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Honouring Workplace Safety Excellence: The 2023 Health and Safety Awards

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The 2023 Health and Safety Awards, devoted to recognising outstanding contributions in workplace safety and health, have unveiled this year’s winners and finalists. These prestigious awards underscore the commitment and innovation of companies and individuals in creating safer workspaces and endorsing health and safety standards in various industries.

2023 Health and Safety Awards Winners
● Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust – Health and Safety Technology Innovation
● Palletline Ltd – Health and Safety Team of the Year
● First Safety Training Services Ltd – Safety Training Provider of the Year
● Paul Berry Group Training – Small Business Health and Safety Award
● M V Kelly Ltd – Construction Safety Award
● Engro Fertilizer Ltd – Manufacturing Division – Environmental Health and Safety Award
● Pobl Group – Safety Culture Excellence Award
● Medazur Medical Clinic – Healthcare Safety Award
● Broadstone Risks – Excellence in Risk Assessment and Management

2023 Health and Safety Awards Finalists
● Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust – Excellence in Risk Assessment and Management, Healthcare Safety Award
● Palletline Ltd – Health and Safety Technology Innovation
● First Safety Training Services Ltd – Small Business Health and Safety Award
● Wiltshire First Aid Training – Safety Training Provider of the Year
● Quality Safety Training Limited – Safety Training Provider of the Year
● Engro Fertilizer Ltd – Manufacturing Division – Safety Culture Excellence Award
● Pobl Group – Health and Safety Team of the Year, Environmental Health and Safety Award
● Ropeway – Construction Safety Award

Individual Achievers in the 2023 Health and Safety Awards
● Winner: Ken Bell, Palletline Ltd – Health and Safety Manager of the Year

The 2023 Health and Safety Awards celebrate the impactful contributions of companies and individuals in the field of health and safety. These awards salute their pivotal role in establishing safer, healthier workplace environments and promoting a culture of safety and wellness.

For more details about the 2023 Health and Safety Awards or to set up interviews, please reach out to Business Awards UK.

Celebrating Innovators in Sustainable Energy: The 2023 Clean Energy Awards

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The 2023 Clean Energy Awards have announced this year’s winners and finalists, honouring the innovators in sustainable energy. These prestigious awards pay tribute to the extraordinary efforts and advancements by entities and individuals in fostering clean energy, sustainability, and groundbreaking solutions in the energy industry.

2023 Clean Energy Awards Winners
● HDM Solar – Clean Energy Family Business of the Year
● The Energy Experts – Sustainable Energy Startup of the Year
● Kimble Solar – Energy Storage Innovation of the Year
● SocialCru Energy and Renewables – Clean Energy Research and Development Award
● Cambridge Solar – Best Solar Power Project
● OHM Energy – Energy Education Program of the Year

2023 Clean Energy Awards Finalists
● HDM Solar – Sustainable Energy Startup of the Year
● Kimble Solar – Best Solar Power Project, Sustainable Energy Startup of the Year
● Carbon Zero Renewables – Clean Energy Research and Development Award, Energy Education Program of the Year
● Bliss Eco Energy – Energy Storage Innovation of the Year

2023 Clean Energy Awards Individual Achievers
● Winner: Gareth Jones, Carbon Zero Renewables – Lifetime Achievement in Clean Energy
● Finalist: Jason Lindfield, OHM Energy – Lifetime Achievement in Clean Energy

The 2023 Clean Energy Awards emphasise the significant role and innovations in the sustainable energy sector, underlining the importance of eco-friendly and renewable energy solutions. The awards commend the winners and finalists for their commitment to pioneering green technologies, contributing significantly to a more sustainable future.

For more details about the 2023 Clean Energy Awards or to set up interviews, please reach out to Business Awards UK.

Enreach Debuts Innovative Enreach Contact App Suite

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Enreach, a leader in converged contact solutions in Europe, has unveiled its groundbreaking Enreach Contact App Suite. This suite includes an updated Desktop App, new Mobile Apps for both iOS and Android platforms, and an integrated Teams App, all designed to transform business communications across Europe.

The suite enables integration of Enreach’s state-of-the-art voice and call control functionalities with Microsoft Teams’ collaborative features, signifying a leap forward in enhancing operational efficiency and aiding businesses in their digital transformation journey. The Enreach Contact App Suite, which will be available to customers from early 2024, provides seamless connectivity to key communication and productivity tools, regardless of the user’s location or device.

“In today’s rapidly changing digital landscape, Enreach remains committed to empowering businesses with seamless and intuitive solutions. The new Enreach Contact App Suite illustrates this by providing unified user experiences for both mobile and desktop settings and boosting productivity with advanced integration options. We are focused on offering solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also user-centric, ensuring that every interaction through Enreach Contact is a step towards greater efficiency,” said Koen van Geffen, Chief Technology Officer of Enreach.

Martin Classen, Chief Product Officer of Enreach, further remarked, “The new App Suite aligns with Enreach’s strategy to deliver seamlessly integrated contact solutions, driven by the increasing demand for truly unified solutions blending UCaaS, CCaaS, connectivity, and more. Based on today’s customer behaviours and needs, where everyone wants to work from anywhere at any time, this new App Suite meets all the requirements for integrating communication into business processes. It also connects with frequently used tools like Microsoft Teams and over one hundred CRM systems, and offers seamless mobile connectivity that allows users to easily transition between fixed and mobile networks.”

The Enreach Contact App Suite, which is currently undergoing field testing, is scheduled for launch in early 2024.

Enreach Contact, Enreach’s user-friendly and highly scalable UCaaS solution, is engineered to meet the digital transformation needs of businesses. It integrates voice, chat, video, advanced call management, AI functionalities, and both fixed and mobile connectivity, making communication smoother and remote work more accessible.

Cryosthetics Debuts Revolutionary CoolLift Facial Treatment with Lisa Franklin Clinic

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Cryosthetics, an innovator in aesthetic treatment technologies, unveils CoolLift, a revolutionary facial rejuvenation system. CoolLift is a significant step forward in non-invasive skin revitalisation, providing a unique fusion of hydration, tonal improvement, and visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.

CoolLift’s advanced technology takes a comprehensive approach to facial care, addressing multiple skin concerns and offering a holistic solution for those desiring non-surgical rejuvenation. The system is distinctive in its ability to hydrate, even out skin tone, and stimulate collagen production, setting a new standard in the aesthetic field.

In a key partnership, Cryosthetics has selected Lisa Franklin ‘Clinic Privé’ in London as its premier partner. Lisa Franklin, a renowned skincare specialist, commented, “CoolLift by Cryosthetics marks a transformative phase in facial rejuvenation. It’s a treatment that respects each client’s unique skincare journey, going beyond superficial solutions.”

The collaboration with Cryosthetics ensures clients have access to premium service, enhanced by Lisa Franklin’s wealth of knowledge. Franklin further remarked, “Together with Cryosthetics, we offer unparalleled results in facial rejuvenation, blending our commitment to customised care with innovative technology.”

The introduction of CoolLift aims to redefine the aesthetic industry, offering a safe, effective, and non-invasive option compared to traditional cosmetic treatments. Cryosthetics continues its tradition of innovation, excellence, and customer care in aesthetic treatment with this introduction.

Disputing a Statutory Demand: A Strategic Guide for Debtors

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A Statutory Demand, rooted in the Insolvency Act 1986, is a formalised call for debt repayment used by creditors to compel payment from debtors, whether they are individuals or businesses.

For debtors who question the legitimacy of a Statutory Demand they have received, there is a legal pathway to challenge and possibly get it set aside. The following steps outline the process of disputing a Statutory Demand:

  1. Professional Legal Consultation: It’s crucial for a debtor to initially seek advice from a solicitor who is experienced in insolvency and debt-related legal matters. This step is essential to understand the specifics of their situation and to plot an appropriate legal response.
  2. Valid Grounds for Challenging a Statutory Demand: Understanding the legitimate reasons for disputing a Statutory Demand is key for the debtor. These grounds typically include:
    • Contesting the accuracy of the debt.
    • The debt being below the statutory minimum.
    • Errors in the statutory demand’s format or content.
    • The debtor having a counterclaim, set-off, or cross-demand that meets or exceeds the debt.
  3. Crucial Forms for the Challenge in England and Wales:
    • Form 6.4 (Rule 6.4(1)): The application form for the debtor to challenge the statutory demand.
    • Form 6.5 (Rule 6.4(2)): This form provides evidence and details to support the challenge.
    • Form 6.6 (Rule 6.4(3)): Used if the debtor is also seeking an injunction against a bankruptcy petition from the creditor.

The debtor must complete and submit these forms to the court, which then schedules a hearing to review the application. It is important to follow the correct protocol and present all necessary evidence and information for a successful challenge.

Assistance from Expert Commercial Law in Debt Recovery

Expert Commercial Law, through its panel of solicitors experienced in commercial law, offers invaluable assistance for parties looking to set aside a Statutory Demand. While we are not a law firm, we provide access to a panel of solicitors for legal advice and cost-effective support on commercial law cases, including setting aside Statutory Demands. Our panel also deals with other commercial matters like business energy claimsshareholder disputes and contract disputes.

Global Gaming Adventure: Ticket to Ride Hits Mobile Platforms

Marmalade Game Studio proudly announces the expansion of Ticket to Ride to mobile platforms, following its acclaimed introduction on Steam in November.

Since launching on Steam, Marmalade Game Studio has been exemplary in its community interaction, continually incorporating feedback from players into the game’s development. They have also provided a clear roadmap of ongoing support extending through 2024. This move to mobile is in direct response to the gaming community’s desire for a more mobile-friendly version of Ticket to Ride. True to Marmalade’s ethos, the game supports cross-platform multiplayer, enabling users to connect with others regardless of the device.

Co-CEO of Marmalade Game Studio, Michael Willis, highlights the studio’s community-driven approach: “We’ve always prioritised actively listening and responding to our players’ desires and with Ticket to Ride we’ve enjoyed amazing support and engagement from our player-base. The transparent roadmap, detailing our commitment to ongoing support through 2024 and beyond, is a testament to our dedication. Your feedback drives us, and together, we’re shaping the future of our game.”

The mobile iteration of Ticket to Ride encompasses all features present in the Steam release, including an advanced adaptive AI system, a revitalised design, and various play modes, both real-time and asynchronous. The game launches with the Europe map available for purchase within the app, and players can anticipate multiple expansions over the next 12-18 months.

The Downfall of Smile Direct Club: Thousands Left With Incomplete Dental Treatments

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Smile Direct Club’s recent filing for bankruptcy has stranded countless patients in the midst of their dental treatments, posing a risk of irreversible harm to their dental and bone health. Board-certified orthodontist Dr Guilherme Xavier from Dulwich Dental Office had long predicted such an outcome.

Dental professionals have consistently called for more stringent oversight of these unlicensed, makeshift dental clinics offering economical teeth straightening services. The old adage that if something appears too good to be true, it often is, rings true in this case – a crisis that was bound to happen.

Smile Direct Club did manage to deliver on their promise of affordable teeth straightening to a select group, typically those with minor dental issues and good oral health. Yet, even these patients now find themselves in a tough spot, having paid for services with no avenue for reimbursement or certainty about future orthodontic care.

The dental community isn’t surprised by this development, having sought stricter regulation from the General Dental Council without success. Smile Direct Club had devised various methods to avoid any punitive measures. As is often the case with inexpensive alternatives, numerous patients are now facing potential gum disease, a relapse of their treatment progress, or in the worst cases, tooth loss.

Legal action against Smile Direct Club appears unlikely due to the extensive disclaimers in their initial patient agreements.

Affected patients should first avoid panicking and consult a specialist orthodontist for an assessment and a revised treatment plan. This might involve starting over or adapting the previous treatment.

Depending on the case, either aligners or traditional braces might be recommended. Consulting with a board-certified specialist orthodontist is the best course of action. Dr Xavier is offering legitimate consultations at Dulwich Dental Office, Dental Care Centre, and Camden High Street Dental in London.

Consultation bookings are available at:

Dr Guilherme Xavier is a board-certified specialist orthodontist registered with the General Dental Council and has held a position as an Academic Clinical Lecturer and honorary specialist registrar in Orthodontics at King’s College London.

Osbourne Pinner Addresses Survey Indicating One Quarter of Landlords May Sell in 2024

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Osbourne Pinner, a top-tier law firm in London, has issued a response following a recent survey by Alan Boswell Landlord Insurance Statistics, which revealed that one in four landlords is contemplating selling their properties in 2024.

The survey highlighted that a slim majority (52%) of landlords plan to maintain their current portfolio size, with 26% intending to sell more properties than they purchase, and 22% looking to expand in the coming year.

2023 has been a significant year for the industry, marked by the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill in Parliament. This Bill seeks to eliminate assured shorthold tenancies and, consequently, section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions. The proposed change would see PRS tenancies become monthly periodic assured tenancies without a fixed end date. The Bill also aims to bolster the criteria for repossession, addressing issues like anti-social behaviour and accumulated rent arrears.

The Bill underwent its second reading in October and was successfully passed, bringing it a step closer to enactment.

Santosh Kumar, Senior Housing Solicitor at Osbourne Pinner, commented: “With tougher legislation such as the Renters Reform Bill currently on the agenda, as well as unpredictable inflation rates, landlords appear to be thinking twice about whether the industry is as lucrative as it once was.

“The Alan Boswell survey showed that tenant conflicts are also high on the list of landlords’ biggest concerns, so working with a trusted legal partner is recommended to deal with conflicts as and when they occur.

“As the legislation landlords have to comply with is changing, having an expert legal team on your side is crucial to protecting your investment. We view our clients’ properties as if they’re our own, whether they are renters or landlords looking for a future investment or a source of income.

Located in Piccadilly Circus and Harrow, Osbourne Pinner recently launched its Landlord and Tenant service. The service has quickly attracted a substantial client base. It offers landlords bespoke services, including advice and support from the time a tenant moves in until their departure.

Santosh further stated: “Our specialist tenant dispute solicitors know how to protect tenants’ rights and ensure they get what they deserve. When your landlord takes legal action against you, we’ll help and advise you about your rights and the potential legal costs. Additionally, we can assist you with tenant disputes over assured shorthold tenancies, deposit disputes and property repair claims.

“We work as an integral member of your commercial property team and our approach is straightforward and clear, limiting the financial impact of disagreements. We will advise and assist you throughout the landlord and tenant dispute, explaining your rights, alternatives, and likely outcomes.”

Further information about Osbourne Pinner is accessible here.

Expert Chris Boyd Elucidates the Importance of Latest Burglary Technologies for Residential and Commercial Property Security

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In 2022/2023, England and Wales reported an alarming 191,490 house burglaries. This breaks down to about 525 burglaries each day, or one every 165 seconds.

Given these figures, the need for businesses and families to evaluate and update their security measures is paramount.

Chris Boyd, the founder of NSW UK, which specializes in a broad spectrum of CCTV and burglary systems, discusses strategies for ensuring optimal security.

Advancing Security Technology

The last decade has seen substantial advancements in CCTV technology, moving away from the once-standard fuzzy images featured on Crime Stoppers.

The real strength of CCTV systems lies in their integration with other security solutions, such as burglar alarms, to prevent theft and vandalism in both residential and business environments.

Chris Boyd shares NSW UK’s technology approach: “Every CCTV system we build and install has the ability to capture high-definition footage. In a court of law, CCTV footage from a professionally built system may be included as evidence, which can protect communities more efficiently.”

He further explains, “There are analogue and digital CCTV systems available. Digital systems, using Internet Protocol (IP), are newer, while analogue systems have been in use for longer. IP cameras can be either hardwired or wireless, and operate using sim cards or wifi.”

The advancements in security technology have brought invaluable peace of mind to property owners. The capability to monitor locations remotely via web browsers or smartphone apps plays a critical role in deterring crime and identifying offenders.

He concludes: “CCTV systems, whether digital or analogue, each offer benefits and drawbacks. Selecting the correct system can be difficult, so it’s important to do your homework and pick a company that has the best expertise, carefully trains its employees, and has the newest designs and can assist you along the way. Although this may be more expensive, it’s better to avoid going with the less expensive option that could end up costing much more if properties are broken into later.”

Chris also highlights the significance of maintaining systems:

“Every part of a protective system is brand-new and fully functional when it is installed. The components of an alarm may wear out with time and frequent use. When this occurs, safety issues may also surface in addition to the alarm’s decreased effectiveness.

This is the reason why maintaining systems is crucial for both financial and safety reasons. This can also be accomplished through the business you chose; NSW UK has the best-trained personnel to install and support your alarms and systems in addition to providing ongoing maintenance.”

Further details about NSW UK’s CCTV and tech services are available here.

Leading Academics and AI Experts to Deliberate Education’s Future at London Event, Introducing KEATH

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The University of Surrey, in collaboration with their AI EdTech spinout KEATH.ai, is orchestrating a landmark AI Advancement Forum at London’s House of Lords. Scheduled for December 15th, this forum is set to address the challenges and opportunities of AI in education, potentially shaping its future direction.

Diverse Experts Gather to Explore AI in Education

This notable event will host discussions on AI’s implications in the education sector. The forum will see a gathering of influential figures, including lords, chancellors, and leaders from academia and venture capital. Key speakers at the event are:

  • Prof. Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor, University of Surrey
  • The Lord Taylor of Warwick
  • Prof. Katie Normington, Vice-Chancellor of De Montfort University
  • Prof. Manolis Mavrikis, Artificial Intelligence Professor at University College London (UCL)
  • Kevin Ebenezer, Head of Global Recognition, Cambridge University Press and Assessment
  • Dr. Lisa Nelson, Director of Learning, Kaplan

Launch and Showcase of KEATH’s EdTech Solutions

The event also serves as a platform for KEATH.ai to launch and present its innovative EdTech solutions. Joey Lin, KEATH’s CEO, is confident in the company’s groundbreaking approach to assessment. KEATH’s technology, having shown remarkable accuracy in grading Pearson EPQs, is touted as independent and proprietary, distinct from existing AGI models.

Addressing Teacher Workload through AI

The issue of overburdened educators is significant, with studies indicating excessive hours spent on tasks beyond teaching, especially assessment. In the US, educators work upwards of 54 hours a week, with UK teachers dedicating around six hours daily to student assessments. This considerable workload has led to industrial actions, highlighting the potential role of AI in alleviating these pressures.

Advancing Education with AI Solutions

The integration of AI in education, spearheaded by the University of Surrey and KEATH.ai, represents a new chapter in teaching methodologies. Institutions like the University of Southampton and Sunway University in Malaysia are early examples of the practical application of these AI tools. The upcoming AI Advancement Forum is a crucial juncture, uniting experts to deliberate on and navigate the future of AI in the educational landscape.

Data References

Hardison, H. (2022). How Teachers Spend Their Time: A Breakdown. Education Week. [online] 19 Apr. Available at: https://www.edweek.org/teaching-learning/how-teachers-spend-their-time-a-breakdown/2022/04

Mcshane, M. (2022). How do Teachers Spend Their Time? [online] Available at: https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED621761.pdf.

Weir, M. (n.d.). 7 things you might not realize teachers have to do after the school day ends. [online] Business Insider. Available at: https://www.businessinsider.com/teachers-time-spent-after-school-work-2019-10?r=US&IR=T.

www.tes.com. (n.d.). Teachers spend ‘44 days a year’ assessing pupils | Tes Magazine. [online] Available at: https://www.tes.com/magazine/archive/teachers-spend-44-days-year-assessing-pupils

euromedia (2016). UK teachers spend a whole day on marking each week. [online] qaeducation. Available at: https://qaeducation.co.uk/feature/uk-teachers-spend-whole-day-marking-each-week/