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Feature interview PERSONAL REFLECTIONS 2 3 North East Times Magazine A new direction_
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4 North East Times Magazine A new direction_
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A new direction
5 North East Times Magazine A new direction_
Welcome to the second issue of the new North East Times. We have had an incredible five years, and we continue to be motivated by an ambition to provide the North East with a voice it hasn’t had before – the authentic voice of business. Huge credit is owed to the team, who have driven the strategy behind my vision to push the boundaries of regional print, and to deliver a magazine which inspires, engages and educates, for a regional audience of influencers and decision makers. As managing director, I wanted to explain to you, our readers, why we have decided to rebrand the magazine and what our plans are moving forward.
4So, why the change now? have been affected by the coronavirus The North East Times brand will have pandemic. been in circulation for four decades next There’s no sugar coating it – it’s been year, and what a forty years it has been. tough. But it’s now time to look forward While this legacy will always be to new opportunities and new ways of recognised, I feel now, in the very working. different times we find ourselves, we have I want to step forward from our an opportunity to once again challenge competitors in the marketplace, and the norm. utilise the team and channels we have When we relaunched the publication invested in. five years ago, my aim was to deliver I am an avid supporter of print, and an internationally-styled magazine at a in my opinion, print marketing is still an regional level, creating an authoritative invaluable medium. and influential voice for the North East. By creating a physical, experiential We inherited a brand, tone and relationship with the reader, print presence, and it was time for us to move provides a more slow-paced, trusted this on and establish our own identity. environment for advertisers to connect Over the last twelve months, I have with their marketplace. considered the future of North East Moving forward, our editorial direction Times, and what the next chapter is for will be underpinned by a strategy of being us, as we look to survive in an increasingly more reactive to the changing business digitalised advertising ecosystem. landscape, to drive debate in the North This has been accelerated by a very East business community. challenging year, not only for us, but I have spoken to many of our partners all businesses in the North East who and clients over the past few years,
6 North East Times Magazine A new direction_
and it’s so refreshing to have honest ease of access to digital channels, we know. As we move into a new chapter, I conversations about our direction, and to have been working resolutely to tailor am confident Steven will shape our new be asked, what is the future of print? opportunities for advertisers to maximise approach. And I can’t say that without a For us, it’s about continuing to evolve their impact with a multi-channelled print thank you to our outgoing editor Alison with the times through an editorial and digital approach. Cowie. I am hugely appreciative of structure which incorporates briefings on And we are working hard behind Alison’s drive, tenacity and talent, and the regional, national and international the scenes to deliver a platform which she has built the foundation of North East news landscape, in-depth reporting and covers the news and views that are Times and its ambition moving forward. analysis on the key issues facing the instantaneously dated in print. I would be really interested to talk to business world and explorative interviews This will come to light early next year – any of you reading this and hear your with the people rising to challenges and watch this space! feedback on the new look, new feel and seizing opportunities in the North East. Over the past nine months, I have new direction of North East Times. In the past, we have used themes to heard stories of ingenuity, courage and Please get in touch. guide our content, but now we’re moving determination, and have observed with This is ultimately only the beginning, away from that to give us more editorial admiration how businesses have adapted and we will continue to evolve in response freedom to explore what truly matters and to the challenges of COVID-19. to the changing needs of the marketplace. deliver insights in real time. This is echoed by the team we work I, as well as the team, continue to be We will continue to highlight key with at the North East England Chamber incredibly grateful for the support and business developments as we always of Commerce, to produce their quarterly advocacy of the North East business have, but with a renewed focus on publication CONTACT, who have community. the big issues of the future such as shared stories of businesses rising to the It has been quite a year – but you’ve entrepreneurship, global politics, challenge to adapt and thrive. been the driving force to keep going! sustainability, international trade, and I am also thrilled to have appointed technology. Steven Hugill as editor of North East Peter Mallon, In a landscape challenged by the Times, someone I’m sure a lot of you managing director
7 p. 017 p. 023-027 p. 028-031 Contents – and the COVID-19 and the COVID-19 – 1 Words by Gareth Harrison Gareth by Words as living With 14 million people officially classed the UK across in poverty Hugill Steven by Words campaign Branded The recent return to a COVID-19 lockdown lockdown a COVID-19 to return The recent intensify to effortsonly served better around impact. economic understanding the pandemic’s North Times provides East of England the Bank Here, situation. on the current update with an exclusive on low- strain pandemic placing ever-increasing the importance of – and individuals families income been greater. banks has never food in the North construction to East, When one refers small mind. From springs to Carroll & Lumsden colliery former Durham’s beginnings in County Winning, the civil engineering firm has village Esh the years through strength-to-strength gone from marking its 50th anniversary. and is now Monetary policy crisisin a moribund A whole new ball game A whole new years 50 Celebrating Carroll & of Lumsden
8 p. 038-045 p. 064-069 p. 070-077 Contents If life is a journey, then Lizzy Hodcroft knows all knows then Lizzy Hodcroft is a journey, If life along the navigate must we the crossroads about with North start-up East entrepreneur An way. she the life path to Lizzy’s her name, to successes its difficulties. been without has not today knows Hugill Steven by Words define can you believed Biden has always Joe in a single of America States the United – possibilities. word Dawson Richard by Words about heard Brooks Thom Professor The first time and the Britain between the special relationship in the UK at when he arrived was States United career. beginning of his academic Dawson Richard by Words Personal reflections Personal Possibilities special relationship? What
9 Credits
Editor Head office Advertising charges: Steven Hugill South Northumberland Cricket Club, Roseworth There is a £25 charge for every set of [email protected] Terrace, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, amendments, following the first initial set of NE3 1LU T: 0191 246 0212 amendments, which is free of charge for adverts designed by North East Times Magazine Ltd. Business journalist All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or Richard Dawson in part without written permission, is strictly [email protected] Cancellations: prohibited. If an advert is cancelled by the booker within a seven day period prior to our print deadline, the Head of creative Circulation: advert will be charged in full, plus VAT. Ryan Errington To confirm our circulation please contact [email protected] Andrew Dunn, Stephens and George Editorial: Print Group, email: andrew.dunn@ Editorial must be received by the 9th of the Lead photographer stephensandgeorge.co.uk month or no responsibility is accepted for Christopher Owens errors. The opinions expressed in this issue are To amend your mailing address or remove T: 07814 028 714 not necessarily the views held by North East yourself from our mailing list contact Times Magazine Ltd. [email protected] [email protected] Advertisements: Director Contact: Although every care is taken to ensure accuracy, John Duns @NETimesmagazine the publishers regret that they cannot accept T: 07920 152 523 [email protected] responsibility for loss or damage caused by [email protected] www.netimesmagazine.co.uk an error in the printing or damage to, loss of artwork, transparencies or photos. Managing director Photography: All photos taken by North East Times staff are Peter Mallon Complaints: copyright North East Times Magazine Ltd, and T: 07590 064 800 Regarding advertisements will only be are taken solely for use in North East Times [email protected] considered for up to a week after publication. magazine or products published by North East Advertising must be received by the 12th of the Times Magazine Ltd. month. No responsibility is accepted for errors. Business development director Rachael Laschke If you wish to use or publish a photograph taken © 2020 Published by North East Times T: 07972 870 595 for North East Times, please contact the sales Magazine Ltd. [email protected] department on 0191 246 0212.
Business development manager Matt Pacey T: 07814 514 774 [email protected] Strategic partners
Marketing manager Chloe Holmes T: 07493 555 509 [email protected]
Accounts Jill Brown [email protected]
Filmography Partners Andrew Lowe [email protected]
Contributors: Richard Askew Gareth Harrison
10 Editor’s word word
Steven Hugill looks at the changing landscape as we head into 2021…
4To quote the great Bob Dylan, The Times benevolent side to help others. They Are A-Changin’. We cross the Atlantic too, to look at the And I don’t just mean this publication and political transference of power taking place its recent relaunch. in the United States of America. All around us, the world we once knew In his 1960s classic, Dylan sang to continues to evolve and flex against the senators and congressmen: ‘Don’t stand in strains of the COVID-19 pandemic. the doorway; don’t block up the hall’, and As we end 2020 and look towards a new it remains a fitting line all these years later year, we do so in the knowledge that life and amid Donald Trump’s hesitancy to cede business may well never be quite the same control. again. But what of President-elect Joe Biden, and It is perhaps fitting then, that the theme his changing country? And what about his of change flows throughout this month’s impact on relations with the UK? edition. We sat down with Professor Thom Brooks, We hear exclusively from the Bank of dean of Durham Law School, to discover England and Federation of Small Businesses more about the countries’ association and, in on how COVID-19 has skewed the economic the process, learn why our perceived ‘special landscape and how swift action is needed to relationship’ might not be so, after all. revitalise traders’ fortunes, respectively. Finally, if we’re talking about change, we Furthermore, we look at the pandemic’s couldn’t possibly run an edition without effect on our mental health and wellbeing. touching on Brexit. Taking a lead from Discova’s Lizzy Yes, we’ve been here before – too many times perhaps – but with the many unknowns
Editor’s Hodcroft – our cover star who says coronavirus has forced us to recalibrate of January 1, 2021 now just days away, we how we understand ourselves – we look held a virtual roundtable discussion to gauge at measures currently in place to provide business sentiment ahead of our new trading support and assess the steps being taken to landscape. bolster that provision. Featuring bosses from this region, as well Elsewhere, we throw the spotlight on as those who trade in the United States, another area of life that has gained increased and insight from the Swedish Chamber of focus during the pandemic – food banks. Commerce for the UK, it raised some very COVID-19 has – and continues to – place interesting points about the challenges and ever-increasing strain on low-income families opportunities that lie ahead. and individuals, a situation highlighted Yes, The Times They Are A-Changin’ – but so tenaciously by Manchester United and as you will read across the following pages, England footballer Marcus Rashford and his there are still reasons to remain optimistic campaign to end child poverty. and forward-thinking as we head into 2021. With that in mind, we report on the work I hope you enjoy this issue. of NUFC Fans Food Bank, and how fans of The Beautiful Game are showing the game’s Steven
11 Business Briefing_
Business briefing Your curated guide to the latest news, views, trends and technologies shaping the economic and business landscape of the North East.
‘Major opportunities’ put Tees Valley in ‘strong place’ for post-COVID-19 future Investment
The Tees Valley will play an integral role created on Redcar’s former SSI UK in the nation’s COVID-19 recovery after steelworks site – will bid for freeport multi-million-pound investments were status, which, if successful, Mayor matched by huge job creation plans, the Houchen says could create up to 32,000 Facts & Statistics man tasked with transforming the area jobs. has told North East Times. Further welcoming a £200 million Tees Valley’s growth plans Ben Houchen says the south of the Government commitment on carbon, at a glance region stands in a “strong place to come capture, utilisation and storage – which out the other side” of the pandemic with he says bolsters plans for Net Zero 4Based to the south of Teesport Commerce Park, PD Ports says its great momentum. Teesside’s ambitions to develop the UK’s new waste-to-energy plants will The Tees Valley Mayor’s confidence first decarbonised industrial cluster at have the potential to provide power comes after a plethora of announcements, Teesworks – Mayor Houchen also praised to more than 40,000 homes and fuel the growth of existing and planned which include PD Ports’ confirmation of Helios Properties’ vision for a 3000- industrial operators £600 million-plus investments to build job distribution hub at Wynyard, near two waste-to-energy plants alongside Stockton. Wentworth Clean Power Limited. “The difficult times we are experiencing 4The £90 million River Tees quay at South Bank is earmarked to offer The first is expected to open in late now means it is even more important for firms access to 4.5 million sq ft of 2024, creating 40 full-time jobs, with the us to put plans in place for the future,” manufacturing, storage and office second earmarked to being operations in Mayor Houchen told North East Times. space for future wind turbine manufacturing work late 2025 and deliver 50 full-time posts. “We have some major opportunities to Elsewhere, Mayor Houchen last month make this happen. announced £90 million plans to make the “Whether it is Net Zero Teesside, our 4Teesworks must submit its bid for freeport status by early February, with Tees Valley a “pioneer in clean energy” by new quay, or the distribution centre, a Government decision expected by building a river quay to service North Sea there are so many exciting projects we next spring. Experts say freeports offshore wind farm developers’ needs. are getting on with to deliver the good will provide operators with a number of benefits, such as tax reliefs and He also confirmed his Teesworks quality, well-paid jobs that are essential simplified customs procedures venture – a new industrial zone being for our recovery.”
4Net Zero Teesside is a project being delivered by a consortium of the world’s largest oil companies that includes BP and Shell. The project aims to remove CO2 from heavy industry and power plants and store it under the North Sea
4Helios Properties hopes to open its Wynyard distribution hub in September 2022. Bosses say the two million-plus square foot site will create and support up to 3000 jobs during construction and eventual operation
12 Business Briefing_
International ambitions after £260 million Gateshead Quays go-ahead Development
Regeneration bosses say the region is primed to become a “global leader in entertainment, leisure and hospitality” after Firms urged to get on track for World’s largest trading bloc approving a £260 million HS2 work formed development. Transport Trade Gateshead Council has backed The Sunderland-born chair of the UK’s A number of Asia-Pacific countries have plans for the Gateshead Quays new high-speed rail link has called on signed a free trade agreement creating complex. North East firms to invoke the spirit of the the world’s largest trading bloc. Set for land overlooking the Duke of Wellington and play a crucial role The Regional Comprehensive Economic River Tyne between the Baltic in the country’s transport future. Partnership (RCEP) covers just shy of one Centre for Contemporary Art Allan Cook says operators must “try and third of the world’s population and makes and Sage Gateshead, the scheme see what is over the other side of the hill” up around 30 per cent of global GDP. will include an arena, exhibition and bid for work on the HS2 project. The agreement is between the ten- and conference centre, hotel and Speaking in a North East England member association of South-East Asian public spaces. Chamber of Commerce webinar, Allan Nations (ASEAN) and China, Japan, Officials say it will create said: “The Duke of Wellington said the Australia, New Zealand and South Korea. around 2000 new jobs and add business of life is to find out what you RCEP will eliminate a range of tariffs tens of millions of pounds to the don’t know by what you do know. within a 20-year time period and includes local economy. “HS2 will not just create jobs, it will provisions on intellectual property and create careers.” telecommunications.
Government goes green with Ten Point Plan Sustainability Initial site work is expected to start before the end of the year, Boris Johnson has sought to improve with construction due to begin in his green credentials with a new March. The complex is planned environmental agenda he says could to open in late 2023. Councillor create up to 250,000 jobs. Martin Gannon, Gateshead The Ten Point Plan will see £12 billion Council leader, said: “This project of public funds invested in areas such as is transformational; our long-term advancing offshore wind, accelerating the aspiration has always been to shift to zero emission vehicles, developing bring internationally-recognisable carbon capture utilisation and storage, facilities of this scale to the entire and planting 30,000 trees a year by 2025. region.” It is hoped many of the jobs created will Developer Ask:PATRIZIA is be in the North East, owing to its natural overseeing the project, with Sir and industrial assets in the low carbon Robert McAlpine building the economy. complex. Venue management Mr Johnson said: “Let us meet the company ASM Global was most enduring threat to our planet with previously appointed the campus’ one of the most innovative and ambitious operator. programmes of job creation we have known.”
13 Business Briefing_
New tie-up will help Virgin Money ‘well positioned’ Silent Games ‘develop talent despite COVID-19 hit for many years to come’ Finance Technology Virgin Money says it is “well positioned A North East video games studio says to emerge from the pandemic” despite it will create jobs after a takeover deal recording £141 million losses after booking took it to another level. a £501 million charge to help deal with the Newcastle-based Silent Games has financial challenges of COVID-19. been acquired by Sweden’s Embracer The lender, which runs operations from Group. Bosses say the agreement an office in Gosforth, says it remains will help Silent Games, co-founded primed to continue as “an agile, innovative by Sally Blake and Joseph Rogers in and disruptive force in UK banking” 2018, take its workforce from four to after taking steps to mitigate a rise in Fresh backing gives Visualsoft 30 in the coming years.“Our long-term borrowers struggling to meet repayments. new growth platform partnership will allow for significant Reflecting on financial results for the Digital growth and enable us to create a studio year to September 2020, revealed last A digital operator has secured fresh focused on securing and developing month, chief executive David Duffy investment it says will fuel future talent in the region for many years to said: “Our priority has been to support expansion. come,” said chief executive Sally. customers and colleagues through this period, and we will continue to do Visualsoft has received support so during the challenging economic from Livingbridge. environment ahead.” Dean Benson, chief executive at the Stockton-headquartered firm, which serves more than 1000 retail businesses, says the deal will fund the continued growth of its e-commerce platform. He added the company’s e-commerce venture is set to deliver £1 billion of client revenue by the end of the year.
Investor joins national group to Jonathon looks to boost economy build on Hays Travel Finance founder’s legacy Retail A business investor says it has become the first locally-based firm to join A travel agency’s new boss has vowed to a national group working to build build on its founder’s legacy. resilient economies across the UK. Jonathon Woodall says he will continue NEL Fund Managers has been “to reach for excellence” after being granted membership of Responsible named chief operating officer at Hays Finance. The group includes more Travel. His appointment comes after the than 50 finance providers and aims sudden death of John Hays, who had run to help entrepreneurs start and the Sunderland-headquartered business grow businesses and create jobs, with wife Irene for decades, having begun opportunities and economic growth. at a store in Seaham, County Durham. Dr Yvonne Gale, chief executive, “Although these are challenging times said: “Our admission reflects the for the travel industry, we have strong impacts our investments have on the plans in place,” said Jonathon, who joined communities in which we’re active.” the firm in 2004.
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News you may have missed
Communication 4Nice Network plans expansion after takeover
A telecoms firm is targeting new growth after being taken over by a major UK independent operator. Nice Network aims to “further scale operations in the North East” Transatlantic partnership policies and tap into the economic following its acquisition by Onecom. launched to harness necessity of retaining the skills and Based in Sunderland, Nice intergenerational intelligence experience of older workers. Network provides mobile and Health The announcement follows a new telecoms software and hardware, report from the International Longevity as well as cyber security and Efforts to better understand Centre, which shows the global workforce connectivity services. intergenerational relationships in the is ageing, with nearly one in three workers Under the terms of the deal, the workplace have been boosted by a new aged over 50 as of 2018. NICA and firm’s managing director Chris Lee partnership. CIRKEL will host a series of workshops and its existing management team The National Innovation Centre for to better understand intergenerational will remain with the business. It Ageing (NICA) has joined forces with US- communities and identify future areas of will also continue to work from its based CIRKEL to develop age-inclusive opportunity. Wearside headquarters.
Utilities 4Maintenance firm’s delight Planning approval for £250 million at John Lewis deal Newcastle development A utilities maintenance firm has Built Environment secured a contract worth “many
thousands of pounds a year” to A 15-acre former industrial site on provide support for a well-known Newcastle’s Quayside is set to be retailer. transformed after being given the Commercial Maintenance Services go-ahead by planners. UK Ltd (CMS) is working with the Quayside West will create 1100 John Lewis Partnership. new homes and a 135-bed hotel with Under the terms of the deal, supporting restaurants, shops and the Gateshead-based company commercial units, parks and new public will deliver planned preventative recreational routes along the River Tyne. maintenance to 173 John Lewis and Officials say 575 jobs are expected to Waitrose stores nationwide. be created on the site, as well as a further CMS, which installs, maintains 397 across the supply chain. and repairs business critical systems The plans were developed for North including heating, hot water and Yorkshire’s Newby and joint venture electricals, will also provide its 24- partner Reditum Capital by DPP Planning hour emergency repair service. and FaulknerBrown Architects. Jo Robison, director at DPP Planning, said: “Quayside West will become For more news and views across the an integral part of the continuing North East, visit our website @ regeneration and sustainable growth of www.netimesmagazine.co.uk/news Newcastle.”
15 Guest contributor Richard Askew_
Words by Richard Askew The forgotten three million North East policy representative at the Federation of Small Businesses Employment Drop the platitudes and address the problems
It was quite the reversal when Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme would be extended until March 31, 2021. Nevertheless, while providing employers with extra breathing space, there are, says the Federation of Small Businesses, significant gaps that remain in the support network, particularly for the self-employed, which the Government must tackle with haste. If you were newly self-employed, earning less than 50 per cent of your income from self-employment 4The extension of the furlough scheme are largely excluded from existing or a director of a small limited will give employers a much-needed measures. We need to see a shift in company back in March, this year injection of confidence heading into a Treasury thinking that recognises the real might have been harder for you disrupted festive trading period. contribution these businesses make. than for most. The extension of the Self Employment For example, the 122,345 sole traders in the That’s because, in all likelihood, Income Support Scheme too, for those North East contribute £6.8 billion to the you fall through the cracks of the eligible, was another welcome step. economy. Government’s coronavirus support Across the North East, this support has We need to move beyond the platitudes schemes. delivered £131 million in funding to the self- and start addressing the problems. Research conducted by employed, giving those that have claimed a The Treasury needs to develop separate the grassroots not-for-profit grant of £2300. support schemes for every group currently organisation ExcludedUK estimates The only fly in the ointment on the ineligible. Those that were ineligible there are three million people extension of the furlough scheme was because they didn’t have a tax return in who do not qualify for either the the impact on those who were planning 2019 now do, and should be included. Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme their approaches with an eye on the job The difficulties the Treasury has raised or the Self Employment Income retention bonus. in helping company directors are not Support Scheme. For those that had factored the bonus insurmountable, however. This represents around ten per into future plans, this has meant financial Nationally, we are working on how cent of the UK workforce. projections have had to be re-forecast and solutions could work and will be presenting Many of the forgotten three investment decisions delayed. them to the Chancellor. million, as they have come to be Constantly changing policies only add to It’s not just Government support where known, have had little or no income trading and operational uncertainties, and we need to see changes though. since March and will be facing we have seen a massive rise in members The extension of the Bounce Back Loan serious financial distress. reporting considerable mental health Scheme is welcome, but far too many The Federation of Small challenges. Until we have more certainty, businesses are still struggling to make Businesses represents thousands these challenges won’t go away. applications as lenders keep their doors of sole-traders and directors of There are also still too many gaps in the shut to new customers. limited companies across the North business support that is being offered to Businesses across the North East will East and is campaigning for the the wider business community. lead the recovery of the economy, both Government to level up its support. Too many new business owners, regionally and nationally. sole traders, company directors and Collectively, we all need to back them to entrepreneurs without business premises do just that.
16 Guest contributor Gareth Harrison_
on holiday, many have used that money Monetary Policy Report at a glance to spend on home improvements and the housing market has been very strong in Economy the North East since it re-opened after lockdown. At the most recent meeting of • GDP – minus 11 per cent Earlier this year, the Bank’s Monetary its Monetary Policy Committee • CPI inflation – 0.6 per cent Policy Committee (MPC) cut Bank Rate (MPC), the Bank of England voted • Unemployment – 6.3 per cent* to a record low of 0.1 per cent, where it
unanimously to maintain interest *Forecasts calculated before news of a potential coronavirus remains. Because interest rates on many vaccine was reported rates at the historic low of 0.1 per business loans and mortgages are linked cent. Rising coronavirus infections in to Bank Rate, businesses’ and households’ the UK have led the central bank to borrowing costs tend to fall when it’s cut. forecast that there will be a double- The MPC has also been injecting new dip recession in the fourth quarter of money into the UK economy through 2020. The latest projections for the quantitative easing (QE). fourth quarter of 2020 are: Buying Government bonds with this new money helps keep interest rates on mortgages and business loans low. At its November meeting, the MPC announced a further £150 billion of QE, taking the total announced this year to £450 billion. Leaving the EU Single Market and Words by Gareth Harrison Customs Union is expected to have an Deputy agent in the North East for the Bank of England impact on the economy next year, as we adjust to the new trading relationship with Monetary policy in a moribund crisis the EU. But the recovery is still expected to continue steadily over the coming few The recent return to a COVID-19 lockdown only served to years, assuming the impact of COVID-19 intensify efforts around better understanding the pandemic’s does fade, as households and businesses economic impact. Here, the Bank of England provides North East grow more confident to spend and invest. Times with an exclusive update on the current situation. The MPC’s analysis and forecasts are set out in detail in the Monetary Policy Report it published alongside its Bank 4The coronavirus pandemic has reduced some time. Fewer tourists have been Rate and QE decisions. levels of economic activity across the UK able to visit the region, and with less The report was published before this year. people working from their offices, our city reports of the development of an effective Households and businesses have centres are much quieter. Government vaccine. While this is good news that generally been spending and investing schemes have significantly reduced the could dramatically reduce uncertainty less, which risks significant job losses impact on jobs, but unemployment is for households and businesses, the as many businesses face much lower expected to rise further over the coming future path of the economy still remains demand. few months. Latest figures showed unusually uncertain. Although household spending picked unemployment at 6.7 per cent in the A lot will depend on how the up over the summer, when social North East, well ahead of the UK figure of coronavirus pandemic develops and distancing restrictions were loosened, it 4.8 per cent. how governments, households and remained well below normal levels. Although the extension of the furlough businesses respond. Because the MPC Parts of the North East were subject scheme has been welcomed by our sees substantial risks to the outlook, it has to tighter restrictions before the tiered contacts in the region, many are still stated it does not intend to withdraw any system was introduced ahead of the considering further job cuts, and pay of the support it is providing until there is national lockdown, so our contacts in increases are few and far between. clear evidence the economy is recovering. the hospitality and leisure sectors have It’s not all doom and gloom though. And it stands ready to provide further been struggling with weak demand for As fewer people have been able to go support, if judged necessary.
17 Opinion Devolution_
leaders did not feel the financial opportunity and prosperity. package was strong enough to support The Government’s performance in the individuals and business affected Greater Manchester episode shows that by the restrictions, whereas the this isn’t going to change any time soon. How the Greater Manchester Government said the offer was not up stand-off became a clarion call for negotiation. Tensions escalated over against regional inequality the course of the month with both sides holding firm to their positions. Politics Eventually, the dispute came to a disorderly resolution as the Government Throughout October 2020, a dispute announced the extension of the broke out between leaders of Greater furlough scheme in line with the new Manchester and the Government national lockdown. over putting the region into Tier 3 But the stand-off was significant in coronavirus restrictions. that it showed how the so-called North/ Tier 3 meant the closure of hospitality South divide is still very much a fact of venues and other consumer-facing British society today. businesses and a complete ban on any The UK is one of the most regionally form of household mixing. unequal countries in the developed The dispute arose because local world in terms of investment,
Levelling down
The recent stand-off between Greater Manchester and the Government over coronavirus restrictions and financial support was the latest episode in a long-standing saga often referred to as the North/South divide. Richard Dawson hears directly from metro mayors Andy Burnham and Jamie Driscoll about how the promise of levelling up the regions is not being delivered.
Words by Richard Dawson
4There was something eerily familiar about the dispute Manchester into Tier 3 restrictions without adequate funding, I which broke out between Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater couldn’t help but feel like history was repeating itself. Manchester, and the Government this October. In 1984, no one was questioning the future viability of coal It was not the first time in recent history that communities in mining in the UK. The writing had been on the wall for the the North of England have found themselves pitted against an industry since the 1960s. unyielding Westminster. The dispute arose from a lack of co-operation and assistance The same thing happened in the 1980s during the infamous from a Government that did not seem interested in the fate of the Miners’ Strike. many thousands of miners who were going to lose their jobs. Described as ‘the most bitter industrial dispute in British It was a similar thing happening this time around. history’, the 1984-85 strike was characterised by violent clashes Andy Burnham was not questioning the need for further between police and pickets and resulted in mass pit closures restrictions to get the pandemic under control. He just wanted across the country. to know what the Government was going to do to support the A lack of meaningful dialogue between trade unions and people and businesses put at risk by such restrictions. the Government exacerbated the discord and precipitated an On October 31, the dispute came to a disorderly resolution unemployment crisis that the North of England still bears the after the Government announced a second national lockdown scars of today. and the extension of the furlough scheme. When I saw that image of Andy Burnham finding out on live But the whole episode was revealing in that it showed the TV that the Government had unilaterally decided to put Greater Government’s true colours.
18 Opinion Devolution_
Successive prime ministers have promised The region voted overwhelmingly to close the immense gap between the against establishing a regional assembly North of England and the South, from in 2004 and since then a fractured David Cameron’s Northern Powerhouse devolution landscape has emerged. initiative to Boris Johnson’s levelling up The North East Combined Authority agenda. (NECA) covers Sunderland, South Jamie Driscoll, mayor of the And yet across many key indicators, the Tyneside, Durham and Gateshead, North of Tyne Combined North/South divide has actually widened while the North of Tyne Combined Authority over the last decade. Authority (NTCA) covers Newcastle, From productivity, income and Northumberland and North Tyneside, employment to investment, health and and the Tees Valley Combined Authority local services, the UK is often described (TVCA) covers Darlington, Hartlepool, as the most regionally unequal country in Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland the developed world. and Stockton-on-Tees. Couple that with the way local leaders If it sounds odd that the smallest region and the regions they represent have in the UK both by population and GDP been treated during the coronavirus should have three separate devolution pandemic and one has to wonder whether deals, each with varying degrees of power the Government is really serious about and funding, that’s because it is. tackling regional inequalities after all. But it stems from a belief that metro Mayor Burnham says: “It took the mayors can’t really do much for their national lockdown to address all of communities. 4“Levelling up can’t just be about the issues surrounding furlough, but Andy Burnham’s act of defiance back concrete. Levelling up is about people. “It’s about making sure everybody has a chance at a decent prosperous life where they can contribute to society. “I spend my time talking to business groups, ministers and secretaries of state trying to make this happen. Ultimately, the Government has to make a decision – are they serious about levelling up? “We’ve seen the effects of centralisation with coronavirus and why wasn’t it addressed when we were in October put paid to that idea and trying to micromanage outbreaks negotiating for a fair deal for Greater demonstrated that while the North of in local areas from a central Manchester? England may not yet have the wealth and call centre. It just doesn’t work. “If you are having to close businesses resources of the South, it at least now has “No corporation would try and by order of the Government, the people a voice. micromanage a distant branch from that work in those businesses should be Mayor Burnham adds: “Local leaders the centre. That’s why they have given equal treatment wherever they are and metro mayors have the unique ability local managers. “It’s the same with in the country. to speak for millions of people. the Government. Mayors and local “I would say the Government’s “The job is to represent communities as authorities know their areas. Mayors treatment of Greater Manchester has effectively as you can, and to speak out convene, they work with everybody resulted in a levelling down of the region for those people who are often neglected and they know what’s needed. – they have completely forgotten the by Westminster. “The Government needs to listen. promises of levelling up.” “Sometimes people do have to hold “Devolve power and resources and The dispute was also a concrete Governments to account, and it is we can show you how to create example of why devolution and local important local leaders do use their voice sustainable growth.” leadership are so important – something to step up and challenge them when the North East has been slow to accept. necessary.”
19 Law_ Advertorial_Sintons
brings together significant experience with emerging Planning for the future talent, to create deep and trusting relationships with clients, which often span generations of families. As a growing number of people make plans Alan Dawson, chairman of Sintons and a member of to protect their families into the future, the team, has been a leading private client specialist for specialists at Sintons have increasingly been more than 30 years and has become the trusted advisor called upon for support. to countless families during that time. Alongside Paul, they are regarded as two of the most www.sintons.co.uk capable private client lawyers around. @SintonsLaw The huge potential in the team includes Paul Collingwood and Emma Saunders, both hailed as rising stars by Legal 500, with Emma also being hailed as an Paul Nickalls ‘associate to watch’ by Chambers. - Paul is a fully Paul Collingwood’s specialism includes accredited administration of estates and trust planning and he was member of recently hailed as “brilliant” by Legal 500. Solicitors for the Elderly and Emma is a contentious probate specialist and is STEP and has regularly appointed in complex matters nationally. been named as a leading individual Chambers cited Emma as “wonderful” in naming her by Legal 500 a key advisor in her very niche area of work. every year since 2015. He has been “For over 120 years, Sintons has built a reputation as listed as a notable an expert and caring advisor to individuals and families practitioner by across the country, supporting them in making plans to Chambers UK since 2016. provide for the future of their loved ones and sensitively advising them on their options,” says Paul Nickalls. “That commitment to looking after our clients is still WITH THE CONTINUING IMPACT OF THE COVID-19 as important today as when we were founded in 1896, pandemic, nationally, there has been a significant and always will be. increase in the levels of individuals looking to make a “We have huge capability in our team, which makes will or make future provision by way of a Lasting Power us the advisor of choice for so many people, including of Attorney or a trust. many new clients from around the UK who come to us This upturn in instructions has been true of Sintons’ on the strength of our reputation. specialist Wills, Trusts and Probate Team, which “We have supported many clients, new and existing, continues to be instructed by individuals across the during the pandemic in putting plans in place or UK wanting to ensure their loved ones are protected updating existing arrangements. should the worst happen, as well as acting for existing Paul continues: “Our team has the legal expertise clients in revising and updating plans already in place. to handle matters of the greatest complexity, and The reputation and capability of the team at Sintons regularly we are instructed in high-value cases with – named Private Client Team of the Year at the most international dimensions. recent Northern Law Awards – means its reach in both “Such matters can only be overseen by the most contentious and non-contentious matters is national. capable of advisors, and we have many in our team. Regularly confirmed as one of the leaders in its “Non-contentious work has been a longstanding field by both Legal 500 and Chambers, Sintons’ legal central part of what we do at Sintons, but our capability and ability to handle the most complex of contentious work has grown significantly in recent matters – including those involving business assets, times, with Emma playing a key role in that. agricultural property and assets located abroad – “We have again won praise from Legal 500 and coupled with its commitment to outstanding client Chambers this year, both of which point to the values service, makes it a standout name in the private client that are at the heart of everything we do – legal field. excellence and outstanding client service – which Led by Paul Nickalls – consistently named as a continues to independently endorse our capability and leading individual in the North by Legal 500 – the team the efforts we make on behalf of our clients.”
20 Education_ Advertorial_Scaleup North East
Eduk8 Worldwide expands internationally
The Scaleup North East programme has helped Eduk8 Worldwide increase its global presence. Here, Christine Lawson, the company’s co-founder, owner and managing director, explains the impact the initiative has had on her business. www.scaleupnortheast.co.uk
FOUNDED BY CHRISTINE LAWSON AND ROGER RTC North Recent successes for Eduk8 include securing a Walker in 2002, Eduk8 Worldwide was created - £350,000 contract to distribute its range of products RTC North specifically to develop a range of all-inclusive is delivering within the Middle East market. educational toys, which would spark imagination and Scaleup This break into the international retail sector came North East in learning through play. conjunction with from programme director Sarah Pavlou and the team Christine and Roger have worked as both designer the North East couldn’t be happier. and supplier to the education market in the UK and Local Enterprise Christine attributes this introduction entirely to the Partnership. The abroad for more than 17 years. programme is support of the Scaleup team and believes none of Earlier this year, the company joined the Scaleup part-funded by this would have been possible without their existing the European North East programme after thoroughly enjoying a Regional professional connections. business survival webinar hosted by RTC North, which Development In addition to boosting their profile and professional Fund. It is aimed introduced delegates to the rapid growth scheme. at supporting network, the team at Eduk8 are currently developing Since May, Christine has been working alongside North East-based their online selling platforms in order to stimulate sales dedicated Scaleup partner Angelina Bell, who initially businesses that and growth. can demonstrate conducted a business diagnostic and helped the both the hunger Future plans for the business include working business to compile an action plan for the next few and the potential alongside the Enterprise Europe Network programme, to achieve high years. levels of growth. which will help to continue to build the brand’s profile Taking a step back from the day-to-day running of in the international market with access to overseas the business, this plan allowed the team to identify contacts, while boosting their profile and professional current business needs and address future ambitions. network. Recalling the support from Scaleup North East, A further result of joining the Scaleup programme Christine said: “I would absolutely recommend Scaleup has been the appointment of an online sales specialist North East to other businesses. through a business referral. With an exciting future “Joining the programme provides access to a team of ahead for the brand and having managed to adapt and highly-experienced business professionals. overcome the current challenges, Christine encourages “No matter what type of business you have, we businesses to gain access to one-to-one support and basically all operate in a similar manner.” the benefit of multiple Scaleup Partners expertise. In light of this year’s crisis, the team had to prioritise re-inventing the business and as such, determined that they must invest time and resources into creating a stronger online presence. Christine identified that the website, online selling and social media platforms all required a thorough review and subsequent overhaul. Eduk8 had always wanted to grow its international customer base, and after attending the Get Ready to Scale boot camp, Christine was able to focus on her personal strengths and weaknesses. In three half-day sessions, Christine left with actionable insights and was able to reflect on her own expertise in the pursuit of future business development.
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23 Feature Bill Corcoran_
With 14 million people officially classed as living in poverty across the UK1 – and the COVID-19 pandemic placing ever-increasing strain on low-income families and individuals – the importance of food banks has never been greater. In the North East, the scene is no different, with many groups providing vital supplies to the most vulnerable. One of those organisations is NUFC Fans Food Bank, which is channelling the passion and benevolence of Newcastle United supporters to help others.
4When BSkyB wrested control of new FA Premier League – itself launched The endeavour supports Newcastle top-flight English football broadcasting in 1992 following club officials’ desire for West End Foodbank, the organisation in 1992, it was, to quote the company’s greater financial might – had international run by chief executive John McCorry, promotional material, the beginning of ‘a intentions. Carole Rowland, Gemma Whalley and whole new ball game’. History shows the monumental impact a swathe of other volunteers, which After decades of under-investment, BSkyB’s initial outlay has since had on provides emergency supplies to residents Rupert Murdoch’s £304 million power- football in this country. across Newcastle, who are suffering from grab handed the game a new identity. However, it exposes some wonderful redundancy or delays and sanctions to Crucially, it also gave English football – poetic irony too. benefit payments. so long a totem of the country’s working- At a time when millions are living below The sight of Bill Corcoran and his fellow class mill towns and industrial heartlands the poverty line across the UK, football NUFC Fans Food Bank contemporaries – a fresh commercial outlook. fans are at the centre of efforts to help on the pavements behind St James’ Where teams’ very survival had once those in difficulty. Park’s famous Gallowgate End is a hinged on the bankrolling of local Some administrators may have scene repeated across the country, as business magnates, administrators forgotten the game’s roots, but supporters supporters overlook on-field rivalries for – dazzled by the riches of America’s certainly haven’t. the sake of a greater cause. National Football League (NFL) – we Walk along Strawberry Place on a “It’s a demonstration of unity against are now looking through a completely normal Newcastle United matchday and adversity, and of the country putting its different lens. you’ll find volunteers from NUFC Fans foot down,” says Bill. English football and its glamourous Food Bank overseeing collections. “The first food bank with a football link
24 Feature Bill Corcoran_
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N I L E D how, if we know about these things, we country to watch Newcastle United – and will continueR to alter – stereotyped do something about it.” they were in tears. perceptions of supporters. Such a response was at the crux of “I got up on stage afterwards and said, “You go to the game for a couple of NUFC Fans Food Bank’s formation. ‘look, we’re going to do something about hours, and you’re there for an escape, Its catalyst came not from anything this’. so you’re not thinking about mortgages, on the field, but the Ken Loach film, ‘I, “So, we went off, got our necessary interest rates or the economy,” he says. Daniel Blake’, which gravely highlights the permits and approvals, and began in the “But, at the same time, you never lose physical and social struggles of a widower February. sight of the things in society around you tangled in the complexities of the benefits “We could have gone off and asked either. system. billionaires for support, but we’ve never “I understand some people, who see a “We started in December 2016 after wanted to do that,” continues Bill, whose group of blokes that have maybe had a showing the film in Tyneside Irish fellow NUFC Fans Food Bank volunteers drink and look like ignoramuses talking Centre,” reveals Bill, who began watching include Colin Whittle, Steve Hastie, Stuart in an unintelligible dialect at the match, Newcastle United as a four-year-old with Drummond and Monju Meah. might think, ‘oh, no’. his father in 1968. “The instinct was to go to football fans; “But the people who go to football are “We’d received a copy from Ken Loach they are good people and really care compassionate and, having watched,
25 Feature Bill Corcoran_ played or had children who’ve done the family and some of the fans gave them “We had managing director Lee same, understand the game’s tradition of scarves and tickets for a cup match – they Charnley and head of media and respect. were beaming! communications Wendy Taylor come “We’ve had people come to us and “If that had been a play at the theatre, down to West End one time, and they say they’d never realised how wonderful you wouldn’t have believed it,” says Bill, helped with washing up and tidying the football fans are. who is chairman of the Tyneside Irish place. “But it’s not just the fans, it’s right Brigade Association and a committee “Lee helped us get new flooring; we’d across all ages, classes, races and member of the Tyneside Irish Cultural never have been able to have afforded religions,” continues Bill, who shares his Society. that otherwise. time at NUFC Fans Food Bank – which is “During the first lockdown, companies “The players have also been fantastic,” supported by Newcastle United and has and restaurants gave us food and supplies continue Bill. donation points at the Grainger Market’s because they couldn’t use them, and “Paul Dummett and Mark Gillespie Weigh House and Grainger Delivery – we’ve now got people giving us advent once turned up with a boot load of food, with a financial advisory career at HRC calendars and selection boxes, and little Isaac Hayden has asked how he can help Group. old ladies making festive cards too. and Allan Saint-Maximin came along and “The Muslim community was one of the “We couldn’t achieve anything like what signed autographs. first to help us and we once had an Indian we are without the tens of thousands of “These lads really care, and just by family come along to help us at St James’ people who help us.” being there gave people some much- Park, because the foodbank had helped The football club, too, says Bill, needed morale.” them previously. has – and continues to be – extremely In the present, skewed, COVID-19 “There were two young lads in the supportive. landscape, fans too have relied on their Bill Corcoran - Volunteer at NUFC Fans Food Bank
26 heroes for optimism – though that pleasure was recently taken away for many. Subscription broadcasters shunted some matches – including Newcastle United’s fixture with Manchester United – behind a £14.95 pay wall during October and early November. Introduced amid a backdrop of people facing increased economic strain, and England striker Marcus Rashford’s battle with Government to extend free school meals for children across low-income families during English school holidays, the levy brought the work of Bill and his fellow volunteers into sharper focus. Fans, already out of pocket after paying for season tickets and Sky and BT packages, rebelled, with a national campaign organised to funnel the £14.95 charge towards worthy causes instead. For Newcastle West End foodbank, the backlash helped deliver at least £23,000 in revenue. “That money paid for us to look after NUFC Fans Food Bank people for three weeks,” reveals Bill, @nufcfoodbank “which puts into perspective the volumes of families and individuals we’re helping Newcastle West End Foodbank @WEFoodbank when ten pence buys a tin of beans and we can feed a family of four for a week with a fiver. “From the fans’ television cash, and “The game depends on children innovation stands just over the hill from other monies from an NUFC.com auction, wanting to go and watch matches, or if the biggest conurbation of poverty in it raised a lot more than we would have they have to, see it live on TV. But if they Newcastle. We really need to bridge that done shaking a bucket at the Gallowgate aren’t watching, then the model begins to gap. End.” fall apart.” “We are the canary down the pit, a However, while generating vital cash, However, it isn’t just football that very real reminder of the need for more Bill believes the boycott also drew a risks losing the enthusiasm and fresh- conversation. crucial line in the sand for supporters and thinking of its next generation if “We should be making sure every pupil their relationship with broadcasters. decisive Government social action isn’t gets a breakfast before school, as well as “The backlash to pay-per-view was a forthcoming, says Bill – the entire North a dinner and maybe even a tea. warning to the Premier League oligarchs East does too. “It would save the NHS a fortune if we not to treat people like the French By ensuring our children are able have children who are eating healthily and aristocrats did in the 1780s,” he says. to succeed at school and grow into participating in sports and engaging in “Supporters are thinking that unless aspirational adults, the region, says Bill, other activities. they’ve got a very close relationship with will stand far greater chance of success. “The support we continue to receive a team, ‘I’ll not pay the £14.95 and will “What is the point of the Northern at NUFC Fans Food Bank is amazing, but instead go and watch Gateshead, Blyth Powerhouse if our children are starving?”, I really hope one day – with the right Spartans or another of our non-league he asks. measures in place – that we’re not needed sides. “We’ve got a strong economy and anymore.” “The people involved in coaching know entrepreneurs helping create new That really would be a whole new ball the importance of this too. opportunities, but the Helix cluster of game.
Reference: 1: Joseph Rowntree Foundation; www.jrf.org.uk27 28 29 30 31 32 Brand_ Advertorial_Projector
Branding in 2021: Lessons from 2020
2020 has been a year of reactive marketing campaigns, quick-thinking creatives and adapting businesses. We’ve had to adjust and, just as quickly as we’ve learnt to cringe while watching programmes filmed during a time before social distancing, consumer habits and the way we shop has changed. [email protected] www.yourprojector.com
AGGRESSIVE MARKETING TACTICS HAVE Phil Lowery disappeared in favour of more compassionate - Managing strategies that convey the emotional rhetoric many director at have craved. Projector Brand Communications. The question now is; which of these responses do we need to consider in branding strategies for 2021? the time to share their back stories with the aim of To help answer this, I’m looking back at 2020, deepening their consumer-brand connection, have highlighting what brands can learn in advance of the been able to capitalise on that human connection. new year. Buyers no longer just want to know, they need to know the story behind the brands they choose to Going digital support. Taking the time to convey your business as Lockdown restrictions forced consumers online; a positive force in an uncertain market will help to impacting all types of businesses in all types of sectors. promote business growth. Those who weren’t prepared for this digital direction suffered most and had no option but to quickly adapt to Reinforced focus on creativity a new way of selling, servicing and surviving online. Back in January 2020, it’s likely you had a rigid In 2021, those who previously viewed the move communications plan in place that left little room to digital as a temporary solution should revise their for deviation. Fast-forward a year and it’s unlikely outlook - building an audience they can engage with at you stuck to this - instead, opting for a reactive and a touch of a button. This is something we, at Projector, therefore creative approach to your branding and feel passionate about and are currently helping our communications to help tackle the COVID-19 storm. client, Statex, with. What can we learn from this in 2021? It’s clear that After COVID-19 restricted their physical sales team thinking creatively to combat problems has been one from getting out and about to meet with clients and of the ways many businesses have been able to fight customers, we identified the increasing need for their through the pandemic. Whether this involves taking a move to digital. Starting with a new website and unified step back to look at how your audience has changed, or brand voice, we’re helping to ensure their resilience focussing on new products and services to appeal to a against future turbulence in 2021. changing market, considering creativity at every step of the process is sure to make you stand out against your Responsible branding competitors. Coronavirus has devastated businesses across all If there’s one thing we can take from 2020, it’s that sectors. So, consumers made it their mission to run branding remains crucial when it comes to business to the aid of those struggling businesses they’d made recovery. If you think you might need some help with a connection with in person or online. As such, it’s your branding in 2021, give us a call and we’ll be happy become increasingly clear that brands who’d taken to help you tackle 2021 head-on.
33 Report Mental health and wellbeing_
Cumbria), and the National Institute additional support to local authorities for Health Research School of Public and devolved administrations in the North ‘worst hit’ by Health Research – the pandemic has North – and by investing further in COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing inequalities public health prevention in the Northern Mental health and wellbeing around poverty, education and Powerhouse. employment between the North and the “In this way, we can reduce the Amid the Government’s continued rest of England. inequalities that the pandemic has ambitions to ‘level up’ the country, Warning mitigating measures must highlighted and ensure that our regions a new report has revealed a major be put in place to stop the chasm are better equipped for building back divide across England caused by the growing wider, it also found loneliness better.” coronavirus pandemic. has risen starkly, with reduced mental The ‘COVID-19 and the Northern health provision – caused by the virus – Powerhouse: Tackling inequalities for likely to annually cost the UK economy UK health and productivity’ study shows £5 billion from lower productivity. the North has been hit harder than The report was led by scientists from anywhere else in England by the crisis. a number of educational institutions, According to the paper – compiled by including Newcastle University. The Northern Health Science Alliance, Professor of Public Health Clare National Institute for Health Research Bambra, of Newcastle University, said: Applied Research Collaborations “We need to significantly ‘level up’ (including North East and North the country by providing immediate
Rethinking mental 4“Life has a funny way of repeating itself.” health, wellbeing and “Life has a funny way of repeating equality itself.” No, that’s not a typing error, but instead a nod to the film Groundhog Day. Millions of newspaper column Specifically, it’s a reference to a line inches and countless broadcast from the production’s trailer, and a play on hours have been devoted its main protagonist’s travails as he relives to the economic impact of the same day over and again. COVID-19, but what about Just like Bill Murray’s weatherman the pandemic’s legacy on our character Phil Connors found himself in mental health and wellbeing, the 1993 comedy, we’ve all become part and efforts to introduce greater of the same daily loop. equality across the country? Phil’s life of repetition began – and remained stuck – in early February; ours Steven Hugill looks at the started in March and, but for a brief present landscape and sees summer recess, will continue into next an opportunity for watershed year. change. I should point out here, that I’m in no Words by Steven Hugill way trying to trivialise COVID-19. As someone who has seen close at hand the pandemic’s devastating impact – and who lived ad nauseum through a first lockdown routine of working from home and dealing with the uncertainty of furlough, all while trying to placate a
34 Report Mental health and wellbeing_ one-year-old daughter and being isolated for example, and ensure this is a country from extended family and friends – I know that gives children of all backgrounds a coronavirus is no laughing matter. chance to succeed, then we can break the Indeed, nowhere is its severity more loop with a positive outlook. reflected than the effects it has had – and And the wheels, it thankfully seems, continues to have – on our mental health are in motion. As North East Times went and wellbeing. to print, Chancellor Rishi Sunak was With vast swathes of jobs lost, working unveiling a £500 million package to patterns changed and social lives held in a bolster mental health services, with cash damaging state of suspension, COVID-19 planned to fund specialist services for has magnified existing inequality and young people, including those in schools, exclusion in society and made us, as and support for NHS workers. individuals, look in a mirror and redefine John McCabe, who stood as an who we are. independent candidate in last year’s North That, of course, isn’t easy – and new of Tyne mayoral election – with policies evidence on the pandemic’s bearing on that included creating a commission on our mental health and wellbeing proves opportunity to improve diversity, equality, the point. social mobility and mental health – says According to a report recently he is relieved to see such steps being published by The Northern Health taken.
Science Alliance, the National Institute “We can either choose to carry on Pictured: John McCabe for Health Research Applied Research Collaborations and the National Institute for Health Research School of Public Health Research, the pandemic has already left deep repercussions. Putting the economic cost of increased deaths at £6.86 billion, the study found the implications of reduced mental health provision across the Northern Powerhouse area caused by COVID-19, could annually cost the UK economy £5 billion in reduced productivity. It is here that I’m reminded of our fictional meteorologist. In Groundhog Day, Phil eventually escapes his Pennsylvanian déjà vu after redirecting his moral compass and making a step-change in the way he approaches his life. We too can leave our own repetitive world with a similarly watershed moment. This pandemic has crystalised our understanding of the importance around mental health and awoken within us a concerted desire to level up not just the country but every section of society. COVID-19 will forever be remembered for the huge tragedy it has been. But if we can harness the implications it has had on our wellbeing to improve future awareness, and if we can build on the work of footballer Marcus Rashford,
35 Report Mental health and wellbeing_
doing what we’ve always done and then “My sense is, that great swathes of wonder why nothing has changed or we society see this as a moment in time,” he can resolve to fix this,” says John, who continues. is founder of Fusion PR Creative and “Marcus Rashford has used his voice Outside in immediate past president of the North to create a movement that has seen an Words by John McCabe East England Chamber of Commerce outpouring of generosity, leading to a Founder of Fusion PR Creative “Specifically, on mental health, I change in Government policy, and I’m believe there is one step we urgently extremely heartened to see so many of 4“The health and wealth of any need to take, and it’s something I’ve long our institutions in the North East working population are inextricably linked campaigned for. together to highlight and improve the and when one is in decline, the “We need to provide better and more health, wealth and wellbeing of our other naturally follows. accessible mental health support to young region. “This isn’t new to the North East. people, and I’d like to see a mental health “Local authorities and healthcare In many of our communities it’s a professional in every school. providers are collaborating in new multi-generational cycle that has “Things are happening, and it gives me ways; our Chamber of Commerce is never been reversed. cause for optimism; we have to keep up campaigning not only for a stronger North “COVID-19 has exacerbated this momentum if we’re going to see real East, but for a fairer economy. this problem and in regions where and lasting change. “And levelling up is at the heart of the there is a high degree of inequality, “The old ways won’t do if we’re going to North East Local Enterprise Partnership’s we’re seeing the gap widening stop this decline and give everybody who Recovery and Renewal Deal for the North with devastating consequences for deserves one a fair shot in life.” East too,” adds John, who is a trustee of society and for the economy. John, who is also a North East Local the Millfield House Foundation, which “The study from the Northern Enterprise Partnership board member, funds policy work aimed at reducing Health Science Alliance provides says he is thrilled with the local response poverty and inequality in the region. clear evidence of the impact this is to COVID-19’s impact on mental health “This ambitious, evidence-based having in our region and while the and wellbeing, as well as inequality offer to Government is the product of findings are shocking, I welcome and exclusion, with organisations and a fantastic collaboration between the them being brought into such individuals recognising this period as a private, public and voluntary sectors, focus.” catalyst for definitive change. trade unions and academia.
36 Report Mental health and wellbeing_ Pictured: Natasha McDonough
“If any good comes from the terrible were struggling with their feelings, tragedy of COVID-19, it will be that it so I offered to pay for six sessions of has brought society to a crossroads on counselling for each member of staff,” matters of inequality and exclusion.” reveals Natasha. Natasha McDonough reflects John’s “I wanted to help fellow businessowners Outside in point on the shifting focus around mental too, so decided to dedicate some of our Natasha McDonough health and wellbeing, revealing she has time to do a national mental health survey Managing director of MMC Research & Marketing already seen changes to the way we to find out how leaders were feeling and interact with each other. what kind of support would help them. Furthermore, Natasha, managing “The key finding I took was that 61 per 4“When the first lockdown director at Sunderland-based MMC cent of respondents believed peer-to-peer happened, I spent many hours Research & Marketing, believes people support helped them and that they would talking to colleagues, clients are now much more receptive to support. want to tap into that in future. and fellow businessowners in “I strongly feel the pandemic has “They also stated they would want ways I’d never spoken to anyone changed the way business owners to attend workshops on topics such as professionally before. I’m always communicate with one another,” says stress. one for speaking openly and Natasha. “My thinking was that I could take honestly about how I’m feeling, yet “Typical, shallow questions to start those findings to the likes of the North I appreciate not everyone does. meetings, such as ‘are you busy?’ are East England Chamber of Commerce – “However, during those early changing to ‘how are you doing?’ and I and others – to encourage more support days, I was incredibly struck by think that’s incredibly refreshing.” for businessowners’ mental health.” how many people started talking For Natasha, who is also chair of And therein lies the future. to me about their emotions due the North East England Chamber of By working to better understand to their fear of the unknown, and Commerce’s Sunderland committee, her people’s thoughts and feelings, and by panic about work slipping away. understanding of the situation was helped putting the work in now, we can not only “While everyone had their own earlier in the year, when she offered staff create a positive future for the present personal fears, I was acutely counselling sessions and undertook a day but lay the foundations for an even aware of a shared trauma among national survey of leaders. better future on the other side of this businessowners too.” “Internally at MMC, I could see people pandemic.
37 38 LIZZY HODCROFT: PERSONAL REFLECTIONS
IF LIFE IS A JOURNEY, THEN LIZZY HODCROFT KNOWS ALL ABOUT THE CROSSROADS WE MUST NAVIGATE ALONG THE WAY. AN ENTREPRENEUR WITH NORTH EAST START-UP SUCCESSES TO HER NAME, LIZZY’S PATH TO THE LIFE SHE KNOWS TODAY HAS NOT BEEN WITHOUT ITS DIFFICULTIES. HAVING FOUGHT ANXIETY OVER HER APPEARANCE, AND THEN SEEN A FRIEND ATTEMPT SUICIDE, LIZZY DID THE SAME, FEELING SHE HAD FAILED TO LIVE UP TO OTHERS’ EXPECTATIONS. OVER THE NEXT DECADE, LIZZY FOUND HERSELF IN A DAMAGING LOOP OF BULIMIA, DRUG ADDICTION AND REHABILITATION THAT ONLY ENDED WHEN SHE SWAPPED AMERICA FOR THE NORTH EAST OF ENGLAND. STARTING OVER AGAIN, LIZZY TOOK SMALL STEPS TO REBUILD HER LIFE BEFORE LAUNCHING A CONDIMENT BUSINESS THAT GAVE HER RENEWED CONFIDENCE AND BELIEF. NOW, AS CO-FOUNDER AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF NEWCASTLE-BASED DISCOVA, SHE IS CHANNELLING HER MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING EXPERIENCES TO HELP OTHERS CHART A PATH TO FULFILMENT. HERE, SHE TELLS HER STORY TO STEVEN HUGILL.
39 Feature Lizzy Hodcroft_
40 Feature Lizzy Hodcroft_
4“I knew I still had a chance if I learned one and hid it in my closet. to live again.” “Then, one evening, I had a trigger Lizzy Hodcroft was trapped in a vicious moment; I felt like I couldn’t be the person circle. and daughter I was supposed to be Underweight, dependent on drugs and anymore, and I overdosed.” in a difficult relationship, the former high After receiving emergency treatment, school footballer, who had tussled with Lizzy was transferred to a psychiatric numerous opponents on the pitch, was hospital. now up against an altogether tougher “The place had a real ‘One Flew Over adversary – herself. the Cuckoo’s Nest’ feel about it,” she “I’d abused my body for years,” she recalls. admits. “It was completely dark when I arrived, “I remember speaking to a friend and I remember laying down on my bed and telling her I was so afraid because I and seeing that someone had written ‘I’m believed my heart was ready to give up watching you’ on the ceiling. on me. “It was a really scary time.” “It felt like I was at death’s door and I After a month of rehabilitation, Lizzy was only 24. I really scared myself.” was allowed to go home. The background to Lizzy’s story began However, with her dysmorphia years earlier. The daughter of a Newcastle returning, she began to suffer from an father and Texan mother – who had met eating disorder and grew increasingly while working on Norway’s oil and gas distant from her family. fields – she grew up in America’s Lone “I struggled with bulimia and got kicked Star State, visiting the UK during summer off my high school soccer team, and I was and Christmas holidays. hanging out with new people too,” says However, after positive formative years, Lizzy. Lizzy gradually began to struggle with “I began to take drugs and ended up in body dysmorphia, and then, in her teens, hospital. Words by Steven Hugill Steven by Words saw a close friend attempt suicide. “In the States, the police show up
Photography by Christopher Owens Christopher by Photography The latter played a part in Lizzy making and give you an ultimatum; go into an attempt on her own life aged just 14 rehabilitation or spend time in jail. and set off a chain reaction that shaped “I did about five months at a place in her mental health and wellbeing journey Utah, but when I got out, my mum told me over the next decade. she didn’t want me to go back to Texas “I constantly thought I was the fat, ugly because she was worried I’d end up in the kid, so I’d go around trying to tuck my wrong crowd again.” tummy in,” reveals Lizzy, who was born in Heeding the advice, Lizzy moved to Scotland when her parents moved from England in April 2007 to live with her Scandinavia to Aberdeen. Fenham-born father. “Then, a few years later, I made a At first, the change proved positive, suicide attempt. with Lizzy enrolling in a course at “A friend of mine had come to my Newcastle College to train as a chef. window about two or three months However, following the conclusion of earlier, telling me he was so sorry because the next academic year, Lizzy returned he’d taken a whole bottle of Tylenol PM – to her home city of Arlington, a former a mix of paracetamol, aspirin and sleeping railroad boomtown sandwiched between pills. Dallas and Fort Worth. “He ran off into the night, but he was But the move went wrong, and taken to hospital and survived. following a tumultuous few weeks, Lizzy, “It really shook me up. at just 24-years-old, was in real danger of “I don’t know why, but I began thinking, seeing her life cut short. ‘I need a bottle of that too’. So I bought “I fell into a wrong crowd again,
41 Feature Lizzy Hodcroft_
was taking drugs and was engaged to and weaknesses, provided motivation and approach to support. someone who was an incredibly bad put me alongside so many kind-hearted Built around data science and insight influence,” she says. individuals.” from medical professionals, including Packing up her things again, Lizzy While growing the company, Lizzy clinical psychologists and therapists, returned to Newcastle in December 2008. appeared on BBC show Dragons’ Den in alongside contributors’ personal “I’d always been very lucky in that my an attempt to secure financial backing to experiences, it is, says chief executive family had been there to help me through supercharge her start-up’s momentum. Lizzy, a complete reversal of traditional things, but now I had to do it on my own,” What she received, however, was a far one-size-fit-all methods. she says. more valuable insight into her future. With individuals and businesses of “It was hard, and I had to plan my days, “Some of them knew me better than all dimensions able to subscribe to its even down to basic things like making myself,” laughs Lizzy. offering, Lizzy says Discova is placing sure I had breakfast and that I went for a “They said they thought I was going actionable solutions into individuals’ walk or popped into Tesco to get food.” to succeed in business, but not with The hands – while maintaining participant As she adjusted to her new life, taking Sweet Beet. anonymity – helping them find ways work in the hospitality sector, Lizzy found “They told me The Sweet Beet would of managing anxiety, stress, debt and comfort through Texan cuisine, which, be the vehicle that would take me to personal development. she says, was a “huge influence” on her something else – and they were right.” “When we met at the NatWest event, mental health and wellbeing. That next venture, so prophesised Emma and I talked about our past mental Melding skills from her chef course by Deborah Meaden and her health issues and a while later she with the tastes of southern America, Lizzy contemporaries, was Discova. contacted me and asked if I would be launched The Sweet Beet condiment Recently rebranded from its original interested in doing something,” reveals business. Myndr name, the Newcastle-based Lizzy. “It was the first time I felt like I had company is focused on people’s mental “We are definitely approaching this something I could do for me,” says health and wellbeing. with a real sense of empathy,” says Lizzy, Lizzy, who complemented time on her Co-founded by Lizzy in 2018 alongside who sold The Sweet Beet in 2019. commercial endeavour with shifts as Emma Reilly, after they met at a NatWest “I’m still changing as a person and we restaurant duty manager at Newcastle’s Business Accelerator programme are all on a continuous journey of finding Blackfriars Restaurant. event, the tech operator has created an out who we are and what we believe in. “It helped me learn about my strengths application that offers a “revolutionary” “We are not a replacement for a care
42 “I’D ALWAYS BEEN VERY LUCKY IN THAT MY FAMILY HAD BEEN THERE TO HELP ME THROUGH THINGS, BUT NOW I HAD TO DO IT ON MY OWN”
43 44 Feature Lizzy Hodcroft_ service; we help people become more experiences – alongside feedback gained self-aware, we understand red flags and from trials with housing association triggers, and we help with coping skills.” Home Group over the summer – Lizzy The importance of Discova – which says Discova is providing a real point previously received Innovate UK funding of difference, with its unique, tailored and Ignite Accelerator programme provision standing out in the marketplace. support – was put into sharper focus “People want more guidance and earlier this year, when the Government structure to the solutions they are trying introduced the national spring lockdown to find – it isn’t enough to be told to to shelter the UK population against ‘go for a walk’ if you are feeling slightly COVID-19. suicidal,” she says. With everyday normality disappearing “It is about personalisation; we are overnight, huge swathes of the country trying to find the right balance, and have had to adjust to new living and working content from medical professionals and patterns, which, for many, impacted real-life stories, as well as things like severely on their mental health and video, audio and podcasts, to help us wellbeing. achieve that. What the scenario showed, says “We have created one of the most Lizzy – as did the re-introduction of a comprehensive care signposting lists lockdown across England in November online and have put together some – was that we all need to take more time carefully considered questions that direct to acknowledge the importance of self- people to the right areas of support. reflection. “Our application recognises a person “We are just not equipped to be in this and how they might interact with the Lizzy Hodcroft, kind of situation for so long. system, and we have worked hard to make co-founder and chief “Right now, it is incredibly hard to plan sure what we offer isn’t patronising.” for the future and get to grip with the And to help increase awareness of executive of Discova change to our home lives because we are its work further, Lizzy and Emma – who such creatures of habit. previously founded the Bold & Brave www.discovahealth.com “Working from home is fine, but even clothing brand – plan to hold an event in when you shut the top down on your Newcastle next year. computer, if someone emails and wants Called DiscovaCon, the seminar, an answer to a question, you don’t have an scheduled to be hosted by Northumbria excuse not to work on it. University in April, will hear from speakers “We don’t know where we’ll be in a week, including mental health campaigner and a month or even six months, so it does former footballer Clarke Carlisle. become hard to feel like there is a reason “It will be one of the first of its type in to push forward,” continues Lizzy. the North East, and we’re hoping to roll it “All of the normal things that give us out across the UK,” says Lizzy. energy and drive, like family and hobbies, “It will look at mental health in the have been taken away from us. current landscape, existing services and “It basically forces us to question who support, and how things can be improved. we are – if I’m not the person who goes “For Emma and I, it is now all about into the office and leads meetings face-to- pushing out what we’re doing to more face, who am I? people. “For the first time, a lot of people are “We want them to engage with us having to listen to their inner voice that is and, if it’s not for some of them, we’re ok a very difficult thing to do.” with that – their feedback will be just as Such a situation, says Lizzy, means valuable to us. Discova has taken on even greater “We’re putting a flag in the North East importance. to show this area can be a leader when it And, by using both her and Emma’s comes to mental health and wellbeing.”
45 Business_ Advertorial_GiveToLocal
Bringing a new dimension to community sport fundraising
The growing support of corporate partners has enabled GiveToLocal to press ahead with a significant pivot that promises to change the face of fundraising within community sport.
@GiveToLocalUK www.givetolocal.com/corporates
THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF NOVEMBER’S the good of the clubs we support,” explains co-founder lockdown across England, and the significant and chief executive Neil Gardiner. tightening of restrictions in other parts of the UK, “It wasn’t a case of waiting to see how the latest posed fresh challenges to community sport towards the lockdown would affect our clubs. end of a year that had threatened the very survival of “We wanted to do something that would enable the clubs everywhere. GiveToLocal community to face that lockdown with Once again, grassroots sport was brought to an confidence.” abrupt and disruptive halt for at least four weeks. Initially, the organisation revealed it would double At a few days’ notice, leagues were shut down, the value of all individual donations already committed training was postponed, and thousands of children, to clubs during November. coaches, parents and volunteers were faced with more In the short-term, at least, clubs facing a financial uncertainty, fear and frustration. shortfall as a result of the latest COVID-19 restrictions Behind the scenes, the team at Tyneside-based could supplement some of that lost income. GiveToLocal knew there was an even greater need to However, in a move that positively disrupts the entire act now and act positively. fundraising platforms sector, GiveToLocal revealed it Just as they had done earlier this year, when the would remove its flat fee on individual donations. Government announced its first, nationwide lockdown, Community clubs can now look forward to receiving the national sport service planned a proactive response 100 per cent of donations pledged from individuals to a looming challenge. through the service’s agile platform and be in a position “We were built to move quickly and effectively for to better prepare for a post-lockdown future.
46 Business_ Advertorial_GiveToLocal
“Our service was always designed to be free for clubs and always has been,” explains Neil. “That staple of our organisation’s ethos will never change. “There have never been any subscription fees and we only leveraged a flat fee on individual donations. Why we’re backing GiveToLocal “We took a small amount of the extra income that we helped to generate for clubs but that will no longer be James Ramsbotham: chief executive, the case. North East England Chamber of “Thanks to the continued support of our partners, we Commerce are in a position to pivot. “The whole premise of GiveToLocal — helping “GiveToLocal will become fee free. Clubs will receive to build sports communities in our region — 100 per cent of any donation income generated through resonates with our own work on behalf of the our platform.” business community. Both of us have the aim of Viewed as a game-changing move within the ensuring the North East has a chance to thrive, fundraising sector, GiveToLocal’s decision to dispense even in these challenging times. Their work with its flat fee on individual donations has the to help finance and build grassroots sports is potential to impact positively on the long-term future of outstanding. We wish them every success and thousands of clubs across the country. GiveToLocal will support them in every possible way to build “We set out to have as wide-reaching an impact as - their networks.” possible but with an appreciation of the fact that we Visit www.givetolocal. need to be sustainable,” adds Neil. com/corporates “The way we sought to do that as ethically as to discover how your business Tony Colquitt: managing director, possible was by applying a flat fee. can help support Rhino Rugby League “The better the job we did, the more value we added a service continuing to to the GiveToLocal network over time and the bigger “We’re a big believer in the role that community make a difference the benefit to our clubs — not to us. to community clubs play in terms of sport and wellbeing. “What has truly changed the landscape in the last sport across the Community sport is our bread and butter and North East. few months — and allowed us to plan for this bold move we’re very keen to support clubs across the — is the exceptional level of enthusiasm and support board. I like the fact that there is sustainability from our corporate partners. in the GiveToLocal solution and the organisation “They have given us the confidence and belief that offers a platform for community sport to grow. we can genuinely increase our impact by becoming There’s so much synergy between Rhino Rugby the ONLY zero fees platform for donations from League and GiveToLocal in terms of what we individuals.” want to achieve within community sport.” GiveToLocal is poised to announce a number of major new corporate partnerships within the coming weeks as its network of like-minded businesses and organisations Andy Grieve: director, continues to grow in size and influence. Weatherproofing Advisors Limited And Neil adds: “Our experience and proven success, coupled with the support of the business community, “GiveToLocal impacts far and wide and that was ensures we remain sustainable, agile and proactive at a really attractive to us when we looked at the time when traditional fundraising models are changing proposition. Sport is such a big part of so many fast. people’s lives and makes a difference in so “Working with our corporate partners, we’re able to many ways. As an example, I’m very interested increase the impact each donation has at every club in the studies which show how playing sport and press on with plans to grow the GiveToLocal team. can have a positive effect on academic “That, in turn, allows us to increase our reach and achievement. Sport — like GiveToLocal — has resource and make more clubs aware of the service we the power to bring people together and it offer and the support they can benefit from.” doesn’t discriminate.”
47 48 Collaboration event November 20, 2020
THE ROUND TABLE
BREXIT: What next for Britain?
X
49 Collaboration X
BREXIT: SEPARATING THE ‘KNOWN KNOWNS’ FROM THE ‘KNOWN UNKNOWNS’
The panel included:
Dr Arnab John Jason Sharon Jamie Peter Basu Duns Knights Lane Ollivere Sandberg ------founding chief director and managing director, managing managing director, managing director, executive, Kromek owner, North East Blue Kangaroo director, Tees RTC North Swedish Chamber Group Times Components of Commerce for the UK
50 Collaboration X
Brexit – a single word that means so much to so many. More than four years after the decisive – and divisive – referendum on Britain’s future position within the European Union, the country is finally ready to go its own way.
Or is it?
For the business community, many questions remain – frustratingly – unanswered or, at best, opaque in their clarity. To try and find a path through the miasma, North East Times last month held a virtual roundtable discussion, in collaboration with Womble Bond Dickinson, wherein business leaders from across the commercial landscape offered their insights.
The panel chair:
Raman Jack Peter Dr Sam Alex Caroline Sehgal Simpson Snaith Whitehouse Nicholson Theobald ------founder, training and global partner and head chief executive, VAT director, chair, FIRST Ramarketing network adviser, of manufacturing, LightOx Limited Armstrong Face to Face Ltd. & PR North East Womble Bond Watson Honorary consul England Chamber Dickinson for Sweden of Commerce
51 X
Setting a course for a post-Brexit future
The time has come for Britain to finally go its own way and journey into new trading waters after withdrawing from the European Union. But are businesses ready, and how much has the impact of COVID-19 hindered efforts ahead of January 1, 2021?
Words by Steven Hugill
4 So, here we are. confident about the future? If not, what are the areas After years of political wrangling, of arguments that require immediate Government attention? ringing out between Britain and the European Here, North East Times assesses a number of areas mainland, of Westminster bombasity and Brussels’ from our virtual Brexit roundtable. counter-punching, we now stand just days from January 1, 2021. A new year normally means resolutions, new hopes DEALING WITH BREXIT’S COMPLEXITIES AND and ambitions, a metaphorical wiping of the slate to UNCERTAINTIES prepare for the months ahead. This time, however, things are all a little different. When David Cameron addressed the media outside 10 When dawn breaks on Friday, January 1, 2021, it won’t Downing Street on June 24, 2016, it marked a seminal just be a new calendar we’ll be flipping open, we will moment for Britain and its political landscape. be unlocking a door to a completely different trading Just hours after more than 33 million people took landscape with the European Union. to the voting booths, here was the country’s Remain- And for all the Government’s promises of an ‘oven- supporting leader ceding power to the Leave campaign ready deal’, are businesses really ready and do they feel and its followers.
52 X
time delays – it’s just unfortunate that the 30/40 per cent at the end is the most important bit. “We know there are going to be border delays, but to what extent and what does that mean for businesses? How does that impact them? “We’re not going to know that until January 1, 2021.” Jamie Ollivere, managing director at Sunderland- headquartered business support organisation RTC North, says a lot depends on companies’ innovation and ability to adapt to the situation. “There will be delays and lots of regulatory compliance problems, but it’s time to move on, and I believe in small business and the power of human entrepreneurship to cope against whatever comes in its way. “Fingers crossed a free trade agreement will happen and we’ll have a basis on which to move forward. “There will be challenges on areas such as border control and paperwork, but it’s time to move on. “We’ve been through this episode twice now,” continues Jamie. Mr Cameron chose a maritime metaphor to describe “Companies have stockpiled, but a lot of those his departure, saying the situation demanded a new stockpiles have been hammered because of COVID-19. hand on the tiller to steer Britain out of the European We’ve got to set a target, move on and all pull in the Union. same direction. Yet from that day, it’s been nothing but choppy “Out of great challenges and great adversity, come waters. great opportunity. Constant uncertainty has left the business “In tough times, a lot of bad businesses tend to fail community ill-equipped to prepare for January 1, 2021. and struggle. Ask any businessperson about the ambiguities of “But real agile and forward-looking businesses will Brexit, and you will receive a multitude of responses. succeed. Whether it’s tariffs, movement of goods and people, “Companies must also stay alert to the support that access to European Union-funded support programmes exists out there,” adds Jamie. or extra documentation, the list is extensive. “For example, we are the Northern lead for So, with just days now left until Britain enters its Enterprise Europe Network, an international network new Brexit environment for real, how are businesses with EU in its title, that covers scores of countries adjusting, and what steps should they be taking into around the world. 2021? “From January 1, where now it’s part-funded by “There is a bit of a 50/50 split,” says Jack Simpson, Europe, it will be funded entirely by UK Government. global network and training advisor at the North East “It will continue, and SMEs can access support to England Chamber of Commerce. help them do international work.” “We have to be “You get those ones that are really quite clued in prepared to live in this big world to where they see the changes and what’s going to and it is up to be happening, but you have others that have no idea FINDING A WAY THROUGH THE CONFUSION individuals and companies to where to begin and want someone to put a button in make it a success. front of them to press so they can be Brexit ready. If the last four years have shown anything, its Brexit’s Innovation and trading will take “One thing I generally find is that those that are ability to deliver puzzlement and frustration in equal us where we getting ready, or trying to get ready, depending on the measure. want to be as a business can probably get 60 to 70 per cent ready. And for those expecting January 1, 2021 to offer company and as a country.” “They know they need to start taking on tariffs, need some kind of panacea, they’re in for a disappointment, - to start taking on documentation and that there will be says Alex Nicholson, VAT director at accountants and Dr Arnab Basu
53 Collaboration X
“If demand from business and financial adviser Armstrong Watson. “One thing we do pick up quite a bit is around long- the European “My days are populated now almost exclusively term competitiveness. Union falls, is that going to working with clients to understand what is changing “With things like tariffs coming in and more be replaced and what it means from a VAT and duty perspective, documentation and more time, it’s going to mean – and within the UK? I’ve been quite and how to deal with it,” he reveals. I’m loathed to say it – that we’re kind of less attractive disappointed at A lot of people have said ‘we need this advice to the market if there’s a Slovakian competitor, for the lack of any sort of will from because we do not know what we do not know.’ example. Government for “That is through no fault of their own; they are “Therefore, how do we go forward and find what local content. I’m finding changes they might not have wished for, or makes us attractive? What works for the North East to worried that time is going on and even foreseen. make us the dynamic and vibrant society that we know nobody is talking “The movement of goods is potentially going to take we are? about that.” - longer and cost more both ways. “We need to look at the challenges and how we can Sharon Lane People say, ‘what if there is a complete and utter turn them into a competitive edge going forward. deal?’ Does that solve all our problems? “How do we tap into the green industrial revolution; It solves some problems – it might reduce in whole, how does the levelling up agenda continue to make the or in part, the financial cost of doing business, but North East the global hub that we know it is?” those transactions are still not going to be the same as “There is opportunity,” adds Alex. they are now. “If you are an example of good practice and “Even if there is a deal, there is still going to be the preparedness, you can differentiate yourself from administration. competitors. “If there’s not, there might be the cost and the “Our goods will move; our supply chains won’t stall. administration.” “As a business, appraise yourself fully of the issues and appraise yourself fully of the options that are available to navigate around them.”
HOW TO SUCCEED AS A REGION – AND A COUNTRY – AFTER BREXIT
For a region whose history tells a tale of a long – and envied – trade balance, Brexit stands as a potentially significantly obstacle to overcome. So how can the North East – and the country as a whole – succeed? “To do well, we need our clients and the North East and UK economy to do well,” says Womble Bond Dickinson’s Peter Snaith. “We are a net exporter in this region because of the industries we have, but distance matters. “You cannot replace an EU marketplace with the USA or with other markets – for example, 70 per cent of the process industry exports from the UK go to EU and 60 per cent of the imports come from EU. “NE businesses and UK manufacturers are resilient,” continues Peter, who is partner in Newcastle-based WHAT SHOULD BUSINESSES BE DOING? Womble Bond Dickinson’s commercial team and head of its manufacturing sector group. “We’ve been encouraging businesses to set up a crisis “I’m an ambassador for the fact that you don’t need team to sit in, manage, understand what it is they need to be a UK-owned business. to do from January 1 and can quickly react to that,” “I’ve worked with ICI and seen its fragmentation and says Jack. businesses succeed under foreign ownership.
54 Collaboration X
“Lots of businesses in our region and in the UK are not UK owned. “If we can’t efficiently get ourselves through these hurdles then we won’t be seen as a good place for capital investment to be made, for mergers and acquisitions to happen. Business as usual, despite “The priority for me is making sure the UK is a place the challenges to invest.” “There are multiple challenges,” says Dr Arnab Basu, founding chief executive of Kromek Group, whose Peter Snaith: Partner and head company sells into more than 50 countries worldwide. of manufacturing, Womble Bond “But I’m a glass half full person and I believe there are Dickinson challenges and opportunities. “The challenges will include movement of people, Remarkably, at a time when businesses in our regulatory affairs and ultimately, of course, any barriers region and across many parts of the world are facing the most extraordinary social and to trade, which will mean a cost. economic challenges due to the COVID-19 “With that in mind, we need to look at two pandemic and we are facing political and further things for us to be prosperous as a company and economic uncertainty linked with Brexit, the as UK plc as a whole,” continues Dr Basu, whose North East business leaders that attended this business complements its Sedgefield-based NETPark roundtable are not standing still. headquarters with a strong presence in the USA. On the contrary, there are encouraging levels of “We have to be innovative in every way – how we “Our magazine confidence that the market is still out there, and move goods, how we communicate with the customer promotes the we just need to go and get it. region. Quite What’s more, the constraints we have all faced – and we have to trade. frankly, the better “Trade alliances are happening – we saw what the region does, due to lockdown have shown us that the world has happened recently with the Asia-Pacific Regional the better we do. suddenly become much smaller and meeting new We like to talk customers as well as existing customers, albeit Comprehensive Economic Partnership and how big about success only virtually, is now easier and more inexpensive trading blocs will matter. stories and are very keen to than ever before. “We are taking a journey outside those big blocs hear how people The group included technology businesses at the moment, but opportunities remain,” adds Dr are dealing with Brexit and and advisory services who have the luxury of Basu, whose company is known for its D3S family identifying not needing to transport tangible products over of products, which can identify terrorist threats opportunities.” geographical boundaries as well as businesses such as ‘dirty bombs. “There is an opportunity to - in the healthcare sector that are enjoying very John Duns look at what we should be charging tariffs for,” says buoyant markets. Dr Sam Whitehouse, chief executive at Newcastle- However, the group also included based LightOx Limited. “We are in a changing world, manufacturers who need to deliver products and where what we buy, when we buy and how we buy move technicians to jurisdictions across the globe. Everybody appreciates that there will be is changing all the time. “We could use this as an disruption at the borders and things will be more opportunity to look at what we want to put tariffs on complicated and that doing business will be more without hurting our own finances.” expensive for a time, but the underlying tone of all our business leaders was encouragingly positive, suggesting pretty emphatically that we will get through this. Perhaps this is a reflection of the mindset of the North East as a whole. We have had our knocks and triumphed over adversity many times before. If the mood of the virtual room is anything to go by, this proud region is not sitting back and waiting to see what will happen over the next few months. It’s business as usual, despite the challenges.
55 Collaboration X
HOW WORRIED SHOULD WE BE ABOUT BREXIT’S products in the UK, you’ve got to attract the best EFFECT ON THE MARKETPLACE? and the brightest and we will be competing in an increasingly global world to attract the best people,” There was a time – before 2020 – when Brexit says Dr Basu, who is an Innovate UK council member. dominated the headlines. His is a point emphasised by Dr Whitehouse. That was, of course, before the COVID-19 pandemic “There is an emotional aspect to this,” says Dr and the delays and drop in demand for goods and Whitehouse, whose firm is behind next generation services born out of the virus’ spread. work to progress skin and oral cancer treatments. And as coronavirus continues to affect the majority “We will fight “We have European staff who are now having to of the globe, how much of an impact will it have on on through. We apply to stay here, even though they came here and are resilient, Britain’s European Union disconnect? but need to studied. For Sharon Lane, managing director at mechanical make sure other “Although trade, tax and flow of goods is important, engineering firm Tees Components, the worry is a very people realise we also have to recognise talent and attracting those how strong the real one. North East is people is important. “We have seen quite a fall in demand over the last and bring more “There are negatives in that we have European businesses in. We few months, and part of that is due to COVID-19. thrive on inward people who are here and want to continue, but there “However, I feel it’s also due to Brexit, with many investment.” are benefits too in that I’ve got people in Singapore and - projects and significant investments put on hold, and the USA who would love to come here and work, so Peter Snaith our client’s clients further up the supply chain just not maybe this is an opportunity to explore that.” making decisions. “Skills retention is going to be really important,” “We need to get past the inertia because businesses says Jack. just aren’t able to sustain waiting for projects to take “We must use that to form a competitive edge to off.” make sure the UK remains a leader in things like the creative industries, but also in areas such as offshore renewables, electric vehicles, digital, health and life THE IMPACT ON PEOPLE AND SKILLS science. For Sharon, whose company is based in North “The product is very important, but to make good Skelton, east Cleveland, the smooth movement of staff
56 Collaboration X
will also be critical to its future in a post-Brexit world, THERE’S ANOTHER TRADING WORLD OUT THERE “We are a front door into with many of its team seasoned veterans in travelling Innovate UK and the world to service clients’ needs. Brexit, naturally, puts the focus on Europe, but North help companies Intrinsic to that work is the company’s Tees White East firms would be wise to look elsewhere, says Jason navigate that family tree. My Gill pump jet thruster, which is already fitted to around Knights, managing director of Gateshead-based global advice is to get 100 ships globally, including research craft and Navy branding agency Blue Kangaroo Design. in touch with all the advisory vessels. The business works across the global toy, support networks “With Brexit, the main impact is going to be on entertainment and licensing industry – with particular out there and go for it.” the export side of the business, which is something traction in North America – with its order book - between ten to 15 per cent of our revenue each year,” featuring well-known names such as Pixar and Warner Jamie Ollivere says Sharon. Bros. “Roughly half of that is to the USA, but the other half And Jason, who is a Northern Powerhouse export is a really wide range of countries that we sell to. ambassador, says its international presence is paying “Ships fitted with our products could dock anywhere strong dividends. in the world with a coastline and a drydock, and they “Our work predominantly comes from North America need have our engineers on site. and South America, but we also work in the European “In the last three years, we’ve had significant work Union, China, India, Australia and elsewhere. in Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Barbados, Canada, Egypt, “I’m probably one of the only ones that says we don’t South Korea, Malaysia and quite a lot in Europe too, have an issue with Brexit as we’re not physically moving across Germany, Italy, France, Ireland, Portugal, products, we’re moving data around. Netherlands and Monaco. “From working in the USA, we know that clients “When we’ve tried to look at what might happen love working with UK suppliers because of the time in terms of travel arrangements for our engineers, difference. or customs issues with getting our goods into other “We can do a full days’ work by the time our USA countries, the picture of nations we export to is likely to clients, especially on the west coast, get up. be different again in three years’ time. “We have a call, hand over work and take back on “It is quite difficult to get any certainty on that. more work.” “We’re concerned about getting our engineers to site Taking part in North East Times’ virtual roundtable and being able to supply spare parts.” from his Boston office, Raman agrees, pointing again to While Brexit may pose issues on frictionless flow of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. staff between EU countries, Raman Sehgal, founder “From a US perspective, I don’t see Brexit as being of Newcastle-headquartered international life science something that will stop people wanting to do business content, creative and digital agency Ramarketing & PR, with the UK,” he says. says he believes access to people has become easier since the outbreak of COVID-19. Now running his business from Boston, in the USA, having previously expanded across the Atlantic, Raman says the world has, in effect, shrunk. “COVID-19 has opened up a world of opportunity of recruitment and talent,” he says. “We are speaking to a guy in China to potentially come and work for us and a lady in Germany to join us too. “The market is global now and people are more open to using people from wherever they are in the world. “It’s really a call to action for everyone in the North East to be bullish and confident. “As a region, the North East is almost scared to shout about how good it is, but it has great talent and skills and should be shouting that from the rooftops.”
57 Collaboration X
“Brexit has become less important as COVID-19 has “Since what we highlight Britain’s proposition as a commercial hotspot do exists in a taken over; people’s mindset has changed in terms of post-Brexit. very regulated Brexit being on the radar. environment, we “I’ve been at the Chamber for two-and-a-half years “COVID-19 has made the world smaller, despite the are kind of used and Brexit has been breakfast, lunch and dinner for me. to the paperwork fact travel has disappeared. anyway, and “One thing we’ve never had to do previously is make “We have won new clients all during lockdown, and understand we the case for the UK. need to do a it completely throws the book out in terms of things lot to get into a “We help a lot of start-ups, particularly in the tech that you’re told to do when you’re going into new market to prove space, establish and set up in the UK. its safe.” countries.” “All of a sudden, we’re having to explain to operators - Dr Sam – who can say, ‘well, we’ll just go to Berlin instead then, Whitehouse for example – why the UK is interesting. BRITAIN’S PLACE IN THE WORLD POST-BREXIT “For a Swedish or a Nordic business, the next stop on your growth journey outside of those markets is the UK Up to this point, we’ve looked at Brexit through a British or Germany. lens. “For us, it’s obvious that Britain is the better option. But what do member states make of our severing of “Culturally, we are way more closely aligned. ties? “If you’re a Swedish business, and you want to grow Is it inevitable that mainland countries will want to internationally, we think the UK is a better launchpad revise trade relations after January 1, 2021? globally. Not quite, says Peter Sandberg, managing director “However, there is this USP and vision beyond Brexit at the Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK, that needs to be articulated to international businesses. which was founded in 1906 and represents hundreds of “The larger businesses are fully prepared for the businesses including Ikea and Newton Aycliffe-based worst and ready to go, but many of the small size lawnmower maker Husqvarna. businesses haven’t started looking at it – and a lot of He says Britain will remain a key marker post on them are holding off on decisions. firms’ trading journey across Europe and the rest of the “A deal still means a lot of work for them and I’d like world. to see a vision from the Government in terms of making However, he warns the Government must do more to the case for the UK.”
58 59 Energy_ Advertorial_Siemens Energy
Fast forward 30 years, and she is one of the business Two engineers. heads for Siemens Energy in the UK, something that Two generations. makes her incredibly proud. Anne’s is a position testament to the fact that it really One purpose. is never too late to achieve personal ambition. Significantly, Anne believes it is proof the industry is Anne Thornton, head of the transmission changing, irrespective of gender, because “they wanted services business, and Amber O’Connor, the right person for the job, with the right experience engineering programme manager at and that was me.” Siemens Energy, share their views on the With a positive outlook for future engineers, as she importance of diversity and the value it looks towards retirement, Anne is keen for her legacy brings to innovation, creativity and skills. to be centered around building sustainable futures for young people, supporting the next generation www.siemens-energy.co.uk and paying her skills and experience forward through @siemens_energy Siemens Energy’s apprenticeship programme. It is an initiative that has enabled her to take on three new recruits this year. She is also playing a key role in identifying young HAVING SPENT HER ENTIRE CAREER IN women with potential, mentoring the leaders of engineering, joining the company in 2001, Anne tomorrow and championing inclusion through the Thornton has worked her way up through the ranks recruitment of her own diverse team. over the years, trailblazing the path as a leader in STEM “When considering new recruits or when working (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). with colleagues, for me diversity is less about who they With a number of challenges to overcome during her are, or categorising people by their differences, rather impressive 30-year career, from being the only female it’s about how they are,” says Anne. student studying electrical and electronic engineering “Recruiting for attitude and training for skills is at university, to getting knocked back for jobs in what a philosophy I stick by. That, and not letting my was a very male-dominated industry, it’s true to say that unconscious bias influence my decision-making. during the early part of her career, Anne wondered if “This is something we all do, but recent training on she was ever going to break the glass ceiling within the the topic, has really helped change my outlook and world of engineering. perspectives.” One key challenge she believes, however, is getting children, particularly girls, to consider a career in STEM with more inclusivity and awareness needed about the different career options available. Owing to this, she is keen to spend more time in schools talking about roles in engineering. “Unless you see people who look like you in those jobs, you won’t think they’re achievable,” says Anne. She also attributes business success to a manager’s ability to identify and bring together the right parts of the puzzle to make up a truly great team. “You need lots of different bits of a jigsaw to make a whole and it won’t work if all the pieces are the same.” Finding a good mentor and sponsor to aid career progression and confidence is also something Anne is passionate about, having personally benefitted from similar support. She says: “You need someone who can advocate for you at the right time of your career – someone who can not only be that voice but help you find your own too,
60 Energy_ Advertorial_Siemens Energy
creating an inclusive environment where everyone’s opinions matter.” Another area Anne hinges success on is the element of family and inclusivity that runs deep throughout not just her working life building a ‘Siemens family’ but at home too, where she credits her father, also an engineer, for her inspiration and her parents for making her believe she could do anything she wanted. These are values that extend further still through her personal support of an adoptive family in Cuba, which she is currently building a home for. “You can’t help everybody, but you can help somebody,” adds Anne. “Whether in work or life, we all need to play our projects. This is something that has made her more part.” resilient and determined to act as a role model for the Amber O’Connor joined Siemens Energy ten years next generation and “be the change you want to see in ago as an apprentice. Today’s she’s the face of the firm’s the world”. global brand campaign and manages 180 gas turbines Amber talks passionately about the benefit of worldwide worth £3.5 billion. She is also proof that the having both a coach and mentor to support her career engineering stereotype is fast becoming an outdated development, with Anne Thornton recently becoming a one. mentor to Amber. Describing herself as an engineer with a chance to “She completely understands what I’m going make an impact, Amber says: “I develop a solution through, and my desire to progress in my career while and put it into the world, knowing that it’ll make a bringing up two young children,” says Amber. difference.” “It’s been invaluable having the support of someone With high hopes that the growing interest in green who has been through that journey and for that I’m very energy will bring more diversity to the industry, she grateful.” adds: “I’d love to walk into a company like Siemens Amber has also been keen to avoid stereotypes and Siemens Energy and see that everyone is completely different is conscious of bringing her true self to work at all Energy - times. from one another. Siemens Energy “It is that difference that’s really going to drive our “I get my nails done. I work at a desk. That doesn’t traces its roots back to 1866, future forward.” make me less of an engineer. It just means I’m a when Werner Amber is aware there still aren’t enough female different kind of engineer,” she says. von Siemens engineers in the industry, but the goal set by Siemens Confident that significant progress has been made converted mechanical Energy of having 25 per cent of upper management in the industry, Amber also acknowledges there is still energy into positions filled by females by 2025 will undoubtedly more to be done. electrical energy, making Owing to that, she has taken an active role help. it applicable to As a whole, she believes organisations need to be in recently setting up a diversity and inclusion everyday life. more diverse to reflect society, to add variety and programme, covering unconscious bias, cultural different perspectives. awareness and women in leadership training to give “The benefits of working with a diverse group expose people the tools to become the leaders they want to you to different cultures and ultimately challenge be. traditional ways of thinking,” she says. And it’s initiatives like these that are playing a Due to the inclusive culture at Siemens Energy, pivotal role in supporting Siemens Energy’s overall Amber acknowledges she has never felt held back commitment to creating a great place to work, where because of her gender, believing her impressive career people’s ambitions are fulfilled, and potential reached. progression is down to being the best candidate for the It’s about harnessing those individual differences that job, rather than being female. allow people to be the change they want to see in the She has noticed a real change in attitude towards world, to make an impact, develop a solution and put diversity in the last decade but has still suffered it into the world today to create a much brighter future some discrimination when she’s travelled globally on tomorrow.
61 Law_ Advertorial_MuckleLLP
Lost touch with the business of Brexit?
Muckle LLP, the North East’s leading independent law firm for businesses, is running a series of Brexit podcasts that talk organisations through the various potential outcomes as the end of the transition period approaches. www.muckle-llp.com @MuckleLLP
THE UK LEFT THE EU ON JANUARY 31, 2020. MUCKLE LLP trading partner and any deal between the UK and EU While we continue to follow the bloc’s rules until the - would need to be ratified by parliaments on both sides, To listen to end of the year, that will all change on January 1, 2021. Muckle LLP’s so time is running out for an agreement to be reached The Brexit podcasts are being led by commercial Brexit advice and to get the sign-off before December 31. series, search lawyers Luke Donockley and Robin Adams, as part of for The Legal “If there is no agreement at that point, trade between Muckle LLP’s successful Legal Spectrum Podcast series Spectrum the two will default to World Trade Organization that is available on Spotify, Buzzsprout and a host of Podcast or (WTO) rules – with tariffs set to be introduced on many follow Muckle other platforms. LLP on Spotify, imports and exports, which could push up costs. The short sessions, around 20 minutes long, are Buzzsprout and “There are still many questions to be answered, and other podcast designed to give businesses confidence by clearly platforms. in these podcasts, we’re focusing on what the end of talking through all the key aspects of the moment and the Brexit transition period really means to businesses providing practical pointers on the best approach to a on a practical level. range of scenarios. “For example, what will trading on WTO rules Solicitor Luke Donockley [pictured centre] says: actually look like and what can you do to prepare for “We’ve reached the business end of Brexit. what comes next? “We are ‘getting Brexit done’. “As a law firm for businesses, Muckle is always “But just how it gets done is still, at the time of concerned with helping clients get the best commercial writing, a matter of some uncertainty. outcome,” adds Luke. “COVID-19 has of course been a tragic interruption. “These podcasts are no exception. We’ve kept them Instead of preparing for Brexit, business survival short and accessible to businesspeople on every level has been an all-consuming objective for many and they provide an opportunity to get up to speed on organisations, with little time to spare on planning for the key issues as they stand at the moment.” the end of the transition period. “So what can businesses do, in practical terms, to make sure they hit the ground running on January 1 when new rules come into play?
“As a law firm for businesses, Muckle is always concerned with helping clients get the best commercial outcome”
“We’re aiming to answer that question with this series of podcasts and provide businesses with some clarity so they can feel more confident and ready to cope with the changes,” continues Luke. “Europe will continue to be an extremely important
62 63 Report Trade_
British-American trade deal moves into new phase
When Theresa May became the first foreign leader to visit President Donald Trump in Washington in 2017, it was with the promise of a free trade agreement (FTA) that she made the trip. Unfortunately for the former Prime Minister, her hopes of an expedient agreement were dashed as the President turned his attentions elsewhere. Three years later and while Theresa May is no longer Prime Minister, her ambition for a UK/US trade deal is finally taking steps forward. The first round of talks between Britain and the United States actually got underway in May this year. Since then, there have been four rounds of negotiations, the most recent in October, with both sides commenting that significant progress has been made towards a deal. With the US finding itself under new leadership, the advancement of British-American trade now moves into a new phase.
Will 2021 be the year the long-awaited UK/US FTA is signed?
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Possibilities
Words by Richard Dawson
65 Report Trade_
Joe Biden has always believed you can define the United States of America in a single word – possibilities. The new President-elect uses the word to focus minds on the ideals of the American Dream, but it’s also a good way of thinking about UK/US trade. The foundations for a new trade deal are strong given that the two countries already share the world’s largest bilateral investment partnership. But in the realm of international trade, things are never quite that simple and Prime Minister Boris Johnson will have to pull out all the stops to capitalise on the new era of international co-operation ushered in by the Biden White House.
4A lot of things might have changed you factor in how much worse the public strong, given the UK and the US already in 2020, but the United States still health crisis has been in America. share the world’s largest bilateral remains the world’s foremost economic The latest estimates from the investment relationship. That is to say superpower. International Monetary Fund (IMF) put US each country is the other’s number one That’s despite the best efforts of the GDP at $20.8 billion for 2020, with China source of foreign direct investment (FDI). world’s fastest growing superpower, in second place on $14.9 billion. The relationship is estimated to be China, which has rebounded strongly The subject of when the People’s worth more than $1 trillion and creates from its historic 6.8 per cent contraction Republic will overtake the US economy one million jobs in both countries. UK in the first quarter of 2020, posting is widely disputed, with some investment also fuels every sector of the expansions of 3.2 per cent and 4.9 per commentators arguing that it will never US economy and reaches all 50 states. cent in the subsequent quarters. happen and others, like Elon Musk, Sarah Glendinning, North East director China’s economy may actually still claiming Chinese GDP will ultimately be at the Confederation of British Industry, grow this year, one of only a handful of two or three times higher than US GDP. says: “The US and UK have some of the countries in the world to do so. What’s clear is that it’s not going to world’s most successful trading ties But the US has also staged an equally happen in the near term, which means and businesses in both countries look impressive comeback, following up a the UK should be redoubling its efforts in forward to building on that with the new record-breaking 34.3 per cent contraction negotiations to secure a comprehensive administration.” in the second quarter with a staggering 38 free trade deal with America in the According to the latest figures from the per cent expansion in the third quarter. months ahead. Office for National Statistics (ONS), UK That is all the more compelling when The foundation for an agreement is businesses exported £112 billion worth of
66 67 Report Trade_
“The case for a UK/US trade deal is as strong as ever – the world’s largest investment relationship with over a million jobs created in both our countries and like- minded free traders with scope to shape future regulation in new sectors like AI, fintech or life sciences”
goods and services to the US last year. could mean a return to the kind of the Cold War – will have been music to That is more than any other country multilateralism that governed world affairs the ears of the incoming administration. in the world and twice the amount sent before 2016. In light of this, it’s tempting to think that to Germany, which is Britain’s second This would be good news for the UK, a UK/US trade deal will be an easier sell in biggest trading partner. which has traditionally worked very the new White House. The UK also has a £42 billion trade closely with the US on issues like global But of course, it’s not that simple. surplus with the US, compared to a £21 security and defence. First and foremost, Joe Biden is openly billion trade deficit with Germany. It would also represent a distinct against Brexit and actually used his first It should be mentioned that all of these point of departure from the ‘America phone call with Mr Johnson to underscore figures are dwarfed by the £274 billion First’ foreign policy Donald Trump has the need for the UK to secure a trade deal worth of exports sent to the EU as a ruthlessly pursued during his presidency. with the EU. whole. Most notably in its attitude towards During the election campaign, Mr Biden But still, there can be no doubting that China, the Trump administration also tweeted: “We can’t allow the Good a trade deal with America presents huge mobilised tariff regimes for political ends, Friday Agreement that brought peace to opportunities for UK exporters. seeing trade as a zero-sum game through Northern Ireland to become a casualty of Sarah adds: “The case for a UK/US which winning must be achieved at all Brexit. trade deal is as strong as ever – the costs. “Any trade deal between the US and UK world’s largest investment relationship A continuation of this approach would must be contingent upon respect for the with over a million jobs created in both be detrimental to a UK/US trade deal, so agreement and preventing the return of a our countries and like-minded free traders it’s positive that Mr Biden has moved to hard border. Period.” with scope to shape future regulation distance himself from it. The President-elect’s strong feelings on in new sectors like AI, fintech or life Boris Johnson was also the first the matter can be attributed to his Irish sciences.” European leader to receive a telephone ancestry – his first state visit will be to the So, what scope is there for a deal? call from the President-elect, which is Republic of Ireland upon assuming office. Well, much like Joe Biden’s definition of thought to be highly symbolic of future The second problem is how the UK America, there are lots of possibilities. intentions. struggles to be heard in a global context On the one hand, Mr Biden’s desire to Moreover, Mr Johnson’s decision to where America’s leaders have to face up repair America’s relationships with its increase UK defence spending by £16.5 to things like the coronavirus pandemic allies and fortify international agreements billion – the largest rise since the end of and climate change.
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Facts & Statistics
The UK’s largest trading partners (£ billions)
41. United States: Imports £70.4 – Exports £112.2
42. Germany: Imports £78.1 – Exports £56.8
43. Netherlands: Imports £46.9 – Exports £39
44. France: Imports £40.8 – Exports £40.4
45. China: Imports £45.2 – Exports £22.3
46. Ireland: Imports £21.8 – Exports £34
47. Spain: Imports £31.3 – Exports £16.1
48. Belgium: Imports £28.2 Even just looking at trade, the Biden partner. But to fully take advantage of any – Exports £18.7 administration has signalled its intent to new era of international co-operation, the 49. Italy: Imports £24 revive inter-continental agreements, such UK must start as it means to go on and – Exports £18.9 as the Trans-Pacific Partnership with Asia secure a good Brexit deal. 410. Switzerland: Imports £11.7 and the Trans-Atlantic Partnership with Failure to do so now risks alienating – Exports £19 Europe. Britain not only from its European The UK looks comparatively small neighbours but also its Atlantic ones who fry when compared to these behemoth are about to be under new management. UK total trade (2019) trading blocs. As the new year approaches, more than Thirdly, Mr Johnson must work hard usual it will bring the chance for a fresh 4Total imports - £718.3 billion to change the perception of him as being start. 4Total exports - £689 billion Britain’s answer to Donald Trump. But 2021 will also be racked with many 4Goods - £873.7 billion Using xenophobic rhetoric and playing of the challenges that have dogged up to populist narratives might have the world this year, making the need 4Services - £533.6 billion worked well for the Prime Minister while for American leadership all the more 4Total trade with EU - £659.5 billion a xenophobic populist was in the White pressing. House, but it’s a strategy that will be out In Joe Biden, the world will at least 4Non-EU - £683.3 billion of date come January when the new have a leader that is willing to engage 4Trade as a percentage of GDP administration takes charge. with those challenges, which is good – 63.5 per cent
On the whole, there is reason to be news not just for UK trade, but for all 4Trade deficit as a percentage of GDP cautiously optimistic about the prospect aspects of life. – 1.3 per cent of a UK/US trade deal under President Sarah adds: “It’s early days but a Biden 4Exports as a percentage of GDP Biden. presidency could open up possibilities – 31.1 per cent Relations between the two countries for UK business across a host of things 4Exports as a percentage of GDP are not perfect by any stretch of the including climate change, the World – 31.1 per cent imagination but fundamentally, if the Trade Organisation and a reinvigorated US is looking to rebuild its international G7. “British business looks forward to reputation and reach out to the rest working with the US to capitalise Source: Department for International Trade – UK Trade in Numbers (February 2020) of the world, the UK can be a worthwhile on that.”
69 Feature Professor Thom Brooks_
W ? IP H H A S T N SP IO EC AT IAL REL
Words by Richard Dawson
70 Feature Professor Thom Brooks_
W ? IP H H A S T N SP IO EC AT IAL REL
Photography by Christopher Owens
71 Feature Professor Thom Brooks_
The first time Professor Thom Brooks heard about the special relationship between Britain and the United States was when he arrived in the UK at the beginning of his academic career. Hailing from New Haven, Connecticut, the dean of Durham Law School is therefore not convinced the United States is going to come to the UK’s rescue with a sweetheart free trade deal post-Brexit, especially now that Joe Biden is set to take control of the White House. After four years of Donald Trump, the new President-elect will have his work cut out for him getting on top of the coronavirus pandemic at home and strengthening international agreements abroad. In this context, Richard Dawson asks Thom whether the special relationship will be high on America’s to-do list?
72 Feature Professor Thom Brooks_
4In the late 15th century, the existence of the Americas was entirely theoretical. Classical geographers had thought the world consisted of just Africa, Europe and Asia and believed that lands being discovered by European navigators were simply the Eastern edges of Asia, rather than an entirely new continent. It was the Florentine explorer Amerigo Vespucci who first realised that what was being discovered was in fact a “Mundus Novus” – a New World. What followed was the so-called Age of Discovery during which the European colonial powers sailed across the Atlantic in search of glory, gold and God. The promise of the New World is one that has been driving immigration to the Americas ever since, particularly in the case of North America, which was first colonized by the British in 1607. By the middle of the 18th century, there were thirteen British colonies in North America. Many people emigrated there seeking greater economic opportunities and religious freedoms. This was certainly true in the case of Professor Thom Brooks’ ancestors. Like many Americans, the dean of Durham Law School has traced his family Brooke) settled in the New Haven colony He is also credited by the Electoral tree back to when they moved from the in the late 17th century and have been Commission as having been instrumental Old World to the New. there ever since. in changing the ballot choices in the EU On his mother’s side, the family Well, ever since Thom moved from the Referendum from ‘yes’ and ‘no’ to ‘remain’ emigrated from the Netherlands in the Connecticut coastal city to the UK in the and ‘leave’. 17th century when the Dutch settlement early 2000s. Like many international observers, of New Amsterdam was first established The American-British philosopher Thom was relieved to see media outlets on the Southern tip of what is now and legal scholar came to England in call the US presidential election for Joe Manhattan Island. pursuit of a doctorate at the University of Biden on November 7, coming from His father’s side served in Oliver Sheffield and then moved on to academic behind in the key battleground state of Cromwell’s armies during the English Civil posts at Newcastle University, University Pennsylvania to beat the incumbent, War and were part of the Puritan sect of of St Andrews, University of Oxford and President Trump. English Protestants that dominated Britain Durham University, where he is now. “It feels like it was light defeating dark during the republican commonwealth. He has held numerous visiting in this election,” says Thom. “I feel very They left the country before the appointments at some of the world’s top good about having someone who is more Restoration of the monarchy in 1660. universities and is renowned for his work trustworthy in charge.” The Brooks (who were actually called on immigration and citizenship. Like him or loathe him, President
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“IN THE UNITED STATES, THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO VIEW OF A SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP AND IN FACT IF YOU ASK AMERICANS WHERE THEIR GREATEST HERITAGE IS, THEY’RE FAR MORE LIKELY TO SAY IRELAND THAN BRITAIN” Trump has divided Thom America while also explains: “Having a presiding over one of government that is not the greatest crises in its only Democrats, that looks history. more like America and that The US has by far and away the represents America – that will help largest number of coronavirus cases and deaths with the healing process.” in the world, with more than a quarter of a million Americans It is also expected that Kamala Harris, as the first female, having died from the disease at the time of writing. first African and Asian-American Vice-President, will have a big President Trump has also plunged the country into a profound role to play in domestic affairs, possibly even co-ordinating the constitutional crisis by refusing to concede the election to Joe coronavirus response. Biden, making a series of unsubstantiated claims about voter Thom believes this is because the Democratic Party will be fraud and filing lawsuits in multiple states. looking to position her for the presidency in 2024, with Joe Biden Thom says: “Trump is undermining the democratic fibre of the unlikely to go for a second term. country with his claims about voter fraud that have no factual “She’s the one to watch,” he says. basis. The Senator from Delaware will likely come into his own in “It’s damaging for politicians generally to behave in this way the field of foreign affairs, something which the world sorely because it feeds the view that there’s always a conspiracy, which needs after four years of American withdrawal from its global is not true at all. leadership role. “But because he’s the President, there’ll be a lot of people who The big priorities for President Biden will be to repair believe what he says and take him at his word.” America’s relationships with its allies and to restore some of the With the public health crisis raging on and a significant international agreements it helped create. proportion of the electorate thinking the election was rigged, From the World Trade Organisation and the Paris Climate the task of uniting what is now the divided states of America has Agreement to the Iran Nuclear Deal and NATO, there’s a lot to never been more challenging. be done. The Biden administration may also push for a new trade “Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have a very difficult deal with Asia, something which could be more expedient now opportunity,” Thom confirms. that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) It is hoped that one of President-elect Biden’s first moves between China, South Korea, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and will be to reach across the divide and appoint a diverse cabinet ten South East Asian countries has been signed. with some Republican appointees to create a more bipartisan Thom says: “A wider trade deal makes a lot of sense because administration. Asia is where a lot of the growth is coming from economically.”
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“IT FEELS LIKE IT WAS LIGHT DEFEATING DARK IN THIS ELECTION. I FEEL VERY GOOD ABOUT HAVING SOMEONE WHO IS MORE TRUSTWORTHY IN CHARGE”
With so many set-piece issues to be than Britain. But moving to the UK has come with its addressed at home and abroad, we could “I think when you hear British challenges, chief among them applying be forgiven for thinking that rescuing politicians talk about the special for permanent residency and citizenship, the UK from a no-deal Brexit with a relationship with America, they’re which Thom found to be anything but sweetheart trade deal is not going to be drawing on a fictional narrative that’s straightforward. high on the US agenda. been told over here since the Second “As I finished my PhD at the University President-elect Biden does not agree World War. of Sheffield, I decided I would stay in this with Brexit and has made plain his “In America, the history is different. country,” he says. concerns about what it means for the We go back to thinking about the “When I was applying for permanent Good Friday Agreement in Ireland, where Revolutionary War or more recently, the residency, I was filling out my application his ancestors come from. Vietnam War.” and discovered there was a citizenship But what about the special relationship, Even the bridge in Thom’s hometown test. I looked it up online, I took it and I I hear you say? is a reminder that the special relationship failed it comprehensively. Well, it’s Thom’s view that the special may not be what it seems. “I then started to ask my students relationship no longer exists in the He explains: “New Haven has the Pearl various questions from the test and found American psyche. Harbour Memorial Bridge. It’s not called that even given multiple choice, a lot of He says: “The first time I heard that the Churchill Bridge or the Atlee Bridge them couldn’t get it right either. phrase was when I was living in the UK. and that’s because what got America “Then I discovered that a lot of the I remember asking someone, ‘special involved in the Second World War was information in the test was actually relationship with who?’ the war in the Pacific, rather than the untrue, mostly because things had “In the United States, there is relationship with the UK.” become out of date.” absolutely no view of a special It’s been almost two decades since But the thing that frustrated Thom relationship and in fact if you ask Thom left Connecticut, and now he just most was that, at the time, politicians Americans where their greatest heritage tells people he moved from one North from left and right were talking tough is, they’re far more likely to say Ireland East to the other North East. on immigration and largely accepting
76 Feature Professor Thom Brooks_ the narrative that it was too easy to get citizenship in the UK. This frustration formed the basis of both Thom’s academic research and his political activism. He explains: “It was deeply unsettling to me to see politicians, from whatever party, telling us they took immigration seriously, yet none had noticed that the Home Office was using a citizenship test containing information that wasn’t true about the country. “I’m all for immigration laws, consistent laws that work, but there had to be somebody out there who actually knew what they were.” This is a role Thom unexpectedly took on for himself, appearing on television, radio and in print media to expose the widespread ignorance of how the UK immigration system actually worked. “Being that person in the media to challenge some of the thinking around immigration is something I’m really proud of,” he says. Thom came to the UK to study philosophy and while a lot of his work at Durham University is now around immigration law, he’s still a philosopher at heart. One of his favourites is the German idealist G.W.F. Hegel, whose theories can tell us a lot about our current moment. Thom explains: “The thing that makes someone like Hegel hugely important for times like these is that he was always looking at opposites. “He would look at two different sides or opposing views and say, ‘they both have a point’, but the trick is to find what brings them together, whether it be about how the state works, how our legal Professor Thom Brooks, system works or how society works. “That project of trying to overcome dean of Durham Law School difference and see two sides not as opposites but as different aspects www.dur.ac.uk/law of a wider whole that we have to accommodate – that’s a project for our @thom_brooks times.” @DurhamLawSchool With the New World as divided as it’s ever been, it’s a hard metaphor to disagree with.
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