Author: Tina Calder

Healthy Mind Coach Advises On How To Deal With Anxiety And Fear During The Festive Season

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As the holiday season approaches, many people find themselves grappling with anxiety and fear that can be exacerbated by the pressures and expectations associated with Christmas. 

This year, more than ever, it is important to acknowledge and address these emotions and seek support if needed.

The holiday season, traditionally a time of joy and togetherness, can also bring about a range of stressors that contribute to feelings of anxiety and fear. 

From financial strain to social obligations, the demands of the season can take a toll on mental wellbeing. This time of year adds an extra layer of uncertainty and anxiety for many, making it crucial to prioritise mental health during this time.

Sam Barr of Healthy Mind Coaching & Training in Belfast explained: “The festive season brings with it multiple stressors ranging from financial pressures to struggles with family dynamics. All of this tension causes anxiety and fear in the lead up to festivities.

“Unfortunately festive anxieties are common so at this time of the year it is essential to implement strategies to support and nurture your mental health. I hope that people feel ready to reach out and search for the support that they need at this time of year.”

Sam’s company, Healthy Mind Coaching offers a range of CBT and Positive Psychology based services for individuals and staff. The company offers a free 20-minute one-to-one introduction consultation as an opportunity to identify any mental or emotional wellbeing concerns and choose a path that works best for the client to find a resolution.

“Right now it is particularly important for individuals to reach out to mental health & wellbeing professionals to cope with the stressors that the festive season brings,” said Sam.

To help individuals navigate anxiety and fear during Christmas here are Sam’s top tips for the season.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

“It’s essential to recognise that it’s okay to feel anxious or fearful during the holidays. Simply acknowledging your emotions can be the first step towards managing them” said Sam.

2. Set Realistic Expectations

Sam said it’s important that people do not feel pressure to create a picture-perfect Christmas.

“It is okay to scale back on decorations, gifts, or social events if it reduces stress and anxiety” he added.

3. Plan And Budget

For many people the stresses and strains financially can cause havoc during the festive period.

Sam advised: “Create a realistic budget for holiday spending to avoid financial stress. Consider gifts or alternative celebrations that align with your budget.”

4. Self-Care

Prioritising self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises are an important part of any weekly routine said Sam, he explained: “These can help manage stress and improve overall wellbeing.”

5. Reach Out For Support

“Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or mental wellbeing professionals if you need support. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust can be incredibly therapeutic” said Sam

6. Limit Social Media

Sam warned that the curated holiday experiences shared on social media can intensify feelings of inadequacy or fear of missing out. 

He said: “Consider taking a break from social media if it negatively affects your mental health.”

7. Maintain Healthy Boundaries

Maintaining healthy boundaries is one of the hardest things for people to do around the Christmas season but something Sam said is vital to emotional and mental wellbeing.

He explained: “It is fine to say no to social events or obligations that feel overwhelming. Prioritise your own mental and emotional wellbeing.”

8. Focus On Gratitude

Sam advised: “Take time to reflect on the positive aspects of the holiday season, such as spending time with loved ones or engaging in meaningful traditions.”

9. Professional Help

“If anxiety or fear becomes overwhelming, seek help from a mental health and wellbeing professional” said Sam, adding: “They can provide guidance, support, and strategies tailored to your specific needs.”

10. Community And Volunteering

Engaging with your local community can be an excellent way of boosting your mental and emotional wellbeing during difficult periods.

Sam said: “Consider giving back to your community through volunteering. Acts of kindness can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. 

“Remember that you are not alone in experiencing anxiety and fear during the holidays. It is important to prioritise your mental wellbeing and seek help when needed. 

“This Christmas season, let us all strive for a more compassionate and understanding approach to ourselves and others.”

Learn more about Healthy Mind Coaching and Training or book your free 20-min consultation by calling Sam today on 07906 869616 or go to healthymindcoaching.co.uk 

Northern Ireland’s Vulnerable at Risk: The Pressing Need for EV Charging Infrastructure

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Renewables experts Everun call for immediate action to enhance EV charging facilities for mobility vehicle users

Renewables experts Everun are calling for the Northern Ireland government to prioritise an upgrade in the electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the country as soon as they return to business.

The company said not only does Stormont need to “get back to work” but that as soon as they do it is “vital” they address the critical shortfall in the EV charging infrastructure. 

According to sales and business development director at Everun, Ross Moffett, the gap in the infrastructure is having a disproportionate impact on the most vulnerable members of society.

He said: “A significant proportion of hybrid or electric vehicles in Northern Ireland are mobility cars, mainly used by those most in need within our community.

“However, the acute shortage of adequate EV charging infrastructure is a major concern. This deficit disproportionately affects people with mobility vehicles and those in densely populated areas who may not have personal driveways or parking facilities.”

The lack of accessible charging points is forcing many mobility car users to depend on the petrol or diesel part of their hybrid vehicles.

Mr Moffett explained this, in turn, negated the purpose of making environmentally friendly cars available under the motability schemes. 

He added: “This situation is far from the ideal we strive for in the renewable energy sector and raises serious concerns about equitable access to sustainable transportation.”

According to Mr Moffett a “comprehensive and multifaceted strategy to address this challenge” is absolutely essential. 

He emphasised the need to expand beyond the current focus on rapid ultra-fast chargers. “For instance, hybrids are equipped with a type 2 charging which can take up to 11kw, meaning that the rapid chargers simply won’t work,” he said. 

“More importantly, the location of these chargers is crucial – they should be situated in areas that offer comfort and amenities, particularly for those with disabilities.”

Addressing the financial barrier is also critical, as Mr Moffett pointed out the cost can often be prohibitive for those without additional disposable income that they can invest in such utilities.

“With the cheapest electric vehicle models priced around £27,000, EVs remain out of reach for a significant portion of the population and the proportion of people who would be classed vulnerable that need to be able to access EV chargers is high, without any incentives or financial support available they remain in a situation where they may have a hybrid car but they are not able to use it in the way in which it was meant,” he said.

Everun are addressing these challenges as best they can by developing innovative solutions such as combining solar panels with battery storage in housing or commercial developments to speed up the development of an infrastructure. 

Mr Moffett explained: “This approach allows solar energy to charge the batteries, which in turn can charge cars – creating a self-sufficient, sustainable ecosystem.”

And while this may be a potential solution to some of the problem it does require investment from developers in the early stages of their projects.

More often than not Mr Moffett said bureaucratic hurdles are what impedes the progress of these solutions.

He also highlighted the potential of renewable energies in stabilising energy prices, akin to a fixed-rate mortgage. 

“This predictability is invaluable for businesses, allowing them to budget effectively and plan for the future,” he said.

Looking at the wider context of Northern Ireland’s renewable energy strategy, Mr Moffett urged the need to view EV infrastructure as part of a larger, interconnected energy system. 

“This system should seamlessly integrate various forms of renewable energy, from wind and solar to emerging technologies,” he said. 

“By doing so, we can ensure that our transition to electric vehicles is not only about replacing petrol and diesel cars but also about building a resilient, sustainable energy ecosystem.

“It is important that we adapt current policies and regulatory frameworks to support the rapid deployment of EV charging infrastructure. 

“Streamlining planning processes, providing incentives for the installation of charging points, and ensuring that these installations are accessible to all, regardless of where they live or their level of mobility, is crucial.”

For Everun engagement with all stakeholders including government, industry, local communities, and individual citizens is absolutely essential to Northern Ireland meeting its 2030 goals and creating an EV charging network that doesn’t discriminate. 

Mr Moffett added: “The establishment of a comprehensive, accessible EV charging network in Northern Ireland is not just about meeting our 2030 Climate Action Plan targets; it’s about fulfilling societal and economic needs.

“By addressing this gap, we ensure that the benefits of renewable energy extend to everyone, especially those who rely on it the most.”

60 Businesses Unite To Fuel Young Entrepreneurs In Northern Ireland

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Over 60 Northern Irish businesses have joined forces in a major show of support for the next generation of entrepreneurs. 

Backing the enterprise education charity Young Enterprise, these companies are a crucial part of the newly launched Business Backers campaign. 

The initiative, responding to the success of previous programmes, is all about giving young people the tools and confidence they need to succeed in business, and it’s catching on fast across the country.

Young Enterprise’s aim is for all young people to have the chance to explore their entrepreneurial abilities whilst simultaneously developing additional skills that will serve them for both work and life.  

Speaking of the initiative Carol Fitzsimons MBE, chief executive of Young Enterprise said: “Business is pushing to further develop the Northern Ireland economy and needs a skilled future workforce. By becoming a Business Backer, these businesses support our mission to develop skills and publicly demonstrate their investment and belief in young people.”

By working in partnership with education and business bodies, Young Enterprise engages with over 90,000 young people every year.

Without the support of Young Enterprise’s Business Backers, this simply would not be able to happen.

The Business Backers campaign involves businesses pledging support to young entrepreneurs on a monthly basis.

Jordan Graham of Sugar Snap is one Young Enterprise Business Backers who has experienced the benefits of joining the scheme. 

He said: “Finding that philanthropic outlet would really suit anyone in the business world. Young Enterprise is a really good option for that because you can directly support young entrepreneurs in what they’re doing”

Jordan also believes that the Business Backer programme doesn’t just advantage the young people it involves. He said: “To teach entrepreneurship and enterprise skills is for the benefit of the whole business community.” 

For smaller businesses interested in becoming a Young Enterprise Backer there are three monthly packages to choose from, with all resulting in investment within the local community. 

Businesses can choose from the YE5, YE10 or YE25 programmes supporting either 5, 10 or 25 future entrepreneurs, depending on how much they are able to pledge each month. 

Larger companies hoping to make a big impact can choose from Big Business Packages. These include the YE Impact programme that allows businesses to support 50 entrepreneurs a month and influences the entrepreneurship programme run by Young Enterprise. It also allows businesses to have involvement in the running and judging of the Young Enterprise Big Market and celebrate young entrepreneurs at the Young Enterprise Awards 2024.

The YE ESG allows your business to support 100 future entrepreneurs each month. The impact of this investment will leave a lasting legacy for both the economy and for Northern Ireland’s young entrepreneurs. 

Rachel McMillan is another Young Enterprise Business Backer. Rachel’s Belfast based company, Clockwise Offices, has been volunteering with Young Enterprise for a number of years. 

She said: “I have to say that the confidence that comes through from the young people, the enthusiasm, it’s just so amazing to see, and the work that Young Enterprise does is so valuable for young people’s futures.”

Rachel also encourages any business thinking about becoming a Business Backer to go ahead and make the decision to do so. 

“It’s so important that companies get behind this campaign, to invest in young people’s futures because they will drive the economy forward in the future as well.”

To become a Young Enterprise Business Backer you can enquire or join at https://yeni.co.uk/business-backers/

Northern Ireland Must Forge Ahead with Climate Goals Despite UK Delays

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By Ross Moffett, Sales Director, Everun

As the world grapples with the urgency of climate change, Northern Ireland finds itself at a crossroads. With the UK government’s recent decision to push back environmental targets to 2050 and the absence of a sitting government in Northern Ireland, there’s a looming threat that our progress towards sustainable solutions might stall. 

However, as someone deeply entrenched in the renewable energy sector, I believe we must not only maintain our pace but accelerate our efforts to meet the 2030 climate action goals.

The challenge we face in Northern Ireland could be described as “dire”. At Everun we recognise the broader implications of our work, which encompasses everything from the development and management of wind farms and solar energy projects to providing EV charging and smart motor solutions to our clients. This commitment underpins our drive towards a greener, more resilient Northern Ireland.

Going forward towards 2030 we must ensure there is equitable access to renewable energy solutions that transcends the scope of individual sectors and squarely places the onus on collaborative governance. 

The lack of a sitting government since February 2022 has hindered our progress. The introduction of the Northern Ireland Protocol, part of a Brexit agreement designed to prevent a hard border on the island of Ireland, led to the dissolution of The Assembly. This political impasse has significantly impacted our ability to develop and implement policies that support renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure.

Moreover, the recent rollback of key green targets by the UK government under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, while claiming to over-deliver on emissions reduction, sends mixed signals. While a pragmatic approach is necessary, it should not come at the cost of delaying essential environmental actions. In Northern Ireland, we are already lagging due to political and infrastructural challenges. Any further delays could be catastrophic.

Despite these hurdles, businesses in Northern Ireland are forging ahead. Many are investing in renewable technologies and more, recognising the long-term benefits and the necessity to stay competitive. This proactive stance is crucial. We cannot afford to be lulled into complacency or a false sense of security. The reality is that the cost of inaction is far greater than the expense of investing in sustainable solutions.

At Everun, we are committed to facilitating this transition. We are exploring innovative solutions with our clients to create self-sufficient, sustainable ecosystems. However, these efforts are often impeded by bureaucratic processes and a lack of governmental support.

It’s time for a collaborative effort. We need policies that encourage the development and adoption of renewable energy sources. Incentive schemes should be tailored to support not just domestic users but also the commercial and industrial sectors, which are crucial drivers of our economy. Additionally, there’s a need for an energy decarbonisation scheme that would encourage new generations of solar farms, wind turbines, and large battery storage.

As Northern Ireland stands at this critical juncture, the message is clear: we cannot afford to delay our progress towards the 2030 climate goals. We must act now to ensure a sustainable future, not just for our generation but for those to come. The time for decisive action and unwavering commitment is now.

Full Line Up Revealed For Big Belfast Marketing Event

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15 expert speakers from the world of marketing are set to take to the stage at Belfast’s leading marketing conference the Big Marketing Meet Up for a day of inspiration and knowledge-sharing at W5 in Titanic Quarter on November 14, 2023.

This one-day event promises to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights, interactive sessions, and expert knowledge. With 10 key presentations, five bitesize sessions, and a special Lego serious play workshop, the event is set to be a stimulating day of marketing inspiration.

Speakers include CEO of The Insight Factory Alan Branagh, legal technologist, and founder of Briefed Orlagh Kelly, the creative responsible for the HeineKEN x Barbie spec ad Ciaran McKeon, Irish autistic best-selling author and founder of Neurodiversity Training International Jude Morrow, communications specialist, founder and director of Excalibur Press Tina Calder and founder of Made With Intent, David Mannheim.

‘The Marketing Simplifier’ Roger Edwards said he’s looking forward to the event: “Undoubtedly digital marketing has been phenomenally successful for businesses of all sizes over the last decade or so. Especially small businesses. 

“It’s given them access to marketing techniques that before would only have been available to those companies with gigantic eye-watering budgets. But, there have been consequences to the success of digital marketing.

“I think it’s time to stop talking about digital marketing and just start talking about marketing again. It’s only a subtle difference, but hopefully, on the 14th of November in Belfast, I’ll tell you why I believe this is an essential move for marketers all over the world.”

Throughout the day marketers from across the country will get the opportunity to explore the dynamics of introverts and extroverts communicating marketing, gain invaluable insights into maximising the potential of video content, and challenge the notion that marketing is evolving at an unprecedented pace. 

Founder of Big Marketing Meet Up, Treena Clarke said she was delighted to reveal the full line up of speakers: “This time we wanted to build upon the fantastic line-up from our last event and to do that we have gone above and beyond. We not only have a huge line-up of expert speakers on the main stage but we also have a whole host of other talks and workshops throughout the day.

“The feedback from last May’s Big Marketing Meet-Up’s last event showed that there was so much enthusiasm for a programme that will deliver what marketers need.

“Our professional environment is changing so rapidly that it is clear everyone needs to stay up-to-date with the challenges and opportunities they present.”

Treena said that what was also apparent as she moved to prepare for the November programme was that mingling with fellow marketers was an important feature.

“We are going to have some serious fun,” she said. “There will be a Lego Lounge where attendees will get the chance to experience what the iconic brick brand can inspire new levels of creativity.”

Also taking to the stage at the event alongside Roger Edwards are Creative Director of Blue Sky Video Marketing Peter Craven, founder and CEO of Vixen Labs James Poulter, Excalibur Press director Tina Calder, LinkedIn brand builder Sharon Murray and managing director of Everybody Works in Sales Niraj Kapur, along with project manager and partner of Horrible Brands Aidan Harbinson, founder of MRKTSEARCH Sarah Stewart and founder of Eximo Marketing Andi Jarvis.

Speaker Tina Calder of Excalibur Press who will be speaking on the importance of using thought leadership in your marketing said: “The Big Marketers Meet Up has become an integral part of Northern Ireland’s professional marketing calendar” said Tina Calder, adding: “Not only is it an opportunity for professionals to get together and network but also to share experiences, expertise and learn from each other.

“I am looking forward to not only learning from my colleagues in the industry but also being able to talk about the importance of a thought leadership strategy in your marketing at the event.”

The Big Marketing Meet-Up is designed to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights and expert knowledge. With this new lineup of speakers, attendees can look forward to a day of stimulating discussions and interactive sessions.

Organiser Treena added: “The success of our last meet-up showed the demand for a program that provides key insights and discussions in a fun environment. 

“Our speakers and attendees ensure that this will be an event created by marketing professionals, for marketing professionals. It’s time for marketers to take time out, learn, and energise.”

To find out more about the programme and to secure tickets, go to bmmubelfast.com

More Industry Leaders Announced To Join Big Marketing Meet Up 2023

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Belfast’s leading marketing conference the Big Marketing Meet Up has announced the latest additions to its speaker lineup.

Roger Edwards, Jude Morrow, and James Poulter will join expert speakers from the world of marketing for a day of inspiration and knowledge-sharing at W5 in Titanic Quarter on November 14, 2023.

Treena Clarke, Founder of Big Marketing Meet Up, said she was delighted to announce the latest speakers: “We’re thrilled to welcome Roger Edwards, Jude Morrow, and James Poulter to our growing roster of speakers. Their expertise will undoubtedly enhance the quality of discussions and insights at this year’s event.”

Roger Edwards, known as ‘The Marketing Simplifier’, brings over 40 years of marketing experience to the event. He helps companies simplify their marketing strategies and set clear goals. Edwards is excited to share his insights on marketing and planning in his upcoming session. 

He explained: “Undoubtedly digital marketing has been phenomenally successful for businesses of all sizes over the last decade or so. Especially small businesses. It’s given them access to marketing techniques that before would only have been available to those companies with gigantic eye-watering budgets. But, there have been consequences to the success of digital marketing. 

“I think it’s time to stop talking about digital marketing and just start talking about marketing again. It’s only a subtle difference, but hopefully, on the 14th of November in Belfast, I’ll tell you why I believe this is an essential move for marketers all over the world.”

Delivering not one but two keynote speeches at the Big Marketing Meet Up is James Poulter, the founder and CEO of Vixen Labs and former Head of The LEGO Group’s Emerging Platforms & Partnerships team. Throughout the day he will take attendees on a journey to foster a culture of innovation within their businesses. 

He explained: “In the morning we’re going to be focusing on how you build a playful culture that embeds innovation at its heart, how do we make sure that we stay competitive, how do we stay creative and how do we ultimately stay collaborative in order to deliver innovation into the next decade. 

In his afternoon session, he will take a look at the future of technology. 

“We’re going to look at how these things converge together to change the way in which we did business, work and play. And we’re going to think more about how you are going to be able to capture the benefits of these technologies into the next decade” he said.

Also joining the event’s lineup is Jude Morrow, an Irish autistic best-selling author and founder of Neurodiversity Training International, who will provide valuable insights into creating more accessible communications for the neurodivergent community. 

He emphasises the importance of getting neurodiversity right. 

“I will be giving a presentation all about the topic of neurodiversity. Because neurodiversity has become the new DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) sexy buzzword of the week and guess what? Everybody does it wrong,” he said, adding: “Neurodiversity can be done properly. In your organisation, in your day-to-day life, and everything else around it.”

The Big Marketing Meet-Up is designed to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights and expert knowledge. With this new lineup of speakers, attendees can look forward to a day of stimulating discussions and interactive sessions.

Organiser Treena added: “The success of our last meet-up showed the demand for a program that provides key insights and discussions in a fun environment. 

“Our speakers and attendees ensure that this will be an event created by marketing professionals, for marketing professionals. It’s time for marketers to take time out, learn, and energise.”

To find out more about the programme and to secure tickets, go to bmmubelfast.com

Belfast Engineering Firm PAC Group Helps Concentrix + Webhelp Towards Net Zero

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Northern Ireland engineering firm, PAC Group, has installed a solar PV system at software company Concentrix + Webhelp Belfast offices that is set to save the company between £30-£35,000 per year.

The sustainable energy solution was installed at their Maysfield site in the city and is an important step in reducing their carbon footprint and working towards net zero.

Brian Alexander, Renewables Business Development Manager at PAC Group said they performed a comprehensive roof evaluation and testing before installing the most suitable units.

“PAC worked with specialists Bauder to create a design for the project and supply a roofing mounting kit and panels along with SolarEdge inverters.”

The Bauder Solar PV System is an integrated photovoltaic system where the modules and the substructure are combined to form a single unit which is secured to the roof without any penetration of the waterproofing or roof deck.

Working closely with Sr. Supervisor Facilities Management at Concentrix, Michael O’Neill, PAC performed a comprehensive roof evaluation and got the roof spark tested for leaks.

Brian Alexander, Renewables Business Development Manager at PAC Group said: “We went down and built up a very strong relationship with Michael, he showed faith in us and we delivered.

“The ability for Concentrix + Webhelp to produce their own electricity will reduce their carbon footprint greatly, forwarding their efforts to battle global warming in Northern Ireland.”

Peter Corr, Workplace Health & Safety Manager at Concentrix + Webhelp said: “As a global business, we recognise that we have a responsibility to support and improve our local communities and the health of our planet. 

“Choosing to install solar panels at our Maysfield site is just one of our many initiatives to help reduce our carbon footprint and become a more environmentally responsible business.  By installing the solar panels, we estimate a saving of 27.53t of Co2 which is equivalent to 1264 trees planted.”

The 141.220kw system is the most lightweight system available in the market (9-12.5Kg/m2) making it highly suitable for retrofit applications – where weight loadings are often a deciding factor on whether adding PV to an existing building is feasible.

Michael O’Neill, Facilities Manager at Concentrix + Webhelp added: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with PAC on this fantastic project. Their knowledge and expertise has been second to none.”

Big Marketing Meet Up Returns For A Day Of Marketing Inspiration

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Stimulating, fascinating and fun event for marketers

Marketing professionals in Northern Ireland are in for a treat as the highly anticipated Big Marketing Meet Up returns on November 14 at W5 in Titanic Quarter. 

This one-day event promises to empower passionate marketers with fresh insights, interactive sessions, and expert knowledge. 

With a diverse lineup of 15 presenters, 10 key presentations, five bitesize sessions, and a special Lego serious play workshop, the event is set to be a stimulating day of marketing inspiration.

Founder of Big Marketing Meet-Up, Treena Clarke, said the success of this year’s meet-up in May proved there was a demand for an event that provided keynote speakers and serious discussion amongst professionals in a fun environment.

“The feedback from last May’s Big Marketing Meet-Up showed that there was so much enthusiasm for a programme that will deliver what marketers need,” she explained. “Our professional environment is changing so rapidly that it is clear everyone needs to stay up-to-date with the challenges and opportunities they present.”

Treena said that what was also apparent as she moved to prepare for the November programme was that mingling with fellow marketers was an important feature.

“However, we are also going to have some serious fun,” she said. “There will be a Lego Lounge where attendees will get the chance to experience what the iconic brick brand can inspire new levels of creativity.”

Announced as the first three speakers of this impressive lineup, are Peter Craven, Creative Director of Blue Sky Video Marketing, Niraj Kapur, Managing Director of Everybody Works In Sales, and Andi Jarvis, the founder of Eximo Marketing. 

Niraj will delve into the dynamics of introverts and extroverts communicating in marketing, sharing, “I’ll be talking about how relevant that is in business in 2023.

Peter Craven will offer insights into maximising the potential of video content: “We’re gonna be talking about how to make the absolute most out of video content that you produce.”

Andi Jarvis will challenge the notion that marketing is evolving at an unprecedented pace: “I don’t believe marketing is changing all that fast. If I’m honest, I’m not sure it’s changing all that much. A few things are, such as channels and delivery methods, but are the important things changing?”

 

The Big Marketing Meet-Up has been organised to make sure that it is balanced between presenters and the people delivering their programmes day and daily.

“Our presenters will bring national and international experience to bear on the issues of 2024 and beyond,” Treena said. “It is easy to be overwhelmed when technologies and practices seem to be evolving every week, but our speakers and attendees can ensure that this will be an event created by marketing professionals, for marketing professionals.

“It’s time for marketeers to take time out, learn and energise.”

To find out more about the programme and to secure tickets, go to bmmubelfast.com

Moving To Composites Is A Natural Progression In The Fight To Net Zero

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By Gavin Rankin, Technical Director at PAC Group

 

In the fight against climate change, every action we take can have a meaningful impact. There are the obvious things we can do, particularly in the automotive industry such as electric vehicles, sustainable fuels, and so on.

But there are also the somewhat less obvious options. Take lightweighting, for example.

Lightweighting is as the name suggests. It’s the practice of reducing the weight of a component or structure, particularly through the substitution of materials. In switching out traditionally used metals in favour of lighter weight composite materials, such as carbon fibre, there’s a substantial overall reduction in the weight of the structure. 

The benefits of utilising lightweight composites cannot be understated. Certainly, we’re all aware of the way that carbon fibre composites can increase performance. But going beyond performance, aerodynamic efficiency and the like, composite materials enable the transport industry to make a significant reduction in its carbon footprint. 

Whilst the aerospace and automotive industries are certainly making this move towards the utilisation of composite materials, it remains a somewhat gradual process. Though carbon fibre is used in aircraft, the fact of the matter is that the aerospace industry would benefit from expanding its usage of composite materials, especially where its environmental impact is concerned.

It’s no secret that the aviation industry has had a role to play in ushering in the current climate disaster. Its main source of impact has been through the burning of fuel, which then converts to CO2. This means that until synthetic sustainable fuels become more readily available or widely used, the aviation industry is difficult to decarbonise. 

Fuel is the number one cost for any airline, standing at around 30% of all total costs. To give you an idea of numbers, the average short haul flight consumes between two and three litres of fuel every 100 kilometres, per customer. 

Of course, fuel consumption naturally differs from plane to plane, depending on flight duration, the number of passengers, the model of plane and its efficiency and age — and this is exactly where the benefits of lightweighting make themselves apparent. 

Opting for composite materials, rather than metals like steel or aluminium, leads to an overall reduction in the weight of the aircraft. The lighter the aircraft is, the greater its fuel efficiency. Suddenly, a plane becomes both cheaper to operate and more environmentally sound. 

An added benefit of composite materials is that they can actually reduce the individual number of parts in an aircraft. This is due to the fact that composite materials are moulded, enabling multiple parts to be combined in a single mould during the manufacturing process. Not only is this cost effective – fewer parts and manufacturing time culminating in reduced costs – but it means that a greater portion of the aircraft can be built out of lightweight composite materials. 

The more carbon fibre you use, the greater weight you save. The lighter the aircraft, the more efficient it becomes, and greater efficiency leads to greater sustainability. 

As the transport industry catches onto the myriad benefits of lightweight composite materials, there’s an influx in demand for components made of such materials. At PAC, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this push towards an increased usage of composites.

As the leading specialist in the design and manufacture of Hot Drape Forming machines, each of our preformers are manufactured to the highest standards. Every component of the system is produced to an exceptional quality, with reliability and durability at the heart of their design.

We hold 42 patents on the hardware and software used in our preformers, solidifying our position at the forefront of the development of this innovative technology. Our Hot Drape Formers are bespoke, customised to the needs of the client.

Our innovative Hot Drape Formers are able to keep up with the high demands of leading automotive and aerospace manufacturers. We see the growing numbers of manufacturers wanting to incorporate composite materials into their vehicles; even more importantly, we understand exactly why there is this growing desire. PAC recognises the importance of this shift, and the time-sensitive nature of the need to act.

PAC Group strives to increase the efficiency of the manufacturing process through the development of forward-thinking technology. Alongside our preformers are our reticulators and resin transfer/infusions systems, each of which drive efficiency of process. They help to reduce cycle times, enabling greater change on a shorter timescale. 

Our sustainability targets have a timeframe. The aviation and automotive industries are aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. We have just over 25 years to achieve this goal, but we have a mighty journey ahead of us. 

It’s time to embrace new materials, new technologies and new ways of thinking, all of which will bring us nearer to our sustainability goals. At PAC Group we’re delighted to be at the forefront of the aerospace composites industry working with companies such as BAE, Spirit Aerosystems and Airborne to name a few.

For more information go to pacgroup.co.uk 

Time To Really Support NI’s Economically Inactive

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New NIEESS support service will begin this journey

By Shirelle McIvor, Programme Manager of Explore Enterprise Support Service

The term economically inactive has been bandied about by commentators and reporters every time the latest employment figures are announced. In the wake of the pandemic, it has been a topic that has been explored, but it mainly focused on those who have taken early retirement. 

Young people, in particular, have been practically invisible in the discussions. As have those that have a desire to become entrepreneurs or self-employed.

With the Northern Ireland Explore Enterprise Support Service, we aim to not only end that but to offer practical, focused support. It has been designed as a bespoke, tailored service.

The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency 2022 Labour Market Report says that the ‘economically non-responsive’ made up 28.3% of the 16-64 year-old population. That means more than a quarter of the eligible working population. That is a huge part of the population not working or looking for work.

The Explore Enterprise Support Service is not just a response to this. It is recognising the issue. It is about recognising that behind every statistic, every number bandied about in numerous column inches, there is an individual. An individual that has some vision of their future.

Between now and March 31st 2025 support for those individuals will amount to 1,200 people receiving the right package of mentoring and advice.

Similar programmes have been undertaken before, and there is evidence that they work. However, when European funding ended we needed a new way to move forward.

This project has received £1.8m from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is set to target around 1,200 individuals aged 16 and above.

The service, delivered by the 27 Local Enterprise Agencies and the Prince’s Trust, will improve enterprise, interpersonal, and employability skills of those taking part, helping them improve their marketability as a candidate and ultimately become self-employed or find a job.

However, in terms of the target market, it is economically inactive individuals we all know that is going to be a difficult market. It will be challenging to get the word out to those people who fall into that category, but they are the most in need of the services that we provide.

When any of those individuals come to either the Prince’s Trust and speak to the volunteers there or business advisors or see the local enterprise agencies, the first thing that we want to do is to complete a specialist needs assessment on them to find out where they are, where they want to be and most importantly find out what barriers that they have that are stopping them from getting where they want to be. In a lot of cases, the perceived barriers there might not actually be a barrier in their case.

That is why we are not pursuing a one-size fits all approach. Each participant will have a tailored development plan, with actions that we will complete with the individual.

Northern Ireland has a long history of entrepreneurship and creativity. Even today the UK list of leading entrepreneurs is populated by many from Northern Ireland.

We are not aiming at propelling 1,200 people onto those listings – although that would be an added bonus. What we are aiming to do is equip 1,200 people with the skills and confidence to develop their own business idea, and hopefully a path to self-employment.

We will take each business idea and examine it with the individual. Have they got the skills and knowledge to take it forward? If not we can work with them through issues that may have put them off. Financial, legal and marketing are just some of the words that can frighten people. We aim to demystify these processes and assess what is right for that person.

Of course, that business idea may change during the assessment. Equally many will go through the process and decide that they want to return to the job market. 

To help in looking for employment we can look at their CV, develop action plans for them going forward in terms of their employment, look at what a job may be and what they’re good at. We recognise that for many people low confidence is what’s preventing them from ever getting a job so we want to tackle that. 

With the 1,200 people, we aim to provide wrap-around support, and we do not aim to shoehorn them into a path that does not suit them.

We’re very excited about the new service and how it puts the citizen at the centre of a range of supports connecting them with the right support at the right time.

In doing so, we feel our partnership with Prince’s Trust NI will ensure people throughout Northern Ireland experiencing the barriers of economic inactivity will have the opportunity to make personal and positive strides in their lives.

By encouraging out-of-work individuals to develop themselves both personally and professionally, the aim of the service ultimately is to boost the economy by helping participants become economically active.

NIEESS is aimed at individuals who have been out of employment for a minimum of four weeks and those who are currently unable to start a new position due to everything from a lack of transferable skills to an inability to engage with the job market due to personal circumstances.

The service delivery partners will identify mentors and trainers who will be on-hand for the service users to offer a participant centric approach meaning everyone who signs up will be given a tailored package of support which will provide holistic support targeted to their individual needs and areas where people require the most assistance.

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