Talbot Jones Ltd

Do you have ideas that you would like to try of projects that could make a lasting change in Gateshead to increase access to nutritious, affordable food? Gateshead Council is offering a further round of small grants funded by the DWP Household Support Fund to support the Gateshead Food Network to provide food to residents who may be at risk of going cold or hungry, recognising that demand for help is increasing and donations of food are decreasing They’re looking to fund new activities, partnerships, new ways of doing things, which could provide insight into and pave the way for long term sustainable food system change in Gateshead. More information available here: https://lnkd.in/eQate5nw

Funded training opportunity! The Government has launched Help to Grow: Management Essentials, a new, free, bite-sized online course to help small businesses grow. Delivered by the Government in partnership with the Chartered Association of Business Schools, Help to Grow: Management Essentials covers the essential business concepts required to unlock growth through short videos featuring practical tips and resources. https://lnkd.in/e8gQaZsN

The Flexible AI Upskilling Fund pilot scheme from the UK Government will support SMEs in the Professional and Business Services Sector by providing 50% match-funding for AI skills training for their employees. It aims to increase AI adoption and productivity by incentivising greater employer-led investment in skills and training. This pilot will test whether training SMEs in AI maximises the value of AI adoption. Specifically, whether government support in the form of match-funding is an effective way of increasing employer-led upskilling in AI, and whether increased skills translate into AI adoption and firm-level productivity benefits. £6.4 million of grant funding is available in the financial year 2024-2025. Eligible business can apply for funding for up to 50% of the cost of AI skills training. This is training which supports employees to develop their technical skills and/or understanding of AI to be able to develop, deploy, or use AI in their role. More information available here: https://lnkd.in/e2yHjh4G

A fab opportunity to support local business in NE England this weekend- Ouseburn Market! 40 exceptional local traders and creatives will be setting up shop in the beautiful Ouseburn Valley this Saturday and Sunday. Handmade and re-claimed goods, artwork and ceramics, unique re-loved fashion finds and homeware inspired by the North East- it's the perfect opportunity to support your local creative community, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Ouseburn. Pop along and support your local small businesses and creatives! https://lnkd.in/ejEKPqfn

Grant opportunity! Wray Forward is a free and inclusive programme designed to facilitate sustainable growth among Black-owned businesses, which are being held back with limited access to financial support, education, and opportunities. The programme incorporates expert-led business workshops, offering insights and skills on what is required to build and scale a business. Pitch Nights will also feature as part of the programme. These events will see applicants showcasing their business in front of a panel of investors and industry leaders for a chance to win a grant to support their venture. The following prizes are available: £3,000 for the Growth Stage Business winner £1,500 for the Early Stage Business winner £500 for the People’s Choice Winner UK registered businesses from all industries, which have at least one founder or C-suite who identifies as Black, may apply. Early stage businesses should have up to £50,000 turnover or be backed by investment. They must have launched their MVP and have been trading for at least six months. Apply here: https://lnkd.in/eaTHSSQU.

Give this man a round of applause! Wor Paul joined us last June as Operations Manager. He loved the client contact element of his role and quickly built trust through his obvious care, diligence and attention to detail. The passion of the team and opportunity in broking for building confidence resilience quickly piqued his interest. He seized the opportunity to develop his skills and train as a broker. Last week he successfully passed his IF8 (Packaged commercial insurances) exam, having previously been awarded the IF1 (Insurance, Legal and Regulatory) element. Now he's just one more exam away from gaining his Chartered Insurance Institute Level 3 Certificate in Insurance! In an industry where no formal qualifications are required, we're really proud that he's jumped at the chance to formally train so our clients can be confident in his knowledge and skills, as well as being a totally top fella! Paul, we're so blessed to have you on the team! Thank you for committing so wholeheartedly to the TJ values of community, excellence and integrity!

What advice would you give a 13 year old student preparing to make their GCSE choices? One of the best benefits of working in insurance broking is meeting and talking with so many business leaders each day who have found their niche and passions. As Richard and Clare's son considers his GCSE options we'd love to harness some of your insights to support Alex to make choices he's really confident about!

Are you a decision maker in a Gateshead-based business with a social aim? Do you want to tackle challenges and seek new opportunities? If, so, PNE have an exciting action learning programme right for you, starting in May! Action learning is an incredibly powerful problem-solving process that involves a small group working together to take action and learn from each other. It is a highly effective tool for organisations to develop successful strategies, identify exciting opportunities, and confidently tackle challenges and issues. Our team really benefitted from engaging with the first programme. More information on the action learning sets available here: https://lnkd.in/eMM_s6nq

If you're planning your weekend activities in the North East of England, here's a top suggestion! The Millin Charity's monthly pop up is running at the Grainger Market in Newcastle on Saturday, 10am-3.30pm. As well as the usual Grainger Gems (we particularly love Amblergem Jewellers, Geordie Bangers and Snackwallah), the Millin women will bring a variety of unique, handmade crafts, gifts and food. Pop in to support some enterprising local women and enjoy a conscious, wholesome retail experience!

Who's going to the North East Expo this Thursday? Do look out for our Selorm Kofi Domeh and say hello. He'd love to see some friendly faces! If you haven't yet booked a (free) ticket, there are still some available. https://lnkd.in/gb3VFr86 Its always a great chance to meet others and network, browse over 150 exhibitors at the event, attend any of the 16+ seminars, develop relationships and synergies with other businesses, build a supplier network, meet friends and make some new acquaintances.