The Women's Organisation

The Women's Organisation Business Club Offers Help to 'Understand Your Customer'

2012-02-02T02:17:00.000-08:00

The Women’s Organisation Business Club Invite You To‘Understand Your Customer’ at our networking event this month

Held on:
Thursday 23rd February 6pm-8.30pm

Held at:
The Women's Organisation,
54 St James Street
Liverpool
L1 0AB

As well as enjoying business networking and light refreshments, gather tips from our experts to help you understand your customer, and inevitably increase sales.

Karen Bellion from Parcours will highlight ways that understanding cultural working practices is the path to improving your business communication skills. Karen will look particularly at identifying practices to:
• better understand your customers
• improve your communication skills and performance
• identify skills to benefit your customer services

Business growth specialist Jo Copoc of Boomerang Business Solutions will look at the core principles of knowing who your customers are and making successful sales. Jo’s talk will be covering:
• Establishing your customers’ needs
• Winning conversations
• Dare to be different

This event is open FREE to members of The Women's Organisation business club. Membership is currently free and open to women running a trading business in the northwest of England. The business club offers access to regular networking and specilist training events, as well as a free listing on our business directory. To find out how to join or to book a place on the event contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

WICED Panel Member Brings Women's Entrepreneurship to the White House

2012-02-02T01:44:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation will be represented at The White House this week by WICED panel member Professor Teresa Nelson. Professor Nelson will be speaking as a panelist at the White House Summit on Women's Entrepreneurship.

Developed by the White House Office for Women and Girls, under the leadership of Valerie Jarrett, senior advisor to the President, the panel will address "Getting Capital to Start Your Business." The summit brings together government, the for-profit, and the non-profit sector in a discussion of ways to increase women's participation in entrepreneurship.

Professor Nelson Teresa Nelson holds the Elizabeth J. McCandless Professor of Entrepreneurship Chair and is Director of the School of Management's Entrepreneurship Program. Her teaching, research, and consulting focuses on issues of entrepreneurship and global business, most particularly around start-up and growth company governance and top management team dynamics. She has also been engaged for more than a decade with global business issues, including especially China and the European Union. As an affiliate of the Center for Gender in Organizations, Nelson studies the patterns and strategies of action used by women entrepreneurs as they access venture capital. She is a great advocate for women's entreprepreneurship and The Women's Organisation are fully behind Teresa during this important discussion.

First Cohort of We Mentor UK Mentors and Mentees Meet in Liverpool

2012-01-24T07:31:00.000-08:00

Following the launch of We Mentor Uk during Enterprise Week last year, an overwhelming number of business women enquired about signing up to the programme to receive support to help their business venture to grow.

The first groups of mentors and mentees were invited 'An Introduction to Mentoring' day to set them off on the programme at home of The Women's Organisation - 54 St James Street - in Liverpool.

Project partners NCEE and The Women's Organisation were delighted by the quality of business mentors who had agreed to give their time to support female enterpreneurs.

Enterprise Director at The Women's Organisation Jackie Williams said "We couldn't have hoped for a better group of established businesses to offer their time on this project. The overwhelming response from women entrepreneurs enquiring about receiving mentoring shows how valuable a project like this is, and exciting to see so many women ready to take the leap to grow their business. We are really looking forward to seeing how those fledgling businesses progress."

The mentors and mentees were given the opportunity to look at the role of a mentor, their expectations for the project and how they can access the online tool jam packed with resources to support them on their business journey.

We Mentor UK is a European mentoring project run in partnership with NCEE and The Women's Organisation that aims to provide guidance and support for women entrepreneurs to further grow their existing business enterprise. We are still looking for further established businesses of over 5 years to offer their time to mentor a fledgling business ready to grow. Fledgling female led businesses from across the UK who could benefit from being linked with a mentor can also sign up to be a mentee on the project. If you are interested in finding out more about the project you can follow us on facebook or Twitter, or email our team to info@thewo.org.uk

"Handbags - What do Women Want" Exhibition Comes to 54 St James Street

2012-01-23T04:49:00.000-08:00

"Handbags - What Do Women Want" is an exciting exhibition from Eileen Walsh, MA student at Liverpool Hope University's Fine Art Department.

The project looks at gender and the way the social and cultural environment constructs women's identities and how women react to the structures and conditioning imposed on them. The exhibition aims to uncover personal narratives in women's lives using the metaphor of the handbag, thus stimulating critical thinking that moves from the personal to the universal and questions the hegemonies that determine women's lives. These ideas are explored through the mixed media of photography, sound stories, textiles and found objects.

54 St James Street, home of The Women's Organisation, was chosen especially for this exhibition with the organisation's mission describing them as "an innovative women’s organisation that provides quality enterprise and employment services and influences policy, in order to improve the economic position of women".

"Handbags - What Do Women Want" exhibition is open Monday 30th Jan - Friday 3rd February 9am-6pm following a private view on Friday 27th January. Eileen Walsh will be available for discussion at the following times: Mondays 4.30pm-5.30pm, Tuesday 5pm-6pm, Thursday 12.30pm-1.30pm at the exhibition at 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB.

Positive Networking for 50 North West Business Women

2012-01-19T02:46:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation Business Club had a fantastic positive start to the year last night at 54 St James Street with 'New Year, New You' networking.

Motivational speaker Jen Mercer of One Body Fitness kicked off the evening with her top tips on keeping a healthy body for the coming year. Her warm presentation encouraged the business women in attendance to "Ignore the scales. If you feel comfy in your clothes and feel healthy then that is what counts". Jen's top tip of the evening was to fill your diet with lots of "dark green leafy veg".

Following Jen was Pauline Moran of Hope Street Holistic Clinic giving a 5 minute overview of cleansing the liver, and The Women's Organisation's in house NLP practitioner Bernie Cox finished the evening with a talk on keeping a healthy mind for 2012.

Just over 50 women turned out for the event, and the comments below show how they enjoyed the evening:

"Enjoyed Jen's talk - off to eat my greens! Thanks"
"Really good evening again" - Emma Hill, His and Hers Magazine
"Lovely event thank you. Met good contacts, good speakers"
"Fitness coach was excellent!"
"Well done, good time"
"Loved the format. Jen so inspiring and refreshing. Interesting and inspiring"
"Loved the speaker. It was good to have someone who is honest and real"
"My first time. It was very good. See you next month"
"Motivating!"
"A most factual, motivating and enjoyable evening. Well Done!"
"Lovely to meet new people"
"Very informative talk about liver cleansing, good networking opportunity"
"Venue=great, format=good"
"Great event. Informative, lively, useful. Learny lots. Thanks"
"The evening was great - especially Jen's frank approach to health and fitness. Very inspiring!"
"Brillinat. Really enjoyed it. Will certainly come again - I'm inspired"
"It was lovely. Great presentations, especially the final one about the brain. I love it"
"Just what I needed thank you. Insightful, funny and a great start to the New Year"

If you are a woman running a business in the north west of England and you would like to take advantage of a FREE membership for our business club, please contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

National Diversity Awards Open for Nomination

2012-01-16T08:47:00.000-08:00

The National Diversity Awards is a prestigious black tie event held in The Midland Hotel, Manchester on the 21st September, 2012, which celebrates the achievements of people from underrepresented backgrounds and also recognises contributions made by individuals or groups from diverse communities.

Nominations are now open to the general public and there are a variety of awards representing different categories of diversity. There are five Entrepreneurial of Excellence awards Each for:

- Race
- Age
- Gender
- LGBT
- Disability.

You can start nominating by visiting http://www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk and selecting your chosen award category.

Mum's in Business Free Networking Event

2012-01-16T01:51:00.000-08:00

Kiwans Solicitors are offering free networking support to busy mum's who are looking for appropriate channels to promote their business.

The 'Mums in Business' events are held at convenient times, and allow working mothers to talk business with like-minded women in city centre locations.
The programme is the brainchild of solicitor Claire Currie, who works in the Private Client department of Kirwans, which has offices across Merseyside.
Claire was inspired to create a networking group which mums in business could attend at times which didn‟t interfere with their family commitments when she was on maternity leave.

She said: “Whilst I was on maternity leave, I attended various mums‟ groups and met some great people who were also professionals.

“Upon returning to work, I once again started attending the more traditional networking groups and found that most meetings were either early in the morning or after work which often conflicted with the commitments of family life .

“It was from this viewpoint that the idea of the Mums in Business group was formed – events held in the middle of the day which would allow mums to easily attend.

“It has developed into a warm friendly group where everyone is welcomed. As mums, all members of the group understand the pressures of professional v‟s family life and it can be challenging to achieve the right balance. It was clear from the launch that attendees were finding value in not only having the opportunity to make new business connections but to also speak with likeminded women.”

The next Mums in Business event takes place at the Hard Days Night Hotel on North John Street in Liverpool city centre on Wednesday, January 25 from 12-2pm. Attendance is free, but those attending must register in advance.

To register, email events@kirwanssolicitors.co.uk, or call Caroline Evans on 0151 703 1927.

First Meeting of WiDgIT (Women in Digital and IT) 30th Jan

2012-01-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

Are you female? Able to get to Liverpool for 5.30ish?

Starting on Monday 30th January, 5.30pm onwards at Bold St Coffee, Liverpool is the first meeting of WiDgIT, or Women in Digital and IT.

Interested in digital, social, info tech or computing? Come along to meet other like-minded women and have your say on what you want from a monthly meet-up in Liverpool.

Check out wiDgIT Blog and Twitter @widgitliverpool

Tickets here: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/2717838127?ref=eweb

The ticket is free, there will be great coffee and/or alcoholic beverages and great food (cash bar!)

Apply by 13th Jan for 10,000 Small Businesses Program UK

2012-01-10T08:17:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation have been aware of a program of support available to those looking to build a business which may be of interest.

The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK program is designed to provide high-quality, practical support to the owners and leaders of established small businesses and social enterprises as they seek to grow.

The program is delivered through a network of local partners who combine relevant academic expertise and extensive experience working with the owners and leaders of small businesses.

10,000 Small Businesses in the UK is currently open to applications from small businesses and social enterprises in London, Midlands, North West of England and Yorkshire.

How it Works
The program brings together leaders of small businesses from across industry sectors and creates unique networking and peer learning opportunities.
For those small business leaders selected to participate, the core of the program is a high quality, practically-focused business and management education, delivered over twelve sessions lasting approximately 100 hours. The program has been designed specifically for this program by world-class international, national and local experts in entrepreneurial learning.

During the course of the program every small business owner develops a customised Growth Plan to direct their organisation’s business strategy and expansion.
Participants also benefit from a range of business support services, including:
•Specialist workshops
•One-on-one business advising
•Coaching / mentoring
•Access to professional experts
•Networking opportunities and
•Alumni services

The deadline for applications for the North West programme is 13th Jan! So if you are interested read the full info brochure or visit www.10ksbnw.co.uk

FREE 'An Introduction to Mentoring' Training With We Mentor

2012-01-04T06:46:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for opportunities for continued professional development?

Have you been running your own growing business for over 5 years?

Are you interested in giving back and helping to develop others?

We Mentor UK invites you to attend:
‘An Introduction to Mentoring’

On: Thursday 19th January, 9.30am-4.30pm
At: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James St, Liverpool, L1 0AB

This interactive and informative session will create an opportunity for established business owners to become aware of how through mentoring they can support fledgling business and develop their own professional development.

Come along to this FREE no-obligation training session to find out more about We Mentor UK - A project run in partnership with The Women's Organisation and NCEE - and to learn how you can benefit from becoming a mentor.

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL!

Lunch will be provided.

For more information on the role of a mentor or to check your eligibility and book a space, please contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

We Mentor UK Meet European Partners in Poland

2012-01-03T03:33:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation were invited along with other partners to the Inauguration Conference of the European Network of Mentors for Women Entrepreneurs in Warsaw, Poland. The conference was organised jointly by the European Commission and the Polish Presidency of the European Union to bring together the 17 countries involved in running the mentoring projects for women entrepreneurs including; Albania, Belgium, Cyprus, FYROM, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Montenegro, the Netherlands,Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

Attending the conference on behalf of 'We Mentor Uk', the project being run in partnership with The Women's Organisation and NCEE, were mentor and former business start up client of the organisation Sylvia Walker of SW Associates, and Chair of the board of directors for The Women's Organisation Pat Shea Halson.

The delegates were invited to take part in seminars looking at female entrepreneurship in Poland and the role of mentors and ambassadors. The conference culminated in a presentation of diploma certificates for the mentors from each country to mark the inauguration of the mentor network. Pictured left is Sylvia Walker receiving her certificate from Ms Grażyna Henclewska, Polish Undersecretary of State, Ministry of Economy.

We Mentor UK is a European mentoring project that aims to provide guidance and support for women entrepreneurs to further grow their business enterprise.
The project will link mentors and mentees according to sector, skills, need and preference. Mentors and mentees will be able to work together both in person and through our comprehensive e-mentoring systems to share experiences and build an action plan.

Throughout the course of the project mentees will be given opportunity to:
• Reflect on their own business performance and examine principles of business practice
• Develop strategies for business growth
• Learn from the practices, culture, ethos, communication and procedures of another business
• Enhance their personal development, building in confidence
• Build on personal and professional networks for business opportunity
• Access shared business resources

This project is open for recruitment NOW, so for more information or to register your interest in the role of mentor or mentee, please contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Father's Legacy Inspires Susan's 'Mushin Martial Arts Academy'

2011-12-23T05:57:00.000-08:00

When Susan King’s father sadly passed away, Susan decided to use the money he had left her to carry on his legacy and do something she knew would make him proud. So she took the brave step to set up her own martial arts academy ‘Mushin Marital Arts’.

Susan started training in martial arts at just 15 years of age when her father expressed his keenness to have her be able to defend herself. Although Susan had built up her career working as a manageress in sports retail, she developed her martial arts training over 26 years offering classes on a voluntary basis in the community.

Now a 5th degree black belt ‘godan’ Susan is one of the few women in the UK to be ranked so highly and she is keen to see more women have a go at the sport. “Women seem to think that they can’t do it”, says Susan, “However, it’s not a sport that uses strength; it is more about self-defence. Anyone can do it; women just need more confidence to try it out.”

At the point of setting up her business Susan had been out of work for several months, and the thought of signing off benefits to work for herself was both daunting and exciting. Susan was directed to The Women’s Organisation for support via another local support service. She said “I did my business plan with one of their business advisers who was so helpful. Capital was the main barrier in setting up the business, so I was glad of help to put together grant applications.”

The Mushin Marital Arts Academy were awarded grant funding from local enterprise initiative Stepclever to enable them to cover their business start-up costs.

“I’m feeling positive that we’ve managed to open the academy, and everyone who has come through the doors has said it’s fantastic. We really have tried to make sure there is something for everyone, from suiting the traditionalists to those who are into their MMA and I think we’ve managed to achieve that.”

Mushin Martial Arts Academy which is located at 180a Queens Drive offers a range of classes including: Japanese Ju-Jitsu, Sambo (which is a Russian form of wrestling),Women’s Thai boxing, fitness classes, Aiki Budo, Thai Boxing, children’s boxing and grappling, little Samurai’s and Combatives - fitness class. To find out more about the classes on offer from Mushin Martial Arts visit www.mushinmartialarts.org.uk or contact Susan on 0790612610. You can also follow @mushinacademy on Twitter or befriend them on facebook.

Reflecting on her achievement Susan said “This is something I have always passionately wanted to do. Working for yourself gives you more drive. It’s your own, not someone else’s and that is a great feeling.”

Susan’s advice to other women considering self-employment is “Get help from someone who knows what they are doing. There was so much that goes into a business plan I hadn’t realised needed to go in it. If it wasn’t for The Women’s Organisation I would still be running around in circles.”

If like Susan you are looking for support in following your dream to start up your own business call The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 and find out about the range of FREE services we can offer. You can also email info@thewo.org.uk or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Hatch Biz-Start to Launch in January

2011-12-23T04:52:00.000-08:00

Hatch is a ‘one stop shop’ offering a unique opportunity for start up businesses to access a range of professional and advisory services completely free of charge.

You will be provided with professional legal, accountancy and taxation advice to ensure that your business is compliant, has the optimum structure and a solid grounding. You will also receive guidance on business strategy and how to grow and market your venture.

The service includes free initial meetings with a Solicitor, Accountant, Business Adviser and PR Specialist. You will also receive free follow up advice on any topics and concerns raised in the meetings as well as useful resource materials.

There is no initial outlay and no obligation to sign up with any of the organisations involved.

Involved with Hatch are The Women's Organisation Clients Clare Delve PR & Communications and RMC Accountancy.

Hatch are holding a launch party on Thursday 26th January 6.30pm at Hannah's Bar. To get yourself on the guestlist, or to find out more about the network call 0151 229 1171 or email info@hatchbiz.com

Start the New Year with Postive Networking and a New You

2011-12-22T03:50:00.000-08:00

Start 2012 Positively with The Women’s Organisation Business Club ‘New Year New You’ networking evening.

Held on:
Wednesday 18th January 6pm-8.30pm
Held at:
The Women's Organisation,
54 St James Street
Liverpool
L1 0AB

As well as enjoying business networking and light refreshments, gather tips from our experts to set you off on the right foot for 2012.

Healthy Body
Owner of ‘One Body Fitness’, Business Club member Jen Mercer will be offering top tips for feeling good and keeping healthy in 2012. As a health and fitness coach Jen says she is “100% Dedicated to getting REAL women...REAL results!!!”

Healthy Mind
The Women’s Organisation Training Co-ordinator and NLP Practitioner Bernie Cox will be offering handy hints on how to stay focussed and keep your mind positive while making plans for your business for the forthcoming year

This event is FREE to members of The Women's Organisation business club. If you are not yet a member, but are a woman running her own business in the north west and would like to find out how to join, contact our team for more details.

To find out more or to book a place, contact us on 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

Wirral Women Get a Confidence Boost With The Women's Organisation

2011-12-20T02:22:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation in partnership with Women's Enterprise Breakthrough offered Wirral women a boost to their confidence during the last few months. The 'Step Up' Programme which was part of a 'Neighbourhood Learning in Deprived Communities' initiatve was run over three weeks and covered:

• Positive Thinking and Learning about Yourself
• How to Become a More Assertive You
• Building Your Communication Skills
• Identifying Your Skills and Developing a Personal Profile
• How to Present Yourself with Confidence

Each woman who attended was given chance to reflect on their journey during the programme and were positive to see the progress they had made. Comments left when the course finished included:

"I have really enjoyed this course. It's been very interesting and enjoyable"

"I feel my confidence has grown in myself. My knowledge in my qualities has been uplifiting. Thank you"

"I really enjoyed the course and all that I learnt. Bernie (the trainer) is a warm and inspiring woman"

"This was all really good. I was very impressed and loved the tutor"

The Women's Organisation continue to support women's personal development, both locally and internationally. For more information on how we offer support please visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Knowsley's Angela Launches 'McAllister Mobile Chiropody/Podiatry' Business

2011-12-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

When Angela McAllister graduated from University it had been her plan to pursue a career with the NHS. “With the government cuts I found there were just no jobs, so I thought self-employment was the best way to go” said Angela.

Knowsley resident Angela contacted Business Link for guidance and was directed to women’s enterprise support agency The Women’s Organisation.

“My business adviser was just lovely. She helped me with my business plan, my costings and marketing plan. It was in speaking to her that I realised I definitely wanted to go self-employed. I also did courses on tax and basic book keeping at The Women’s Organisation which were great”

Planning her business was a real learning curve for Angela who reflected “I had always envisioned that my customers would mainly be the elderly, but while I was doing my market research I got in touch with Asda who agreed to let me test my services on staff. It was then I realised younger people could really benefit too.”

Angela was concerned knowing that there would be a lot of trained professionals leaving University in the same predicament as her and realised she needed a unique selling point to help her stand out from the crowd. “In discussions with my adviser Francine I mentioned that I had previously been a beauty therapist. I realised combining those skills with the health care training I had done would give me the competitive edge.”

Upon starting her business Angela was awarded a £200 grant from The Women’s Organisation and £600 from Knowsley Council’s Fresh Start scheme that helped her to buy her equipment. “I was delighted with the funding. It helped me to get what I needed to make me look professional.”

As well as running her own business ‘McAllister Mobile Chiropdy/Podiatry’, Angela takes care of her elderly parents. “Working for myself means that I can organise my appointments around caring for them” she said. “I can do their shopping or nip to see them at lunch or between appointments. It’s a real help.”

Angela is feeling positive about the progress of her business to date and has built up a strong client base of repeat custom, nursing homes and family groups. “Each month I have made more than the month before and that’s great. I love what I do. I love treating feet and I love that I have flexibility to offer appointments at any time between 8am and 8pm and to be able to support clients who don’t want to hang on the 4 or 5 months they can wait for treatment through the NHS. People’s feet are never as bad as they think. Any problems with feet I can either fix myself or refer a client on to the best person to help.”

Angela’s advice to other women considering self-employment is “Go along to The Women’s Organisation to get help with your business plan. I wouldn’t have known where to start without them, and they are great for continued support. Facebook has also been great for my business. I’m going into the homes of people I don’t know anything about quite often, so connecting through facebook helps you to get to know a bit about them first.”

McAllister Mobile Chiropody/Podiatry provide a mobile chiropody service which offers skin and nail treatments combined with lower leg and foot massage in the comfort of your own home. Angela is fully qualified and is registered with the health professions council, The Society of Chiropodist and podiatrist which means she has full insurance cover. For more information or to book appointments call Angela on 07548747475 or find her business on facebook.

If you are thinking about creating your own job by using your skills and qualifications to set up a small business, then contact The Women’s Organisation for advice and support on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Photography by Abi Booth

Business Women Get Festive With The Women's Organisation

2011-12-19T03:08:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation Business Club met for the final networking push of the year with 'Festive Fun' networking.

The evening held at 54 St James Street conferencing centre featured stalls from local businesses including Samz Accessories, O'Naturelle and Hours of Fun, business pitches and festive networking and nibbles.

The women who attended said:
‘Loved the freedom of choice re Networking’
‘Thank you for a lovely evening – great to meet all the ladies’
‘Great atmosphere, very friendly’
‘Loved the atmosphere, brilliant people, very relaxed but engaging. Can’t wait for the next one’
‘Spoke to lots of people – some I’ve met before, but most for the first time’
‘Lovely, ‘safe’ environment’
‘The event was ten times better than expected and I would be delighted to attend any further event’
‘I thought this was an excellent opportunity to meet like minded women. Thank you’

If you are a woman running your own business in the north west of England and you would like to join our free business club to take advantage of networking and specialist training events throughout 2012 then contact our team for a membership pack on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Bare Face Marketing Thriving Through a Tough Economy

2011-12-13T03:53:00.000-08:00

“When recessions hit, marketing is the first place businesses look to cut” says Emma Callaghan of Bare Face Marketing. Having worked in the field for 18 years, Emma found that redundancy had been on the cards too many times. She decided to take positive action and create her own job by setting up a marketing business.

“I’d worked in ‘corporate suited and booted’ marketing for a long time and built up experience working with TV, radio, press, branding and communications. I launched hundreds of products into supermarkets in the UK and Australia from cleaning products, to pharmaceutical products and finally food. Being made redundant also presented me the opportunity to fulfil a lifelong dream of living and working in Australia. Moving back I found the economic climate was tougher than ever. No one was hiring, and no one was moving on. It was time for a change.”

During a weekend away in London Emma had time to reflect on her ideas. “I came back up North with my idea and made a start. I knew what my skills were, but it was how to put it into words. It took around 6 months to finally clarify my business model in a business plan. I wanted to utilise my own skills in branding, copywriting, social media and creativity and link with other freelancers who could fill the gaps in my skillset such as graphic design and technical elements.”

Emma approached The Women’s Organisation for advice and support and said of the service “It was really useful. Obviously I didn’t need support with marketing, but it helped me to focus my mind on writing my business plan. It helped me to answer questions like ‘Why do you want to be this? Who are your customers? Who are your competitors?’ It really helped me to clarify my vision. It was advice there as and when I needed it and a truthful sounding board for my ideas.”

Emma admitted, “In terms of working with a woman focused organisation I suppose I don’t necessarily have the same pressures as some other women in business. I don’t have kids to work around and I come from a corporate world so can adapt to conventional business style events and am not intimidated by suits. I found that the service was really inclusive and offers all women the opportunity to take from it what they need.”

Bare Face Marketing offer support with branding, Content Management System (CMS) based websites, business stationery such as business cards, letterheads, compliments slips, advertising materials such as banners and leaflets, planning campaigns and support with setting up and understanding how to use social media.

“Being self-employed can be lonely. You need to get out there and network” said Emma. “I’d advise anyone going into business to keep on top of their finances. Understand your financial commitments and overheads and make friends with your accountant. If someone suggests support that they think you need, don’t cut corners or dismiss it. Cut your cloth according to what you have, but also to your plan for the future.”

2 years on from launching in Sefton, Bare Face Marketing now support clients across the northwest and are continuing to build their portfolio. “The best thing about running my own business is the real sense of achievement” Emma reflected. “When working as a cog within a wheel, decisions and glory for your ideas can be taken away from you. There is a great satisfaction in seeing something through from beginning to end and knowing ‘this business is succeeding because of me’. When you have completed a piece of work and the client says ‘that is amazing I could kiss you’ you know the hard work has paid off.”

Emma is passionate about marketing and sees that alongside her 18 years of experience as her unique selling point. “I think for most businesses the thought of marketing as a whole can seem so overwhelming. Branding for me is a great place to start. Everything builds from there really. People tend to set up a website or a Facebook page without really understanding why or what the purpose is. You would never, as someone who hasn’t cooked before, dive straight in and make a three course gourmet dinner. You have to start somewhere and branding for me is a logical first step.” Now a member of The Chartered Institute of Marketing, and a Chartered Marketer Emma invites those interested in her background and experience to look her up on LinkedIn.

To find out more about how Bare Face Marketing can help you with your own marketing strategy contact Emma via emma@barefacemarketing.co.uk or call her on 07912 679 955, or visit www.barefacemarketing.co.uk

If, like Emma you have a passion that you would like to turn into a successful business venture then contact The Women’s Organisation on info@thewo.org.uk or 0151 706 8111 to find out what free support is available to women.

Festive Networking with The Women's Organisation Business Club

2011-12-12T07:09:00.000-08:00

Join The Women's Organisation Business Club for 'Festive Fun' Networking

AT: The Women's Organisation, 54 St James St, Liverpool, L1 0AB
ON: Thursday 15th December, 6pm-8.30pm

For our last Business Club event of the year we will be enjoying networking and nibbles. We will also have a festive marketplace, so come prepared to grab some last minute goodies from the stalls.

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL!!

To book your place please contact info@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8111.

If you are a women running your own business in the north west of England, and you are not yet a member of our business club, but would like to join and take advantage of regular networking opportunities - contact our team on info@thewo.org.uk

Book Now for 2012 at 54 St James Street!

2011-12-07T03:05:00.000-08:00

Conferencing and meeting facilities are filling up fast for 2012 at 54 St James Street. Among the hi-lights of events to be held at the £5.3m Women's International Centre for Economic Development (WICED) will be events for the Global Entrepreneurship Congress coming to Liverpool in March.

If you are planning an event for next year this fully accessible and flexible venue could be the perfect location to host your business meeting, conference or private event. A range of individually styled rooms appropriate for gatherings of 2 to 150 people are available for hire.

With friendly reception staff, complimentary wireless access throughout the building and a range of audio visual facilities including integrated data projectors, blu-ray players and smart boards; plasma screens for projection or TV; and video conferencing facilities this building meets the needs of people who require a highly professional service in a contemporary setting.

A 10% discount is offered on room rates to tenants of the building and smaller charities/social enterprises with an annual turnover less than £250,000. Book early to avoid disappointment.

And if you are looking for a more permanent business solution don't forget that contemporary offices are available on the first, second and third floor of the building. Offering a prestigious L1 address and interesting city views to women led businesses and social enterprises, this high quality, multi-use building offers individual rooms to accommodate businesses of one to twelve people with prices starting at £165 per calendar month and £15 for virtual office services.

For further information, including room capacity, viewings, a competative quote and bookings please phone Sandra on 0151 706 8100 or email venue@thewo.org.uk

Fierce Management's Jen Shows Women Can Make Their Mark in the Music Industry

2011-12-06T06:47:00.000-08:00

Spend just 5 minutes with Liverpool’s Jen Corrigan and you will experience her infectious passion for the music industry. Jen’s business ‘Fierce Management’, which she set up with friend and business partner Karl Connor, has successfully celebrated its first birthday and is continuing to build momentum.

Speaking to The Women’s Organisation about her journey Jen told us “I’ve worked in the industry for 11 years, from doing an A-Level in Radio Production I went to work at Radio City. I had a hand in organising events there and through that I was approached by a well-known local girl band to work with them as a P.A. Two and a half years on the band sadly split leaving me facing redundancy which meant I had to go back to office work, which was just not what I wanted to do. I carried on organising events and gigs on the side to keep my hand in, mostly with friends or local bands I knew well.”

Jen knew she really wanted to push forward her career in music, so applied for a degree course to widen her experience. “I had always wanted to go to LIPA and so I was delighted when I was offered a place to study for a BA Hons in Music and Entertainment Management” she said. “That’s where I met Karl who is now my business partner. We were similar age, had worked on the same sort of circuit over the years and when we worked on joint projects in LIPA we jelled well. In our final year we worked at Simon Cowell’s booking agency IMG for a practical management project. Through that we were offered placements on the 2009 series of X Factor looking after contestants, bookings, diaries. It was a great learning curve. Following the work with IMG I was offered a job with Simon Cowell’s company, but I decided it wasn’t for me. It was a very controlled environment and I wanted to have more of a say. It was then Karl and I decided to set up Fierce Management. We had both worked for other people and we felt the time was right to do it for ourselves.”

Once Jen and Karl had decided that self-employment was the route for them, there was no stopping the ambitious duo. Jen said “We jumped in feet first really. When we graduated from LIPA we won the Paul McCartney Enterprise award for our business idea that we put together in our final year. We went along to The Women’s Organisation for extra advice and support and were able to apply for a £200 grant that helped us to set up our website which a lot of business has come through since. Since then we have set up our office, been all over the country, signed up good solid artists and a decent set of clients for our event management side of the business.”

In looking for potential artists to work with Jen said “We don’t do fame hungry or karaoke. We wanted artists who write and perform their own music. Some of the artists we have signed up in perhaps unconventional ways. Zara, for example, was a busker who had moved up from Abergele in Wales. Zara is now working with writers from Sony/ATV and writers who have worked with Paloma Faith, Robbie Williams and Plan B. She has performed with artists such as Sugababes, Blue, Pixie Lott and Alexandra Burke.

Reflecting on her leap of faith into self-employment Jen said “I feel 110% that we have done the right thing. Working for yourself allows you to do what you want to do. There is a freedom of following something you enjoy. Don’t get me wrong – it is tough to survive in this industry. You have to take time to develop an artist, and maybe make sacrifices along the way. But we wouldn’t change it. Karl and I see Fierce more like a family than a business.”

Looking back at lessons learned over the time of setting her business up Jen advises others thinking of branching out for themselves “Be forceful and pester. Never leave an email unanswered. It’s so satisfying when people you have pestered then come back to pester you. Go with your gut if it feels right. As long as you believe in yourself you can do it.”

Fierce management currently manage artists such as ’10 Reasons to Live’, ‘Zara’, ‘Paul Thomas’, ‘Rich Lown’ and offer a unique and dedicated event production service to a range of high profile venues and organisations, including producing live tours, entertainment productions, live music events, corporate events, launch events and social events.

To find out more about the event production services Fierce Management offer, and to hear more about their artists visit www.fiercemanagement.co.uk or contact enquiries@fiercemanagement.co.uk. Or experience a bit of Fierce Management in person by joining them for a Christmas party hosted by 10 Reasons To Live at Eric's Liverpool on 27th December. Tickets are just £5 and can be bought online at www.10reasonstolive.com

And if like Jen you have a passion you would like to turn into a business, contact The Women’s Organisation on info@thewo.org.uk or 0151 706 8111 to find out what free support is on offer.

Photography by Abi Booth

From Unemployment to Self-Employment for Anfield's Angela

2011-12-06T06:13:00.000-08:00

Having been long term unemployed, Anfield’s Angela Corser was tired of living on benefits, but was fighting an uphill battle trying to find suitable work in a recession. “There were just no jobs out there” she said, “So I decided to get myself sorted. I had been a hairdresser in the past, so I went back to college and did a refresher course, moving on to do an advanced qualification at Wirral Met. From there I decided to create my own job by setting myself up as a mobile hairdresser.”

Angela had tried to pursue self-employment before, but found her lack of capital to start teamed with lack of business experience just meant doors were slammed in her face. She heard that The Women’s Organisation could offer free help and advice to women setting up their own business and thought she would give them a try.

Angela said “They were really good. The business adviser they gave me just pointed me in the right direction, and showed me what I needed to do. I hadn’t realised how many regulations I needed to abide by for a small business, but I was guided through them and they were made clear.”

The Women’s Organisation let Angela know that there was funding available for new businesses in her area through enterprise initiative Stepclever. Having been given support to complete a grant application Angela was delighted to learn she had successfully been awarded £1000 to help get her business started.

“The money is a big help” said Angela. “It has helped me to get my equipment and a wide range of advertising materials such as flyers, business cards, even a sticker for my car. I’ve also been able to purchase a uniform which helps to make me look professional and makes it feel real.”

Reflecting on her journey so far 25 year old Angela said “I have definitely made the right decision. Coming off benefits isn’t easy, and understanding the different requirements you need to meet to be legal and to get funding can be difficult, but it’s got to be done. You can’t stay on benefits forever. It’s no way to live.”

Angela found facebook particularly useful for beginning to drum up interest for her business. “I’ve started to build a client base through friends and family, and then through facebook through old connections I had perhaps forgotten about. It’s been a god send. I’ve also done taster sessions to show people what I can do which seems to be working. You’ve got to be self-motivated when running your own business. It takes a lot of hard work, but you have to stay positive.”

Lushious Locks Liverpool offer a vast array of hair treatments including: Cut and blow, Curly blow, Hair up, Shampoo and set, Root tint, Full or half head foils, Full or half head foils with tint or semi, Hair SOS for DIY experiments gone wrong, Hair extensions – sewn or glued and made to measure, Extension colouring, Making and application of double hair, Brazilian blow dry (semi-permanent straightening technique), Individual party hi-lights, and Alternative dreads or braiding. As routine Angela always does skin testing to safeguard against allergic reactions and is also offering PPD free hair dying for those who are concerned about possible reaction.

Angela is now on a business management scheme with Job Centre Plus that will hopefully help her to safeguard her business through its first year, and she is feeling positive about the future. “If my friend said they were going to set up their own business I would send them straight to The Women’s Organisation” said Angela. “They were the most helpful organisation I have dealt with. It’s alright talking about what you want to do, but you’ve got to get it done, and The Women’s Organisation were a big help to me.”

To find out more about the treatments on offer from Lushious Locks Liverpool you can visit their website www.lushiouslocksliverpool.vpweb.co.uk facebook page or contact Angela on 07908 654 082 or Lushiouslocksliverpool@hotmail.co.uk.

And if like Angela you want support to get off benefits and create a job for yourself, then contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Craft Your Way Through the Recession with 'Hours of Fun'

2011-12-02T03:46:00.000-08:00

Craft enthusiast Rachel Garner is hoping to bring ‘Hours of Fun’ to Liverpool and beyond. Rachel’s haberdashery and craft shop can be found online at www.hoursoffun.co.uk and retails both homemade items ready-made, and craft kits to be able to make your own bits and bobs and maybe save some money during the recession.

Having come from a family of teachers, 32 year old Rachel had always felt the pressure to pursue a structured career path. She found herself working in admin and HR, but couldn’t resist the pull of her true passion which was crafts and creativity.
“I have been making my own cards and other bits for 10 or 12 years now”, said Rachel. “I just love making things. When I completed my certificate in training practice through my day job and found I’d got a distinction, it got me thinking about what else I could use those skills for.”

A friend Rachel met through a cake decorating course told her how The Women’s Organisation had helped her to set up her own business. Rachel decided to get in touch and see if she could turn her hobby into a business. Having never done a business plan before Rachel was really grateful for the help from her business adviser at the organisation and said “The template they gave me was amazing”.
At first Rachel felt a little overwhelmed having never run a business before and said “after my first meeting I went home and said to my hubby ‘I just can’t do it’. It’s great to see where I am now. I couldn’t have done it without The Women’s Organisation”.

Rachel also attended training courses around book keeping and understanding tax and national insurance with the organisation which she found were “really useful and good for meeting other people”.

As well as an online store ‘Hours of Fun’ are going to be launching training courses in the new year, offering opportunity for adults to meet together to learn a craft such as card making, or to add a bit of fun to a children’s party decorating your own cup-cakes, or painting your own pots.

“My dream is to bring crafts to all ages to inspire creativity and home crafting” she enthused. “Crafts are really back in fashion. I think with the recession people are looking for cheaper options. Crafts can be the fun and affordable way forward.”
Reflecting on the currently popular show ‘Kirstie’s Handmade Britain’ with Kirstie Allsop Rachel said “Much like Kirstie I just love trying lots of different crafts and like to think of myself as a ‘jack of all crafts’, but my favourites at the moment are card making and felting.”

Having turned her dream into reality and launched her own business, Rachel said “It’s been a huge learning curve. I am lucky to have a good support network of family and friends who all have a variety of skills and have been able to help me along the way. If someone else were to ask me for advice on setting up a business I would say contact The Women’s Organisation before you do, attend all the classes for the information and the people you meet, and do it at a speed that suits you. I am a person who likes to carefully research things before jumping in. Sometimes in doing that I found myself making excuses to other people as to why I wasn’t pushing things along faster. But I have realised that it is better to go at your own speed and do all the research first.”

To find out more about Hours of Fun, visit their website www.hoursoffun.co.uk or email Rachel on Rachel.hoursoffun@yahoo.com

If like Rachel you would like to turn your hobby into a profitable business then contact The Women’s Organisation to see what free support is on offer on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Parcours Offer 'Building Cultural Competance' Training at 54 St James Street

2011-11-25T07:12:00.000-08:00

Parcours invite you to a one day interactive seminar 'Building Cultural Competence within your working practices'.

Providing greater awareness of the impact we have on others through our everyday behaviours in the role of manager or employee.
The workshop aims;
• To introduce participants to the key concepts of cultural identity development
• To introduce the principles required to operate from a perspective which embraces diversity
• To guide participants to tools that can cultivate personal development and awareness

Date: Monday 16th January 2012
Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm
Venue: 54 St James Street Liverpool Merseyside L1 0AB

The session is facilitated by an experienced facilitator recognised nationally in their field of expertise

Price includes:
• Refreshments & Light Lunch
• Certificate of participation for you individual CPD

Total Investment
Sector of Civil Society organisations £75
Statutory / public / other £140
Early bird booking discount available!
Email: admin@parcours.org.uk
Tel: 0151 706 8138

The Women's Organisation and Stepclever Enjoy Floating Grace Maiden Voyage

2011-11-25T05:39:00.000-08:00

The Floating Grace – a 70ft long, 13.5ft wide canal boat – set sail on her maiden voyage yesterday. Onboard to enjoy the ride were local business women from North Liverpool and South Sefton. The networking event with a difference was hosted by local enterprise agency The Women's Organisation thanks to sponsorship from Stepclever.

The barge set sail at Mann Island Basin and the business women enjoyed a leisurely three hour journey through the new Liverpool Canal Link past the Three Graces and taking in the other historic city sites on the way.

In order to establish the Floating Grace, the Vauxhall Neighbourhood Council (VNC), one of the city’s leading social enterprises, received a £20,000 grant from Stepclever which helps start up businesses and existing organisations in North Liverpool and South Sefton grow and develop.

The business women were given a brief history of the project before setting off, then handed over to female skipper Jackie to navigate the waterway while high-lighting some local points of interest.

The Women's Organisation's Bernie Cox gave the women a whistle stop tour of top 'networking hints and tips' before setting them off to put the tips into practice over delightful canapes.

Enterprise Enabler from The Women's Organisation Ali McGrath then gave a motivational talk to the women, encouraging them to support each other to iron out common issues for businesses in their community. The Women's Organisation are hosting a 'Women's Business Forum' particularly for the women running businesses in North Liverpool on Monday 5th December from 6pm-8pm. The forum, which will be held at 54 St James Street L1 0AB, will be an opportunity for local business women to meet with representatives from Liverpool City Council and Stepclever Business Neighbourhoods team to discuss common causes of concern, and to look at positive action that can be taken.

To finish off, Enterprise Director Jackie Williams offered her thanks to the crew and Stepclever for their help in putting together the event, and 2 lucky business women won a box of chocolates and a bottle of bubbly.

Comments left by the women who were at the event included:

"Just amazing! Fabulous venue, fabulous network. Thank you."

"Always had a kick in my step regarding business, but I fell more inspired than ever. Looking forward to the next event."

"Great venue, Great people. Glad I came."

"Thought it was a great informal networking session. Got me inspired about making the most of others services to help my business grow."

"Fantastic venue! Great opportunity to network. Brilliant!"

"Fabulous idea to have an event on a barge. Great to meet the other ladies."

"Fantastic - really enjoyed the whole experience. Good opportunity to speak to women who have their own business. Thank you."

"I very nearly never came today, but I am so glad I did. I have really enjoyed it and look forward to the next event."

"Excellent event. Very novel. Lovely Atmosphere. Lovely food and staff."

"I enjoyed the event. Will definitely attend other women in business events."

"A big thank you to all who put this event together. It was extremely helpful, educational and a wonderful evening. I met some great like minded people who I look forward to working with in the future."

For more information on the 'Women's Business Forum' or future networking opportunities with The Women's Organisation, contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk.

And if you would like to find out more about how Stepclever have supported businesses in North Liverpool and South Sefton please visit www.stepclever.co.uk

Photographs from the event can be viewed in our flickr album.

Stockport Women Enjoy Business Networking

2011-11-25T03:06:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation invited a group of women in business from the Stockport area to network this week. The women who had received help from The Women's Organisation to start their businesses joined together with Enterprise Enablers Mike Marsden and Ali McGrath who welcomed them with tips on making the most of the networking opportunity. The women enjoyed lunch at Oliver's restuarant while sharing experiences and swapping business cards.

Mike Marsden said "We recognise that once these women have started their businesses, the need for support doesn't stop. Networking is so important to keep a business connected and as a tool for marketing. It is a pleasure to be able to offer supported networking time like today's event to give the women we have helped an opportunity to try networking in a safe and supportive environment."

The women who attended were delighted with the event, and feedback comments about the afternoon and the support received included:

"The Women's Organisation have provided me with great support and invaluable advice. Wouldn't have set up my business without this help. Thanks so much Mike."

"Great lunch, great people."

"Brilliant organisation - Garden Angel would be lost without your support!"

"An excellent opportunity to meet others starting out in business - thank you"

"Networking lunch was very helpful. Thank you The Women's Organisation."

"Fantastic lunch, lovely food, lovely company. A great chance to chat and swap stories."

"The Women's Organisation give you all the info you need to set up in business and supplies the encouragement to keep it going!"

"Without The Women's Organisation I would have no idea as to how/where/when to start my own business."

"The Women's Organisation have been a huge help to me in starting my own business. I would thoroughly recommend."

"Without the help from Mike and The Women's Organisation, I wouldn't have known where to begin! Excellent practical help and support all along the way."

If you are a woman in the Stockport area needing support with setting up your own business, give our team a call on 0161 833 8800 or drop an email to info@thewo.org.uk to see how The Women's Organisation can help.

Pitching for Management Event

2011-11-22T05:49:00.000-08:00

Are you looking to strengthen your management team?
Huge salaries not expected – in fact no cash salary necessary
Pitching for Management in Liverpool – 30th November 2011, DWF, 4pm-7pm – free opportunity to get involved!

Did you know that one of the major reasons why investors reject an investment opportunity is because the management team is not yet complete enough for it to accept investment?

Pitching for Management is a live Dragons’ Den event for hiring top talent to join your firm to help you grow faster.

You have 8 minutes to pitch your business and explain who you want to work with you and why.

The people in the audience are all senior business people looking for a new challenge. They understand the challenges and opportunities of a fast growing business.

This is a launch event in Liverpool – however these events will be running throughout the UK and have launched in 18 cities and received great feedback - entrepreneurs have success in meeting people who can help them grow their businesses. And the good news is that not only is it free to pitch on the night, but the people who want to come and work with you, will be prepared to accept a package which DOES NOT involve paying a big or indeed any cash salary. They will be looking to share the risks and rewards of the business with you by taking bonuses, commissions, sweat equity and/or share options.

Your business does not have to be any particular size or shape to pitch. One of the things the audience most likes about our event is the variety of companies that pitch to them. So if you want or need someone with loads of experience to come and help you grow, please come and pitch.

To reserve your place speak to Caroline Sage on 01761 452 248, email her at caroline@angelnews.co.uk or visit: http://pitchingformanagementinliverpool.eventbrite.co.uk/

If you want some background on how to make a great pitch please check out http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/9d6ea37c#/9d6ea37c/1

AngelNews the event organiser is giving a £2,000 cash prize to the winning pitch of the series. If you make the best pitch on the day, you will be invited to the series final in Bristol on 13th December. The winning pitch on that night will win the prize!

To come and see the pitches or for details about the event visit: http://pitchingformanagementinliverpool.eventbrite.co.uk/
For further details about the concept try: www.pitching4management.com

We Mentor - FREE business mentoring for women

2011-11-22T03:16:00.000-08:00

We Mentor UK is a European mentoring project run in partnership with NCEE and The Women's Organisation that aims to provide guidance and support for women entrepreneurs to further grow their business enterprise.
The project will link mentors and mentees according to sector, skills, need and preference. Mentors and mentees will be able to work together both in person and through our comprehensive e-mentoring systems to share experiences and build an action plan.

Throughout the course of the project mentees will be given opportunity to:
• Reflect on their own business performance and examine principles of business practice
• Develop strategies for business growth
• Learn from the practices, culture, ethos, communication and procedures of another business
• Enhance their personal development, building in confidence
• Build on personal and professional networks for business opportunity
• Access shared business resources

To register to receive mentoring you should be a woman who:
• Has been running her own business for at least 1 year
• Employs at least 1 member of staff
• Is looking to develop and grow their business in a specific way
• Could benefit from the guidance and experience of a mature business

To register as a mentor you should:
• Have been running your own business for at least 5 years
• Have a commitment to mentoring responsibilities
• Have an awareness of specific issues facing women entrepreneurs
• Be interested in an opportunity for continued professional development

For more information or to register your interest, please contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Maggie O'Carroll is 'Woman of the Year' - Livercool 2011

2011-11-22T02:42:00.000-08:00

Downtown Liverpool held their prestigious 'Livercool' awards ceremony celebrating local business success in Crowne Plaza last Thursday night. The Women's Organisation were delighted to see a number of our clients among the nominees including: Emma Dolan of Your Business Ezine - Nominated in the Marketer 2011 category, Kayleigh & Talia Baccino of Trendy Vend- Nominated in the Young Entrepreneur 2011 category and Victoria Brown of High Performance Consultancy who was the eventual winner of Young Entrepreneur 2011.

The biggest cheer of the night came when our very own CEO Maggie O'Carroll was deservedly named 'Woman of the Year'. Maggie founded The Women’s Organisation (formally Train 2000) in 1996 and has grown it into the largest UK-based women’s economic development social enterprise. This has enabled Maggie to pursue her passion for women’s enterprise - having a real, positive impact on women’s lives, whether nurturing new businesses towards a viable future, driving improvements in legislation and power structures or contributing to social awareness. This year the physical realisation of her commitment to women's economic development came to life with the creation of WICED (Women's International Centre for Economic Development). The £5.3m development opened its doors in Liverpool to the first groups of local women in January 2011 and is continuing to build momentum as both a centre for women's enterprise and development, as well as an international research hub to promote gender equality.

A massive congratulations to Maggie and all of the winners and nominees.

Think Growth – Think Global: Focus on USA

2011-11-16T07:53:00.000-08:00

Liverpool Chamber of Commerce in partnership with UKTI are hosting a free event at the Liverpool Cathedral to help your company to understand the USA market. Along with talks from US and UKTI specialists we will have local businesses as case studies.

Think Growth – Think Global: Focus on USA

Tuesday, 29th November 2011, 08:00-10:00am

Liverpool Cathedral, St James’ Mount, L1 7AZ
Entrance to main car park is via Upper Duke Street

You will have the opportunity to ask the right people about how to make those all important steps into accessing the US market.

Agenda

08:00 – Registration and Breakfast
08:30 – Welcome & Opening by LCC
Getting the American Market to notice you. The do’s and don’ts of contemporary marketing in the US
Guest Speaker: Rick McKenna, President, Wallwork Curry McKenna, Boston MA

09:15 – Case Studies –
Steve Smith, Director, Software City
Stephen Wilde, Managing Director, The Translation People

09:40 – British-American Business Council North West –
Steve Smith, Chairman BABC

09:50 – North America Market Advisor, UKTI North West
Richard Northcote

10:00- Q & A

To reserve a place for this event, you can book online at www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk or, alternatively, please contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or call us on 0151 227 1234.

The Women's Organisation Get Internet Savvy with Martha Lane Fox & Michelle Helsby

2011-11-16T06:07:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation welcomed internet entrepreneur Martha Lane Fox (pictured left) to their 54 St James Street offices today for 'Women's Enterprise Day' as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. The event called 'Be Internet Savvy' was an opportunity for Martha to share stories of her journey to business success as well as reflecting on her role as the governments digital champion for Race Online 2012.

Speaking first at the event was the extremely inspirational local woman in business Michelle Helsby (pictured right) of Evolve Creative Media & Consultancy. Michelle, originally from Tuebrook, spoke about how her persistance of networking and "always being ready to sell" got her to where she is today. Also signed up as a digital champion, Michelle advised the women “Use the internet to build your knowledge beyond your own business”. In terms of networking and relationship building she said “Use social media, it’s not going away”.

Martha Lane Fox, co-founder of lastminute.com reflected on her business journey saying “In 1997 we were out there convincing people the internet is here to stay, now I am back out there still telling them the internet is important”. Her inspirational advice to the business women attending was “Don’t always listen to the experts, your own instincts are good” and “Business plans are just a piece of the puzzle, people buy people”.

As she started to talk Martha looking around said "You look like a friendly bunch so I'll tell you a story" and started to recollect the awkwardness of one of her early business pitches. She recalled arriving at a meeting with a potential investor, a business man she knew; Having looked over her business plan she said the gentleman looked up at her and said “yes it all looks good, but what happens if you get pregnant?”. Martha laughed to the women at how sexism and narrow mindedness can still be a factor in business, but encouraged them to keep pushing on. Her final words of encouragement were “If you are there, you are valid”.

The business women attending were also given the opportunity to throw questions at the special guests and to network. The event finished with the launch of new Eurpean mentoring project for women entrepreneurs 'We Mentor' which will offer women who have been running their business for over 12 months chance to receive mentoring for business growth from a business mentor who has been in business for at least 5 years. More information about this project run in partnership by The Women's Organisation and NCEE can be found on the prject's facebook fanpage.

Feedback comments for the event included:

“Two very inspirational speakers who gave lots of useful tips and advice”
“Very enjoyable, very inspirational”
“Really well organised”
“Very encouraging. Nice to know I am not the only one who feels overwhelmed. Some good advice for the future”
“Great Speakers”
“Excellent event for women in business wanting to be inspired to grow”
“Really informative. Felt very inspired by the business words of wisdom. Thank you”
“This was an excellent session. Very inspiring”
“Michelle, very inspirational”
“Found speakers very inspirational. Also very good networking event”
“Inspirationl speakers! Great to see local girl done good!”
“Super Event! Really enjoyed the 2 speakers and the mentoring project sounds interesting”

If you are a woman running your own business in the north west of England and you would like to take advantage of events like this, then contact our team on info@thewo.org.uk or 0151 706 8111 for details of how to join our business club.

Stockport's Anne Offers Whole Body Care Physiotherapy

2011-11-11T08:09:00.000-08:00

When Anne Dansey’s contract with the NHS came to an end she decided to look at it as an opportunity. She wanted to find a way of combining the useful evidence base approach to physiotherapy treatments taught by the NHS along with more specialist treatments she was learning about outside of that framework to set up her own business.

Having never run her own business before, Anne wasn’t sure it would be possible and had no idea where to start. But a friend told her that support was available for women setting up in business through The Women’s Organisation, and so she made contact and soon found she could do it.

Anne said “I attended the courses and was given a business advisor who walked me though all the necessary steps. This included creating a business plan which makes you think about all the potential pitfalls and opportunities of opening a business including legal requirements and finances. They provided incredible support and as long as you are prepared to put in the work they help guide you through every step.”

It wasn’t all plain sailing, and Anne knew that lack of capital to start up was a potential barrier. With support she was able to arrange an interest free loan from the local council of £3,000 which helped her to create her clinic room and pay for furnishings and equipment. She was also put in touch with Evans easy space who had rooms available in Houldsworth mill and Art centre where she found affordable space with full disabled access, free parking, comfortable waiting areas and bathroom facilities.

“The best thing about running my own business is not having any restrictions on the service I provide; Not being restricted to the usual 20 to 30 minute slots of therapy; Not having to limit my clients to around 6 sessions if more are needed; Having the freedom to expand my skills and deliver them to my clients and seeing happy clients discharged from my clinic and knowing it was all the work I put in that helped to achieve that.”

Whole Body Care Physiotherapy provide treatments not often available on the NHS such as Flexotaping or KT taping, a treatment currently utilised by many top sports clubs and athletes but is not readily available to the wider public. Anne also offers treatments such as deep tissue massage, myofascial release and movement, and using a combination of techniques can help to relieve the majority of muscle and joint pains. As Whole Body Care Physiotherapy are committed to these hands on therapies, treatment sessions are often longer than an average physiotherapy session for more intensive treatment.

Anne is positive about the future of her business and said “I am proud of my achievements to date. I am finally open to the public doing a job I love. I have taken an empty space and created a warm and comfortable clinic room. I have had lots of good results with clients most of whom have been to several other clinicians before me with little or no effect.”

For more information on the treatments available from Whole Body Care Physiotherapy contact Anne on 0161-975-6270 or email physiotherapy@wholebodycare.co.uk. The clinic is based at Houldsworth Mill, Houldsworth Street, Reddish, Stockport, SK5-6DA

And if like Anne you would like to explore setting up your own business then contact The Women’s Organisation on 0161 833 8800/ 0151 706 8111 or via email to info@thewo.org.uk

Government Equalities Office Publish 'Strengthening Women's Voices in Government' Report

2011-11-09T05:10:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation were interested to hear the announcement by Government Equalities Office that they were publishing the findings from the 'Strengthening Women's Voices in Government' public consultation. The Government consulted on a new model of engagement to bring women’s voices into Government. The consultation ran from 7 March until 15 June 2011 and set out the principles for the new approach, which are:

• Women across the UK can be heard and are enabled to influence and shape Government policy;
• The new approach must be genuinely cross-Government and departments are committed to listening to women, taking their views into account, and feeding back the results, and
• Women know what central Government is doing across the breadth of policies and are able to act on that knowledge.

The new approach should transform the way in which women’s voices are brought to Government, delivering an engagement framework which is direct, inclusive and transparent.

The top priorities women identified were:

• Issues relating to the workplace and women’s experience of work including promotion; better work life balance; childcare and setting up a business.
• Tackling violence against women and girls;
• A strong appetite for greater equality for women;
• Access to leadership positions, both in politics and business;
• More engagement with women, including with senior women in business/women entrepreneurs.

In her speech on 4th November on Women and the Economy, the Rt Hon Theresa May MP, Home Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities informed guests that the Government is publishing its response to the consultation.
To read the government’s response to the consultation please visit: http://homeoffice.gov.uk/equalities/women/women-engagement/

Further to the report, a new scheme was revealed by Theresa May to support female entrepreneurs through mentoring. The £2m initiative will see 5,000 business women trained to become volunteer mentors, with the aim of providing female entrepreneurs with positive role models.

If you are interested in receiving business mentoring or offering mentoring to other businesses, follow our 'We Mentor' project on Twitter.

Setting Up a Social Enterprise 1 Day Course With KPAC

2011-11-09T04:46:00.000-08:00

Date & Time: Mon, 28/11/2011 - 09:30 - 16:00
Venue: KPAC, The Old Schoolhouse, St.John’s Road, Huyton, L36 0UX

This course is aimed at people who are interested in learning more about social enterprises and want to know what the advantages are of being a social enterprise business and how to go about the initial steps of considering and setting up a social enterprise.

Course content includes:

What is a Social Enterprise?
The difference between social enterprises and other businesses
Different types of social enterprise
Considerations when setting up a social enterprise
Management structures in social enterprise
The triple bottom line
Advantages and Disadvantages of being a social enterprise
Stakeholder analysis
First steps in setting up a social enterprise

Cost: £49.00 – Lunch and refreshments included

For further information on this course, or if you would like to book a please contact KPAC

'Step Up' Personal Development for Sefton Women

2011-11-08T03:05:00.000-08:00

Sefton women looking to build confidence and build steps to a positive future are invited to join The Women's Organisation ‘Step Up’ programme.

This interactive programme is open FREE to women in the Sefton area who want to improve their overall confidence to be able to plan a successful future. Over 3 Mondays ‘Step Up’ will look at:

• Positive Thinking and Learning about Yourself
• How to Become a More Assertive You
• Building Your Communication Skills
• Completing a Skills Audit and Developing a Personal Profile
• How to Present Yourself with Confidence

To be eligible for a FREE place on this programme you must:
• Be aged 19+ and have been resident in the UK or any other EU state for over 3 years
• Live in one of the following wards within Sefton and be able to provide proof of address:
o Church, Linacre, Derby, Ford, Litherland, Netherton, Orrell, St Oswald, Duke, Cambridge

At: Seaforth Children’s Centre, Caradoc Road, Seaforth, L21
On: Mondays 21st, 28th Nov & 5th Dec 9.30am-3pm

To book your FREE place call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

Funding Opportunity for Prince's Park Ward Community Groups

2011-11-08T02:29:00.000-08:00

Austin Smith Memorial Small Grants Fund

The Liverpool 8 Law Centre has created the Austin Smith Memorial Fund in recognition of Father Smith’s significant community work in the Toxteth area.

Father Smith (1928 – 2011) was a tireless campaigner for social justice and sought to improve the everyday lives of people in his community. The memorial fund will distribute funds to community groups that in different ways are continuing his work.
You will be able to apply for a grant up to £1,000 per group.

Who can apply
• Small not for profit community groups in the Princes Park ward
• Organisations who have not received funding from this source this year
What you will need to apply
• A constitution
• A bank account in the name of the organisation with two unrelated cheque signatories

What the grants are used for?
• Help start, new small projects and activities
• Contribute towards the running of an event, festival or other special occasion which will promote community involvement or co-operation
• Groups who deliver intergenerational activities especially those which may reduce isolation
• Projects that will develop stronger communities-people working together to tackle issues in their neighbourhood
• Projects that have long lasting benefits

Small grants will not be awarded for the following purposes:
• Applications from individuals
• Social / health care
• Staff salaries or management costs
• Purchase of vehicles/IT equipment
• General appeals/fundraising/overseas travel
• Schools/registered social landlords
• Purchase or consumption of alcohol

How to apply
You can download an application pack online at:
http://liverpool.gov.uk/Business/finance-funding-and-grants/community-grants/.

If you require a hard copy or for further details, contact the Community Resource Unit (CRU) on 233 4436 or email corporate.grants@liverpool.gov.uk.

Closing date: Friday 9 December 2011 at 12noon
Note: Successful former applicants to the Austin Smith Fund this year 2011-2012 cannot apply.

Source: LCVS

The Women's Organisation Support 'Counting Women In' Campaign

2011-11-07T05:16:00.000-08:00

The Women's Organisation have signed up to back 'Counting Women In' campaign. The movement headed up by Fawcett Society and partners asks for support to fight for women to have an equal presence and voice in British politics. 50/50 male/female representation is the goal of the campaign.

Why is the campaign important?
There are currently more millionaires than women in the Cabinet. Just 22% – or 1 in 5 - members of the Westminster Parliament are women and the number of women MPs has increased by only 4 per cent since 1997. This means a child born today will be drawing her pension before she has an equal voice in the government of her country.

Decisions of national importance – about everything from whether to go to war to what to teach in our schools – are being made without women round the table: the different experiences and perspectives of one half of the country are not being heard.

How can you get involved?
An online petition to support the push for gender equality at a parlimentary level has been set up. You can go and sign the petition online to show your support. If you work for an organisation who would like to back the campaign you too can sign up to back the movement.

Go to www.countingwomenin.org for details and to join in.

'Build a Business on a Budget' with The Women's Organisation Enterprise Fair

2011-11-07T04:18:00.000-08:00

Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week –
Come and join our Enterprise Fair

Drop in On: Thursday 17th November 1pm-4pm
At: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, L1 0AB

‘Build a Business on a Budget’ Marketplace will feature stalls helping you to:

• Find out about small low cost franchises
• Understand how tax credits work when self employed
• Look at how you could turn a hobby or skill into a business you could set up from home
• Find out about training opportunities that can help you to reach your goals
• Find out about funding and free support available to women going self-employed

Join in our short:
‘Is self-employment for you’ taster workshops
Running at 1.30pm, 2.30pm, or 3.30pm

For more info call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

Build a Web Strategy for Your Business

2011-10-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week – You are invited to:

‘Build a Web Strategy For Your Business’
With Leon Brown

On: Tuesday 15th November 10am-1pm
At: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, L1 0AB

Leon Brown is the Internet consultant of NextPoint who develop apps for web, phones and desktop computers that empower people and businesses to reach their full potential. Leon will be representing the Business Support Network - a project he has developed aimed at supporting small and start-up businesses through the knowledge and skills of experts. His interesting master class will look at:

• Software tools you can use for business efficiency
• Driving traffic to your website
• Legalities of online business
• Security issues – protecting yourself online
• Online payment management
• Strategic online networking
• Choosing your web developer and working with them

Open to members of The Women's Organisation Business Club.

Business Club Membership is currently FREE and open to women running their own business in the north west of England. For more info or to take up a free membership please contact info@thewo.org.uk

For more info about this event or to book your FREE place call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

'Be Internet Savvy' - With Martha Lane Fox

2011-10-28T04:10:00.000-07:00

Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week – The Women's Organisation invite you to:

‘Be Internet Savvy’ With Martha Lane Fox

On: Wednesday 16th November 9.30am-12pm
At: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, L1 0AB

As the UK Government’s Digital Champion, Martha Lane Fox founded the Race Online 2012campaign and sits on the Cabinet Office’s Efficiency and Reform Board. She is also non-executive director at M&S, Channel 4 and MyDeco.com. In 2005 she co-founded Lucky Voice, to revolutionise karaoke with its 6 venues and online business and in 2007 she started Antigone, a grant giving foundation. In 1998 with Brent Hoberman, she co-founded Lastminute.com, still Europe’s largest travel and leisure website - they took the company public in 2000 and sold it in 2005.

Also sharing her experiences will be local woman in business and digital champion Michelle Helsby, Evolve Creative Media and Consultancy.

Michelle is Managing Director at Liverpool based Evolve. Whilst architectural 3d imagery and animation has been the backbone of Evolve’s offer they have recently expanded to cover a range of creative media services. Michelle has also recently set up Evolve Consultancy and is currently advising the Horizon consortium on all things Liverpool to enhance their bid to build the new Royal Liverpool University Hospital.

The Women's Organisation will also be exclusively revealing details of our new 'WE Mentor UK' project in partnership with NCEE - watch this space!

The event is FREE and open to any business women in Merseyside or Greater Manchester as part of The Women's Organisation 'Global Entrepreneurship Week' celebrations.

For more info or to book your FREE place call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

The Women's Organisation talk to Daily Telegraph: "Business Link Will Stay Onshore"

2011-10-21T06:36:00.000-07:00

In an article published this week by The Daily Telegraph, The Women's Organisation discussed the impact of the announcement that UK Enterprise Support Helpline Business Link will be taken over by a call centre operator notorious for outsourcing to India.

A subsidiary of Hinduja Global Solutions, an Indian outsourcing services group, is being paid by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to provide its business support helpline after the Business Link office network closes on November 25.

The call centre operator taking over Business Link support services from the end of November has promised that business callers will not be dealt with by its staff in India. The Telegraph debated whether the 1/3 of businesses who have previously used this service will still be offered the same quality of support from the tailored down offering.

The move comes as part of the continuing impact of the Coalition’s announcement of mass cuts to public sector services.

Maggie O’Carroll, chief executive of the Women’s Organisation, the largest women’s enterprise agency in the UK, warned that business support funding was “falling off a cliff” as the Business Link contracts and regional development agencies wound down despite evidence that tailored business advice led to productivity gains.

The Women’s Organisation, a social enterprise, is based in the £5.5m Women’s International Centre for Economic Development in Liverpool, which opened four months ago. It is 80% reliant on public sector contracts and has seen a 25% increase in demand for advice from new businesses involving women. Last year, the organisation advised 2,300 women and was involved in the creation of 362 businesses.

“It is not funding cuts, we are talking about literally saying goodbye. There is no central-led investment in start-ups,” said Ms O’Carroll. “It’s not the death nail to an organisation like ourselves, but it really does hamper. We are limping rather than running and we need to be running.”

Visit The Daily Telegraph to see the full article.

Business Women Get 'Work/Life Balance' Pointers

2011-10-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

This month The Women's Organisation Business Club invited local women in business to evaluate their Work/Life Balance.

Sylvia of SW Associates was the guest speaker for the evening bringing her 25 years plus of experience working in the field of coaching and mentoring. In 2008 Sylvia set up her own business with the help of The Women's Organisation, so during her interactive talk wshe was able to draw on her own experiences of chosing where to best spend her time, rather than doing the tempting thing of 'spreading yourself too thin'. She says "self management is the key to time management". Between networking the women were guided by Sylvia to:

• recognise their own patterns of behaviour
• iditify how to eliminate 'time wasters'
• look at how to plan time more effectively

Feedback comments left at the end of the event included:

"Interesting and useful"
"Encouraging and welcoming"
"This was my first visit, I am excited to come back!"
"Great night. Good to meet everyone and mingle"
"It was a really informative talk"
"Fantastic Evening"
"Inspired by projects and business approaches"
"Informative relaxed atmosphere. Enjoyable"
"Great to network"
"Good balance of information"
"A good kick up the bum"
"A very positive, informative event. Thank you"

The Women's Organisation are currently offering FREE membership to our Business club which offers women in the northwest of England regular opportunities to network and attend specialist training events. For details of how to join and forthcoming events contact AaronHolmes@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8111.

Kuumba Day Nursery Opens

2011-10-19T03:22:00.000-07:00

On the 10th October 2011 a new social enterprise day nursery opened its doors to children aged 0-5 years for the first time. The nursery located in the Kuumba Imani Millennium Centre Princes Road is aptly named Kuumba Day Nursery.

Kuumba Imani Millennium Centres' experience of working with children and families is extensive. They have for many years provided a wide range of support services, which have met the needs of local people in particularly women and children.

The service will operate up to 51 weeks per year Monday to Friday from
7.30am- 6.30pm excluding Bank holidays and will accommodate up to 29 children aged between 0-5 years.

It is intended that the provision will be a well balanced multicultural day nursery, which reflects the demographic profile of Liverpool. As such, all children and their families from a diverse range of ethnic backgrounds will be welcome.

To ensure the child care delivered is to a high standard, highly qualified staff have been appointed to ensure that the quality of child care is exceptional, meets the requirements of OfSted and expectations of parents/carers. Kuumba Day Nursery have specifically appointed staff whose qualifications exceed the current industry requirements and have had the support of Liverpool City Council during this process. As such they are confident that their childcare team have the skills, experience and knowledge to deliver their primary objective which is to deliver first class child care in a supportive nurturing environment of which 'the child is of primary consideration'.

Michelle Charters Chief Executive Officer said "Kuumba Imani has had a long tradition of supporting families in the local community. The day nursery is a new venture for us, which has gained support from Liverpool City Council and the Adventure Capital Fund. Our nursery is open to all families and will provide a unique
setting in which children can thrive."

Jennifer Watson Nursery Manager said
"As an Early Years Professional this is a really exciting opportunity.
Opening our doors to all families in need of child care support will enable us to break down some of the barriers that exist in our society.
The new provision has a number of key values which underpin our approach to child care, including creating a nurturing environment in which children can feel safe, valued, have a sense of place and the opportunity to reach their full potential. Word is starting to spread already about our new nursery and places are filling up fast"

To register your child or for more information, to visit the nursery or to request a prospectus contact:
Jennifer Watson Nursery Manager
Telephone: 0151 709 8162 or 0151 708 5278
Email: Jenniferwatson@kuumbaimani.org.uk

Women’s Enterprise Experts Call for More Support for Female Entrepreneurs

2011-10-14T04:15:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation has joined a UK-wide group of influential women entrepreneurs, academics and policy experts to call on the Government to act urgently to encourage women-owned businesses or risk wasting a multi-million pound opportunity to grow the economy.

The Women’s Enterprise Policy Group believes that women who are capable of starting growth companies that serve global markets may be the nation’s ‘secret weapon’ for achieving sustained economic growth.

It comes as yesterday's jobs figures show female unemployment at its highest level for 23 years with a record level of young people, including many female graduates, without work.

In a newly-published report, The Women’s Enterprise Policy Group says that self-employment and business ownership can be a positive way of addressing these issues as well as helping existing women-owned businesses to take on new employees and contractors.

Maggie O’Carroll, Chief Executive of the largest UK women’s enterprise agency, Liverpool-based The Women’s Organisation and a key member of the policy group said: “At a time when government funding for business support has been cut and when many businesses are struggling to survive and grow, there is a danger that the progress made to date will falter and the multi-billion pound opportunity which growth from female-led enterprises can bring to the economy will not be realised.”

In its report ‘A Multi Million £ Opportunity – The Untapped Growth Potential of UK Women Entrepreneurs’ the group calls for a range of measures including:
• Appointment of a women’s enterprise champion within government to raise awareness of economic benefits of encouraging more women to start and grow businesses
• Investment in business growth programmes for existing female entrepreneurs
• Doubling the number of women entrepreneurs using mentors and/or networking opportunities by promoting activities amongst networking groups
• Assisting local enterprise partnerships and local authorities to develop business support and economic development policies and strategies which optimise women’s enterprise in their localities
• Ensuring current university and further education support is attractive and useful to young women, closing the gap between the numbers of young men and young women starting businesses

The report comes as the British Conservative MEP Marina Yannakoudakis made a call for more support to enable working mothers and other women to start up or grow their own small businesses. The European Parliament member believes that targeting women with the right information about how to launch a business can help produce a new generation of women entrepreneurs.

The Women’s Enterprise Policy Group report highlights that there are more than 700,000 women-owned businesses operating across the nation in every sector and their role in growing the economy, and creating and sustaining new jobs, is crucial to recovery and growth.

Findings include:
• 14% of all SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) are women-led (around 170,000)
• 86% of women-led SME’s are micro businesses (employing between one and nine staff)
• 13% are ‘small businesses’ (employing between 10 and 49 staff) and 2% are ‘medium’ businesses (employing between 50 and 249)

The findings coincide with additional evidence gathered by the Kauffman Foundation in the United States which provides compelling evidence as to the economic value and opportunity that the female entrepreneurial market offers to the UK economy.

The report will be highlighted by The Women’s Organisation when it as it led women’s enterprise strand at the 2012 Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Liverpool in March.

The Women’s Organisation, based with a new £5.5m Women’s International Centre for Economic Development in Liverpool, provides a range of services focused on women’s start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises. This includes ’incubation’ units for new and high growth women enterprises and an international research and knowledge centre focused on women’s enterprise and wider economic development issues.

To find out more about the free services available from The Women’s Organisation, including advice and support on starting a business, call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk. You can also follow us on Twitter, 'like' us on facebook or link up with us on linkedin.

A Virtual Business Solution at 54

2011-10-13T07:06:00.000-07:00

54 St James Street is a stunning and unique new building conveniently located between the creative Baltic Triangle and Liverpool’s China Town and minutes’ walk from Liverpool One and Bold Street.

Completed in January 2011, the centre is designed to provide a light, modern, welcoming and distinctive addition to city life; an environment full of energy, rich in intelligence, debate and shared purpose.

The centre offers a prestigious L1 address to women led businesses who locate here through membership of the Business Suite and Virtual Office options.

Virtual Office

Not every business requires, or is ready to take on, a permanent office space yet most do require a base from which to project a professional image and where client meetings and events can be held; post is managed and phonecalls forwarded or answered. The virtual office options allow complete flexibility for the business woman to choose from a range of services to meet her needs including access to the private Wilkinson Business Suite

Wilkinson Business Suite

The Wilkinson Business Suite provides an office away from home in a shared facility. This contemporary designed semi–circular room is equiped to meet your office needs including printing and copying facilities; desk-top computers; lap top hub; locker units. The layout includes space for meetings and chill out areas. Cooled, filtered water and tea and coffee making facilities are complimentary for platinum members.

Membership Levels

Bronze - free

Business Club Membership including to regular special events, inclusion in web and social media promotions. Access to free wireless internet access in the Centre.

Silver - £15 per month

For the business woman that wants to locate her business in prestigious building, and requires flexibility as to when she hires space for meetings and work stations. The Silver option includes the Bronze package plus use of 54 St James Street as registered company address. Your business name will be included in internal business signage and publications Our reception team will receive and hold postal mail for collection and welcome your visitors when notified in advance. 10% discount on meeting room bookings withion the building.

Gold - £49 per month*

For the business woman for whom a Liverpool telephone number is important, but doesn’t need to be tied to a desk all day , the Gold offer combines the bronze and silver packages plus dedicated land line telephone number (DDI); voice mail and message forwarding to mobile or e-mail service.

Platinum £99 per month*

For those business women that require an office desk for limited days per month and access to office services such as ICT, printers and copiers in a shared, modern environment. The Platinum service incorporates bronze, silver and gold packages plus up to ten days per month access to the Wilkinson Business Suite per month including complimentary drinks and photocopying.
*including VAT

Business Services

Our aim is that our Business Services will contribute to our virtual tenants’ business success. A friendly reception team offer a professional welcome to tenants and their visitors. Photocopying, additional administrative support and telephone answering services are all also available.
We offer a first level of generalist ICT and telephony support through our Administration Team. For more advanced requests for support we work with our service delivery partners to meet specific tenant needs.

Meeting Room Hire

We have a range of meeting room styles throughout the building both formal and informal available for meetings of two to 150 people. The rooms have a range of high specification audio visual facilities and video conferencing equipment for your meeting and seminar needs. We offer a fully flexible service offering hourly, half day or full day rental. Virtual office tenants receive a discount on the standard rate.

Environment

Sustainability is integral to the building design which is in line with BREEAM Excellent standards. All rooms have opening windows for natural ventilation as well as locally controlled heating and cooling systems.

Parking

On street parking is available for visitors and tenants; we have limited car parking spaces which can be reserved in advance for disabled visitors. A bicycle store and shower facilities are available for cyclists using the building.
Liverpool City Council have proposed a parking scheme which will introduce Business Parking Permits, to which virtual tenants of the building will be eligible for. This scheme is due to be implemented in 2011.

Access

Building access is currently 8.30am – 6.30 pm Monday to Friday with a late night on average once per week until 9pm.

Café

A new café development will be opening on the ground floor in Autumn 2011.
54 St James Street is a development of The Women’s Organisation which works for women’s economic progress. The Women’s Organisation has been a non-profit distributing company since 1996 (formerly known as Train 2000). Our outlook is international. We promote entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable business growth. We aim to enable women to achieve success and greater prosperity, to become leaders and to connect with each other.

For further information and viewings contact Laura 0151 706 8100 or email venue@thewo.org.uk

The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

Best Base for Your Business - 54 St James Street L1

2011-10-13T05:36:00.000-07:00

54 St James Street is a stunning and unique new building conveniently located between the industrious Baltic Triangle and Liverpool’s China Town and minutes’ walk from Liverpool One and Bold Street.

Completed in January 2011, the centre is designed to provide a light, modern, welcoming and distinctive addition to city life; an environment full of energy, rich in intelligence, debate and shared purpose.

Offering a prestigious L1 address to women led businesses and social enterprises, this high quality, multi-use building offers individual rooms to accommodate businesses of one to twelve people with prices starting at £165 per calendar month and £15 for virtual office services.

Design

Contemporary offices are available on the first, second and third floor of the building. Of various sizes and shapes each have interesting views of the City and are accessed through wide and airy central corridors. On each floor teapoints are located in the atrium to encourage breaks from the office and opportunities to meet other business people.

Business Services

Our aim is that our Business Services will contribute to tenants’ business success. A friendly reception team offer a professional welcome to tenants and their visitors. Post, photocopying, additional administrative support and telephone answering services are all also available.
We offer a first level of generalist ICT and telephony support through our Administration Team. For more advanced requests for support we work with our service delivery partners to meet specific tenant needs.

Telephony

All rooms are designed with flexible integrated telecommunication options, including personal direct dial and extension numbers with caller ID, voice mail to e-mail facility; conference calling; call recording; hot desk; hunt group and mobile twinning facilities as well as bespoke services to meet individual business needs. Alternatively rooms have the capacity for tenants to bring in their own lines if more appropriate for their business model. Tenants in the building also have access to a tenants’ wireless internet network.

Environment

Sustainability is integral to the building design which is in line with BREEAM Excellent standards. All rooms have opening windows for natural ventilation as well as locally controlled heating and cooling systems. Our private garden offers relaxing external space.

Meeting Room Hire

We have a range of meeting room styles throughout the building both formal and informal available for meetings of two to 150 people. The rooms have a range of high specification audio visual facilities. We offer a fully flexible service offering hourly, half day or full day rental. Building tenants receive a discount on the standard rate.

Parking

On street parking is available for visitors and residents; we have limited car parking spaces which can be reserved in advance for disabled visitors. A bicycle store and shower facilities are available for cyclists using the building.
Liverpool City Council have proposed a parking scheme which will introduce Business Parking Permits, to which tenants of the building will be eligible for. This scheme is due to be implemented in 2011.

Access

Building access is currently 8.30am – 6.30pm Monday to Friday with a late night on average once per week until 9pm.

Café

A new café development will be opening on the ground floor in Autumn 2011.

In addition we offer membership of our Business Club and access to the Wilkinson Business Suite.

For further information and viewings contact Laura, 0151 706 8100 or email venue@thewo.org.uk

54 St James Street is a development of The Women’s Organisation which works for women’s economic progress. The Women’s Organisation has been a non-profit distributing company since 1996 (formerly known as Train 2000). Our outlook is international. We promote entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable business growth. We aim to enable women to achieve success and greater prosperity, to become leaders and to connect with each other.

The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

FREE Workshop on Refugee/Asylum Awareness

2011-10-13T03:23:00.000-07:00

Refugee/Asylum Shared Awareness Workshop

A FREE Black History Month Event

ON: Thursday 27th October, 10am-12pm

AT: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

What do you think of when you hear ‘refugee’? Would you like to know more about asylum? The news behind the headlines? Refugee Action in partnership with The Women’s Organisation are offering an awareness session which aims to develop a greater understanding of refugee and asylum issues.

During this FREE session you can learn why people come to the UK seeking safety and what happens on arrival. Find out the obligations host countries have to asylum seekers and how they are administered, and listen to how this experience affects individuals within the asylum system.

The session is aimed at organisations, groups and individuals who wish to learn about the experiences of asylum seekers and to gain insight into the current asylum system in the UK. The sessions are designed with each particular audience in mind and can be delivered at times and venues convenient to you.

Refugee Action is an independent, national charity that has been working since 1981 with asylum seekers, refugees and local communities to build new lives. They will be drawing on their experience for this informative and interesting session.

Places are limited so booking is essential!
Please call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk to register your interest.

Conference and Meeting Centre - 54 St James Street

2011-10-13T02:00:00.000-07:00

54 St James Street is a stunning and unique new building conveniently located between the pioneering Baltic Triangle and Liverpool’s China Town and minutes’ walk from Liverpool One and Bold Street.

Completed in January 2011, the centre is designed to provide a light, modern, welcoming and distinctive addition to city life.

This fully accessible and flexible venue is a perfect location to host business meetings, conferences or private events. A range of individually styled rooms appropriate for gatherings of 2 to 150 people are available for hire for as little as an hour.

Our private garden provides relaxing external space within the venue, and the two fourth floor terraces provide chilled-out, music enhanced, reception spaces with excellent views of the City.

With friendly reception staff, complimentary wireless access throughout the building and a range of audio visual facilities including integrated data projectors, blu-ray players and smart boards; plasma screens for projection or TV; and video conferencing facilities this building meets the needs of people who require a highly professional service in a contemporary setting.

Our Rooms

Roddick Rooms
A sophisticated venue with fabulous views of the River Mersey and Liverpool City, these rooms can be used as one or divided into two or three separate areas. Fully equipped with integrated audio-visual equipment these are elegant training, networking or social spaces.
The Roddick Rooms are very versatile; located on the fourth floor of the building and have easy access to external terraces.

Fawcett Room
A light, airy semi-circular room on our second floor the Fawcett is appropriate for networking and training events, can accommodate 36 cabaret style and 40 theatre style, or can be left as an open space for free circulation for slightly larger groups.

Keller; Parks and Simey Suites
The Suites are located on the first, second and third floor of the building, each is styled differently, but all have the same facilities of plasma screen; TV; integrated audio visual and IT. The Suites provide smart environments ideal for hosting client presentations, board meetings and staff development sessions.

Bebbington Lounge
The Bebbington Lounge is a relaxed yet vibrant space ideal for more informal meetings or interviews. Also works in conjunction with the Simey Suite as a reception and breakout space for development days.

Suu Kyi; Butler; Rathbone; Curie and Amos Rooms
These smaller meeting rooms are stylishly and comfortably designed to facilitate meetings of between 2 and 6 people.

We offer a 10% discount on room rates to tenants of the building and smaller charities/social enterprises with an annual turnover less than £250,000

For further information, including room capacity, viewings, a competative quote and bookings please phone Sandra, 0151 706 8100 or email venue@thewo.org.uk

54 St James Street is a development of The Women’s Organisation which works for women’s economic progress. The Women’s Organisation has been a non-profit distributing company since 1996 (formerly known as Train 2000). Our outlook is international. We promote entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable business growth. We aim to enable women to achieve success and greater prosperity, to become leaders and to connect with each other. The building is a tangible representation of our values.

All rooms have natural ventilation as well as locally controlled heating and cooling systems. Sustainability is integral to the building design and in line with BREEAM Excellent standards.

On street parking is available for visitors, we have limited car parking spaces which can be reserved in advance for disabled visitors. A bicycle store and shower facilities are available for cyclists using the building.
Refreshments are available through our in-house team, catering is currently offered through local women led small businesses or social enterprise providers.

The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

The Women's Organisation Successes for 'Livercool'

2011-10-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation were delighted to see a number of familiar faces amongst the nominees for 'Livercool 2011' awards with Downtown Liverpool.

A particularly familiar nomination was our very own CEO Maggie O'Carroll who is in the shortlisting for 'Woman of the Year'. Maggie founded The Women’s Organisation (formally Train 2000) in 1996 and has grown it into the largest UK-based women’s economic development social enterprise. This has enabled Maggie to pursue her passion for women’s enterprise - having a real, positive impact on women’s lives, whether nurturing new businesses towards a viable future, driving improvements in legislation and power structures or contributing to social awareness. This year the physical realisation of her commitment to women's economic development came to life with the creation of WICED (Women's International Centre for Economic Development). The £5.3m development opened it's doors to the first groups of local women in January 2011 and is continuing to build momentum as both a centre for women's enterprise and development, as well as an international research hub to promote gender equality.

Also amongst the finalists are businesses supported by The Women's Organisation such as:

Emma Dolan of Your Business Ezine - Nominated in the Marketer 2011 category
Victoria Brown of High Performance Consultancy - Nominated in the Young Entrepreneur 2011 category
Kayleigh & Talia Baccino of Trendy Vend- Also Nominated in the Young Entrepreneur 2011 category

You can cast your votes online and offer your support.

"It's Liverpool" - The Business Conference

2011-10-12T01:44:00.000-07:00

IT’S NOT WHAT YOU KNOW... IT’S WHO WE KNOW...
“IT’S LIVERPOOL” – THE BUSINESS CONFERENCE

Monday 14th November 2011, The Crowne Plaza Hotel

Downtown Liverpool in Business, in association with Liverpool Vision, Google and City Talk 105.9fm will host a one-day conference at the start of UK Enterprise Week in November.

The event will celebrate Liverpool’s achievement in securing the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in March 2012 and engage with the delegates through a series of seminars and keynote addresses presented by leading entrepreneurs, academics, decision makers and business experts.

Whether you are looking to boost sales, master social media and technology, become more efficient, be inspired, or want to know what plans the city and the region has for the future IT’S LIVERPOOL – THE BUSINESS CONFERENCE is a not to be missed event.
We know that time is one of the most precious commodities that business owners have nowadays, and that is why Downtown in Business have worked hard to create a one day event designed to help you achieve your ambitions.

THE SPEAKERS include:
Steve Morgan – Owner Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, Chairman Redrow, entrepreneur
Tony Caldeira – Owner Caldeira Ltd, retailer, manufacturer, entrepreneur
Gavin Wheeldon – Owner Applied Language Solutions, ‘secret millionaire’ entrepreneur
Natalie Haywood – Owner Leaf, Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2010, The Morgan Foundation
Toby Young – Author ‘How to Lose Friends & Influence People’, Journalist, political & business commentator
Paul Levy – Chief Executive, City of Philadelphia BID
Maggie O’Carroll – Chief Executive, The Women’s Organisation
Councillor Joe Anderson – Leader, Liverpool City Council
Sir Howard Bernstein – Chief Executive, Manchester City Council
Ged Fitzgerald – Chief Executive, Liverpool City Council
Max Steinberg – Chief Executive, Liverpool Vision
John Leach – Chief Executive, Winning Pitch

COSTS:
£60.00 PLUS VAT (DOWNTOWN MEMBERS)
£99.00 PLUS VAT (NON MEMBERS)

LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED

To book your tickets for this unique event please CLICK HERE

If you are interested in sponsorship packages for the conference please CLICK HERE

Get a Healthy 'Work/Life Balance' with The Women's Organisation Business Club

2011-10-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

This month Business Club offer busy business women some helpful hints on keeping 'Work/Life Balance'.

Business club member and self employed life coach and consultant Sylvia Walker will be giving an interesting talk looking at Work / Life Balance - is it possible, helping you to:

• recognise your own patterns of behaviour
• eliminate 'time wasters'
• plan your time more effectively

Sylvia of SW Associates is a Personal Development Consultant who works with individuals and organisations to help them become more effective. She is a qualified trainer, coach and mentor with over 25 years experience including management roles in the public sector. In 2008 Sylvia set up her own business with the help of The Women's Organisation. She says "self management is the key to time management".

As well as this interesting talk there will be plenty of opportunity to enjoy light refreshments and network with other local women in business. The event will be on Tuesday 18th October 6pm-8.30pm at The Women's Organisation's Liverpool branch at 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB. To book your place please contact AaronHolmes@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8111.

The Women's Organisation are currently offering FREE membership to our Business club which offers women in the northwest of England regular opportunities to network and attend specialist training events. For details of how to join contact AaronHolmes@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8111.

The Women's Organisation Encourage Liverpool to 'Go ON'!

2011-10-10T02:46:00.000-07:00

Do you want to become a digital champion to help your friends, neighbours and customers to go online? Give an Hour following the weekend of 29-30 October, which is when the clocks go back. You could use your extra hour to support some of the estimated 100,000 people in Liverpool who have never used the internet.

Go ON Liverpool is the local strand of the national Race Online campaign, which aims to support the 8.7 million people in the UK who have never used the internet. Giving an hour of your time to show someone you know the wonders of the web is a small thing to do, yet it can make a big difference to their life.

Sign up today to become a digital champion!

On the online hub you can:

1. Pledge to help someone
2. See your impact and see an interactive map of all the people that are making pledges
3. Find exciting and useful tools to use

Go ON, Give an Hour!

The Women’s Organisation Chosen to Lead UK Female Entrepreneur Mentoring Network

2011-10-10T02:34:00.000-07:00

Leading Liverpool based female enterprise agency The Women’s Organisation has been selected by the European Commission to lead a UK wide mentoring scheme to encourage women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

The Women’s Organisation is working with the National Council for Enterprise in Education and the Federation of Small Businesses, to promote mentoring as an effective way to help women entrepreneurs grow their small businesses. This initiative is also being supported by Liverpool City Council and Ged Fitzgerald Chief Executive of Liverpool City Council said “that increasing the number of women starting and growing their own businesses is a key economic development priority for the city. We are delighted that to be working with The Women’s Organisation to help realise this objective”

Thirty five mentors will be recruited to share their experiences with 80 women entrepreneurs across the country seeking inspiration, guidance and support to develop their businesses.

“We are really excited about this opportunity and are delighted that our expertise in the field of women’s enterprise has been recognised by the European Commission,” said Maggie O’Carroll, Chief Executive Officer of The Women’s Organisation.

“The Consortium is a partnership of recognised UK experts that bring a unique combination of expertise in the areas of women’s enterprise, graduate enterprise, mentoring, networking and small business services.”

The project will be launched in October, when businesswomen trading between one and four years with at least one employee, will be targeted. The benefits of having a mentor for business development and growth to women entrepreneurs throughout the UK, will be promoted and mentoring will include face to face and on-line communication.

“We are focusing on how women can grow their businesses particularly through improved IT capability and opportunities for their business internationally.”

The mentoring initiative comes after the European Commission Enterprise & Industry Directorate General set up a European Network of Mentors for Women Entrepreneurs. The aim is to boost female entrepreneurship; recognise and support the distinctive nature of women’s business start-ups and crucially, to ensure that newly-established women entrepreneurs can sustain their activity throughout the first, challenging years of their business.

It points to the facts that;
• Only 33% of entrepreneurs are women (30% in start-ups)
• Most women still do not consider entrepreneurship as a relevant, realistic career option
• Women’s potential to contribute to Europe’s competitiveness is under utilised

The Women’s Organisation is based in the Women’s International Centre for Economic Development (WICED) in the Baltic Triangle area of Liverpool. It provides a range of services for women including business start-up and enterprise development. This includes ’incubation’ units for new and high growth women enterprises and an international research and knowledge centre specializing in women’s enterprise and wider economic development issues.

WICED has been developed by The Women’s Organisation following a £2.4m investment from the European Regional Development Fund programme, part of a £5.2m loan finance package. It came after the North West Development Agency identified women’s enterprise as a priority.

To find out more about the free services available from The Women’s Organisation, including advice and support on starting a business, call 0151 706 8111 or free phone 0800 587 0383.

Alternatively please email info@thewo.org.uk or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Women’s Enterprise Centre Welcomes High Sheriff

2011-10-10T02:30:00.000-07:00

Merseyside High Sheriff Professor Helen Carty has described a new state of the art £5.5m women’s enterprise centre as ‘inspirational.’

Dr Carty made the comment during a tour of The Women’s International Centre for Economic Development (WICED) in Liverpool to see how the facility is helping budding female entrepreneurs to set up and grow their businesses.

The centre, situated in the Baltic Triangle area of the city, provides a range of services focused on women’s start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises. Its ‘incubation’ units are already proving popular with several new and high growth women enterprises that are now based within them. WICED also houses an international research and knowledge centre focused on women’s enterprise and wider economic development issues.

Dr Carty, who also holds the post of Deputy Lieutenant of Merseyside, said: “This new building symbolises the quality of confidence that exists within The Women’s Organisation and its design is truly inspirational.

“It is from small beginnings that big businesses grow and this facility will help to encourage many female entrepreneurs. I believe it will prove particularly valuable to those women with a belief in their abilities but their backgrounds are such that they may not have been supported or encouraged in their endeavours.”

Dr Carty, a leading light in paediatric radiography before retirement, was appointed High Sheriff of Merseyside in April this year and holds the post for one year. It is an independent, non-political Royal appointment that enables the holder to bring together a wide variety of individuals for the good of the community.

Maggie O’Carroll, Chief Executive of The Women’s Organisation (formerly Train 2000), said: “Our centre is a beacon to women’s enterprise and we were thrilled to welcome Professor Carty as we’re very proud of it.

“Our success lies in the real, positive impact we have on women’s lives, whether we’re nurturing new businesses, driving improvements in legislation and power structures or helping to increase social awareness. Our centre is proving popular with businesswomen from across the region and we’re looking forward to working with lots more women to help them realise their full potential.”

WICED has been developed by the Women’s Organisation following a £2.4m investment from the European Regional Development Fund programme, part of a £5.2m loan finance package. It came after the North West Development Agency identified women’s enterprise as a priority.

To find out more about the free services available from The Women’s Organisation, including advice and support on starting a business, call 0151 706 8111 or free phone 0800 587 0383. Grants worth up to £200 may be available.

Alternatively please email info@thewo.org.uk or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

The Women's Organisation Encourage Sefton Women to 'Step Up' Their Future

2011-10-03T03:56:00.000-07:00

This interactive programme is open FREE to women in the Sefton area who want to improve their overall confidence to be able to plan a successful future. Over 3 Mondays ‘Step Up’ will look at:

• Positive Thinking and Learning about Yourself
• How to Become a More Assertive You
• Building Your Communication Skills
• Completing a Skills Audit and Developing a Personal Profile
• How to Present Yourself with Confidence

To be eligible for a FREE place on this programme you must:
• Be aged 19+ and have been resident in the UK or any other EU state for over 3 years
• Not have enrolled on any other NLDC course since July 2011
• Live in one of the following wards within Sefton and be able to provide proof of address:
- Church, Linacre, Derby, Ford, Litherland, Netherton, Orrell, St Oswald, Duke, Cambridge

At: Sefton@Work, 286-288 Stanley Road, Bootle L20 3ER
On: Mondays 17th, 24th & 31st October 9.30am-3pm
To book your FREE place call 0151 706 8111 or email info@thewo.org.uk

Bollyfit Celebrate Birthday by Launching New Liverpool Bollywood Classes

2011-09-30T02:51:00.000-07:00

Combining Bollywood glamour and keep fit Pooja Saini is bringing a touch of class to the health and well being industry with her business ‘Bollyfit’.

“Growing up I loved to dance. My sister and I would do dancing at parties and weddings. Watching Bollywood movies and going to the shows and concerts we would mimic the dance moves and I was fascinated by how they picked up every beat in their body. As an adult I looked for years to find anyone who was running Bollywood dance classes, both when I lived in London and again when I moved to Liverpool. I couldn’t find any which was disappointing. One day someone just said to me ‘Well why don’t you run them?’ and that started me thinking about it” said Pooja.

Liverpool resident Pooja studied dance from a young age, taking classes in ballet and jazz, then moving on to attending dance classes in Indian classical dance and street dance while at University. When considering putting her own classes together Pooja went to train up as an aerobics instructor. She explained:
“My Bollyfit structure is similar to aerobics, but more dancey and with Bollywood music. It’s fun and people who come along can dress up for it if they like, but it is structured and will help with fitness.” The music Pooja uses includes dance influences from all over the world, but concentrates mainly on Bollywood, Bhangra, Indian classical and Belly Dancing.

Pooja officially launched her Bollyfit business in Liverpool a year ago with support from The Women’s Organisation.

“I got help with my business plan, which was helpful as doing the market research opened up other ideas for my business. Instead of me just going out and put classes on it helped me really make it into a business, and I had support with things like setting up a business bank account.”

Since launching her business Pooja discovered that she was pregnant with her third child, so had to take time out from running the classes on maternity leave. She is delighted to be back and is already losing her pregnancy weight through running the classes.

“I am a great advert for how much the classes help you keep in shape without you realising” she says. “After my second child, running the classes I went from a size 16 to a size 12 in just four months! I am aiming for the same to happen this time. It’s great because instead of feeling like you have to do exercise, this to me is fun. People who have come along to my class say the same that they enjoy it so much they don’t even notice that it’s doing exercise until they realise by the end they have been sweating.”

Bollyfit will be running some new classes at Childwall Sports Centre, Five Ways, Queens Drive, Liverpool, L15 6XZ from Saturday 1st October.

Saturday mornings
10.30-11.30am – Bollyfit classes - £4 per class
11.30am-12.30pm - Children’s Bollywood dance lessons - £5 per class or £50 for a 10 week course starting 8th October.

“Anyone can come along to the classes. We have people of all sizes, ethnic groups, men or women – it’s really a diverse group.”

As well as these classes ‘Bollyfit’ offer services for:
• Workshops within work places or school using bollywood dancing for team building or to add a fun twist to learning about India.
• Children’s/Adults birthday/Hen parties –Dress up in Bollywood outfits with henna, bindis and bangles and enjoy learning a dance.
• Choreography – As an experienced choreographer for fashion shows, events and plays, Pooja can provide her services for theatre, corporate events or even wedding parties.

Pooja is also working on choreographing Bollywood dances to link in with local dance festivals and it looking for people who may be interested in taking part.

For more information on how to get involved contact Pooja on poojasaini@hotmail.co.uk or 07946169335.

And if like Pooja you have an idea for a business but need support to get it off the ground, contact The Women’s Organisation on info@thewo.org.uk or 0151 706 8111.

Photography by Abi Booth

The Pink Plasterer Expands Creating 8 North West Jobs

2011-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Since starting her own business just over a year ago it’s been non-stop for Liverpool’s ‘The Pink Plasterer’ Steph Kilshaw. What began as a small business born out of facing redundancy and looking to create a job for herself has led to creation of jobs for 8 other staff! Now working across Merseyside and Manchester, Steph just can’t believe how well things have gone.

“Just thinking back over the things we’ve done and how I started, you would never think one girl going out with a pink bucket could turn into this!” said Steph. “Since starting up I have never looked back. I always wanted to be self-employed, but I just never really knew which skill to use or how to go about it”.

When setting up in business Steph found out about The Women’s Organisation (then Train 2000) and was given advice and guidance to help get her up and running.

Facing the need to expand Steph said “I was glad to be able to go back to The Women’s Organisation for more advice. Employing people you would think would be difficult. Through the Women’s Organisation’s guidance I found out how to do it and it isn’t as scary as you think. To anyone else who is considering it I would say – don’t be scared to get bigger.”

As well as running her growing business and juggling mum duties, Steph is currently planning her wedding which will be in October as well as studying for her PTLLS certificate to be able to start training others in plastering from Jan 2012.

“It’s been a mad rollercoaster, but I know I have definitely done the right thing setting this business up and I wouldn’t swap it for the world. I recall the first major job we did was a Grade 2 listed building. It was a real mine field of red tape, and having to deal with conservationists etc. was a real learning curve. But we did it and looking back you think ‘if we have got through this, there isn’t anything we can’t tackle’. Having done that we are now registered with the council to take on heritage work as part of a regeneration group which is great.”

The Pink Plasterer has now also been signed up by RDC Media to be part of a home improvement team for a forthcoming programme that will see homes done up on a budget of £3000 to be shown on Channel 4.

“I’ve been asked to do some great things” reflected Steph. “Like a panel discussion show for youtube which included Tamzin Outhwaite talking about juggling being a mum and self-employment. It’s all a bit mad, but exciting. I never thought the business would become so successful.”

The Pink Plasterer offer plastering for both domestic and commercial premises. Through taking on extra staff Steph has been able to offer “more of an all-round service.” She explained “we have a girl on our team now who specialises in urban art murals as well as plastering, so we can offer that as an add on if the client is interested. And as well as our regular team we have linked up with other associates who are electricians, painters, joiners and other trades people so that we can work in partnership to give a full service. Our staff are also in the process of getting CSC cards which will enable us to branch out to site work too.”

Through The Women’s Organisation website Steph added ‘The Pink Plasterer’ to the online directory of female owned businesses and has found that it has helped her marketing with people mentioning that is how they found out about her business. She said “It’s also useful for networking with other local business women. I’ve found painters etc. who I have done joint work with through there.”

You too can submit your business details FREE to our directory.

To contact The Pink Plasterer to find out more about the services they can offer please email thepinkplasterer@gmail.com or call 07861 702 463.

And, if you’re a woman from the Merseyside or Greater Manchester area and are interested in starting up your own business please call The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Photography by Abi Booth

More Support with Google

2011-09-26T03:23:00.000-07:00

Google - Engage Agency Day - Liverpool

Join the experts on Thursday 29th September at the Leaf Cafe, for a day of insights and interaction to help you boost your business and give your customers even better service.

•Get to the bottom of common AdWords myths and remove roadblocks to potential revenue
•Hear innovative ways to pitch AdWords and its features to potential clients
•Be one of the first to hear about AdWords Express and its benefits
•Receive tips and advice on how to sell better
•Learn more about Google Engage for Agencies

Register now to secure your seat!

What: Engage Agency Day - Liverpool
When: Thursday 29 September, 9.00 p.m. - 3.00 p.m.
(registration from 9.00, first presentation starts at 9.30)
Where: Leaf on Bold 65 - 67 Bold Street, Liverpool, L1 4EZ

More information on the Google Engage Agency event can be found here.

Business Club Get Tax, Finance and Excel Top Tips

2011-09-19T03:23:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisations 'Business Club' were treated to 'Tax Tips and Finance Facts' this month with RMC Accountancy and ExcelAce.

It was a lovely evening at the organisation's new home at 54 St James Street. Thanks to a lucky turn in the weather and the fabulous speakers the business women attending enjoyed fantastic views across the Mersey from the buildings roof terrace while networking as well as two interesting talks on a topic daunting to most new business starts. Local business A2Z cafe based in Liverpool ONE kindly supplied free platters of sandwiches and fruit for the evening which went down a treat with the networkers.

Helen and Emma from RMC Accountancy kicked off the evening showing us "the good, the bad and the ugly" of record keeping, encouraging the women to 'keep organised book keeping records' and to set aside your taxable part of your income and not even consider it yours. Business club members then took full advantage of having a couple of accounting experts in the room and grilled the girls on all kinds of tax and accounting issues getting some really useful advice.

Then after some more networking it was the turn of ExcelAce Traci Williams. Traci managed to perform a small miracle making spread sheets come to life showing some simple tricks for helping to keep your records neat and easy to access.

Feedback left by the women at the end of the night included:

"Friendly, informative, supportive"
"Spread sheets - fabulous, engaging, fun, interesting. Loved it! Well done"
"Informative and relaxed. Good"
"Accountancy - very helpful and encouraging. Thank you"
"A great evening, very informative"
"Very enjoyable evening. Thank you."
"The Excel Lady was brilliant! Good fun and informative"
"Well organised and very helpful. Thank you"
"Interesting and informative, thank you"
"Very enjoyable evening. Thanks to all the speakers"
"Very good presentations, informative, friendly and nice sandwiches!"

The Women's Organisation are currently offering FREE membership to their business club to women who are running their own business in the North West of England. The business club hold regular networking and specialist training opportunities to support women to further grow and sustain their businesses.

For more information on how to become a member of the business club or for any other of our business support services please contact our team on 0151 706 8111/0161 833 8800 or info@thewo.org.uk

Next month at the business club we are delighted to welcome fantastic consultant and coach Sylvia Walker who will be talking about the importance of "Work Life Balance". The event will be on 18th October from 6pm-8.30pm. For more information or to book a place please contact AaronHolmes@thewo.org.uk or call 0151 706 8111.

Setting Up a Social Enterprise Training

2011-09-09T06:05:00.000-07:00

This One Day training course offered by KPAC will be at:

Knowsley Business Resource Centre
Admin Road, Kirkby, L33 7TX
9.30 am – 4.00 pm
11th October 2011
Cost: £24.00 – Lunch and refreshments included

This course is aimed at people who are interested in learning more about social enterprises and want to know what the advantages are of being a social enterprise business and how to go about the initial steps of considering and setting up a social enterprise.

Course content includes:
-What is a Social Enterprise?
-The difference between social enterprises and other businesses
-Different types of social enterprise
-Considerations when setting up a social enterprise
-Management structures in social enterprise
-The triple bottom line
-Advantages and Disadvantages of being a social enterprise
-Stakeholder analysis
-First steps in setting up a social enterprise

For further information on this course, or would like to book a please contact KPAC

FREE Training from Target Wellbeing

2011-09-09T04:10:00.000-07:00

Target: Wellbeing's training is free and open to anyone working in the Third or Public Sector in the North West. To book email Darren at Darren.OToole@groundwork.org.uk or call 0161 237 3200. Don't forget to include any dietary or access requirements and your phone number. Though do note, once booked, you will be charged a £50 fee if you fail to attend and do not give 24 hours notice.

Income Development Workshop
Wednesday 28th September 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm (lunch included)
Location: Manchester
Venue: Groundwork NW, 1st Floor Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ
Trainer: Alan Laurie
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/income_development_workshop

This session will:
• Explore ways in which your project could develop income generation and trading opportunities.
• Build skills in developing business opportunities and turning an idea into an income generating project (exploring what works and what doesn’t!).
• Identify the skills, expertise and assets that you have that people might be interested in paying for or purchasing.
• Develop a business model - using a range of tested tools and case studies.
• Look at the organisational and practical issues about moving into income generation

How to Create Good Case Studies
Monday 3rd October, 10.00am – 1.00pm (lunch not included)
Location: Preston
Venue: Classroom 2, Gujarat Hindu Society Centre, south Meadow Lane, Preston, PR1 8JN
Trainer: Rhiannon Davies, Target: Wellbeing’s Communications Officer
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/how_create_good_case_studies

This session will cover how to plan for, write and format a case study about your project.

We will really focus on how to make your words work to demonstrate your project’s impact to a range of stakeholders.

Building a Diverse Income Base
Friday 7th October 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm (lunch included)
Location: Manchester
Venue: Groundwork NW, 1st Floor Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, Manchester, M1 2EJ
Trainer: Alan Laurie
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/building_diverse_income_base

This session will:
• Explore issues involved in managing the end of fixed term project funding, including the need to develop a viable exit strategy.
• Examine how the financial model that underpins many organisations is changing and outline of the key changes in how voluntary organisations are funded, including public service contracts, trading, income generation and social enterprise.
• Introduce some useful tools to identify the issues involved.
• Cover strategy development - highlighting what is needed to turn ideas into practical projects and how to make the case for investment.
• Highlight the practical importance of business planning to survive the uncertain times ahead, including the skills and processes needed to manage and develop opportunities.

A session to work on action plans will finish off the day!

How to Create Video Case studies
Wednesday 12th October, 10.00am – 1pm (lunch not included)
Location: Knowsley
Venue: Knowsley CVS, Nutgrove Villa, 1 Griffiths Road, Huyton L36 6NA
Trainer: Rhiannon Davies, Target: Wellbeing’s Communications Officer
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/how_create_video_case_studies

This session is for complete beginners, or those who’ve started taking videos and want to know “what next?”

We will cover how to plan for and create a video about your project using a Flip camera, and how to edit and put these videos on YouTube, as well as how to distribute them to your stakeholders and a wider audience.

The last time this session was run participants said:
“Thanks for making this fun and easy!”
“This training was concise yet effective – providing essential info and tips.”
“Excellent, knowledgeable facilitator!”

Volunteer Management Training
Thursday 13th October 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm (lunch included)
Location: Burnley
Venue: TBC
Trainer: Debra McCallion
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/volunteer_management_training

This session will enable you to:
• Identify the level of best practice within volunteering, including policy issues, diversity issues, and more.
• Identify the volunteering journey for individuals, including skills assessments, diversifying roles, managing poor practice etc.
• Fully understand the Volunteers Managers role and how to stay healthy within it, including juggling tasks, where to find support, demand management strategies etc.

Introduction to Marketing and Communications
Monday 17th October 2011, 10.00am – 1.00pm
Location: Ellesmere Port
Venue: EPNAVCO, First Floor Offices, Ellesmere Port Indoor Market, Market Square, Ellesmere Port, CH65 0HW
Trainer: Rhiannon Davies, Target : Wellbeing’s Communications Officer
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/introduction_marketing_and_communications

Anyone responsible for getting beneficiaries to participate in your project, recruiting volunteers, or communicating the success of your project to funders and other stakeholders will take something from this session.

We will focus on creating a plan that helps save you time, but maximises the results of your marketing. We’ll also cover top tips to make sure your posters, flyers, press releases and other communication tools are as effective as possible, and share ideas of how to increase beneficiary recruitment for your project.

The last time this session was run participants said:
"It has given me loads of new ideas, can't wait to put them into practice!"
"I found the course extremely useful and can't wait to be a lot more organised"
"Clear and understandable"

Commissioning Master Class
Thursday 20th October 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm (lunch included)
Location: Oldham
Venue: TBC
Trainer: Dave Packwood
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/commissioning_master_class

This session will:
• Assist VCS organisations who already have an understanding and experience of commissioning, to explore how to enhance their skills further, bid for larger tenders and challenge the tendering process.
• Refresh knowledge of commissioning and update people on new legislation such as Modernising Commissioning Green paper.
• Identify and discuss the risks of tendering, including VAT and TUPE implications.
• Give you knowledge of Pre Qualification and Tendering Documentation.
• Look at procurement rules that commissioners must abide by and how to challenge the procurement process.

Introduction to Social Media
Tuesday 25th October 2011, 9.30am – 1pm (lunch not included)
Location: Liverpool
Venue: The Quaker Meeting House in Liverpool, 22 School Lane, Liverpool L1 3BT
Trainer: Rhiannon Davies, Target: Wellbeing’s Communications Officer
http://www.targetwellbeing.org.uk/event/introduction_social_media

A great opportunity for those who want to get started with Social Media, but don’t know where to start.

This session will cover:
- An introduction to Social Media, its context and how it fits into your existing activity
- Picking the right tools for your objectives and stakeholders
- A straight forward introduction on how to use the most popular platforms – Blogging, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and Facebook

You’ll leave the session feeling informed and confident about using Social Media, however little you’ve done beforehand!

The last time this session was run participants said:
“I am more confident about Social Networking, and will go back and sort out a Twitter account!”
“My mind is spinning with ideas!”
“Three days worth of training in three hours!”

Consortia and Collaboration session
Thursday 27th October 2011, 9.30am – 4.30pm (lunch included)
Location: Oldham
Venue: TBC
Trainer: Dave Packwood

This session will assist VCS organisations in the development of partnerships and consortia for the delivery of:
- Children young people and families tenders
- Health tenders including GP consortia

The session will help you to:
- Understand the national commissioning context which is driving partnerships and consortia building.
- Develop an understanding of consortia working benefits, strengths, weaknesses, governance and processes.
- Examine outcome based commissioning frameworks.
- Gain practical knowledge about different models of partnership and consortia building and delivery.

Call for Art & Craft Stallholders – Sat 24th September

2011-09-07T04:05:00.000-07:00

On 24th September between 12.00 noon and 6pm Liverpool Commercial District is holding a Latin American festival on Castle St to celebrate the area’s new status as a BID.

The street will be closed to traffic and filled with the music, tastes, sights and smells of Latin America.

There limited number of 3m x 2m stalls available for artists and makers wishing to sell their work.

Stalls are free for businesses based in The Commercial District and £35 for those based outside the area.

For more information please contact Vix Worrall on 0151 330 6163/ v.worrall@claritycreation.com

JellyLiverpool Welcomes Women!

2011-09-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

This month JellyLiverpool are putting a special shout out to women in business to come and take advantage of their FREE co-working day.

JellyLiverpool is taking place on:

Thursday 15th September 9am-5pm
We’ll be co-working upstairs at Leaf Bar & Café (Bold St)

The Women's Organisation will be there supporting any women who want extra advice and guidance between 11am-2pm.

JellyLiverpool welcome Liverpool freelancers & home-workers, come and work with us for the day @ JellyLiverpool …. doing what it does best …. providing a Free monthly work-together with Free coffee and an opportunity to mingle with like-minded creative individuals, in a city centre location. No need to register, just pop along and bring your laptop or some work you need to get on with.

Newcomers are made very welcome, and if you’re thinking of coming for the first time, here’s some background…

JellyLiverpool enables delegates to escape their normal working environment, be that the spare room, rented desk space or usual café and join in what has become the co-working event that enables people to make new contacts in an informal way whilst still allowing them to work on their deadlines and maintain productivity.

JellyLiverpool is a Free work-together now being held on the 1st Thursday & 3rd Thursday of each month upstairs @ Leaf Bar & Café on Bold Street. If you work alone, at home or elsewhere and crave some company and want to connect with other creative individuals, pop along !

No matter what you do or what you create, you’re welcome to come to JellyLiverpool. Mingle with other grass-root businesses. It’s a great way to put faces to those you follow on Twitter and more importantly it’s Free …… Free wifi, Free deskspace, Free coffee. Bring your own laptop and a friendly disposition. No need to register, just pop in for an hour or 2 or come work for the full day.

Want to know more? go to …
www.openlabs.org.uk/jelly

"Being My Own Boss is Brilliant!" Says Bride Liverpool

2011-09-06T04:58:00.000-07:00

“It’s a juggling game” for business owner and mum Maria, but running her own business ‘Bride Liverpool’ is her dream job.

“I always wanted to be my own boss” said Maria Johnson-Sach from Liverpool. Having given up working in the wedding industry when son Callum came along, Maria had been trying to decide what to do. When Callum was old enough for nursery Maria went to work for the civil service part time, but found it just wasn’t the right fit for her. When a friend presented an opportunity it seemed too interesting to ignore.

“A friend of mine had premises where she was doing beauty. She had just revamped it and moved her business upstairs, so the space downstairs was vacant. She let me know it was available and I was interested. My husband wasn’t keen at first. He has a high pressured job, so he couldn’t really drop everything if there was a problem with Callum, so we needed to think carefully about childcare.”

Maria contacted The Women’s Organisation for help and advice and was linked up with an Enterprise Enabler to help look over her business plan. She said “I wanted someone who could sit down and look over figures with me and see if it all made sense. My adviser Huda was so encouraging, she helped me set up a spreadsheet to look at the financials. I wouldn’t be here without The Women’s Organisation and I can highly recommend what they do. No one understands women like women.”

From there everything pretty much “fell into place” for the Liverpool mum. She agreed to take on the premises near Childwall Fiveways at great rates. She struck lucky, timing it right to attend the British bridal exhibition earlier this year to strike deals with designers for exclusivity for when her store opened. Having found herself in a stable place financially Maria invested £15,000 in stock and began to redecorate. Her husband and a friend helped with some of the DIY, a cousin was able to do the electrics. Looking around at her shop now Maria says “Sometimes I think it is all too good to be true. It was meant to be!”

One thing she has learned in the process of dealing with suppliers for her business is “Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate! Don’t have any embarrassment in it. When you tot up the savings you’ve made at the end of the year it’s well worth it. Sometimes as women male suppliers look at us and think that we can’t hold our own, but we can and sometimes we need to know that we are a force to be reckoned with.”

Maria is loving being back in the wedding industry. “It’s such a happy industry”, she said “Brides come in full of anticipation, and I help them find the dress of their dreams. They often try on a dress they never would think they could wear and then find they look better than they could have ever imagined. It’s a joy when a woman whose confidence has been knocked through looking at air brushed images in glossy magazine comes in, you put them in the right dress and see that they know they look great. I have endless patience to help them get it right, I know a lot about bridal wear and I know I am good at what I do.”

Bride Liverpool cater for all a bride’s needs for their special day including wedding dresses, veils and accessories. They hold some exclusive lines that can’t be found anywhere else in Liverpool or the North West. You can find them on facebook and Twitter or contact Bride Liverpool on 0151 345 0747 or brideliverpool@gmail.com

And if you are a woman with a dream of running your own business, contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk for more information on the grants, advice and support you can access.

Pay Equality a Century Away for British Women

2011-09-02T08:17:00.000-07:00

Source: http://www.trust.org/trustlaw/news/pay-equality-a-century-away-for-british-women

LONDON (TrustLaw) - When will Britain’s men and women executives enjoy equal pay? Not until the year 2109, judging by the country’s current growth rates of male and female salaries, the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) said on Wednesday.

The difference between female and male pay rises has narrowed year-on-year – women’s salaries rose 2.4 percent during the 12 months between February 2010 to February 2011, a rate of increase 0.3 percent higher than that for men, according to figures from a sample of more than 34,000 British executives surveyed by XpertHR on behalf of CMI.

But male executives still get paid more than women doing the same jobs – an average of 42,441 pounds ($69,000) compared with 31,895 pounds ($51,866) for women, CMI, an institute that awards management and leadership qualifications, quoted the 2011 National Management Salary Survey as showing.

“We need the government to scrutinise organisational pay, demand more transparency from companies on pay bandings and publicly expose organisations found guilty of fuelling the gender pay gap,” CMI’s director of policy and research, Petra Wilton, said.

However, pay discrepancies aren’t consistent all the way along the career ladder, data showed.

In fact, female junior executives in Britain – earning an average annual salary of 21,969 pounds – get 602 pounds more their male counterparts working at the same level.

The research also showed redundancies hit men and women equally hard between February 2010 and February 2011, with 2.2 percent of both men and women executives losing their jobs.

But the figures also showed women at “function head” level being almost twice as likely as men to have been made redundant. And data showed more women than men quitting their jobs – 4.2 percent compared with 3.6 percent.

To help female staff challenge inequality in their workplaces, CMI has provided a “toolkit” of free resources at www.managers.org.uk/glassceiling.

By Rebekah Curtis

Shell Springboard Awards Open for Nominations

2011-09-01T09:14:00.000-07:00

Why not take advantage of the quietest month of the year and enter the Shell Springboard Awards?

The deadline for Shell Springboard is 5pm on the 4th November 2011, but as we all know things tend to get busy again when the world returns from its holiday so now is a good time to get your application sorted.

Submit your entry online at www.shellspringboard.org for one of eight awards of £40,000 on offer this year.

If you know of someone who might benefit from a £40,000 injection to their innovative green business, please send this on to them. If they get through to a regional judging panel, I’m sure they will thank you and invite you to a celebration!

Remember, Shell are looking for UK-based small to medium size enterprises with business ideas or technology that is:

• Commercially viable
• Innovative
• Carbon Saving

Applications should be made online before 5pm on the 4th November 2011 on the website www.shellspringboard.org

If you have an application in process - don’t forget to complete it and submit it. This award could make all the difference to your business, just ask any previous winner.... like Stephen Voller, CEO of Cella Energy…
“Winning the Shell Springboard award was a huge boost to our business. It was an excellent platform to showcase our technology and helped us secure global investment. I encourage anyone with a good idea for tackling the climate challenge to enter the awards.”

As always, the Springboard team are here to answer your queries. You can contact them at help@shellspringboard.org or on 0870 850 7085.
Good luck with your application!

From Redundancy to Self Employment Success for Stockport Mums

2011-09-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

When facing redundancy friends of 9 years Sharon Edwards and Shelley Garrett saw it as an opportunity. Using their wealth of experience in the field of educational consultancy they set up ‘Quality First Training & Consultancy’ in Stockport and haven’t looked back.

Sharon said “When the government cuts came, Manchester was hit harder than anyone anticipated. Myself and colleagues within the field of education were offered severance packages. It was very daunting the thought of giving up a well-paid job, but the offer of the severance was both a push and a cushion at the same time. The opportunity to work for ourselves was scary and exciting in equal measures.”

Sharon, Shelley and other colleagues who were also facing redundancy and considering self-employment decided to share their contact details so as not to lose touch. Before they knew it they had created their own network of support for their fledgling businesses. Meeting the first Wednesday of the month at Metropolitan Pub in Didsbury, the former colleagues share information, offer emotional support to one another and share their wealth of skills and ideas. The group who also keep in contact via email circulation has proven invaluable for support and was the starting point of Sharon and Shelley finding out about the free business support available through The Women’s Organisation.

“The help from The Women’s Organisation was excellent”, said Sharon. “Our business adviser there Lisa was so clear and organised. We hadn’t really understood the need for a business plan really. I suppose we were just of the mind of ‘go out there and start doing’. But putting together the plan with Lisa’s help has really focussed us. We refer back to it constantly to see if we are meeting our targets, and the blurb that took us time to pull together for the plan we now use in our marketing. So it was well worth it.”

Both Sharon and Shelley’s friends and family have been a great support in helping them develop their business. Shelley’s partner offered support with photography for their promotional materials, Sharon’s daughter is helping them all the way from New Zealand to set up their website, Sharon’s brother in law supported them with accountancy advice and Shelley’s 15 month old son has been offering plenty of supportive smiles along the way.

Sharon said of their journey “We were always very resourceful in our previous employment, so I guess that prepared us for self-employment and learning new skills as we go. Having come through redundancy it’s almost like we rose from the ashes. Things are going well so far and the people who have accessed our consultancy services and attended our courses have given us very positive feedback so we are feeling optimistic about the future.”

Quality First Training and Consultancy offers specialist support in behaviour and attendance, emotional health and well-being and coaching. Between them, Shelley and Sharon bring a wealth of experience. Having both started out as classroom teachers then working as Behaviour Needs teachers they were asked to take on the role of Behaviour and Attendance Consultants. They were then able to roll out the national ‘Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning’ programme to Manchester schools, where their work was recognised nationally. With the added bonus of having worked in both primary and secondary education settings they can fully understand and appreciate all aspects of the day to day issues facing local schools and educational organisations. Quality First Services are broken down into 4 key areas:

• Quality First Consultancy
Offering schools, academies and settings bespoke consultancy in any area of behaviour and attendance.

• Quality First Training
A range of training packages available, e.g. behaviour management, improving attendance, using solution focused approaches, SEAL. These are available for delivery to whole staff or groups during staff meetings, twilights or training days. In addition support can be offered to plan, deliver and evaluate bespoke training events in your workplace and across networks.

• Quality First Behaviour Reviews
Behaviour reviews of various lengths, starting from 1 day, are available tailored to the specific focus identified and / or size of your school, academy or setting. A written report will be compiled with recommendations and discussed in detail at a follow up meeting.

• Quality First Coaching
Whatever your needs Quality First offer skilled and experienced coaches who can provide professional and personal coaching to support you to develop your capacity to find sustainable solutions to your challenges.

For more information on what Quality First Training and Consultancy can offer visit their website at www.qualityfirst.uk.com or contact them on 07415 705653 or info@qualityfirst.uk.com

And if like Sharon and Shelley you are looking for support to develop your own business then why not contact The Women’s Organisation on 0161 833 8800/0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk for more information on the FREE support available to women.

Mini Media Training with Clare Delve

2011-08-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Join 54 St James St tenant Clare Delve for a half day course in media training.

By the end of this course you will be able to:

 Write a basic press release.
 Identify your business’ key messages
 Spot a good story
 Be interviewed confidently

Benefits of coming along:

• Communicate with your customers
• Improve your brand
• Learn what journalists want in a press release
• Get your message across quickly and succinctly in an interview

Dates available:
Thursday 22nd September 2011 9am-1pm - Liverpool

Includes:
Refreshments
Course pack for future reference
Personal PR ideas for your business.

Just £40 per person

Book Early – only 10 places per workshop!

If you would like to book your place please contact Clare Delve on 07545 600 825. Email clare@claredelve.com or contact via Twitter @claredelve.

For more information go to http://claredelve.com

£40,000 kick-start funding available

2011-08-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

The North West Social Value Foundation (SVF) is a membership organisation formed by North West NHS Organisations committed to promoting the development of Social Value.

In order to deliver on its mission, SVF has identified £40,000 to invest in a number of ‘kick-start’ projects between NHS delivery bodies and the voluntary and community sector or social enterprises. The Social Value Foundation currently has £40,000 to invest, with no minimum or maximum limit for any proposal. It is hoped that if successful, additional resources may be released.

It is looking for projects or ideas that go the extra mile to make a difference to communities. They should be partnerships of NHS organisations working with a social enterprise or VCS organisation.

All enquiries should be addressed to Julie Cheetham, julie.cheetham@northwest.nhs.uk.

Initial expressions of interest should be submitted by 30 September 2011. Those proposals nominated to progress to an investment panel stage will be notified by 10 October 2011, in readiness to pitch on either 20 October or 3 November, 2011.

Business Club Looks at 'Tax Tips & Finance'

2011-08-25T04:08:00.000-07:00

Next Month at The Women’s Organisation Business Club's networking evening we will be exploring ‘Tax Tips & Finance’

Held on:
Thursday 15th September 6pm-8.30pm

Held at:
The Women's Organisation,
54 St James Street
Liverpool
L1 0AB

Featuring:

Accountancy expert and business owner Helen Rehm of RMC Accountancy Services Ltd. will be looking at why ‘Accountancy Matters’ particularly to support you with:

• Optimum profitability
• Compliance
• Maximising personal gain

As well as leaving you with helpful tips on key financial deadlines to look out for. Having set up her business with support from The Women's Organisation, Helen fully appreciates how organising your finances can be daunting at first for SME's.

Local business woman Traci Williams of ExcelAce will be giving a whistle stop tour of ‘Excel: Top Tips & Simple Tricks’.

Giving you some fantastic hints on ways to use spread sheets to keep on top of your finances, Traci will show you how powerful Excel can be…….Simply!!

FREE to members of The Women's Organisation Business Club.

Our business club is currently offering FREE membership to women running their own business in Merseyside or Greater Manchester. Offering frequent networking and training opportunities to support the development of your business.

To join or book contact 0151 706 8111 or AaronHolmes@thewo.org.uk

Victoria Rose Seek Support to Make Cancer Sufferers Big Day Special

2011-08-24T04:04:00.000-07:00

When local business Victoria Rose heard the story of cancer sufferer Julie they couldn’t help but be touched and begin thinking of ways to offer support. Julie (42) has sadly been diagnosed with terminal cancer. She and her long term partner have decided to make the most of the time they have together and get married, so they are now in the process of planning their wedding. They don't have a great deal of money so everyone is rallying round to provide what they can.

Victoria Rose have already offered a wedding cake and afternoon tea, but they would like to encourage any local businesses or community members who would like to offer support to get in touch. If you are able to help in any way please contact victoria@victoriarose.org.uk

FREE HR Clinic with High Performance Consultancy

2011-08-24T03:15:00.000-07:00

High Performance Consultancy brings you the first of their FREE HR clinics.
The first topic will cover Employment Tribunals and how to Avoid, Manage and Succeed.
Practical advice and guidance will be given with a Q&A session to address any specific issues delegates may have.

Date: 29th September 2011
Time: 08.30am – 10.00am
Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Liverpool

AGENDA:
08.30am – 09.00am – Breakfast Networking
09.00am – 09.40am – Presentation covered by MD & Operations Director of HPC including case law
09.40am – 10.00am – Q&A session

Every delegate in attendance will qualify for a FREE 30 minute health check with oan experienced consultant and a FREE 30 day trial of OneHR – a new online solution to monitoring and recording employee information.

For more information and to book your place contact lisa@highperformanceconsultancy.com

When confirming you attendance please submit any questions you feel would help you to gain knowledge in the topic area. Questions can be company specific or anonymous simply state on your question.

Morgan Foundation Awards Deadline Approaching!

2011-08-24T03:11:00.000-07:00

The closing date for this year's Morgan Foundation Entrepreneur Awards is just ten days away! Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a winner in the region's most prestigious Awards, all aimed at making a real difference to entrepreneurial businesses, charities and social enterprises. There's £115,000 of cash prizes to be shared amongst the winners, plus a package of significant business support. Catagories include:

- Best New Business
- Best Business providing Social or Economic Contribution to the Region
- Best Entrepreneurial Charity or Social Enterprise
- Best Young Entrepreneur
- Best New Business Idea by a Young Entrepreneur
- Against All Odds

As Chairman and Founder, Steve Morgan has said, "if you aren't on the playing field, you can't score a goal!"

For further information and to register, go to www.mf-awards.co.uk or call the Awards Team on 01289 782800.

Good luck and get your application in by 2nd September!

www.morganfoundation.co.uk

Summer Networking Success for The Women's Organisation

2011-08-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

54 St James St in Liverpool (Home of The Women's Organisation) was packed out last night with female entrepreneurs coming together for an evening of networking. The evening was a 'Summer Social' celebration for The Women's Organisation business club featuring:

- Networking
- Live Music - Courtesy of Jo Austin as @AdeleTribute
- Opportunity for Business Club members to have their say of what they would like from the network over the coming year
- Presentation to new businesses starting up this month
-Free Raffle.

Raffle prizes were donated by local businesses and included: A voucher for a personal coaching session with consultant Sylvia Walker, a gift basket of handmade soaps thanks to Lynne Allen of Ayntresoaps, a local history gift package thanks to Jackie Waters of Memory Catchers, a CD Accountancy package with a training session from RMC Accountancy, a voucher for 2 hours of personal training with Chelsee Beyga Personal Trainer and some chocolates and a FCUK giftset from The Women's Organisation.

The Women's Organisation Business Club now has over 130 members, all north west women running their own business, with over 50 regularly attending each time.

Feedback comments from the event included:

"Really impressed, thank you so much"
"Very well organised, Thank you"
"Very impressed, first time on an event like this, would come again!"
"Nice atmosphere"
"Jo was mazing, well done"
"Very Enjoyable Event"
"Had a great time, thank you"
"Fab, Jo was brilliant. Great opportunity to network and share ideas"
"Really enjoyed the night, singing great, company excellent. Thank you!"
"It was a good evening"
"Really surprised how busy it was tonight, I didn't bring enough cards!. Very impressed with The W.O. and will continue to use your services and more events"

Click here to check out the flickr album of photographs from the event courtesy of Georgina Ravenscraft of Georgina G Photography.

Our next Business Club networking evening will be around the topic 'Tax Tips and Finance' with support from RMC Accountancy and ExcelAce. Being held on 15th September 6pm-8.30pm, places are limited and open to Business Club members only. The Women's Organisation Business Club is currently FREE to join for women running their own business in Merseyside or Greater Manchester. To book on the next event or for details of how to join contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

Vote for Smoobo! - The Women's Organisation Backing International Female Entrepreneurs

2011-08-19T03:01:00.000-07:00

Following on from our article following a fantastic female entreprenuer joining the Electrolux Design Challenge, voting is now up online!

The Women's Organisation are backing Roseanne de Bruin (New Zealand) who has made a game out of blending a smoothie at home with the Smoobo Blender. Bounce this space age ball around and the kinetic energy gets the blades moving.

Finalist Roseanne de Bruin is following family trend in paving the way for female enterpreneurship. Her mother Professor Anne de Bruin is currently working with The Women's Organisation as one of the WICED panel of experts, pooling international knowledge to champion women's economic development.

Please click here and cast your vote for Smoobo by Roseanne de Bruin.

Knowsley’s Kathryn makes Knitting a Family Affair

2011-08-15T06:39:00.000-07:00

Saving four jobs and a shop with 80 years of business heritage was no mean feat for Knowsley’s Kathryn Reilly.

For Kathryn, knitting had always been a great passion and hobby. Throughout her working life she had always found herself spreading her knitting enthusiasm amongst her colleagues, and enjoyed showing them a few tips and techniques.

Having been a regular customer at ‘The Wool Shop’ in Prescot for over 20 years, Kathryn was saddened when she heard the news that the shop faced closure due to the owner retiring. She went straight home to tell her husband the news and they soon decided that filling the gap by setting up their own wool business would be a fantastic adventure.

“I had always said I would love to have my own wool shop, but it never entered my head that I’d be doing it” she said.

Kathryn contacted Knowsley Council to find out what support was available for those with a business idea and was directed to The Women’s Organisation for advice and guidance. She said:
“I got loads of help from The Women’s Organisation on writing up my business plan. I went on their business planning course too. It really gives you the basic knowledge so that you can weight it all up and think yes I think I can do this, or no I’m not ready.”

Kathryn set up ‘Purls of Wisdom’ in partnership with her husband. She received a £200grant from The Women’s Organisation and a further £1000 through Knowsley Fresh Start which has enabled her to plan new lighting and carpet refurbishments for the shop that she took on for the venture. Since starting out and making some cosmetic changes to the old premises the response has been very positive. “The customers can see that we have opened it up and they say ‘Doesn’t it look great, it looks fantastic. If I hadn’t had the support from The Women’s Organisation and Fresh Start I couldn’t have done it. Even now, it’s great to know I can just pick up the phone and know there is someone at the other end who will help you.”

‘Purls of Wisdom’ has not only provided new jobs and a new life for Kathryn and her husband, but it is now employing 4 other Knowsley residents. The community are so delighted by the shop that customers have even donated bits of furniture, so Kathryn was able to set up a tea room for the staff.

“At first my daughters thought I was mad, but now they have seen it they think it’s brilliant. They even come in to help us on their days off. My father has been really supportive too, even helping out financially when we have needed it. I definitely feel like I have made the right decision. I come into work every day because I just love it. The best thing about it is the self-satisfaction and pride that you get working for yourself.”

Purls of Wisdom are based at ‘The Wool Shop’ 32 Eccleston Street, Prescot, Knowsley, L34 5QJ. They cater for all knitting and sewing needs such as: wool and patterns, alterations service, hand knitted items for babies that are made to order. If you manage to find something they don’t stock that you would like for knitting they are happy to take orders too.

As of Thursday 4th August a ‘Knit and Natter’ group will be running every week from 2-4pm which will be a chance for local knitting enthusiasts to meet together at The Wool Shop for a cup of tea and group knitting.

For more information on this or other services offered by Purls of Wisdom, contact purlsofwisdom@hotmail.co.uk or 0151 426 5264.

And if like Kathryn you have a dream to run your own business, then why not contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk for more information on the FREE support available to women.

FREE Course on 'DIY SEO'

2011-08-09T06:55:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation welcome internet marketing experts 'StuckOn' who will be offering this interesting and practical course on 'D.I.Y. S.E.O.'.

AT: The Women's Organisation, 54 St James St, Liverpool, L1 0AB

ON: Tuesday 13th September 10am-1pm

Have you started running your own business, got as far as setting up a website, but are not winning the war with Google to get yourself on page 1 of search results? This course should give you the hints and tips needed to improve your Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). Covering:

• What Google is looking for in a website, and why
• Link building / the good, the bad and the ugly
• Easy SEO mistakes to make
• Why content works for SEO, and how to use it
• On-Page SEO factors: What to do and not to do

Places are strictly limited so book early to avoid disappointment. Open to The Women's Organisation and StuckOn clients, book via 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk

'Sentimental Moments Ltd.' Open New Showroom

2011-08-04T04:20:00.000-07:00

Sentimental Moments Ltd, a venue dressing and gift service based in Liverpool, are proud to announce the opening of a new showroom. Since setting up in 2009 with help from Stepclever and The Women's Organisation, the business has gone from strength to strength. Jeanette of Sentimental moments would like to extend the invitation to celebrate with them the opening of the relocated venue dressing showroom

On: Thursday 11th August 2011, 4pm-8pm
At: Sentimental Moments Ltd, 45 Walton Hall Ave,Liverpool, L4 6TB

The opening will be carried out by the Right Honourable Steve Rotherham, Member of Parliament for Liverpool Walton.

Joining the event will be representatives from Liverpool City Council and businesses from the hospitality and wedding industry.

The reception will be taking place between the hours of 4pm and 8pm, if you would like to be added to the guestlist, please contact Jeanette on Jeanette@sentimentalmoments.co.uk

Limited parking spaces are available next to the showroom but ample parking is available 200 yards further in Walton Hall Park.

Invitation to Join us at our 'Summer Social' Networking Evening

2011-08-03T03:29:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation would like to extend the invitation to our Business Club Summer Social.

On: Thursday 18th August 6pm-8.30pmAt: The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James St, Liverpool L1 0AB

As well as a relaxing evening featuring:

• Refreshments
• Live Music
• FREE raffle
• Networking
Our Enterprise Director Jackie Williams will also be leading a discussion on what our business club members would like from the network over the coming year in terms of guest speakers, topics, masterclasses, networking suggestions etc. so come along with your ideas!

Booking for this event is essential via 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk. Open only to members of The Women’s Organisation Business Club. Business Club membership is currently FREE of charge and open to women running their own business in Merseyside or Manchester. If you would like to join contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk for a membership pack.

Knowsley Woman Asks 'Care2Talk'?

2011-08-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

A career change was an incredibly brave step for Knowsley resident Glenys Taylor, but having taken a 10 week counselling course at St Helens College she was “bitten by the bug” and knew this was the path for her.

Glenys had worked for 13 years in Childcare, a job she thoroughly enjoyed. However, she realised that as she was getting older she couldn’t lift and carry the children like she used to and with the changing economy perhaps it was time to consider other options.

When a dear friend was taken ill with a heart condition, Glenys and her husband looked after her and would spend time just chatting things through with her. It was this friend who asked Glenys if she had ever considered a career in counselling, having found comfort in their conversations.

Glenys completed her first 10 week course at St Helens College with lecturer Pat Fairhurst, and realised she had found her new passion. She then went on to further training working up to a Diploma in Counselling. Glenys believes in the benefits of continual learning and is as a result currently studying up to Level 5 in Counselling at Cheshire Therapy Centre.

Describing her training as a “personal journey” Glenys said “It was time for a change. I had given so much to the children I had worked with, it was time to do something for me, something I loved – and that was counselling. I am a different person. It’s made me take stock of me. It was not just a change of job, but a change of me completely. My priorities have changed, it’s amazing really. I don’t put as much stress on myself anymore.” She reflected on what she has learned saying “Really in counselling – If you can’t understand yourself, you can’t understand your clients.”

Glenys was directed to The Women’s Organisation for business start up support and said of her experience:
“Working with The Women’s Organisation really helped me. I had someone to look over my business plan to help me to gain £500 grant funding from Knowsley Fresh Start which allowed me to get business items such as leaflets. Doing this helped me to look at things I hadn’t thought of, step back and look at the bigger picture in more detail and make it more professional. My business adviser helped me to think of other places to try and other suggestions for how to promote my business. I also had support from someone at The Women’s Organisation in organising my business bank account. Through their network of contacts they got me an early appointment with a business banking manager and everything was set up really quickly. It’s great that they have contacts that we can utilise. The support hasn’t been pressurised in any way. They have been there as and when I’ve needed the help.”

Alongside setting up her business, Glenys works as a Counsellor for Age UK’s ‘Trust Matters’ Counselling Service which offers free counselling to those over 50 in St Helens who are affected by anxiety, stress, loss to name but a few. Other issues include issues relating to a Stroke or Parkinson’s. She is thoroughly enjoying this work and looks forward to one day specialising in working with children and families, Parkinson’s and Stroke issues.

“The best thing about running my own business is watching it grow. What started out as a comment from a friend led to me doing a course, to setting up and building a client base. I feel the excitement of the idea of getting myself really established. When you have ideas like how you would like your business cards or leaflets, and then you see them printed with your name on it, it gives you a real buzz.”

Glenys has enrolled as a member in The Women’s Organisation Business Club and said of the organisation “It is good to know that you have support behind you. I have already told some of my friends to get in contact with the likes of The Women’s Organisation and Fresh Start. There is plenty of help out there if you just ask.” The support Glenys felt from family, friends, course tutors, her coordinator – Paul Chadwick at Age UK, and other counsellors and colleagues has been fantastic. “There were times when I though I couldn’t do it and they reminded me that I could. It is a new way of life and a new me” she concluded. It’s never too late to change your life.

Based in Knowsley, Care2Talk offers Person Centred Counselling services and Glenys can be reached for more information on glenys@care2talk.co.uk, 07540 199225 or through www.mootu.com/glenystaylor where you can access counselling services using Skype.

And if you feel inspired by Glenys’ story to get help and advice around setting up your own business then contact The Women’s Organisation on 0151 706 8111/0161 833 8800, info@thewo.org.uk or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Think Growth – Your Guide to Trading Overseas

2011-08-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

Think Growth – Your Guide to Trading Overseas

Wednesday, 7th September 201107:45-10:00

Museum of Liverpool, Pier Head, Liverpool, L3 1DG

Liverpool Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with UKTI are hosting a free event at the new Museum of Liverpool to help your company become global.

Along with talks from UKTI and local businesses, Chamber member Glow New Media will help you to understand how to effectively utilise technology by talking about online marketing with an international edge.

With guests from leading local and national business support services, banking, solicitors, translators and freight forwarders hosting stands, you will have the opportunity to ask the right people about how to make those all important first steps into the international market as well as learning from those who have succeeded in trading abroad.

Agenda

07:45 – Registration and Breakfast
08:00 – Welcome and Opening - Clive Drinkwater, UKTI
08:10 – Benefits of Exporting: Problems and Solutions – Tony Brown, UKTI
08:30 – Case Study – Aspire Trust
08:45 – Reaching International Markets with Digital Marketing – Phil Blything, Glow New Media
09:15 – Opening of Exhibition and Networking
Exhibitors include: UKTI, HMRC, Hill Dickinson, NatWest, DHL, Enterprise Europe Network, Copernicus Consulting, Locker Freight and Globus Academy.

To reserve a place for this event, you can book online at www.liverpoolchamber.org.uk or, alternatively, please contact export@liverpoolchamber.org.uk or call on 0151 227 1234.

WAST Women March for Human Rights

2011-07-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Around 80 people joined in Liverpool today to March for justice for asylum seekers. Lead by the women from WAST, supporters included Merseyside Womens Movement, Sahir House, other local community activists. The march set off from St George's plateau and marched down Dale Street, along to Reliance House on Water street. The march then headed back to the plateau to hear from inspirational speakers.

The march was organised by the women from WAST (Women Asylum Seekers Together) specifically to hand in a list of demands for justice to the UKBA, from their members who are suffering and being denied human rights as asylum seekers.

For more information on WAST contact:

WAST
ADA HOUSE,
77 Thompson St,
Manchester
M4 5FY

Apprenticeship Opportunity with The Women's Organisation

2011-07-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

The Women’s Organisation is an innovative, social enterprise, that provides quality enterprise and employment services and influences policy in order to improve the economic position of women.

The Women’s Organisation is seeking to recruit a 'trainee administrator' as part of The Liverpool City Council Apprenticeship Programme to join our team on a 6 month fixed term contract. The successful candidate will undertake a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Business Administration. Candidates must possess GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above.

Hours: 37.5m per week
Salary: Apprenticeship Rate

Application forms can be downloaded shortly from www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk Closing date for receipt of applications is 10a.m. Monday, 15th August 2011. Interviews will take place on 30th and 31st August 2011

Applications should be returned to:
Lynn Kelly, The Women’s Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool L1 0AB

The Women’s Organisation is committed to equality and diversity, and we welcome applications from all sections of the community

Trendy Vend Ltd secures £1m private investment and plans expansion

2011-07-27T05:42:00.000-07:00

TWO Liverpool sisters who graduated with their own business idea aimed at trendy bar-goers and clubbers have received more than £1m of private investment.

The cash injection by Manchester- based national bar media contractor Hi-tech Media will allow Trendy Vend to roll out installation of its specialist vending machines nationally.

Kayleigh and Talia Baccino graduated from Liverpool John Moores University in 2008 with the idea of a vending machine aimed at the night-time economy providing a range of cosmetics for female revellers.

The idea has since been extended to a Trendy Vend for Him machine.

The first machines were installed in Liverpool bar restaurant Alma De Cuba in November 2008 and now 250 more are in production to be installed in venues around the country.

Kayleigh Baccino said they are developing a network for their machines: “We were in an Earls Court trade show recently and signed up quite a few new names. We have people in Cardiff, Bristol, Sheffield and Newcastle and 250 machines will be installed in the next three weeks.”

The cash injection means the girls can install a further 100 new machines each month, with a target of 1,000 in place by this Christmas.

She said the male version, offering items such as hair wax, combs, aftershave, mints and antacids, will extend their appeal, although the private investment was vital for expansion.

“Because the machines aren’t leased or off the shelf there was a lot of capital investment required.”

She said the investment is part of a three-year business plan.

It gives Hi-tech a majority stake in the business, but she added: “It is a sacrifice we had to make to grow the potential of the business.

“But there is an opportunity for us to buy the shares back in the future.”

Having started their business with support from womens enterprise support agency The Women's Organisation (formally Train 2000), funding from Stepclever and help through LJMU Graduate Entrepreneurs scheme; Trendy Vend won Start-up of the Year in the 2009 Liverpool John Moores University graduate enterprise awards, and also won the Best Young Entrepreneurs prize and £10,000 in the Morgan Foundation Awards.

If you are a woman in Merseyside or Greater Manchester looking for business start up support contact The Women's Organisation on 0151 706 8111/ 0161 833 8800 or info@thewo.org.uk for information on how we can help.

More on this at Your Business EZine.

Source: Liverpool Daily Post Business News

Women’s Enterprise Agency Welcomes World-Renowned Expert

2011-07-25T03:16:00.000-07:00

World-leading women’s business expert Professor Karen Hughes met female entrepreneurs, Nicola Gleave Head of Enterprise from Liverpool Vision and Cllr Gary Millar when she visited the city’s renowned Women’s International Centre for Economic Development.

Professor Hughes is a leading academic and advisor to the Canadian Government on female enterprise and is visiting the city in her role as research expert to the Women’s International Centre for Economic Development. Professor Hughes toured the £5.5m centre home to the Women’s Organisation having contributing to its initial development.

The links with female enterprise experts across the world is hugely important and is already proving business opportunities for Merseyside based women’s businesses trading with Canada and North America.

Maggie O Carroll CEO form the Women’s Organization said “We are delighted that Professor Hughes who is a world-leading researcher in female entrepreneurship has taken time out of her busy European schedule to come to Liverpool and her close ties to women businesses will enable us to facilitate trading networks between Liverpool and Canada”.

“From its inception, the new home of the Women’s Organisation has welcomed the idea of linking with international partners. Our goal is to draw on the world-wide experiences of women’s economic development and to use that research and partnership working to drive forward women’s business performance and international trading opportunities”

Professor Hughes, a Cambridge University graduate is the author of ‘Female Enterprise in the New Economy’, one of the most authoritative books relating to women’s enterprise. Professor Hughes said
“ There is a strong evince base to suggest that women remain an untapped market as entrepreneurs here in the UK and that appropriate Government policy and programmes will help reverse that trend as it has done in Canada. I am delighted to be involved with the development of this centre, it really is a global first. By combining research with innovative gender business support and incubation it will have a local and international impact”

The Women’s International Centre for Economic Development, situated in the Baltic Triangle area of the city, provides a range of services focused on women’s start-up businesses and small and medium-sized enterprises. This includes ’incubation’ units for new and high growth women enterprises and an international research and knowledge centre focused on women’s enterprise and wider economic development issues.

To find out more about the free services available from The Women’s Organisation, including advice and support on starting a business, call 0151 706 8111.

Alternatively please email info@thewo.org.uk or visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Building Business Through Social Media

2011-07-22T08:33:00.000-07:00

Over 50 northwest business women gathered at The Women's Organisation's Liverpool offices this week to network and to gather handy hints on how to be use E-Marketing and Social Media for business.

This month's business club event featured talks from Bryan Adams of ph.creative and Emma Dolan of Your Business Ezine. Bryan gave an insightful talk around social media tools and tips, looking at how to best utilise the marketing tools already out there, and anticipating future developments. A copy of his presentation from the evening can be viewed by clicking here.Emma gave a motivating talk around her journey in setting up her own business and her experience of using the internet for 'Your Business Ezine'.

We asked the women what they particularly enjoyed about the event. Some hi-lights of what the women found helpful included:

"The Positive attitude from both speakers"
"Networking with other business owners"
"Awareness of advertising opportunities"
"Understanding social media sites"
"Information on future trends"
"Interaction with the audience"
"SEO tips"
"Excellent presentation by Bryan"
"Speakers were very clear"
"Finding out about Press Room"
"Social Networking"
"Info about Your Business Ezine"
"Comfortable environment"
"The number of people attending"
"Advice, support and networking"
"E-Marketing Presentation"
"Bryan's presentation and specific info about social media"

The Women's Organisation business club is currently offering FREE membership to women in Merseyside and Greater Manchester who are running their own business. This offer won't last forever, so now is the time to sign up. Membership offers you access to our networking and specialist industry events throughout the year. For details on how to join please contact our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk.

Our next business club event will be a 'Summer Social' including networking, live music, a free raffle and refreshments. Taking place on Thursday 18th August 6pm-8.30pm, booking is essential and open only to business club members. Become our facebook fan for more details of this and future events.

The Women's Organisation Supporting International Female Entrepreneurship

2011-07-22T02:28:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation are proud to be connecting with and supporting female entrepreneurship worldwide. One particular finalist of the Electrolux design challenge this year caught our eye.

Roseanne de Bruin (New Zealand) made a game out of blending a smoothie at home with the Smoobo Blender. Bounce this space age ball around and the kinetic energy gets the blades moving.

Every year Electrolux puts out a brief on one of today’s design challenges. Open to design students who dare to dream about ever-advancing household convenience, it’s fun to see the innovation that emerges. This year’s brief for “intelligent mobility” is explained here in this video.

“From a field of 1,300, the top 25 concepts have been chosen from designers based in 14 countries across the world. Australia, New Zealand and Poland are represented by three entries each whilst Canada, the Czech Republic, France, South Korea and the USA have two representatives each.”

Just 3 Female 'Design Students Who Shake The Kitchen Loose' have had their products named as 'Household Appliances of the Future' by Electrolux as the selected finalists.

Finalist Roseanne de Bruin is following family trend in paving the way for female enterpreneurship. Her mother Professor Anne de Bruin is currently working with The Women's Organisation as one of the WICED panel of experts, pooling international knowledge to champion women's economic development.

Source:http://www.whatwomenmake.com/electrolux-2011-competition-female-finalists

SUPPORT WAST’S MARCH TO LIVERPOOL UKBA OFFICES FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

2011-07-22T02:15:00.001-07:00

SUPPORT WAST’S MARCH TO LIVERPOOL UKBA OFFICES TO DEMAND JUSTICE!

FRIDAY 29TH JULY 2011

MEET ST GEORGES SQUARE LIVERPOOL AT 12pm TO MARCH AT 12.30

Members of WAST invite organizations and individuals to join and support them as they march in Liverpool from St Georges Square (opposite the Liverpool Lime Street station) to the UKBA (on Water Street) to hand in a list of demands for justice to the UKBA, from WAST members who are suffering and being denied human rights as asylum seekers.

WAST is hiring a 70 seater coach which is for WAST members and their families and are at present unable to arrange other group’s transport, but hope you can still join them. If you cannot attend but would like to sponsor a WAST member and make a contribution to the coach fee (£6.00per person) it would be appreciated (send to address below- cheques made out to WAST with “MARCH” written on the back!). The march will go full circle back to St Georges square for a rally till 4pm.

WAST
ADA HOUSE,
77 Thompson St,
Manchester
M4 5FY

Vote Patricia Greene: WICED Panel Member Nominated for Award

2011-07-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation were delighted to learn that one of our WICED expert panel member Patricia Greene has been nominated for a 2011 Small Business Influencer Award in: Gurus Category.

Patricia Greene is Professor of Entrepreneurship of Babson College, where she holds the President's Distinguished Chair in Entrepreneurship.

She previously served as Provost, and before that as the Dean of the Undergraduate School. Prior to joining Babson, Greene held the Ewing Marion Kauffman/Missouri Chair in Entrepreneurial Leadership at the University of Missouri – Kansas City (1998-2003) and the New Jersey Chair of Small Business and Entrepreneurship at Rutgers University (1996-1998).

Greene earned a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin, an MBA from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a BS from the Pennsylvania State University.

Twitter ID: @PGGreene

Why Include
Greene was a founding member of the Rutgers Center for Entrepreneurial Management and the coordinator of the Rutgers Entrepreneurship Curriculum. She helped to found KC SourceLink, the Entrepreneurial Growth Resource Center, the Business & Information Development Group, the Kauffman Entrepreneurship Internship Program and the Entrepreneurial Effect, among others. She is also a founding member of the Diana Project, a research group focusing on women entrepreneurs and the VC industry.

There are just 19 days left to vote. Please do follow this link and add your support. http://influencers.smallbiztrends.com/small-business-gurus/patricia-greene/

Further Confidence Boost for Knowsley Women

2011-07-19T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation are delighted to be able to offer further FREE training to support women in the Knowsley area.

The Women’s Step Up Project is a modular Personal Development programme. Its overall aim is to improve women’s personal confidence and enhance employability skills.

HELD ON:
Tuesday’s
26th July, 2nd & 9th August 2011

HELD AT:
New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre
Lichfield Road; Halewood
L26 1TT

Eligibility
This project is aimed at adults not currently involved in learning aged 19+, particularly:

• Excluded groups
• People with low/no qualifications (level 2 or below)
• Lone parents
• People with disabilities
• Women returners
• Mature learners (50+)
• Supporting capacity in local communities including learning mentors

Running over 2 days the sessions include:

Session 1 - A More Assertive You
Enabling participants to identify the difference between assertive, non assertive, manipulative and aggressive behaviours helping them to develop a more open behaviour; develop confidence and personal effectiveness; improve communication skills increasing the opportunity for improved decision making, decreasing the possibility of conflict and stress.

Session 2 - Build Your Communication Skills
Enabling participants to develop skills to communicate effectively and identify the power of non verbal communication. Participants will understand how we stereotype and make assumptions based on first impressions.

Session 3 - Complete a Skills Audit and Develop your Personal Profile
Enabling participants to identify personal skills and qualities and match these to learning and employment opportunities. Participants will use this to produce a personal statement and develop an understanding of how to present themselves on CVs and application forms.

Session 4 – Successful Job Application
Enabling participants to understand successful Job Application techniques.

Childcare and travel expenses can be paid by special arrangement, Call 0151 706 8111 for further information, to check eligibility and to book on

Open Culture Call for Stallholders

2011-07-19T04:17:00.000-07:00

Open Culture Call for Stallholders

Open Culture are pleased as punch to present a plethora of arts, craft and vintage fair opportunities this summer! There will be a series of monthly Liverpool ONE Arts & Craft Fairs following the success of the trial event in early May this year. Wed also like to announce a new event Art by the Ferry at Woodside Ferry Terminal this August, which is a trial event that we hope will be the first in a series of events!
________________________________________

Liverpool ONE Arts & Craft Fairs
Thomas Steers Way, Liverpool ONE (nr the Hilton)
10.30am - 5.30pm

30 & 31st July 2011 [Deadline for applicants 20 July 2011]
13 & 14th August 2011 [Deadline for applicants 24 July 2011]
10 & 11th September 2011 [Deadline for applicants 24 July 2011]

Artists, designers and makers are invited to apply for the Liverpool ONE Arts & Craft Fairs

This summer Liverpool ONE hosts some of the North Wests finest artists and designers in a series of arts & craft fairs. Situated on Thomas Steers Way, the promenade adjacent to the Hilton Hotel and various bars and cafes, the fair will sit between the bustling heart of Liverpool ONE and the Albert Dock. Summer sees the city come alive, with the fairs coinciding with some major events and attractions including the Albert Dock Pirate Weekend, On the Waterfront, the Liverpool ONE Beach and the Tickle the Ivories piano festival. A series of creative workshops will also take place at the events, where members of the public can get crafty themselves!

Pitch details: The event will have approx. 30 pitches. A pitch includes one 6 x 2.3ft trestle table and one chair. All pitches will be sheltered within an outdoor marquee running the length of Thomas Steers Way. The marquees will have white/transparent sides and a bi-colour roof in white/red and white/blue.

Costs: A pitch costs 50 per day
Book 2 or more and receive a 5% discount
Book 4 or more and receive a 10% discount
Book all 6 and receive a 20% discount
Download the full details

________________________________________
Art by the Ferry
at Woodside Ferry Terminal Birkenhead, Merseyside (nr Hamilton Square Station)

10am - 6pm
Sat 20 & Sun 21st August 2011 [Deadline for applicants 24 July 2011]

Artists, designers, makers and vintage stallholders are invited to apply for Art by the Ferry

Head to Woodside Ferry Terminal this summer for its first ever arts, craft and vintage fair! Find hundreds of affordable and unique creations from over 20 local makers including paintings, cards, homewares, prints, textiles, photography, glass, sculpture and much more. Enjoy magnificent views of the River Mersey and the famous Liverpool skyline from this Grade II listed venue, and stop for refreshments at the cafe surrounded by colour, music and creativity.

Pitch details: The event will have approx. 20 pitches. Your pitch includes one 6x2.3ft trestle table and one chair. All pitches will be situated inside and outside the entrance of Woodside Ferry Terminal. The spaces outside the entrance are sheltered beneath by a large overhanging roof.

Costs: Single day stall 20 (Either Sat or Sun) Weekend stall 32 (Both Sat & Sun) [Deadline for applicants 24 July 2011]

Download the full details
________________________________________

How to apply We ask all applicants to complete our online application form, together with some images of the work you wish to sell and proof of your public liability insurance. Important: If you dont provide images of your work we cannot accept your application. Apply online at http://openculture.wufoo.com/forms/stallholder-application-form-summer-2011/

Questions? Call 0151 478 4928 or email info@culture.org.uk

How to Present Yourself with Confidence to Get the Business Results You Want

2011-07-18T08:06:00.000-07:00

An offer from one of our Business Club Members:

Do you
 absolutely dread or even totally avoid speaking at business events?
 feel embarrassed and flustered when asked to speak on the spot?
 ever get gut wrenching nerves before you have to speak in front of people?

Would you like to learn how to
 permanently get rid of the nerves and anxiety associated with speaking in public?
 be truly confident, relaxed and composed in any situation?
 be able to genuinely connect and engage with anyone, anytime, anyplace, anywhere?

If you have answered "Yes" to any of these, then this workshop could be just what you are looking for - How to Present Yourself with Confidence to Get the Business Results You Want with Cath Daley. Cath presented an introduction to her confidence building techniques at The Women's Organisation Business Club event 'Business Strategy - connections that count' earlier this year.

In This One Day Workshop You'll Learn How To Be Truly Confident, Comfortable and Relaxed Presenting Yourself and Your Business in Any Situation, So That You Really Make an Impact, Stand Out in Your Marketplace and Win More Business

What’s included?

•You’ll receive personal individual coaching and feedback during the day, as registration is limited to only 12 delegates, ensuring that your individual needs are met.
•You'll leave with your first short presentation ready to go!
•You’ll take home an invaluable manual that’s your to keep – complete with information covered in the workshop, indispensable supplementary information and plenty of room for your own notes. Everything you’ve learned will be right at your fingertips, ready for quick reference long after the workshop ends.
•You'll get a free 1-2-1 follow up personal coaching call with me to support you in implementing what you learn on the day and to help with any challenges you face. (the usual cost of this alone is £100)
•Your lunch and refreshments are included, giving you the opportunity to network with delegates during the day.
•Secure car parking is available.

And in addition :

•You have free use of the hotel leisure facilities after the workshop, which includes relaxation pool, steam room and gym
•You get 50% off a three course dinner served in the hotel restaurant after the training.

You can take advantage of Cath's 'Early Bird' offer which gives you a further 20% off the introductory price, but only until 31st July.
Early Bird Price is just £ 197 (+VAT).

You can attend the workshop at NO RISK! with a 100% money back guarantee.

You can find out more about what’s included at http://cathdaleyltdpresentingconfidence.eventbrite.com/

Knowsley Women 'Step Up' with The Women's Organisation

2011-07-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

The Women's Organisation are delighted to be able to offer further FREE training to support women in the Knowsley area.

The Women’s Step Up Project is a modular Personal Development programme. Its overall aim is to improve women’s personal confidence and enhance employability skills.

HELD ON:
Wednesday 20th and Friday 22nd July 2011 9.30am – 3.30pm

HELD AT:
The Apple Children's Centre.
(Next to St Gabriel's Church of. England Primary School),
Ellis Ashton Street, Huyton
L36 6BH

Eligibility
This project is aimed at adults not currently involved in learning aged 19+, particularly:

• Excluded groups
• People with low/no qualifications (level 2 or below)
• Lone parents
• People with disabilities
• Women returners
• Mature learners (50+)
• Supporting capacity in local communities including learning mentors

Running over 2 days the sessions include:

Session 1 - A More Assertive You
Enabling participants to identify the difference between assertive, non assertive, manipulative and aggressive behaviours helping them to develop a more open behaviour; develop confidence and personal effectiveness; improve communication skills increasing the opportunity for improved decision making, decreasing the possibility of conflict and stress.

Session 2 - Build Your Communication Skills
Enabling participants to develop skills to communicate effectively and identify the power of non verbal communication. Participants will understand how we stereotype and make assumptions based on first impressions.

Session 3 - Complete a Skills Audit and Develop your Personal Profile
Enabling participants to identify personal skills and qualities and match these to learning and employment opportunities. Participants will use this to produce a personal statement and develop an understanding of how to present themselves on CVs and application forms.

Session 4 – Successful Job Application
Enabling participants to understand successful Job Application techniques.

Childcare and travel expenses can be paid by special arrangement, Call 0151 706 8111 for further information, to check eligibility and to book on

Stockport's Sian Finds 'Top Venues'

2011-07-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

Having gained 10 years’ experience in the hospitality industry working for other people, Sian Pelleschi could see great potential for growth and slicker ways to run things. She said “Working for someone else there are always channels to go through before you can get a full ok on any decision.” Sian decided it was time to take the bull by the horns and set up her Manchester based company ‘Top Venues’.

Top Venues is a free and impartial venue finding service focusing on conferences, exhibitions, training, meetings and incentive events. Ensuring that the “focus is quality”, Sian is keen to let clients know that “we take it seriously. We work with clients from start to finish, find out preferences, budgets, what they are trying to get out of it. We’ve got a lot of good contacts with venues across the UK so can offer really good rates, sometimes better than if the client went to the venue directly. We go out and see the venues ourselves. We have the relationship so we can personally work out any problems. We act as a one point of call for the client, liaising with the venue and the client throughout the whole process right through to confirmation. We take a commission from the venue, which isn’t added onto the rates we quote the client, and even then we don’t leave you hanging. We follow up and see if there have been any issues.”

Having contacted Business Link to find support to start up, Sian was directed to The Women’s Organisation where she met with a business adviser locally to look over her business idea and work on her business plan. She said “It was really good. For the most part I felt like I knew what I was doing as I knew the industry, but I did just need that extra support and expertise in the areas I didn’t know about. I also went on some of the courses with The Women’s Organisation. It was great to meet people at the same stage with their business as me and to bat ideas around.”

It wasn’t an easy decision and Sian knew there were things to weigh up. “The scariest part of stepping out of employment and cutting a salary off was considering that I have a mortgage to pay. But I had lots of support. My family and friends were all pushing me to do it. Sometimes the people closest to you know more than you what your capabilities are. It’s surprising how many people said ‘yes you should go for it’. It’s going well so far and I’ve already started meeting new clients and helping with their events.”

Sian said of running her own business “It is the best thing I ever did. I feel so much more in control. I am able to meet clients personally, visit venues, make decisions of how to push things forward. The part I enjoy most is meeting new people, making contacts. There is a real sense of fulfilment when you can find the right venue for them. I am really looking forward to pushing this business forward, to have the type of company I always wanted to have. That’s the focus and that’s the drive.”

The most important thing to consider when starting a business according to Sian is to “make sure you are clear on what it is that you want to achieve. Prepare yourself for what you need to do, be aware of the legalities, do everything in an order, plan, put a date line in place. You can end up back tracking otherwise.”

As well as venue finding, Sian and Top Venues are branching out to offer full event planning services at an additional cost. If you are interested in finding out more about how you can use Top Venues to help you find the right setting for your event then contact help@top-venues.co.uk 0844 870 9963 or visit the website www.top-venues.co.uk

And if like Sian you are a woman who is interested in starting up your own business please contact The Women’s Organisation for free advice and support on 0151 706 8111 /0161 833 8800 or email info@thewo.org.uk Alternatively visit www.thewomensorganisation.org.uk

Elaine Jenkins Announced as Liverpool Design Festival Exhibitor

2011-07-13T03:16:00.000-07:00

Liverpool Design Festival today announced via Twitter that the first profiles of this years exhibitors are now up on their website (click here). The Women's Organisation were delighted to see Elaine Jenkins Jewellery amongst them.

Since setting up her business with support from The Women's Organisation and Stepclever Elaine has grown the reputation of her business greatly and is now a member of Merseyside jewellers and metal artist network, Manchester jewellers network and the guild of jewellers.

Design graduate Elaine said "Ever since I was a child I have been obsessed with making things and figuring out how things work, how they were put together. I was inquisitive, always getting in to everything. I often went to north Wales, particularly Anglesey and was surrounded by nature which is my main source of inspiration. My work is based around the human form, its shape, the way it grows and it moves. These aspects are crossed over with my love of nature, focusing on texture and contrasting materials."

Elaine Jenkins Jewellery is handcrafted predominately from silver with 18ct gold, gold platting and diamonds. Her designs are currently stocked in Sara Preisler Gallery Birmingham, Joanne Harmer Gallery Kent and Gwyneth and Grey Guernsy. You can check out Elaine's jewellery and background at www.elainejenkins.co.uk

With the struggling economy in the UK Bootle resident Elaine has decided to keep ahead of the game and is in the process of opening a second branch to her business which will be called 'Adorable Little Button Company' retailing vintage and vintage style jewellery. Elaine can be found selling these affordable fashion accessories at LEAF Cafe on Bold Street every last Sunday of the month with Pillbox Vintage.

Elaine will be launching a new collection of her own pieces at Liverpool Design Festival will take place from Thursday 6th-Sunday 9th October and will feature works by top local designer makers.

If like Elaine you would like to take your passion and turn it into a business, contact The Women's Organisation to find out how we can support women in Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley and Stockport in setting up a business on 0151 706 8111/0161 833 8800 or info@thewo.org.uk

Europe - Women in Business, EU Parliament Calls for Quotas

2011-07-12T02:16:00.000-07:00

Source: http://www.staffingindustry.com/eng/Research-Publications/Daily-News/Europe-Women-in-business-EU-Parliament-calls-for-quotas
Women should make up 30% of top management in the largest listed European Union (EU) companies by 2015 and 40% by 2020, believe Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). If voluntary measures fail to boost the number of women in senior positions, EU legislation must be used, MEPs say.

Women currently make up 10% of directors and only 3% of CEOs at the largest listed EU companies. As the number of women in corporate boards is currently increasing by only half a percentage point per year, it will take another fifty years before boardrooms have at least 40% women, says a non-binding resolution on Women and Business Leadership adopted by MEPs yesterday.

European Parliament Vice-President, Rodi Kratsa-Tsagaropoulou (EPP, EL), who drafted the resolution adopted yesterday by 534 votes to 109
with 29 abstentions, commented "Europe cannot afford to leave talent untapped. Empowering the role of women on management boards of companies is not only about ethics and equality, it is also essential for economic growth and a competitive internal market. With the adoption of the report on Women and Business Leadership, the European Parliament has sent a strong message to governments, social partners and enterprises in Europe."

Binding legislation

MEPs urge the Commission to "propose legislation including quotas by 2012 for increasing female representation in corporate management bodies of enterprises to 30% by 2015 and to 40% by 2020", if voluntary measures do not manage to increase the proportion of women.

Norway's quota legislation is seen as a good example and the EU Parliament also welcomes decisions by France, the Netherlands and Spain to set thresholds. But MEPs say other companies, not only the biggest ones, should also have a balanced gender representation and to this end the Commission should devise a roadmap.

Plus skills training, mentoring and work-life balance

Studies have shown that companies with a higher percentage of women tend to perform better commercially and financially. Recruitment for positions in corporate management bodies should nevertheless be based on skills, qualifications and experience of the candidate, stresses the EU Parliament.

To help more women assume management posts, the Commission and member states should implement new policies, for example by developing women's individual capabilities in-house through further training courses and other forms of professional support, such as mentoring and networking.

At the same time, member states should introduce special arrangements, such as childcare, care for the elderly and fiscal incentives for companies or other ways to help women and men in business to balance family and work commitments, MEPs suggest.

Manchester Awards for Women Open for Nominations

2011-07-11T05:14:00.000-07:00

Do you know a remarkable woman, community group or organisation working hard to improve the lives of women in Manchester ? Do you know a remarkable Manchester woman excelling in business, the arts, in sport or science?

If you do, please take a few minutes to nominate them for an Award that will be presented in a ceremony at Manchester Town Hall in October 2011.

These awards are an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women in the city and inspire young women in the future. This year we have added new categories to further recognise the fantastic contribution women make to the city. There are now nine categories including:

•Women and Art *new
•Women and Science* new
•Women and Sport* new
•Women and the Environment
•Women and Business
•Women and Culture
•Valuing Older People
•Outstanding Young woman
•Special Award in honour of Kath Fry
If you would like to nominate a woman please complete the nomination form below by Friday 12 August 2011.

Select this link to download a Nomination Form

If you need any more information please contact Alex Keelan either by email: a.keelan@manchester.gov.uk or telephone: 0161 234 4263.

Knowsley to Celebrate its Business and Regeneration Successes

2011-07-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Knowsley Council’s highly acclaimed Business Awards are this year to be rebranded Knowsley Business and Regeneration Awards with the inclusion of a number of categories celebrating successes in the built environment as well as economic prosperity.

We therefore want to know your success stories. Does your business or an employee deserve to be recognised for their achievements? Have you been impressed by someone else’s performance and feel they deserve wider recognition? Tell us about your accomplishments, have you or your organisation won or been shortlisted for any other local or national awards in the last 12 months?

Nominations are now invited and welcomed from individuals and businesses based within Knowsley. Entering these awards can offer many benefits for your business, as well as opening doors to new opportunities and with 12 Awards on offer there are plenty of categories to choose from. Whatever the size of your business we have awards for you. Applicants can self nominate or nominate others and winners will be presented at a dinner and awards ceremony to be held on 7th October 2011. Last year’s ceremony was oversubscribed and attracted over 240 guests including industry figureheads and members of parliament.

Categories this year include;

SME of the Year
Low Carbon Economy Award
Corporate Social Responsibility
Excellence in Customer Service
Employer of the Year
Business Person of the Year
Small Business of the Year
Knowledge Economy Award
Best Housing Scheme of the Year
Regeneration Award
Visitor Economy Award

This year we also have a Judges Choice Award for Knowsley Business of the Year where the judges will award a business or organisation considered to have demonstrated an exceptional contribution to the Borough.

The closing date for nominations is Friday 12th August and you can find details of all the categories and nomination form here.

Cllr Dave Lonergan, Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills commented “We want to celebrate our success stories, with the recent news on the regeneration of Kirkby Town Centre, Stockbridge Village redevelopment and the review undertaken on Knowsley Industrial Park, exciting times lie ahead”.

"The last few years have been challenging for businesses but the resilience of the businesses in Knowsley has shone through and we are proud of our business community. These awards are our way of recognising their achievements. The awards also give companies the chance to showcase themselves to customers and suppliers”.

Winners last year included Helen Gillbanks of Vertex, Cybertill, DHL Knowsley, Chill Out Spa, Acorn Farm, Alison Storer of National Wildflower Centre, QVC, Knowsley Housing Trust, Jaguar Land Rover Halewood and Colormatrix.

Sponsorship opportunities are currently available. Would you like to sponsor a Knowsley Business and Regeneration Award? Sponsors receive wide recognition and will receive 2 complimentary tickets to the prestigious dinner and awards ceremony. They also present the award to the winner, as well as receive publicity through our marketing and promotional material. Contact Irene Johnson on 0151 443 2262 for further details.

Creative Industries in China: Q&A hosted by UKTI and Liverpool Vision

2011-07-07T08:30:00.000-07:00

Creative Industries in China: Q&A hosted by UKTI and Liverpool Vision

• Date: 20th July 2011
• Venue: Studio 2, Parr Street Studios
• Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm

China’s staggering ongoing development has catapulted the nation forward economically. Specifically, the past decade has seen dramatic developments for the creative sector, and as the economy continues to grow, the development of China’s cultural and creative industry calls for more co-operation with overseas companies.

Large cities such as Shanghai are implementing strategies to promote the development of creative industries; aiming to build itself as a world leading ‘creative centre’ within 20 years. China regards the UK as a global centre of excellence and there is a real eagerness from Chinese companies to work with UK businesses to help it realise its potential in this area.

Following on from the highly successful launch of Vision’s China Business Network, Liverpool Vision and Liverpool City Council are planning a sector focused trade mission for Liverpool’s Creative and Digital industries to run in parallel with a UKTI Market Visit planned for 15th – 22nd October 2011.

On 20th July, Philomena Chen, Head of Asia Pacific Development for UKTI (Northwest) will share more information about the exciting market opportunities in China as well details of how to take part in the Liverpool Creative and Digital trade mission. Philomena will also be joined by Creative and Digital business advisor, David Parrish, who will share his experience of living and working in Shanghai.
If you’re serious about developing trade links with China this is a must attend event.

Places are limited.

To register your interest please email international@liverpoolvision.co.uk by Thursday 14th July 2011.

E-Marketing & Social Media - How it Can Work for Your Business

2011-07-06T02:26:00.000-07:00

Business Club members will benefit from a fabulous networking opportunity this month all around e-marketing and social media.

Taking place:
ON: Wednesday 20th July, 6pm-8.30pm
AT: The Women's Organisation, 54 St James Street, Liverpool, L1 0AB

Our Guest speaker for the event will be internet savvy Bryan Adams (pictured) of Ph.Creative Ltd. - a fast growing full service Internet marketing agency based in Liverpool with additional sales offices in Manchester Valencia and New York.

Bryan has received business awards and nominations including Young Entrepreneur of the Year and best marketer of the year and he also enjoys the challenge of public speaking as part of the marketing mix for Ph.Creative. Several speaking opportunities include talks for RBS, Apple and New York University.

His animated and insightful talks around Social Media directly inspired The Women's Organisation in our own social media strategy including encouraging us to see the value in Twitter (@TheWomensOrg) and Facebook for business.

Also offering insight into her own journey as a woman setting up in business will be Emma Dolan of Your Business eZine - a business network with a difference. As well as hosting regular networking events, Your Business eZine (YBE) offer their members a fantastic online platform to talk about their business alongside journalists, features and articles. It's like having your very own section of a newspaper! The recently launched new format includes a mixture of user generated content and guest feature articles covering a wide spectrum of industry sectors, to compliment the offline activities and events. E-Marketing strategy has also been key to the success of Emma's internet based business, so we look forward to the personal spin she can add to Bryan's insights.

The event is FREE to members of The Women's Organisation Business Club, though booking is ESSENTIAL! Business Club membership is currently FREE to women running a business in Merseyside or Greater Manchester. It won't be free forever, so snap up this opportunity to join by contacting our team on 0151 706 8111 or info@thewo.org.uk