Author: Tina Calder

The upcoming Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, set to take place on September 12 at TEC Belfast, will bring renewed attention to the often-overlooked aspect of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) frameworks: social value. 

The event, which is the largest of its kind in Northern Ireland, will feature a diverse range of speakers and exhibitors, with a particular focus on integrating social value into sustainable business practices.

Rachel Doherty, Director of Inspired Business Consultancy, will be leading a key session titled “Putting the S back into ESG,” where she will address the critical role of social value in today’s manufacturing industry. While ESG has become a major focus for businesses, the social component frequently takes a back seat to environmental concerns such as carbon emissions and sustainability. 

Rachel’s session will argue that this imbalance needs to be corrected to ensure that social value is delivered effectively, monitored appropriately, and integrated into broader business strategies.

“ESG is crucial for the long-term sustainability of any business, but too often, the ‘S’ in ESG is overshadowed by environmental issues,” said Rachel Doherty. 

“Social value is not just a box-ticking exercise; it has real implications for maintaining margins, avoiding non-compliance penalties, and fostering strong community and stakeholder relationships. 

“At the conference, I will be discussing how businesses can take a strategic approach to ensure that the social value they deliver is both cost-effective and genuinely impactful.”

Rachel will also explore the challenges businesses face in measuring social value, particularly through tools like Social Return on Investment (SROI). Her session aims to provide attendees with practical strategies to enhance their ESG frameworks by placing equal emphasis on social value alongside environmental and governance concerns.

Colin Murphy, Managing Director of Premier Publishing & Events, the organisers of the conference, emphasised the significance of this discussion in the current business climate. 

“The manufacturing sector is increasingly recognising the importance of ESG, but there is still a gap in how social value is addressed,” he said. 

“Rachel Doherty’s session on social value will be a key highlight of the conference, offering valuable insights for businesses looking to strengthen their ESG strategies. We’re pleased to have experts like Rachel contributing to this vital conversation.”

The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition is now in its fifth year and has established itself as a pivotal event for the manufacturing sector in the region. This year’s conference is expected to attract over 3,000 delegates from across the UK and Ireland, making it the largest gathering of its kind in Northern Ireland. 

The event will feature over a hundred trade stands showcasing the latest innovations, technologies, and services that are driving the future of manufacturing.

In addition to Rachel Doherty’s session on social value, the conference will host a comprehensive programme of workshops and keynote speeches covering a wide range of topics critical to the industry. 

These include sustainability, lean productivity, continuous improvement, automation, robotics, procurement, 3D printing, and precision engineering. The conference will also address emerging trends such as IoT and Industry 4.0, highlighting how these technologies are transforming manufacturing processes.

This year’s event will also place a strong emphasis on networking and collaboration. Special networking zones will be set up to facilitate connections between buyers, suppliers, and industry leaders. These zones are designed to maximise the opportunity for attendees to make new contacts, explore potential partnerships, and discuss pressing issues facing the industry.

The conference is supported by leading organisations and institutions, including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), a £100 million innovation centre led by Queen’s University Belfast in partnership with industry, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, and Ulster University. AMIC’s involvement underscores the event’s importance as a platform for advancing manufacturing innovation in Northern Ireland.

Speaking of the event Sam Turner, CEO of AMIC, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with the Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition once again in 2024. 

“This event is a fantastic platform to showcase innovations in manufacturing and the cutting-edge research that underpins them. It also allows us to highlight our £100m Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), which will turbocharge Northern Ireland’s manufacturing capabilities and embed a culture of innovation to drive increased productivity.”

Registration for the 2024 Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on September 12 at TEC Belfast is free and tickets are available from northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk/register 

Galway-based 3D Technology Ltd, a leading supplier of 3D printing equipment in Ireland, has announced its expansion into the Northern Ireland market. 

The move is set to provide Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector with access to cutting-edge 3D printing solutions, offering potential advancements in production efficiency and capabilities.

This strategic expansion will be officially announced at the upcoming Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on 12 September, at the TEC in Belfast.

The event, now in its fifth year, is the largest of its kind in Northern Ireland and serves as a crucial forum for industry leaders across the UK and Ireland.

The conference, which will feature over a hundred trade stands and a comprehensive programme of free workshops and keynote speakers, provides an ideal platform for 3D Technology Ltd to showcase its innovative 3D printing solutions. The company will be among a diverse range of exhibitors displaying the latest technological advancements designed to meet the evolving needs of the manufacturing industry.

Speaking of the expansion, 3D Technology’s managing director James Wall said: “We are pleased to bring our expertise in 3D printing to Northern Ireland’s dynamic manufacturing sector. 

“The cost of downtime due to broken parts can be enormous, even catastrophic, with traditional methods. By using 3D printing, manufacturers can avoid these risks by producing what they need, exactly when they need it. 

“Our goal is to help local manufacturers enhance their production processes by improving efficiency, reducing downtime, and cutting costs, ultimately boosting their competitiveness in the global market.”

In addition to the announcement, 3D Technology Ltd will be participating in discussions at the conference on key themes such as Automation & Robotics, Hi-tech Manufacturing, Precision Engineering, and 3D Printing—topics central to the future of manufacturing. The event provides an excellent opportunity for manufacturers to engage with government agencies, industry experts, and supporting associations, gaining insights and advice on improving operational performance.

Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that rely on costly and time-consuming tooling and moulding processes, 3D printing eliminates the need for these recurring expenses. For instance, with traditional injection moulding, lead times for tooling can range from 4 to 16 weeks. In contrast, 3D printing allows manufacturers to produce parts on demand, drastically reducing both costs and production timelines.

3D Technology Ltd is also committed to supporting its clients with comprehensive training, maintenance, and a range of tailored support services designed to integrate seamlessly into existing production processes. This commitment ensures that manufacturers can make the most of their investment in 3D printing technology, enhancing their operational capabilities and return on investment.

Managing Director, Colin Murphy from organisers Premier Publishing & Events said the Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference will serve as a forum for manufacturers and operators involved throughout the associated supply chains from across Northern Ireland to gather to discuss pressing issues facing their industry.

He added: “Generating annual sales of about £20 billion, manufacturing is crucial to Northern Ireland’s economic development. 

“Manufacturers directly employ 80,000 people while supporting further employment throughout the wider supply chain in every region of Northern Ireland. 

“The manufacturing sector accounts for 13.4% of Northern Ireland’s economic output, significantly higher than the UK figure of 9.8%. 

“Not just that but Northern Ireland’s manufacturers also generate almost half of the country’s external sales and more than half of export sales.

“We are delighted to be supporting 3D Technology in their efforts to expand into the Northern Ireland marketplace.”

Registration for the 2024 Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on September 12 at TEC in Belfast is free. Tickets are available from www.northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk/register 

The 5th instalment of the annual Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will take place on September 12, boasting the biggest gathering of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The Titanic Exhibition Centre will host the event, bringing Belfast into the industry spotlight by offering a space for UK & Ireland’s manufacturing leaders to network.

Centred around recent technological developments and innovative approaches to research in the field, the day-long feat is open to both established and new professionals in the sector.

Several manufacturers of varying scales from Northern Ireland and beyond will be in attendance, providing their insights and experience to other event goers. 

Managing Director, Colin Murphy, from organisers Premier Publishing & Events, said the conference and exhibition will serve as a platform for relevant manufacturing giants to discuss the country’s supply chain and pressing issues that the industry is currently facing. 

He said: “Generating annual sales of about £20 billion, manufacturing is crucial to Northern Ireland’s economic development. 

“Manufacturers directly employ 80,000 people while supporting further employment throughout the wider supply chain in every region of Northern Ireland. 

“The manufacturing sector accounts for 13.4% of Northern Ireland’s economic output, significantly higher than the UK figure of 9.8%. 

“Not just that but Northern Ireland’s manufacturers also generate almost half of the country’s external sales and more than half of export sales.

“The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will encompass the full manufacturing spectrum across the country, including the food and drink, biopharma, medtech, healthcare, engineering, transport, technology, building products, fabrics, polymers, packaging and renewables sectors.”

Delegates from across different manufacturing sectors, such as food, pharmaceutical, medical, chemical, electronics and engineering, can be expected to speak on their experience, enabling everyone in attendance to understand potentially unseen sides of the market.

Dedicated exhibition areas will also allow professionals and businesses alike to meet with key technology providers.

Throughout the day the event will cover topical themes such as Procurement, Lean Manufacturing, Control & Automation, Supply Chain Optimisation, Information Technology Logistics, Energy Management, Facilities Management Sustainability, Project Management, Health & Safety Warehouse Management, Materials Handling & Robotics.

Colin added: “The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will provide an ideal location for businesses to meet with Government agencies and supporting associations, and gain free advice from experts on how to improve operational performance. 

“The Event will also provide networking zones to connect buyers and suppliers. Indeed, the layout of the Conference & Exhibition is intended to maximise the opportunity for visitors to network and make new contacts.”

Registration for the 2024 Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on September 12 at Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast is free. Tickets are available from www.northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk/register 

A new organisation set up to support neurodivergent families and individuals has announced their first Creative Fun Day will take place in Belfast this weekend.

Saturday, 3 August will see SPARK, in partnership with Arts Care, open the doors of 2 Royal Avenue for an afternoon of fun, socialising with like-minded families and other activities.

The free event is open to all neurodivergent families from 10am to 1pm and will include a plethora of different activities for everyone to avail of.

Offering a safe space for parents and children to connect with similar families, attendees of all ages are welcome to take part in the event and explore the happenings inside.

Held inside 2 Royal Avenue, the vast community space is set to be transformed by stalls and tables dedicated to providing information on neurodivergence, workshops for children to enjoy, interactive sessions and more.

The extensive event listing reveals several highlights, including the highly-anticipated Interactive Drum Workshops, which help provide sensory stimulation to neurodiverse children.

The rhythmic patterns not only have calming benefits, but they also have physical pros including enhancing motor skills, providing a communication form for anyone non-verbal and more, making them a great addition to the day’s line-up.

The three-hour feat will also include storytelling sessions, where children are able to hear magnificent tales and express their subsequent emotions without fear of being judged.

Other activities include face painting, arts and crafts stalls, neurodivergent information tables and networking opportunities for adults, plus a vibrant sense of community.

Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to refer to conditions such as ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, OCD, Tourette’s Syndrome and more, with SPARK providing a networking group for any Neurodivergent members of the Belfast community and beyond.

Gary Gates, co-creator of the SPARK group, was diagnosed as having ADHD in his forties and spoke of the importance of creating an open discourse and space for neurodiverse parents such as himself.

He said: “Being neurodivergent can be difficult enough, but being a neurodivergent parent raising neurodivergent children can be extremely hard. 

“And so, thanks to the Bank of Ideas fund, and in partnership with Arts Care, SPARK was able to create this free creative family fun day for neurodivergent families. 

“We just want people to come and have fun and, most importantly, be their authentic selves.” 

SPARK is both an online and in-person platform that enables members of the neurodivergent community to access resources and converse with other people who may have gone through similar life experiences, with feedback being taken on board from past event attendees.

Cara Marks, the other half of the brainbox duo behind SPARK, identified that Saturday’s event was created following discussions with Belfast locals on what can be implemented for neurodivergent individuals in the city.

She said: “SPARK actively engages with our members, seeking out topics of interest to share within the community. 

“Many of our members have neurodivergent children, and one topic that kept emerging is that we need more things for neurodivergent families to do, especially in neuro-inclusive environments. 

“We listened to what was said and as a result, we are proud to present SPARK’s first creative family fun day for neurodivergent families.” 

SPARK’s Creative Family Fun Day runs between 10am-1pm on Saturday August 3 and full details can be found at www.eventbrite.co.uk/creative-family-fun-day-for-neurodivergent-families

Ends

The positive impact that social care can deliver has been recognised at the launch of the ‘Social Care – Making a Difference’ campaign at Stormont today.

Attendees at the launch heard of the many benefits that a career in social care can bring including Melvin Gould who as one of Northern Ireland’s 40,000 social care practitioners shared his inspirational journey.

A former delivery driver, Melvin became a social care practitioner at 55 years of age. He knows, like other social care practitioners, that every day when he goes to work he makes a positive impact on people’s lives.

Melvin Gould, Social care practitioner with Harmony Community Care Services, told his story as part of the campaign and wants others to consider a career in social care too:

“I know people head into work and sometimes don’t want to be there. I just couldn’t do that. I can say hand on heart that for me that is not the case. I know that my job gives me the ability to make a difference in peoples’ lives, with no two days being the same. I came to social care later in life, but Iwish I had made that change sooner. If you are a good listener, are kind and want to help other people live a better life – join social care like me – you won’t regret it.”

The campaign invites people who want a career in care to learn more through stories from social care practitioners doing the job – about what it is like, why they do it, and showing the flexible, varied and diverse opportunities available.

At the event, Health Minister Mike Nesbitt said ‘thank you’ to the social care workforce and to those who have shared their stories of the difference they make to the community, and how important it is that people consider a professional career in social care as one that is diverse, flexible and rewarding.

Speaking at today’s launch, Minister Nesbitt said:

“Social care work really matters and is truly valued. It is vital that the right care is available for adults and young people and that they are supported to live independently for as long as possible.

“My Department and I are committed to both supporting our social care workforce and promoting social care as a career choice.

“I want to thank all of our social care practitioners for their commitment, compassion and the valuable work they do every day in our communities.”

Patricia Higgins, CEO, Social Care Council added:

“In social care there are some great opportunities for caring, compassionate and committed individuals looking for a career where they can make a real difference in their local community.

“Importantly, our campaign not only highlights the diverse and exciting opportunities available in the social care sector to progress in their career, but also celebrates the brilliant social care practitioners, some of whom feature in our new campaign stories – this campaign is also for the social care work force – to know we value them.”

Agnes Lunny, CEO of Positive Futures, who helped develop this year’s campaign added:

“Social care services can only offer high quality support to the community because they have committed, compassionate staff who make a difference every day. Our ‘Social care – making a difference’ campaign highlights a key part of why we do what we do as providers of care – the warm and mutually beneficial relationships we have with the people we support. It shares the real stories of workers and the people they support, and shows the diversity, value and impact they have.

“There are lots of jobs available, with options to suit a range of lifestyles, skills and experience. Specific qualifications aren’t required for an entry-level role in social care – training is provided on the job. For those who want career progression, there are a range of qualification and training opportunities. No matter the role, in social care you can make a real difference to people’s lives. My advice to anyone thinking of a career in care is – reach out to your nearest social care provider and find out more.”

This campaign is run by the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council) on behalf of the Social Care Collaborative Forum, a Department of Health partnership across the social care sector in Northern Ireland, which has been established to lead a programme of work to improve social care services for the community.

Make a difference to lives with a career in social care…Want to know more? Check out NISCC’s social care stories page on https://niscc.info/social-care-stories

SOMA Festival kicks off today in Castlewellan, County Down, for three days of excellent musical performances, holistic activities, and intriguing workshops as part of this year’s stellar lineup. Running from July 19-21, SOMA Festival’s 2024 instalment promises to bring a plethora of entertainment options that the whole family can enjoy, celebrating the rich heritage of Irish culture.

Part of the extensive line-up are the Little Gems events, combining the environment into workshops, walks, and more. Lorna Nic Cathmhaoil, SOMA Fest Programme & Events Co-ordinator, identified these activities, speeches, and screenings as vibrant events that add splashes of colour to the festival weekend.

The official opening day on Friday, 19 July, features several Little Gems events. The ‘Becoming Life’ Workshop at Turnip House starts at 10am, led by environmental scientist Laura Kehoe, exploring the human relationship with the planet. At 3pm, Castlewellan Library hosts the Language, Landscape & Memory session, delving into Irish place names and their significance. For children, the Ancient Whispers: Children’s Art Workshops will run from 12-3pm in the Stretch Tent in Castlewellan Upper Square, with stories and crafts inspired by the mythical Tuatha Dé Danann. At 4pm, Michael Magee will read from his award-winning novel Close to Home at Nana’s Kitchen.

Soma In The Square will be open from 10.30am-7pm on Saturday, 20 July, and 11am-7pm on Sunday, 21 July. The Castlewellan Upper Square base will include a pop-up bar run by Whitewater Brewing Co., offering their locally brewed ales and lagers as a delicious refreshment. There will also be a variety of food vendors on-site to ensure that festival-goers need not miss a second of the terrific offerings in the space.

On Saturday, SOMA Festival will run their eco-friendly Share Stall from 10.30am, creating a community space where anyone with unwanted plants and extra seeds can swap what they have brought along for another garden delight. For visitors who don’t have green thumbs, Kazoku Karate will host a hands-on workshop at 2pm where anyone can try their hand at the martial art.

Saturday’s line-up also includes the Historical Walking Tour of Dolly’s Brae starting at 2pm, led by historian Pól Ó Gribín and Stiofán Ó Nualláin, exploring local history. At 5.30pm, a short film screening of ‘The Eel Fisher’ will be held in Castlewellan Community Centre, followed by a Q&A.

Sunday, 21 July, brings the final Little Gems event, Drink & Draw, at Savages Bar, blending artistry with alcohol in an expressive workshop led by local environmental artist Tracy McCoey.

As for Soma In The Square, Sunday’s activities include Phil’s Farm, which will take place between 2.30-4.30pm, displaying plenty of exciting animals for everyone to interact with. Different tables under the Upper Square stretch tent will also have arts and crafts workshops available on Saturday and Sunday for the little ones to take part in, providing additional hours of fun.

Both days over the weekend will also give people the chance to visit Bucky’s Circus for free. The nationally-known travelling act promises to bring smiles to the faces of all family members, from kids to grandparents.

Speaking on the fantastic 2024 event lineup, Tíona McSherry, SOMA Festival Director, said: “Our team has come up with another stellar programme for festival goers to enjoy this year. It takes a dedicated group of people to attempt to pull any festival off, not to mention doing it for the love alone. A big thank you to all of our funders and sponsors, in particular Whitewater Brewing Co. and Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, and the wonderful volunteers who help make the SOMA Festival a reality.”

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July, and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival.

This year’s SOMA Festival is set to return to Castlewellan, County Down for three days of excellent entertainment, spanning everything from music performances to spiritual gatherings.

From July 19-21, attendees can experience a plethora of different activities outside of the typical gigs on offer, including the Mind, Body & Soul event that is set to run across all three event days.

Held at The Lodge Business and Cultural Centre, Castlewellan, any SOMA festival goers can avail of the blissful opportunities found inside.

A variety of different events will take place each day, with collated workshops being separated into set spaces to ensure everyone gets the most from their interests.

The Healing Arts space is the go-to spot for physical tranquillity in The Lodge, boasting movement and breathing classes that promise to calm anyone.

The tent offers more well-known practices such as Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa Yoga, Tai Chi and Breathwork as well as unusual activities, including a serene Cacao and Sound Bath, spiritual martial art Qi Gong, holistic-centred Somatics and more.

Mind, Body & Soul coordinator Kathryn Shaw said, “Soma Mind Body & Soul is a space to move, breathe, connect, explore and express. It is an event that provides all involved many different routes to better physical, mental and emotional health. My hope is that we all come away connected as a more resilient community with tools to live life fully.”

Alternatively, anyone hoping for a more hands-on experience can step inside the Mythic Crafts room, where they can revel in learning a new craft.

Not only does the enticing list include activities such as willow weaving, printmaking, copper smithing and a herbal workshop, but all completed creations can be taken home as a cherished memory of the alternative weekend.

The Holistic Hall offers another crafty vibe, with the in-house fair promoting small, independently-owned businesses selling everything from sweet-smelling candles to aesthetically pleasing artwork.

As well as meeting the faces behind the handmade goods, SOMA Festival visitors can also take advantage of the taster Reiki, reflexology and massage sessions.

Finally, the Serenity Tent provides visitors with a relaxation space to meet friends for a chat or just sit alone to rejuvenate and enter into a state of mindfulness.

SOMA Festival Director, Tíona McSherry, spoke of the behind-the-scenes team who have worked hard to provide such a varied event line-up, saying: “It takes a dedicated group of people to attempt to pull any festival off, not to mention doing it for the love alone. 

“A big thank you to all of our funders and sponsors, in particular Whitewater Brewing Co. and Newry, Mourne & Down District Council, and the wonderful volunteers who help make the SOMA Festival a reality.”

The SOMA Festival runs between 19th-21st July and full details including tickets can be found at www.linktr.ee/thesomafestival 

Manufacturing industry leaders from across the UK and Ireland are set to arrive in Belfast for the biggest event of its kind in Northern Ireland.

The Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition, in its 5th year, will be taking place at the Titanic Exhibition Centre on September 12.

The event will feature over a hundred trade stands as well as incorporating a comprehensive conference programme featuring free workshops and keynote speakers.

Exhibitors will range from business services through to innovative companies displaying the latest technological solutions for the industry.

Managing Director, Colin Murphy from organisers Premier Publishing & Events said the event will serve as a forum for manufacturers and operators involved throughout the associated supply chains from across Northern Ireland to gather to discuss pressing issues facing their industry.

He added: “Generating annual sales of about £20 billion, manufacturing is crucial to Northern Ireland’s economic development. 

“Manufacturers directly employ 80,000 people while supporting further employment throughout the wider supply chain in every region of Northern Ireland. 

“The manufacturing sector accounts for 13.4% of Northern Ireland’s economic output, significantly higher than the UK figure of 9.8%. 

“Not just that but Northern Ireland’s manufacturers also generate almost half of the country’s external sales and more than half of export sales.

“The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will encompass the full manufacturing spectrum across the country, including the food and drink, biopharma, medtech, healthcare, engineering, transport, technology, building products, fabrics, polymers, packaging and renewables sectors.”

Throughout the day the event will cover topical themes such as Manufacturing; Supply Chain & Logistics; Sustainability; Lean Productivity & Continuous Improvement; Automation & Robotics; Procurement; 3D Printing; Hi-tech Manufacturing & Precision Engineering; IoT & Industry 4.0; and Lean Productivity & Continuous Improvement.

Colin added: “The Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition will provide an ideal location for businesses to meet with Government agencies and supporting associations, and gain free advice from experts on how to improve operational performance. 

“The Event will also provide networking zones to connect buyers and suppliers. Indeed, the layout of the Conference & Exhibition is intended to maximise the opportunity for visitors to network and make new contacts.”

Registration for the 2024 Northern Ireland Manufacturing & Supply Chain Conference & Exhibition on September 12 at Titanic Exhibition Centre in Belfast is free. Tickets are available from www.northernirelandmanufacturing.co.uk/register