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Cybersecurity Firm Raises Alarm on Escalating Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure

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In light of recent alarming cyber incidents targeting critical infrastructure globally, particularly the cyber attacks on Norwegian government ministries, the pressing need for heightened cybersecurity measures to protect these critical systems has once again taken center stage.

Smarttech247, in response to this critical issue, is urging all organisations with Operational Technology (OT) systems in place to conduct a thorough review of their current security measures. Additionally, the company is actively collaborating with critical infrastructure agencies to bolster their cybersecurity defenses. The recent attacks have laid bare vulnerabilities in the public sector on a global scale, emphasising the urgent requirement for proactive and resilient cybersecurity measures.

The nefarious intentions of cyber actors targeting critical infrastructure, including power grids, transportation networks, and water supply systems, pose a significant threat to public services, public safety, and the economy at large.

Raluca Saceanu, the CEO of Smarttech247, expressed her concern, stating, “Over the past 12 months, we have observed a staggering 70% increase in attempted cyber attacks on organisations’ Operational Technology (OT) or Industrial Control Systems (ICS) systems. This poses grave risks to the essential services that our societies rely upon. We are dedicated to empowering organisations to confront these evolving challenges head-on, safeguarding critical infrastructure with robust defense strategies and cutting-edge technologies.”

To tackle the ever-evolving threat landscape, considering the projected 25 billion IoT connections worldwide by 2025, Smarttech247 is taking proactive measures. They are offering a complimentary cybersecurity health check to critical infrastructures across Europe.

According to Saceanu, this initiative is designed to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen defenses, thereby fortifying these critical systems against potential cyber risks.

A businessman who co-founded a £1 billion sex toy company is tee-ed up for more success with a new golf venture 

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A businessman who co-founded a £1 billion sex toy company is tee-ed up for more success with a new golf venture.

Richard Longhurst, 53, helped to create the world’s biggest sexual wellness firm by starting Lovehoney with £4,500 savings after leaving his job as a magazine editor at Future Publishing in 2002.

Longhurst quit Lovehoney in 2019 with co-founder Neal Slateford after they sold their majority stake to Swiss venture capitalists.

Now he has invented Pocket Timer, an easy-to-use golf gadget that could save players’ scores and is already a hit on courses across the UK.

He talked about his business journey from sex toys to golf gadgets on Brightpearl’s Lightning 50 podcast.

Shaped like a coin and roughly the size of a poker chip, the lightweight, bright red Pocket Timer is designed to help players find lost balls using the full three minutes they are entitled to under the current Rules of Golf.

Golfers simply click the timer in their pocket and it buzzes every 30 seconds, ending with a double buzz when the three minutes have elapsed.

Longhurst, who is golf mad and plays off a handicap of two at Bath Golf Club, said: “I first had the idea when the rules changed in 2019 and you went from having five minutes to find a lost ball to three, incurring a one shot penalty if you cannot locate it.

“Not everybody likes wearing a watch when they play golf, so the only other way you’d be able to keep time is by using your phone. But most golfers keep that in their golf bag and it’s unlikely anybody is going to pull it out before they go traipsing off into the rough to look for their ball.

“I figured having a little thing in your pocket that keeps time and vibrates – of course – when your three minutes is up would be a simple, efficient solution.

“Most golfers were giving up too soon because they were worried about holding up play and needlessly conceding a shot.”

Longhurst shared his vision with the owners of Joy Factory, a Chinese company he had used in his Lovehoney days. Using the mould for a sex toy remote control, Pocket Timer was born.

He believes it fills an important gap in the market and, having helped improve people’s performance and pleasure in the bedroom, he is hoping to do the same on the golf course.

Using his ecommerce experience, he set up a new website selling Pocket Timer and he is now sending out the gadgets all over the world because the rules of golf are the same wherever it is played.

Longhurst, who lives in Bath, still attends Lovehoney board meetings and has a 10% stake in the firm which merged with German sex toy giant WOW Tech in 2021.

Lovehoney Group is forecast to deliver more than £300 million in revenue per year and it has blossomed into a global business worth £1 billion.

The sexual wellness category is growing so rapidly that sales are expected to exceed £40 billion globally by 2028.

Lovehoney won two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise during Longhurst’s time and he met the late monarch at a reception for winners at Buckingham Palace.

Longhurst told the L50 podcast that the key to Lovehoney’s success were fun ideas such as the Rabbit Amnesty which allowed customers to recycle their old sex toys and amazing customer service – something he wants to repeat with Pocket Timer.

While Longhurst keeps a close eye on his old industry, his focus these days is on golf.

He said: “You never know – there might be more money to be made from Pocket Timer than from selling sex toys.”

* Richard Longhurst talks about his business journey from sex toys to golf gadgets on Brightpearl’s Lightning 50  Podcast

UK’s First Black Tech Day Event Aims to Bridge Tech Divide and Empower Underrepresented Communities

Dexter Simms, an award-winning serial entrepreneur and community leader, is spearheading the UK’s first Black Tech Day event, with the support of TV personalities Emmanuel Asuquo and Big Narstie. The two-day interactive and educational tech-focused event is set to take place on 19th and 20th August at London South Bank University, aiming to inspire young individuals from underrepresented communities to explore careers in the tech industry.

With more than 40 speakers and special guests, Black Tech Day anticipates attracting 1600 attendees over the two days, making it one of the most significant annual community tech events in the region.

The event seeks to bring together young people, parents, and entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds and disadvantaged communities with leading experts to discuss the impact of technological advancement on the future of work.

As the UK Tech sector’s value reaches $1 trillion and is expected to grow to $4 trillion in the next decade, Black Tech Day aims to encourage more individuals from the BAME community to pursue tech careers and facilitate an increase in underrepresented demographics within the industry.

Currently, ethnic minorities represent only 22% of the tech workforce across the board, with even lower numbers in specific areas like cybersecurity (12%) and AI, analytics, data science, and data management (12%).

Dexter Simms’ vision to create equal opportunities for young people in South London and beyond inspired the idea behind Black Tech Day. He emphasises the lack of representation and access to technology, particularly within the Black community, and highlights the need for providing equal access to opportunities.

The event welcomes a diverse audience, including young people exploring tech careers, parents seeking insights into the impact of technological advancement on their children’s career options, business owners looking for tech solutions to grow their companies, and educational institutions connecting with prospective students for courses and apprenticeships.

Black Tech Day has attracted renowned speakers and panelists from around the world, such as Malik Stout – Executive Producer and Host of On The Bloc Chain Show and Yuvika Gupta – Mindset and Inspirational Speaker.

The event features an opening address by the Mayor of Croydon, a live FIFA gaming competition hosted by Big Narstie with a cash prize, and a live Q&A on finances with TV’s Emmanuel Asuquo. Panels will explore topics including the latest trends in Web 2 and Web 3 technologies, coding, and gamefi. A workshop on The Future of News will be hosted by The Guardian Foundation.

The event has garnered support from various organisations through sponsorship and collaborations, including Croydon College, LSBU, Mula Cake, NBA 2K, Capcom, Bandai Namco, GLA, and DWP.

Black Tech Day aims to provide a platform to explore cutting-edge technology, acquire valuable skills, and engage in interactive workshops, fostering the power of education, technology, and community to shape a brighter future for all.

For more information about the event, including the agenda and ticket purchase, visit: https://blacktechday.com/

Mozillion Introduces London’s First Rapid Cash Service for Selling Phones

Mozillion, the mobile industry’s first dedicated marketplace, has unveiled an innovative cash service for London residents selling iPhones 11-14. Once sellers accept an offer on the Mozillion platform, they can receive their cash within just a few hours.

The new CashLab service operates from a diagnostic centre in Central London, streamlining the process for sellers. They can have their phones collected, tested, and receive payment directly into their bank accounts, all within as little as 3 hours.

CEO Len Leeson elaborates on the convenience of the service: “Whether you reside in Ealing, Barking, Edgware, or Morden, you don’t need to leave your sofa or desk. As soon as your phone passes our thorough checks, we release your cash instantly.”

The diagnostic process involves a comprehensive 90-point examination, assessing visual condition, genuine parts, performance, and battery health. Additionally, Mozillion verifies the phones against major lost and stolen databases, ensuring only top-quality and authenticated devices are accepted. In return, sellers receive market-leading prices for their phones.

As an example of the benefits, on August 1, 2023, a good-as-new iPhone 14 Pro 128GB could have been traded in with a network for £545. However, through CashLab, the Mozillion seller received a higher amount of £703 and received payment within 2 hours.

For phone buyers, there’s also great news. Mozillion offers the opportunity to purchase a good-as-new phone, arrange for courier delivery, and have the device up and running within just 2 hours. Leeson further explains, “You can sell and buy simultaneously, secure better prices, and leave all the running around to Mozillion.”

To learn more about this rapid cash service and explore buying or selling options, visit https://www.mozillion.com/cashlab.

Empowering Your Business: Where to Find the Best Energy Comparisons

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Every savvy business owner understands the importance of minimizing expenses while maximizing efficiency, and one often overlooked area where this can be applied is in energy usage. The key? Energy comparison for business. But where can you find such a comparison, and how can you use it effectively? Let’s find out!

Introduction to Energy Comparison

Are you aware that you could be paying more than necessary for your business’s energy consumption? That’s right! Energy providers offer varying rates and terms, which means you might be able to find a better deal elsewhere. energy comparison for business is the practice of comparing different energy suppliers and their offerings to find the best fit for your company’s needs and budget.

Why is Energy Comparison Important for Businesses?

In today’s competitive market, every penny counts. Businesses that fail to perform regular energy comparisons may end up wasting valuable resources on expensive energy deals. This can have a significant impact on the bottom line.

Factors to Consider for Energy Comparison

When comparing energy deals for your business, it’s essential to take a few factors into consideration.

Energy Consumption

Understanding your business’s energy consumption patterns is the first step in the energy comparison process.

Peak and Off-Peak Hours

Some businesses may have higher energy usage during certain times of the day. Identifying these peak and off-peak hours can help you choose an energy plan that best suits your business.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal variations can significantly impact your energy consumption. For instance, businesses in colder climates may require more energy during winter months.

Type of Energy Source

Another crucial factor to consider when comparing energy deals is the type of energy source.

Traditional Energy Sources

Traditional energy sources such as gas and electricity are commonly used by businesses. However, these energy sources can fluctuate in price due to market conditions.

Renewable Energy Sources

As businesses strive to become more environmentally friendly, renewable energy sources like solar and wind are becoming increasingly popular.

Where to Find Energy Comparison for Businesses

There are several places where businesses can compare energy deals.

Comparison Websites

There are numerous comparison websites that allow businesses to compare energy prices from different suppliers easily. These sites provide a comprehensive overview of the available energy deals, making it easier to find one that suits your business.

Energy Brokers

Energy brokers offer a more personalized service. They can help your business negotiate better energy deals by leveraging their industry knowledge and connections.

Direct Energy Suppliers

Direct energy suppliers also offer business energy comparison services. By contacting these suppliers directly, you can inquire about their current energy deals and negotiate a contract that fits your business.

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How to Choose the Best Energy Deal for Your Business

Understanding Energy Tariffs

Fixed Tariffs

A fixed tariff means that the price you pay for each unit of energy remains constant throughout your contract term. This can be an excellent option for businesses that want to avoid unexpected energy cost fluctuations.

Variable Tariffs

With variable tariffs, the unit price can change depending on market conditions. This could result in savings when energy prices drop but could also lead to higher costs when prices rise.

Contracts and Terms

Different energy suppliers offer different contract terms. It’s essential to thoroughly read and understand these terms before signing an agreement.

Conclusion: Energy Comparison is Crucial for Your Business

In conclusion, energy comparison for businesses is not just an option; it’s a necessity. With the potential to save on energy costs and boost your business’s sustainability efforts, there’s every reason to start comparing energy deals today.

Why Brand is So Important for Any Business

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Introduction

In the grand tapestry of the business world, each thread represents a unique entity, a company striving to weave its own story of success. Amidst this vast and vibrant landscape, one might wonder, what makes a business stand out? What makes it memorable, influential, and ultimately successful? The answer lies in a single, powerful word: branding. But why is a brand so important for any business? Why does it hold such a pivotal role in the narrative of success?

Branding is not merely about having a catchy logo or a memorable slogan. It’s a comprehensive, sensory experience that a customer associates with your company and its offerings. It’s the unique identity that sets you apart from the sea of competitors, the distinguishing factor that makes you recognizable amidst the crowd. It’s the embodiment of your business’s personality, values, and mission, and it’s the promise you make to your customers about what they can expect from you.

The True Nature of Branding: Beyond the Surface

Branding is more than just a catchy logo or a memorable slogan. It’s the total sensory experience a customer has with your company and its products or services. It’s what sets you apart from your competitors and makes you recognizable in the crowded marketplace.

The Role of a Branding Agency: A branding agency, like a branding agency in Birmingham, plays a crucial role in shaping your brand. They work to understand your business’s core values, target audience, and market position. With this information, they create a unique and compelling brand identity that resonates with your audience and stands out in the market.

Branding as a Business’s DNA: Think of branding as the DNA of your business—it’s what makes you unique. It’s the combination of your business’s personality, values, and mission. It’s what you promise to your customers and what they can expect from you. It’s the reason why customers choose you over your competitors.

Branding: The Secret Ingredient to Business Success

Branding has a profound impact on a business’s success. It influences how customers perceive your business, how they interact with it, and ultimately, whether they choose to do business with you.

Branding Builds Recognition: One of the most significant benefits of branding is recognition. A strong brand stands out in a crowded market, making it easier for customers to remember and recognize your business. This recognition can lead to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.

Branding Builds Trust: A well-established brand also builds trust with customers. When customers recognize your brand and know what to expect from your business, they’re more likely to trust you with their business. This trust can lead to increased customer loyalty and repeat business.

Branding Attracts Your Target Audience: A strong brand doesn’t just attract any customers—it attracts the right customers. By clearly communicating your business’s values and personality through your brand, you can attract customers who align with those values and are more likely to be interested in your products or services.

Branding Agency Birmingham: Your Ally in Crafting a Powerful Brand

In the bustling city of Birmingham, businesses face stiff competition. To stand out, businesses need a strong brand—and that’s where a branding agency in Birmingham comes in. These agencies have the expertise and creativity to help businesses build a unique and compelling brand that resonates with their target audience and stands out in the market.

The Strategic Role of Branding Agency Birmingham in Brand Growth

A branding agency in Birmingham works closely with businesses to understand their core values, target audience, and market position. With this information, they create a unique and compelling brand identity that resonates with the audience and stands out in the market.

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The Benefits of Working with a Branding Agency Birmingham

Working with a branding agency in Birmingham offers several benefits. These agencies have a deep understanding of the local market, making them uniquely positioned to create a brand that resonates with local customers. They also bring a fresh perspective and creative ideas to the table, helping businesses to stand out in a crowded market.

Conclusion

In the vast expanse of the business world, a brand serves as a beacon, guiding customers towards a business. It’s the unique signature that distinguishes a business from its competitors, the defining factor that makes a business recognizable and memorable. A brand is not just a logo or a slogan—it’s the total sensory experience a customer has with a company. It’s the embodiment of a business’s personality, values, and mission, and it’s the promise a business makes to its customers about what they can expect from it.

A strong brand can lead to increased recognition, trust, and customer loyalty, all of which are critical drivers of business success. It doesn’t just attract any customers—it attracts the right customers. By clearly communicating a business’s values and personality through its brand, a business can attract customers who align with those values and are more likely to be interested in its products or services.

Miami Unveiled: A Perfect Week of Exploration and Leisure

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Miami. A city in the south of Florida, geographically close to Cuba, Miami has become a cultural hotspot that entices travelers from all over the world with its offerings of fashion, nightlife, cuisine, and abundant sunshine.

So, you’re all set for your Miami adventure with your bikinis, speedos, sunglasses, and that Scarface-inspired shirt. Landing at Miami International Airport (MIA), one of the busiest US airports for international passengers, you’re eager to get your car hire and hit the town. But how do you make the most of your week in Miami? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with the perfect guide to the 305.

Day 1 – Welcome to Miami Beach

The first order of business is to get some sun on your skin, especially if you want to blend in with the tanned, toned, and taut beachgoers. Head to South Beach, the Sun and Fun Capital of the World. Yes, we know Blackpool might contest that title, but South Beach is famous for its white sand beaches, including South Pointe and Lummus Park, often considered the best in Miami. Besides, the area is filled with eateries and bars, so you can grab a bite while soaking up the sun.

Miami’s beaches are popular year-round, staying warm even during winter. Make sure to take a selfie at the iconic colorful lifeguard stations dotted along the beaches for a memorable keepsake.

Day 2 – Discover Little Havana

After a perfect day at the beach, it’s time to explore Miami further. Drive to Little Havana, where you’ll find a thriving scene with Latin American art galleries, bustling restaurants, and cafes serving strong Cuban coffee. It’s a quintessential Miami experience.

From Little Havana, take a drive through Bayside Marketplace, known for its shops and restaurants, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit Wynwood Walls, Miami’s original street-art museum. Wynwood has transformed into the ‘Silicon Valley of the South,’ so you might encounter musicians, tech giants, and more on its streets.

Visit Maximo Gomez Park in Little Havana, nicknamed Domino Park, where people from all walks of life come together to play dominos and discuss politics.

Day 3 – Embrace Miami’s Culture

Dedicate a day to exploring Miami’s cultural centers. Depending on your interests, you can visit Zoo Miami, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, or Coral Castle Museum. After some organized sightseeing, take a spontaneous amble through the streets and discover numerous cafes, restaurants, and hidden gems.

For an extra dose of culture, head to the famous Villa Casa Casuarina, the former Versace Mansion, where you can indulge in a set lunch menu for just $34 (available from Monday to Friday).

Day 4 – Explore Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive is the heart of Miami Beach, known for its architecturally impressive hotels, restaurants, and bars. Take a stroll through this historic district, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the era of the Great Depression and art deco buildings.

Don’t miss the iconic 1939 Colony Hotel, one of the most photographed art deco buildings globally. When it’s time to eat, try one of these popular spots:

  • The Ocean Grill (at The Setai) – renowned for celebrity clientele including Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashians 
  • Queen Miami Beach – designed to capture a bygone feel of decadence, glamour, and power
  • Limonada Bar + Brunch – for the more budget-friendly, this all-day sports bar and restaurant is a great place to enjoy the scene 

Day 5 – Day Trip to Key West

While Miami is captivating, take advantage of its proximity to other fantastic destinations. Consider a day trip to Key West, which is only about 160 miles away and a 3.5-hour drive. The picturesque town offers a perfect escape and a taste of luxury. Rent a boat, relax under the pink skies, and enjoy the charming waterfront establishments.

If you prefer a shorter drive, head to the Everglades, located about 20 minutes away from Miami. Explore Florida’s famous swamps and, if you’re lucky, spot an alligator or two.

Day 6 – Experience Millionaire’s Row and Miami’s Nightlife

Today is all about luxury and excess. Embark on a bespoke tour that offers premium views of Miami’s finest homes and sights along Millionaire’s Row. Admire the opulence of celebrities like JLo and P Diddy.

After a glimpse of the high life, immerse yourself in Miami’s vibrant nightlife. Some of the most popular clubs in Miami are:

Day 7 – Final Beach Day

As your week in Miami comes to an end, indulge in another day on the beach. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, unwind with a free yoga class on the beach, shop for souvenirs, and bask in the golden rays of the Sunshine State.

With a week full of adventures, tours, and sightseeing behind you, this final day of rest and relaxation will be a fitting end to your Miami journey.

Now you have the ultimate guide to spend a perfect week in Miami, filled with experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the sun, the beach, the culture, and the nightlife in this vibrant and dynamic city. Miami awaits!

Distinctive Chesterfield Unveils their Iconic Design: The Windsor Chesterfield Sofa

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Distinctive Chesterfield, a renowned name in the upholstery industry, proudly presents its blueprint design, the Windsor Chesterfield Sofa, which encapsulates the brand’s 200-year-old inspired aesthetic. While all their sofas bear the signature style of Distinctive Chesterfield, the Windsor holds a special place as a personification of the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.

Steve Laidlaw, Owner of Distinctive Chesterfield, reflects on the brand’s journey and its commitment to creating classic leather furniture for over fifteen years. The Windsor design embodies the company’s growth, driven by strong family values and a passion for offering upscale handcrafted furniture to customers worldwide.

With its traditional features and firm, supportive sit, the Windsor stands out among other models. Its buttoned seat, along with plush leathers and high-quality foams, creates a solid and comfortable base. According to Steve, choosing a Chesterfield from Distinctive Chesterfields means more than just buying a couch; it is an experience that exceeds expectations from the moment customers enter the showroom to the delivery of their exquisite piece.

The designers at Distinctive Chesterfield retained the authentic and historic qualities of the Windsor, adding only subtle touches to preserve its timeless charm. Characterised by bun feet, single button border, studded embellishments, and superior external piping, the Windsor Chesterfield Sofa proudly represents the pinnacle of British furniture.

The Windsor, along with other luxurious ranges, is available on both the UK and US websites of Distinctive Chesterfield, offering a sofa for every discerning taste and lifestyle, from elegant London apartments to luxurious Hamptons homes.

Gadsby Wicks Triumphs in Compensation Case Over Delayed Diagnosis and GP Negligence

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Gadsby Wicks, a renowned medical negligence firm serving Essex and East Anglia, has successfully secured compensation for a client who suffered due to the delayed treatment of Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA) and Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).

Handled by experienced solicitor and Partner Tony Mitty, this case highlights the consequences of unnecessary delays in diagnosis and GP negligence, resulting in a poor and avoidable outcome for the claimant.

The Case: The claimant, referred to as Mrs F to safeguard her privacy, first consulted her GP with complaints of a dull ache in her shoulder joints, hips, and upper legs, with limited mobility. Unfortunately, no meaningful action was taken at this stage.

A month later, Mrs F returned with worsening symptoms, experiencing difficulties getting in and out of bed and climbing stairs. Additionally, she had a constant ache from her forehead to the top of her head, severe jaw pain while eating, and tenderness in her left temple when touched. Yet again, no appropriate action was taken.

After another month-and-a-half, Mrs F’s left eye vision became blurred, leading her to seek emergency medical attention. She was admitted to the hospital, but tragically, she lost all vision in her left eye several days later.

Following thorough examination, Mrs F was diagnosed with GCA and PMR. She underwent blood transfusions and commenced high-dose steroid medication, which resulted in side effects, including Cushing’s Disease.

The Claim: Mrs F pursued the claim on the grounds that her GP should have diagnosed and treated her for PMR during her initial consultation. Early treatment with low-dose steroids could have prevented the side effects she now endures.

Moreover, during her second visit, her GP should have recognised signs of GCA and initiated investigations and treatment to prevent the vision loss in her left eye.

The Outcome: Gadsby Wicks conducted an extensive investigation into Mrs F’s case and initiated legal proceedings. Initially, the Defendants denied any breach of duty and causation. However, after exchanging expert evidence, the claim eventually settled out of court.

As a result, Mrs F received fair compensation for her pain, suffering, and the challenges she faced. The successful outcome provided her with the answers and closure she sought, offering support as she moves forward from this distressing incident.

Tony Mitty, the medical solicitor handling Mrs F’s case, commented, “It is always unfortunate when a patient’s poor outcome could have been entirely prevented with earlier intervention from a healthcare professional, especially when there were multiple opportunities such as this case. Although we cannot turn back the clock on our client’s mistreatment, I am glad that we could help her secure a successful result in her claim. I am confident that the compensation awarded will provide Mrs F with invaluable support as she moves on from this incident, hopefully preventing others from facing the same result.”

Gadsby Wicks has seen an increase in delayed treatment claims over the past year, and as a firm, they remain dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for clients who have suffered due to avoidable delays in their care.

Therapy For You Introduces Limbic to Enhance Access to Talking Therapies

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Therapy For You, the NHS Talking Therapies service catering to patients in North East and South East Essex, has taken a significant step forward by introducing Limbic to their website – an innovative mental health referral chatbot driven by artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance access to their diverse range of talking therapies.

This powerful tool, completely free to use, facilitates individuals seeking support to easily find the treatments they require, thereby commencing their journey to therapy through an entirely online experience.

Widening the Reach of Essential Mental Health Support Improving access to psychological therapies has been a top priority for mental health services across the country, with the UK government affirming its commitment to this cause in June 2023’s mandate for NHS England.

Despite one in four people in the UK being affected by mental health concerns each year, only 1.81 million individuals were referred to NHS Talking Therapies in 2022. Several factors contribute to this, with fear of judgment being a significant barrier to seeking help – a challenge that Therapy For You sought to address.

Richard Black, NHS Talking Therapies Digital Services Manager at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), highlighted the impact of the previous system, saying, “To get started with this type of treatment in the past, patients had to ring into the service themselves. For those already finding it difficult to cope, this phone call could become a huge source of anxiety and an enormous barrier to treatment.”

Recognising the need for an online referral pathway that is quick, easy, and supportive, Therapy For You partnered with Limbic to incorporate a clinically proven e-triage assistant on their website. Leveraging AI, this assistant guides users through accessing a full range of mental health support online, at any time, even outside of office hours.

Empowering Users with Limbic’s AI Assistant When visitors land on the Therapy For You website, Limbic promptly offers assistance to help them find what they are seeking. The AI assistant skillfully directs users to immediate services like ieso typed therapy and Omni Online CBT. Additionally, it enables individuals to refer to talking therapies such as 1-1 therapy, group therapy, phone therapy, and video calls.

To accomplish this, Limbic engages users in a series of essential questions regarding their demographic information, emotional well-being, and current situation. Furthermore, it delves into mood, anxiety, and day-to-day task management, culminating in a comprehensive referral to the service.

Once the referral is confirmed, typically within a few hours and certainly by the next working day, users receive a link to the service’s ‘choose and book’ system. Here, they can conveniently schedule an assessment appointment at a time that suits them best.

A Successful Journey with Limbic Monitoring the performance of Limbic over the first nine months, Therapy For You witnessed over 4,500 people using the chatbot to make a referral, with an impressive 89% finding the new system helpful.

Moreover, the number of phone referrals into the service decreased by a third, as many visitors opted for the new AI assistant to seek the support they needed.

Black expressed the significance of digital innovation in the therapeutic landscape, remarking, “All of this goes to show how important and valuable digital innovation is within the therapeutic landscape.”

While Limbic proves highly effective, the team acknowledges that it may not be the ideal pathway for everyone. For those who prefer a more personal approach, phone referrals remain available.

Looking to the Future with Limbic After a successful nine-month trial, Therapy For You continues to explore the full potential of Limbic as a supportive tool throughout patients’ therapeutic journeys.

About Therapy For You Therapy For You serves as the local NHS Talking Therapy service for Colchester, Tendring, Southend, Castle Point, and Rochford. It is dedicated to improving people’s well-being by offering a range of treatment pathways for individuals experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Their treatments include:

  • Online CBT courses
  • 1-1 therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Phone therapy
  • Video calls
  • Ieso online therapy

Working in collaboration with Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), Therapy For You is committed to breaking down barriers to mental health access. They have successfully helped 98.6% of users seek meaningful help and enabled 99.4% to gain better insights into their difficulties through proven treatments and innovative online therapy.

The service offers treatment to individuals aged 18 and above in South East Essex and individuals aged 16 and above in North East Essex who are not currently receiving secondary mental health care or crisis services.

For more information about their services, visit their website at www.therapyforyou.co.uk, or reach out to 01268 739 128 if you live in South East Essex or 01206 334 001 if you are a resident of North East Essex.