November 2020 Meeting Shorts
By Kerri – Chair Newark Business Club
A month of progress
A misty morning in Newark greeted the participants of Newark Business Club’s November meeting, but as most have now returned to working from home following the new lockdown measures, no-one had to brave the weather to attend another jam-packed meeting.
Kerri McGarrigle, Chairman of Newark Business Club, took to the stage to give everyone a warm welcome to the penultimate meeting of 2020 – a year like no other.
In her initial address, Kerri passed on messages from members about the upcoming Newark’s Virtual Santa’s Grotto and Newark Round Table’s Santa’s Sleigh.
Anyone interested in sponsoring the sleigh should contact Daniel Otton and for updates on the grotto people should follow the Facebook group.
This month’s sponsor
Community nursing and care provider Kare Plus Newark was the sponsor of the meeting, but the presenter was unexpectedly called way on the morning the meeting so could not share their presentation with the group.
The homecare service is available to support individuals with a wide range of needs over any given time frame. This could be for those suffering long-term illnesses and need temporary care over a long period, through to those who require a regular drop-in for a hand with the cleaning, personal medical care or even just to see a friendly face.
Homecare by Kare Plus enforces strict protocols to provide the most supportive, dignified and friendly home care service possible. On top of ensuring a thorough personalised care plan is produced to meet the customer’s exact needs, wishes and cultural requirements.
All Kare Plus staff receive ongoing training, ensuring their skills are constantly refreshed and developed. The team come from a variety of healthcare backgrounds, so they are able to cater for a vast array of specialist needs.
For more information about Kare Plus, please visit https://kareplus.co.uk/newark/
The Wellbeing List
Following the 10-minute networking session, where participants were able to share their elevator pitch and make new connection, Kerri introduced the wellbeing panel discussion.
The panel, which was perfectly timed as the new lockdown measures were introduced just 24-hours previously, welcomed insights from Kevin Guthrie from Guthrie Therapy and Leigh Alliss from Health 4 You by Leigh.
- Be outside for 30-minutes each day (even if it’s raining)
- Reduce intake of stimulants (alcohol, sugar and caffeine)
- Top up with Vitamin D
- Stay away from social media or clear it up. Remove those who trigger you and follow those who inspire you
- Make digital contact with friends and family and do something together online (e.g. bake, play a game
- Gently offer support to anyone who you have noticed might be feeling the effects of poor mental health.
Poppy Appeal – The Royal British Legion
Armed Forces Champion and former Grenadier Guard Councillor Keith Girling very kindly shared some background about The Royal British Legion ahead of Remembrance Sunday.
In Nottinghamshire, the hundreds of volunteers who usually sell poppies in the community are unable to do so owing to COVID19 restrictions. However, the incredible work delivered by The Royal British Legion continues and Keith called for fundraising support.
This year, donors who would like to make a contribution are invited to text to donate. To donate £2 text POPPY2 to 70545, to donate £5 text POPPY5 to 70545, or to donate £10 text POPPY10 to 70545.
Business Support Update
Matt Lamb, Director of Growth and Regeneration at Newark & Sherwood District Council, provided an update on the latest business support available, including:
- Job Retention Scheme extended until March 2021
- Self-Employment Income Support scheme (SEIS) extended
- Local Restriction Support Grant (for properties with a rateable value)
- Additional grant on top of the Local Restriction Support Grant plus grants for other businesses with no fixed property charge or the self employed in affected sectors and the supply chin not covered by LRSG.
Matt advised that the council has already started proactively contacting businesses that will likely qualify for the retail, hospitality and leisure grant and the scheme will launch on Wednesday 11th November.
A member asked if there was a grant available to help businesses improve their website. Matt answered that the Diversification Fund was available for businesses to enhance their online presence.
Matt also confirmed that all Nottinghamshire councils have agreed to use the same forms and process for businesses.
In addition, Matt is hopeful that the Town Fund announcement will be made later this month.
MP Update
The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP joined the club for an update which covered: the national restrictions, the challenges facing businesses, track and trace, the financial support package announced by the Chancellor, and District Council discretionary grants to boost trade.
Mr Jenrick then answered a number of questions posed by club members.
The meeting was brought to a close by Kerri McGarrigle, who asked members to continue to support one another through the lockdown and beyond in the hopes of protecting local business and the community.
Join the next virtual meeting which takes place on Friday 4th December via Collab for free.
Register to become a member (and to receive the email invite) at www.newarkbusinessclub.co.uk
Business Club Desk calendars are now available to Collect from G.H Porter Provisions in the Market Place and from Buttercross Estates, The Beacon, Cafferata Way Newark Nottinghamshire NG24 2TN Call Daniel on 01636 343014 if collecting from the Beacon.
