Meet Helen Byram, health and safety consultant and founder of Buzz Safety Consultants Ltd.  Buzz Safety Consultants is a health and safety consultancy with a real zest for working with environmental and outdoor businesses and charities, ethical businesses, local SMEs and any organisation wanting to work towards becoming a more sustainable businesses.

Helen is keen to help businesses to understand that health and safety is a key element of a sustainable business. Health and safety management is not just about legal compliance; if implemented with a genuine desire to improve health and safety practices and led with honesty and integrity from the top; health and safety can play a leading role in the sustainability and profitability of an organisation. Positive health and safety management can help to protect the health, safety and welfare of employees, reduce business costs, increase retention rates, improve reputation and attract investors and customers, reduce downtime, improve relations between management and employees, reduce the potential for accidents and the associated costs, reduce the potential for enforcements by regulators –  the reasons go on and on!

Helen is a chartered health and safety professional and have worked in the field of health and safety for over 23 years. She has a very broad background, working with social services, schools and educational establishments, charities, the Canal and Rivers Trust, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, environmental and ecological consultancies and local authorities.  Her values and that of the business are Authenticity, Meaningful Work, Honesty, Community and Family and she tries to incorporate these values into all of the activities both personally and in the business. Helen would be more than happy to chat with any organisation that would like to discuss the health and safety arrangements of their business and is very much looking forward to meeting other businesses and developing positive and mutually beneficial relationships to help everyone to flourish.

In Episode 5 we are joined by Peter Molyneux, Estate Director at Nostell Estate and Tony Simmonds, Director at RV2 Power.

We talk about career pathways, art collections and Glastonbury, passion projects including The Great Yorkshire show and winning and judging the Wakefield Business Awards.  We cover negative networking and the power of community.

Conversation leads to mental health and dog walking and some wonderful “Top Tips for 23”.

A wonderful conversation from two of our fantastic WAW members. 

Simul Digital: Empowering Digital Solutions for a Thriving Wakefield

Amanda, the Operations Director is excited to represent Simul Digital as a member of the esteemed We Are Wakefield Networking Group. With a history of building long-term business relationships and delivering exceptional customer service, Amanda has immersed herself in the dynamic world of digital solutions. With her expertise in strategic planning, business development, and creative problem-solving, she has positioned herself as an invaluable asset in the realm of digital transformation.

Simul Digital is a forward-thinking digital agency that thrives on pushing boundaries and transforming ideas into reality. With a team of talented professionals, Simul Digital offers a comprehensive range of services to businesses of all sizes. Offering web design, development and innovative real visual solutions they deliver e-commerce growth through internal system integration driving both efficiency and profitability for their clients, all of which is supported by detailed digital marketing strategies.  Simul Digital is committed to delivering tailor-made solutions that enable businesses to thrive in the digital landscape.

Simul Digital are more than just a digital agency they are a team of passionate individuals driven by the desire to empower businesses through cutting-edge technology. They believe in fostering long-term partnerships with clients, understanding their unique goals, and providing personalised solutions to help them succeed in the digital age.

Simul Digital is delighted to be welcomed as a member of We Are Wakefield Networking Group. This vibrant community brings together like-minded professionals who are passionate about promoting the growth and prosperity of Wakefield. We look forward to forging valuable connections, sharing our expertise, and collaborating with fellow members to collectively contribute to the development of the region’s digital landscape.

Tileyard North – Proud Supporter Members of We Are Wakefield

Championing and supporting independent and creative businesses since 2011, Tileyard is a globally recognised creative community and is expanding to an extraordinary new space in Wakefield.

Tileyard North is a creative industries hub, based at Rutland Mills, which when re-generation is completed will transform the site into the UK’s largest creative community outside of London. A hub to create, stay and play – featuring recording studios, flexible workspaces, event venues, creative edit suites, an education facility, delicious food and beverage offerings and vibrant spaces for the community to enjoy.

They pride themselves on providing a home to the best minds in the business, actively encouraging and nurturing collaboration amongst like-minded creatives. Bridging the gap between the creative industries of the South and North of England, the expansion to Tileyard North will create new opportunities and empower talent in the area. Curating a destination for collaborative partnerships in all facets of the commercial creative sector.

Tileyard North is the exciting new venue for The Wakefield Business Awards in November and brings Peddler Market to Wakefield this weekend: 18/19th August.  Click here for more information:

Peddler Market to Launch at Tileyard North – Tileyard North

Pictured L to R: Katie Hopkins, Head of Community & Marketing – connect HERE & Kerry Astin, Event Manager – connect HERE

Launched in Wakefield in January 2023, The Virtual IT Director is Chris Lord’s dedicated and passionate initiative stemming from 20 years in the IT sector. With an accounting background and nearly a decade of directorial experience, Chris has a unique perspective that bridges both technology and business acumen. Its goal is simple: to change how businesses and charities use and benefit from technology. Even though the venture is new, Chris’s commitment to enhancing IT operations for various organisations is already making a difference.

As the driving force behind The Virtual IT Director, Chris helps businesses and charities reduce their IT costs. In today’s world, where online threats are everywhere, Chris serves as a protective guide, helping organisations grow and use technology safely and effectively. From giving valuable advice, managing projects with different vendors, to comparing quotes without bias, Chris strives to be a trusted partner in the complex world of technology.

A key feature of The Virtual IT Director is its focus on honesty. Chris doesn’t sell hardware, software, or any IT products. This ensures that every piece of advice Chris gives is based only on what’s best for his clients. He offers his time and expertise, showing his commitment to giving a clear and unbiased view on all tech-related matters. While he doesn’t provide IT support, Chris’s main goal remains; preparing organisations to thrive in the tech world.

Customer service is at the heart of The Virtual IT Director. Chris knows that in the tech world, trust is everything. Every conversation, every piece of advice, is given with honesty and a genuine desire to see his clients succeed.

Joining We Are Wakefield, Chris is excited to work with others, share knowledge, and add to the growth and success of Wakefield’s business community. The journey for The Virtual IT Director has just started, but the goal is clear – to be the go-to tech advisor for businesses and charities navigating the world of IT.

Connect with Chris HERE 

Claire Sutherley Appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the County of West Yorkshire

We Are Wakefield Ltd is delighted to announce that Claire Sutherley, the Managing Director of the company, has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for the County of West Yorkshire. This prestigious appointment reflects Claire’s outstanding contributions to the community, her dedication to fostering positive change, and her unwavering commitment to the betterment of West Yorkshire.

As the Managing Director of We Are Wakefield Ltd, Claire Sutherley has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and a strong sense of civic responsibility. Under her guidance, the organisation has not only achieved remarkable business growth but has also actively engaged in various community initiatives, demonstrating a deep-rooted passion for the welfare and progress of the district.

In her new role as Deputy Lieutenant, Claire will play an instrumental part in representing and promoting the County of West Yorkshire. Her ability to connect with people, drive positive change, and mobilise resources will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing the county’s social, cultural, and economic landscape.

“I am truly honoured to be appointed as Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire,” said Claire Sutherley. “This appointment is a testament to the collective efforts of the entire We Are Wakefield team, as well as the community that has supported us. I am committed to using this platform to further strengthen the bonds within our community and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Wakefield District.”

Deputy Lieutenants are appointed by the Lord-Lieutenant to assist in representing the monarch and promoting the county’s interests on various occasions. Their roles include supporting visits by members of the royal family, engaging in civic and voluntary activities, and acknowledging the achievements of local individuals and organisations.

We Are Wakefield Ltd extends its heartiest congratulations to Claire Sutherley on this notable achievement. The organisation remains dedicated to continuing its mission of positive impact under her leadership.

Welcome to new WAW members, Architecture 1B.

Architecture 1B is a Wakefield based small yet knowledgeable and passionate architectural team lead by Director Darren Bailey, who boasts over 30 years experience in the industry having worked for some of the North’s largest and respected architectural practices. As a practice we aspire to create high quality architecture and buildings that are enjoyed, approaching every project big or small with an appropriate level of design to make a positive contribution to the built environment in which we live, while satisfying the requirements of the client.

The team are proud to have developed an impressive reputation both locally and throughout the UK, having worked with a diverse range of clients from community groups and individuals to property developers and corporate companies, delivering projects of varying scale and sectors. From domestic extensions and large bespoke new build houses, through to large commercial, educational, or leisure buildings, we apply a design led approach based on a bespoke tailored response to any brief.

The practice enjoys great existing relationships, fostered over many years, with local Planning and Building Control Authorities, Approved Inspectors, and many local construction companies, along with various consultants and trades people. As such, we have the ability and experience to deal with projects in all design stages and successfully navigate the planning, building regulations, and construction processes.

Architecture 1B, celebrates its 10^th year in the industry in 2023, with the practice becoming one of the first residence of the newly opened Tileyard North community, and are delighted to continue to have work recognised through winning regional design and conservation awards, and having been nominated for many more.

Pictured: Darren Baily & Mark Smith

Connect with Darren here: (14) Darren Bailey | LinkedIn

architecture 1B

We’re delighted to announce that The Wakefield Business Awards has achieved Outstanding: “Ethical Awards Scheme Accredited”.

You can have absolute confidence that The Wakefield Business Awards has a robust and fair entry and judging process and that our event is planned ethically and professionally.

In order to achieve the highest standard of awards accreditation, The Awards Trust Mark – Outstanding, an award scheme must have already launched and Orth November.un for a year, as well as met the criteria for both the Standard Awards Trust Mark and Awards Trust Mark – Advanced :

Awards Trust Mark – “Accredited Awards Scheme”

1. Awards should be open to all within the specified region and sectors stated on the website, with no unwritten filtering (e.g. it is okay to be restricted to clients or association members – but only if clearly stated. Any filtering of applicants by brand name, company size, perceived reputation etc. is not allowed).
2. Judging must be strictly in accordance with the process stated on the website for both the shortlisting stage, and the final selection of a winner.
3. All judges must be independent and not employed by companies that have a commercial interest in table sales, advertising etc. or a conflict of interest with the nominees. If a judge is employed by the awards organiser or sponsor then there has to be a very clear rationale for this (e.g. they are an industry expert).
4. No compulsion that finalists must attend the presentation event.
5. The whole programme should be well organised, with full availability of dates, rules and other important information.
6. Not charging for use of logos or promotion of a win.
7. Providing winners with quotes for press releases for free whenever they ask.
8. Winners being publicly declared (website etc.) within 7 days of any awards event.
9. Fee transparency – all fees and costs declared on the website. Including entry fee, event attendance fees, any membership fees, and optional costs like duplicate trophies (if applicable).
10. Clear website in terms of dates and processes – e.g. having the deadline date clearly visible on the homepage (a date not just a countdown timer), and rules/ eligibility/ how to enter pages are all easy to find.
11. Allowing entry forms to be viewable prior to having to pay an entry fee to gain access.
12. A contact email and phone number is provided on the website for those wishing to enter the awards to ask questions, with responses within 24 hours.

Awards Trust Mark – Advanced: “Ethical Awards Scheme Accredited”

13. Giving feedback to entrants on why they did not win, when asked.
14. Non-disclosure agreements signed by judges (digital acceptance is acceptable if legally binding).
15. Clear scoring systems used by all judges, that remove bias and inconsistency.
16. All decisions on shortlisting and winning to be made by at least two independent judges.

Awards Trust Mark – Outstanding: “Ethical Awards Scheme Accredited”

17. Pay to enter awards schemes, must automatically provide feedback to all entrants.
    Free to enter awards schemes, must offer feedback to all entrants. Automatic feedback is not compulsory, unless requested by the entrant.
18. Some form of training given to judges. This can be a briefing pack, webinar, pre-judging briefing. But judges cannot undertake judging without some form of thorough briefing.

We’re extremely proud of the Wakefield Business Awards and look forward to celebrating the very best in Wakefield District businesses at Tileyard North on 9th November.

ENTRIES CLOSE 28TH JULY – FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE:

We Are Wakefield · Representing diverse sectors around Wakefield and Five Towns

In Episode 5 we are joined by Adrian Spawforth, Managing Director of Spawforths and Mark Lynam, Corporate Director for Regeneration and  Economic Growth at Wakefield Council. 

We talk about the past, present and future of the Wakefield District and how the two organisations plan how we work, live and play.  What can we expect to see happen in the near future and how did this all come about? A great conversation with two very influential people within our District.