-1131 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastIs something holding your business back?A third of SME owners face difficulties in growing their businesses. Growth Hub adviser Adrian Luckham offers practical help. Polling commissioned by the British Business Bank suggests that one-in-three business owners want to grow their businesses but are unsure how to do it. In this podcast, Adrian Luckham, one of the most experienced advisers with Cumbria Business Growth Hub, identifies the barriers that are holding businesses back and explores ways to overcome them. To find out how the Growth Hub can help your business, go to our website www.cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk or...
2018-10-0418 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastHow to deal with employment tribunalsLawyer Michael Bauer explains how businesses should respond to employment tribunal claims or, better still, avoid them altogether. The number of employment tribunal claims has doubled since fees for bringing claims were abolished last year. In this podcast employment lawyer Michael Bauer, of Cumbria Employment Solicitors, explains how businesses should deal with claims, how they can minimise costs and – best of all – how to avoid claims altogether. Chamber members receive £1m worth of FREE legal expenses insurance for employment disputes as part of our Chamber Protect package. More here.
2018-09-1227 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastFinance for businesses refused by the banksMaria Ramsdale of FW Capital explains how the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund helps SMEs in Cumbria. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund provides loan and equity finance to SMEs that have been turned down by the banks. In this podcast, Maria Ramsdale of FW Capital, who is responsible for delivering the debt finance element in Cumbria, explains how the scheme works, who is eligible, what they can borrow and what they can use it for. To find out more about the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, email maria.ramsdale@fwcapital.co.uk or call her...
2018-08-1313 min
Cumbria Chamber of Commerce PodcastFinance for businesses refused by the banksMaria Ramsdale of FW Capital explains how the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund helps SMEs in Cumbria. The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund provides loan and equity finance to SMEs that have been turned down by the banks. In this podcast, Maria Ramsdale of FW Capital, who is responsible for delivering the debt finance element in Cumbria, explains how the scheme works, who is eligible, what they can borrow and what they can use it for. To find out more about the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, email maria.ramsdale@fwcapital.co.uk or call her...
2018-08-1313 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHow to recruit, retain and retrain older workersChamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston explains how businesses can hang on to older workers and bring the best out of them. By 2030, half of all adults in the UK will be aged over 50. In parts of Cumbria the proportion will be higher still. Our ‘super-ageing’ population means that the working-age population is projected to shrink by 20,000 over the next two decades, making it progressively harder for employers to recruit staff. One solution is to retain older workers for longer by persuading them to put retirement plans on hold. In this podcast Rob...
2018-08-0911 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastPodcast: Keeping a lid on interest ratesGet the inside track on interest rates, inflation and investment from Bank of England Deputy Governor Sir Jon Cunliffe. Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is urging the Bank of England to think carefully before raising interest rates. We delivered that message in person when Sir Jon Cunliffe, the Bank’s Deputy Governor for financial stability, spoke at a Chamber lunch in Kendal last week. Sir Jon is a member of the Monetary Policy Committee, which voted by 6-3 in June to leave rates unchanged at 0.5%. It meets again on August 2, when many commentators expect an...
2018-07-1913 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhy Cumbria LEP has to changeLocal Enterprise Partnerships - LEPs for short - were the Coalition Government's 'big idea' to drive economic growth in the regions. But Cumbria LEP has come under fire for poor performance. In this podcast its new chairman, Lord Inglewood, sets out his vision. He explains more about the LEP’s role, and looks at the challenges and opportunities for Cumbria arising from Brexit, the Borderlands Growth Deal, and a shrinking working-age population. Cumbria LEP is drawing up a Local Industrial Strategy, which it hopes will make a “compelling case” to Gove...
2018-07-0515 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhy we need a Morecambe Bay crossingWe are increasingly optimistic that the tidal energy scheme incorporating road crossings of Morecambe Bay and the Duddon is viable. Things have moved on apace since Chamber Insight first reported on the £10bn project last year. Rob Johnston, Chief Executive of Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’ve asked Transport for North to consider including the scheme in its strategic plan because we think the economic benefits could be enormous. “It would slash journey times to Furness and Millom, provide another access to West Cumbria, generate green electricity, potentially alleviate flooding and cut the cos...
2018-05-1623 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHow to win public sector contractsDespite the austerity cuts of recent years, the public sector is still a major player in Cumbria. We have seven local authorities, the Lake District National Park, a major Defra presence and the University of Cumbria. That’s a big potential market. In this podcast Kevin Thistlethwaite, an adviser with Cumbria Business Growth Hub, explains how SMEs can bid for contracts with local authorities, government departments and other public sector organisations.
2018-05-0315 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhat future for Cumbria in the digital age?Speaking at a recent Chamber event, the Lancaster University academic Andrew Atherton speculated that Cumbria will benefit as the high cost of operating in London prompts businesses to move out of the capital. He explores the theme further in this podcast and considers what more Cumbria can do to attract inward investment, where future growth will come from and how we can encourage the businesses we have to scale up. Andrew Atherton is Professor of Enterprise and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University, and an expert in SME policy. Click here to find out ho...
2018-04-1930 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHelping your business to recruit staffAround half of businesses in Cumbria that try to recruit staff struggle to do so. With the unemployment benefit claimant count rate as low as 0.7% in parts of the county, and thousands of workers due to retire over the next 10 years, it’s a problem that is expected to get worse. In this podcast Shane Byrne, Partnership Manager at JobCentre Plus in Cumbria, explains how they can help employers to recruit staff, and how the new Universal Credit is making it easier for claimants to get back into work. Click here to find out...
2018-04-1226 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastSouth Lakeland - the economic powerhouse of CumbriaSouth Lakeland is the fastest-growing economy in Cumbria and North Lancashire and has the lowest unemployment rate in the North West. In this podcast Councillor Graham Vincent, the Economy and Assets Portfolio Holder at South Lakeland District Council, looks at why its economy is so successful and examines the challenges that success brings. He also explains the thinking behind the council's revamped business website – www.investinsouthlakeland.co.uk – and discusses the impact of Brexit, the prospects for finding a buyer for GSK at Ulverston, and how South Lakeland is working with other local authorities to boos...
2018-03-2930 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhere next for tourism in Cumbria?This is English Tourism Week (March 17-25), which aims to celebrate the industry and raise its profile. In this podcast, Nigel Wilkinson looks at the challenges and opportunities for the sector, which is worth £2.72bn a year to Cumbria. Nigel is Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, one of the top 10 paid-for visitor attractions in England, and is a director of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership where he leads on tourism issues.
2018-03-2132 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastWhat the Spring Statement means for CumbriaChancellor Philip Hammond delivered his first Spring Statement on Tuesday. He was upbeat about the economy, predicting stronger growth, falling government borrowing and falling inflation. In this podcast, Chamber Chief Executive Rob Johnston looks beyond the spin to assess the impact of the Chancellor’s statement in Cumbria. And he examines Donald Trump’s proposed steel and aluminium tariffs, which could provoke a damaging trade war.
2018-03-1515 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastHow to raise finance for your businessObtaining finance is a perennial issue for businesses. But there are probably more options than ever before, with specialist and peer-to-peer lenders offering alternatives to the high street banks. In this podcast Mike Robinson, an asset finance broker and partner in Mulberry Asset Finance in Burton-in-Kendal, explains what’s available. And we introduce the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund, which offers loan and equity finance to Cumbrian SMEs. There’s more in the ‘Financing Your Business’ section of the Cumbria Business Growth Hub website, or call the Growth Hub on 0844 257 84 50. T...
2018-02-0513 min
Cumbria Growth Hub PodcastA helping hand for business start-upsJustine Douglas is one of 60 advisers working with Cumbria Business Growth Hub. She specialises in providing one-to-one advice to new business on our Business Start-Up Support (BSUS) and New Enterprise Allowance programmes. In this podcast, she imparts some sound advice for start-ups, and outlines some of the most common pitfalls. To find out more about BSUS, click here and to find out more about New Enterprise Allowance click here. The BSUS project is receiving £1,112,686 of funding from the England European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment F...
2018-02-0125 min