KC apprentice gets online to communicate about once in a lifetime opportunity

Blogs from KC apprentice give fantastic insight into life onboard the One Hull yacht

KC apprentice Lee Wahlers

When KC’s eight apprentices were given the opportunity of a lifetime by CatZero for one of them to take part in the third leg of the North Atlantic Challenge they all jumped at the chance. The lucky apprentice that got chosen was 20 year old KC Systems and Data apprentice Lee Wahlers. To find out about the trip of a lifetime click here. 

Lee has been keeping in touch with family, friends and colleagues from onboard the One Hull yacht via a blog. It charts the highs of the trip and the challenges he is facing, which we wanted to share with you.

Blog One - 08/01/12

It has been five days now on board the amazing vessel that is One Hull. I arrived in St Lucia which as I expected I was greeted by the warm Caribbean air. I spent most of the flight very nervous trying to spot possible other members of the crew, as the plane landed I noticed on the opposite side of the plane a long haired man with a CatZero branded T-shirt on, I later found out this was one of my skippers Danny. After collecting my bags, I met with the rest of the crew and we were all introduced.

As our taxi from the airport set off to Rodney Bay and climbed the numerous winding roads I had already made my mind up as to how to describe St Lucia so far ‘Wales dipped in a bottle of Malibu’.

We arrived in Rodney Harbour and were greeted with rum punch by the rest of the crew who were already on board apart from Francesco who arrived a couple of days later. The crew consists of Danny and Tim our skippers, Nigel and Sam an apprentice of CatZero who has already sailed across the Atlantic and is training to be a Skipper at just 18, it quite inspiring really and I have a lot of admiration for the lad. Debs is assistant watch leader. The rest of the crew who were here for the amazing experience just like me were: Richard, Levi, Chris, Hillary, Ven and Francesco. After been shown around the boat which was surprisingly spacious we went out and had a meal and a few drinks to get to know each other, the crew range in ages and personalities and we all got on well. I spent my first night on board and it was like sleeping in a sauna, my bunk which is very hammock like is surprisingly comfy and I have a personal fan that did nothing but rattle the first night, I’ve got used to it now.

Our second day on board we spent learning about the boat and practicing winching, Danny the Skipper had told us we were to be quizzed at the end and asked us if we could identify the ‘Spur lash’, we later learned this was one of his many jokes.

This was also the day we had to get supplies for the journey, we went to the local supermarket and each of us were given a trolley and a short list of items that we had to find, the interesting thing was it turned into supermarket sweep as one of my items was 60 litres of milk. The girl at the checkout looked on in horror as we each turned up with our trolleys filled to the top with large amounts of what you would normally buy one of. The bag packer’s face was even better.

After supermarket sweep we stored it in the boat and went and had a ‘sundowner’ at the local beach which was swimming in the warm sea and watching the sun go down into it. It has been hard. This was followed by another meal out and then drinks back at the dock bar. I have my sunburn already and my feet are a feast for the bugs.

The next day we had a ‘happy house’ morning we cleaned the boat and made sure all repairs had been done, I helped pop the door back on the wet locker and cleaned the toilets ‘heads’. We then had some time to ourselves to relax and do our own thing, most of us headed off to the harbour pool.  I saw a spider the size of a rat that afternoon, couldn’t quite relax after that. Francesco our crew member from Italy arrived that night and it was his birthday so we went out for another meal and drinks.

On Friday 6th January we made all final preparations to the boat and learned more about how to put up the sails and sheets. We had all been issued our trendy thermals and waterproof oilies but haven’t had to use them so far. We all gathered in the saloon (dining room) and had a team brief delivered to us about the journey. We were told which watch we would each be on, we were also shown the duties and the cooking rota’s. It was all confusing at first but we have got used to it. Tim then told us about the first voyage we would make, I thought we would sail straight to the Azores but the skippers thought a trip to Antigua might be a good first taster, I grinned like a cheshire cat.

Our life jackets were on and we set sail which was really exciting, we sailed out of Rodney Harbour and began hoisting the sails. Tim our second skipper had us practicing man over board drills which were interesting as it showed just how important teamwork is on the boat. Once we had finished getting used to the maneuvers of the boat we headed to Antigua, we were told it would be an overnight voyage. My watch was first and so I was on cleaner duty which meant I had to nip down and clean the heads and galley (kitchen), I then got to be at the helm. I was actually steering the boat and it was an amazing feeling. I found myself in a state of stark realisation of what I was actually doing and where I was with disbelief, it’s hard to describe the feelings really. Although the sea sickness I endured through the rest of the night was HORRIBLE. My four hour watch finished and we swapped over with the other group, the watches at night lasted three hours each and so sleep was grabbed when possible, although it wasn’t easy sleeping feeling awful. But as much as I hated the sicky feeling I love the experience. Chris bless her also had sea sickness, hers was worse than mine.

The voyage to Antigua was great, we even had to do a hat and glasses search and rescue and we amazingly found both. The other watch managed to spot dolphins through the night. We are currently docked in English Harbour at the Nelson Dock Marina and I have to admit it is even more amazing than St Lucia. It is steeped in history and millionaire super boats are everywhere, we are spending a couple of nights here and Tonight (Sunday) we are going to the world famous Shirley Heights.

I have managed to get some time to write this blog/novel and sorry it is so long but thought if I’d let you know as much as possible as every little thing is amazing. I will try to write another soon.

Blog Two - 13/01/12

And so the real voyage to the Azores begins. Antigua was amazing and we had a great time there preparing the boat, I was also the number one local mosquito target on the menu. We watched the sun go down at the famous Shirley Heights which was accompanied by a steel band.

Our first few hours at sea have felt rougher than usual, moderate waves to the 6ft 4 skipper but massive waves to little hobbit me, whilst on deck last night I was thinking what to put in my next blog and it hit me... A BIG WAVE HIT ME, right in the kisser. So that’s what can go in this blog.

I saw dolphins about 15 minutes ago and flying fish as the sun came up. Only another 13 estimated days of sun, sea and sailing to go until the Azores.

Everyone is loving it and hopes all is well.

Blog Three - 17/01/12

Its 9:30pm on day five of the voyage to the Azores. We have travelled 885 miles so far and each day has given me a new experience and memory to keep. Today has been the first day I have put my full waterproofs and oilies on along with the very trendy wellys. Good job really as it has been wet and wild and the sea rather rough along with the winds.
Tonight has been one of the biggest adrenaline rushes for me, the wind was howling, the main sheet was rattling and the boat was on a 70⁰tilt, we were doing about 10knotswhich doesn’t feel fast if it’s calm but felt like 70mph tonight with the wind blowing a gale. It was like a white knuckle log flume. I also then had to go and pump the grey tank (sewage) about 500pumps left me feeling ill, but at least the water will drain in the heads again now. On a lighter note, today we surprised Ven with a cake and a card to celebrate his 30th birthday, he loved it.

Today has taken a turn for the more wild but previous days have been the opposite.  Sam caught a fish one afternoon which became dinner. Last night I had an astronomy session whilst on watch with Francesco, the sky was filled with the stars and shooting stars too. Yesterday I decided to sacrifice my four hours midday sleep to do a bit of sunbathing on deck while the sun was out and the sea was calm. I was joined by a few others and we ended up even having the music on, a bit of ‘don’t worry be happy’, ‘everybody’s free to feel good’, and ‘oh heaven is a place on earth’ and other ironing songs. The outcome of which I now have lobster legs and Debs has started calling me Hot-legs.  We also saw some more dolphins.

Can’t wait to see what else this experience holds in the up and coming days. Hopefully no more sunburn. Hope everyone is well and will see you all soon.

Blog Four - 18/01/12

CatZero gives KC apprentice a once in a lifetime opportunity

KC apprentice Lee Wahlers (left) and CatZero's Sean Cahill

While most of us are spending January trying to stay motivated and on track with our New Year’s resolutions, one of KC’s apprentices will be starting the year with a life changing experience that will provide years of motivation.

KC Systems and Data apprentice Lee Wahlers was selected from KC’s eight apprentices to join the ONE Hull yacht on the third leg of the North Atlantic Challenge yacht race.

The CatZero programme delivers specialist training to hard-to-reach young people in Hull and the charity has entered a number of high-profile sailing challenges to raise funds to allow it to continue its work transforming the lives of local young people who are not in education, employment or training. KC has been a community partner of CatZero for two years and was offered a place on the race as a thank you for its continued support in helping young people to find a future.

Jim Dick, CatZero Chairman, said: “We have a fantastic success rate of helping the young people we work with move on to education, employment or training and for this to continue we have an ongoing programme of fundraising activity. This includes taking part in sailing challenges, as well as working with our dedicated partners from the business community, such as KC.”

The North Atlantic Challenge is a four stage, four month race. The ONE Hull yacht set off from Hull in late October 2011 to take in The Canary Islands, St Lucia and the Azores before heading back to Hull in mid February via the Thames Estuary. KC apprentice Lee has joined Skipper Danny Watson and the ONE Hull crew in St Lucia and will receive onboard training before he heads off across the Atlantic leg of the race, which could see him at sea for over 20 days.

Lee said: “I was absolutely gobsmacked when I found out about the North Atlantic Challenge opportunity, and to be selected was even more of a shock – I still can’t believe it. I think the challenge will allow me to learn a lot about myself and with all the experience has to offer, I truly can’t think of a better way to embrace 2012. I’d like to thank CatZero for the opportunity to join the ONE Hull crew and to everyone at KC who made it possible too.”

The KC apprentices, aged between 18 and 24, work in a range of roles in the business, from engineering to marketing, and are a year in to their apprenticeships. The sailing opportunity was offered to them as a thank you for their hard work and commitment.

Helen Roberts, KC HR Director said: “Our apprentices have been an invaluable addition to KC. They are incredibly passionate and hard working young people, so picking just one of them to go on the challenge wasn’t easy. We asked each of them to explain to us why they wanted to go and what they would get out of it.

“We partnered with CatZero two years ago as part of our KC in the Community programme, and we’ve seen firsthand the fantastic work they do. By showing young people their full potential and giving them access to various services and support, they are genuinely turning lives around.”  

The KC apprentices were recruited in partnership with YHATA (Yorkshire and Humber Apprentice Training Agency), part of the Hull College Group. YHATA Operations Manager Jakki Lovewell said: “Our team have worked with KC for over a year, recruiting, training and managing their apprentices, so we know the young people really well. Lee will have such an amazing time and I have no doubt that he will return to his role with even more commitment and enthusiasm than when he left.”

To find out more about how to support CatZero or take part in one of their sailing challenges call Clare on 01482 333303, email clare@catzero.orgor visit http://www.catzero.org/

For more information about apprenticeships please contact YHATA on (01482) 343470, email yhata@hull-college.ac.uk or visit http://www.yhata.org/

 

About CatZero

CatZero is a registered charity designed to develop and deliver specialist programmes to meet the needs of children, young people, their families and the local community. CatZero works with the most hard to reach young people within the city of Hull that are categorised as NEET (Not in Employment, Education or Training) through the delivery of innovative youth development training, allowing them to make progress towards the world of work through challenging educational and personal development programmes. The experience is motivational and designed to bring about attitudinal change to employment.  CatZero specialise in developing programmes to meet specific needs, this is undertaken by working with and in partnership with funding bodies, delivery partners including statutory services, local businesses and the young people themselves as well as the local community.

About YHATA

YHATA is an apprentice recruitment agency. Working in partnership with businesses, YHATA engages, selects and short-lists suitable candidates, saving the host employer time and resources in the selection process.

YHATA is supported by the National Apprenticeship Service and is part of the Hull College Group. YHATA is a tried and tested apprentice recruitment initiative which now operates on a national level, following a successful pilot scheme.

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Business volunteering programme gains a pair of safe hands

UK’s leading safety company joins Hull & Humber KC Cares

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager Tessa Wray and Neil Jowsey, Arco Director and Chair of Arco’s Charity Committee

Arco, the UK’s leading safety company, has joined Business in the Community’s (BITC) national volunteering programme. 

Caresis BITC’snational campaign to engage employees in their communities through volunteering. There are over 350 business involved in city-based and regional Cares partnerships across the UK. Arco joins current Hull & Humber KC Cares members Hull FC, Hull KR, KC, Yorkshire Bank, Princes Quay Shopping Centre, PwC, St Stephens Shopping Centre, Wilkin Chapman Grange. 

Neil Jowsey, Arco'ssales and marketing director and chair of the Arco Charity Committee, said: “Arco has always been committed to investing in its people and supporting the communities we serve. We want to be involved in projects, initiatives and charities that matter to our people. Each member of staff can take two working days each year to engage with community projects that they are passionate about,  and we hope that our partnership with Hull & Humber KC Cares will increase the scope of opportunities and in turn the number of our people who volunteer.” 

Founded in 1884 and with a heritage spanning 4 generations, Arco integrates traditional family values with pioneering innovation to offer a world-class range of over 22,000 quality assured, branded and own brand products, including personal protective equipment, clothing, footwear, gloves, workplace safety and hygiene products.  Headquartered in Hull, Arco reaches its customers through its extensive product catalogue, interactive website and 40 strong local branch network. The fourth generation family owned business won the J P Morgan Family Business Award in 2009.

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, Tessa Wray said: “We are delighted to welcome Arco to Hull & Humber KC Cares. They have a fantastic community ethos already and, our aim is to work with them to help build on their employee engagement success to date, providing volunteering opportunities that give more of their people the chance to use their volunteering days.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Hull & Humber KC Cares businesses enter the Den to help inspire young people

Pupils from Hessle High School go up against Hull's dragons

Hull's answer to the Dragons Den takes place at Hessle High School thanks to Hull & Humber KC Cares

Some of the most exciting and innovative new business ideas and inventions during the last few years have come out of the BBC’s hit TV programme the Dragons Den. And when a team of dragons from Hull businesses visited Hessle Sixth Form College on 7 December and asked pupils to enter the den, they were just as impressed by the ideas they saw. 

The session, organised by Hull & Humber KC Cares, brought together professionals from Hull FC, KC, St Stephens’s shopping centre and Cooper Wilkin Chapman Solicitors to listen to pitches from sixth form students who are working towards theirA Level Business Studies qualification. 

11 students took part in the session which saw business ideas from Website Design to Bespoke Fashion Bags being presented. After each student had pitched, the four dragons evaluated the presentation, asked questions, gave feedback then decided if they would invest in the proposed business. 

Vince Groak from Hessle Sixth Form said: “The Dragons Den session is a great way to bring our pupils’ learning to life. They get to meet business people and hear their feedback on their ideas, while practising their presentations skills. It’s been an invaluable experience that isn’t available in the normal school environment.” 

Jim Harris, St Stephen’s shopping centre manager was one of the dragons on the day. He said: “I’m so impressed by the young people we met. They came up with some great ideas and presented really well - I don’t know if I would have been able to do what they did at their age. These young people are our business leaders of the future and it’s vital that we give them experiences like this and share our knowledge to help them to be the best they can.”

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager Tessa Wray said: “The Dragons Den sessions gives businesses the chance to inspire pupils and help to raise their aspirations by promoting a culture of enterprise amongst their future workforce. Dragons’ Den gives the opportunity for experts to demonstrate business knowledge and expertise in a different environment while developing their communication and coaching skills that can be taken back into the workplace.” 

To find out more about Hull & Humber KC Cares please call Tessa on (01482) 638610 or email: tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Hull & Humber KC Cares spreads Christmas cheer

Businesses join forces to help make Christmas special

Business volunteers, part goers and Father Christmas

Children from disadvantaged communities celebrated Christmas at the KC Stadium on Saturday with an action packed party thanks to Hull & Humber KC Cares’ business partners. 

Employees from KC and St Stephen’s shopping centre worked in partnership with Hull & Humber KC Cares to organise the annual party for over 100 children aged 4 to 12. 

Children were entertained by DJ Scottie from start to finish, with music and party games. Acrobatic children’s entertainer Dangerous Steve put on a fantastic show, while face painters and a visit from all four of the city’s mascots, Airlie Bird, Roary the Tiger, Rufus the Robin and Steve the Stingray helped to create a party atmosphere. 

And it didn’t end there. The children and young people were in for an extra special treat when Father Christmas made a surprise appearance, giving each child a gift. 

The presents for the party were all donated by the employees of Hull & Humber KC Cares’ business partners. Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager explains: “Funds have been limited for everyone again this year, but it hasn’t prevented local organisations from getting involved. 

“The response this year has been fantastic. Our business partners have rallied round to fill shoeboxes with some brilliant presents. Shoebox donations are a really great way to engage employees and despite the economic climate, organisations found that their people wanted to get involved and believe it’s good to give something back to their local communities.” 

Other Hull & Humber KC Cares business partners who supported the event included PwC, Yorkshire Bank, Princes Quay Shopping Centre, Hull FC & Hull KR and Associated British Ports (ABP). 

Anna Millar from KC said: “A team of three of us started to organise the party in February with help from all the KC Cares business partners. It’s hard work but very rewarding for all involved and it’s a real team effort between the businesses. It’s a great opportunity for us to be able to support the children within the local community we serve, and provide them with a great start to the festive season.” 

Hull & Humber KC Cares is Business in the Community’s national employee volunteering programme. KC Cares engages companies and their employees in their communities, through a diverse range of volunteering opportunities, to address varying social issues with a focus on education, employability, economic renewal and the environment. 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Fantastic ‘app’ titude secures prize for creative minds

Pupils win opportunity to develop app thanks to KC

Pupils from Oasis Academy Immingham, with representatives from Humber EBP, theappleofmyi and KC

Pupils from the Oasis Academy in Immingham have designed their very own app, after winning the top prize at a science education event held in Hull.

TeenTech, organised by the Humber Education Business Partnership (EBP), gave 300 school students aged 12 and 13 from 30 schools across Hull and the Humber the opportunity to conduct experiments, handle leading-edge technology and meet the engineers, technicians and scientists from the world of big business. 

The lively one day event at the KC Stadium helps teenagers see the wide range of career possibilities in science, engineering and technology. It was created by science broadcaster Maggie Philbin and Chris Dodson, Chairman of the Institute of Directors (South) and is run by the Education Business Partnership. The event in Hull was the first time TeenTech had been run outside of the Thames Valley. 

Maggie Philbin said: “Teenagers dream about owning the latest gadgets but few consider they could be shaping the future themselves. There’s a real need to make them aware of the rich opportunities that exist in these areas.” 

One of the highlights of the day was the ‘Design an App’ workshop, which was run by application designers Dave Addey and Alyson Fielding. They challenged each school team to create an app which was innovative and marketable. The teams had to pitch their idea to the other schools and designers in 45 seconds, and the designers were overwhelmed by the quality of the ideas, finding it a struggle to choose the winning apps. 

Prizes for Best Pitch, Best Icon, Most Marketable App, Most Innovative App and Best Teamwork were presented. Oasis Academy Immingham won the grand prize, Best App Overall, with an app that let the user try on different make-up looks and clothes outfits to find out what suits or fits them before they buy. 

The pupils taking part won a day with the team from local application developers theappleofmyi, who helped them develop their app idea, how it should be marketed and how it would look.

The prize was sponsored by KC, whose Commercial and Finance Director, Sean Royce, said: “As a communications company, we want to help show young people that the science, engineering and technology lessons they’re involved in every day at school lead to exciting career opportunities, so that more young people might then choose that career path. The app competition really captured everyone’s imagination, and our congratulations go to the winning team from Oasis Academy Immingham."

Sandra Cooper, General Manager of the Humber EBP said: “TeenTech is a great opportunity for students to find out first-hand about careers in engineering, technology and science.  We know that there will be a very real demand for people with specialist skills in this region and it’s important to make sure that our young people are in a position to benefit from these opportunities."

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KC Community Grant supports road safety campaign

Leaflets given out to spread road safety messages at accident hotspot

PC Keith Ward, Road Safety Officer Sue Boyeson and KC’s Anna Millar

A KC Community Grant has been used to educate pedestrians on how to cross the road safely at one of the city’s accident hotspots.   

The grant funded a new safety leaflet which was given out to pedestrians at the crossings on Ferensway in front of St Stephens Shopping Centre and the Transport Interchange, which has seen 16 serious accidents in the past four years. The aim is to highlight the importance of using crossings correctly. 

The leaflet will be used to as part of an ongoing pedestrian road safety campaign that is jointly run by the Road Safety Team at Hull City Council and Humberside Police. 

PC Keith Ward, Humberside Police Casualty Reduction Officer for Hull said: "Pedestrian casualties in Hull are causing some concern. Alarmingly it involves adult pedestrians as well as child pedestrians. Education plays a big part in getting the road safety message across to people. I would encourage everyone to use a designated crossing when one is available and abide by the rules when using it. A 'Red Man' means stop and wait." 

The Road Safety Team and Humberside Police were joined at the crossing hotspot by a red and green man to highlight to pedestrians that they are risking their lives by crossing the road when the red man is showing. 

Sue Boyeson Road Safety Officer said: "We’re constantly striving to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to Hull but we still have a high proportion of pedestrians who are ignoring their own, and others safety by crossing on the Red Man.” 

Anna Millar, KC Community Relations Manager “The road safety leaflets are a great way for KC to partner with Hull City Council and Humberside Police to help them spread their life saving message. I saw firsthand the actions of adults not using the crossings properly, and it sets a bad example for our young people as well as them risking their own safety.”

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Pupils shown insight into the world of work thanks to Hull & Humber KC Cares

Career Kids event shows young people endless possibilities

KC engineer Ian Rees with St James Primary School pupils

Professionals from the world of banking, communications and rugby have given pupils at St James Primary School an inspiring insight into their careers and the world of work. 

40 pupils from years five and six took part in the Career Kids event run by the Hull & Humber KC Cares, Business in the Community’s (BITC) employee volunteering Programme. The aim of Career Kids is to show young people that there are endless possibilities for them in the world of work if they want to strive for them. 

Pupils took part in hands-on activities and challenges to learn more about the wide variety of careers at Hull FC, KC and Yorkshire Bank. 

St James Headteacher Jane Daniels said: "We want all of our pupils to be inspired to achieve the very best they can, and real life role models from the world of work are a very good way to do this. It is important to engage with businesses so that our pupils get to see a variety of jobs. The commitment from the business community gives a clear message to our pupils that they are important to the future of our city."  

Hull FC Foundation Officer Courtney Branagan and Marketing Executive Matt Adams were joined by Airlie Bird, Hull FC’s mascot, to show the pupils the careers opportunities at the Super League Club in a session called Running Hull FC. Members of the Yorkshire Bank Business Team ran The Bank Factor and KC ran a hands on session called Engineering your Future. 

KC Community Relations Manager Anna Millar delivered one of the sessions. She said: “One of our engineers Ian came down to the school with his van and all of his equipment to show the young people what an engineer’s job entails. It’s a great way to show them that the lessons they’re involved in every day are key to their future success. The young people who took part are a credit to their school.” 

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, Tessa Wray said: “Career Kids is a fantastic project that gives our business partners the opportunity to share their knowledge and skills with the next generation. They are the future workforce of our region and with the right skills, will help our economy to thrive. Unfortunately some young people don’t have role models from the world of work, so the time our business volunteers give is priceless to ensuring our young people are motivated and inspired.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Unique communication chain spans across the Humber

Event highlights importance of NHS Speech and Language Therapy Services

Giving Voice volunteers at the Humber Bridge

How many of us take speech for granted? Being able to ask for what you want, explain how you feel and use the power of communication to get things done. To demonstrate just how vital communication is, over 250 people took part in a unique event to form a human communication chain across the Humber Bridge. 

Organised by NHS Speech and Language Therapy Services and sponsored by KC, the aim of the chain was to pass on the message ‘Communication is Key’ from person to person, in as many ways as possible. The chain spanned from one side of the bridge to the other, and the message was passed on using gestures, messages in bottles and even Morse Code. 

Speech and Language Therapist Sarah Wood, a member of The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists said: “Problems with speech and language imprison individuals and severely limit their ability to participate in family life, education, work and the community.

The Giving Voice campaign aims to raise awareness and educate people to the benefits of speech and language therapy services. We were thrilled that so many staff, members of the public and their families joined us to show their support. 

“We’re really happy that KC sponsored the event. As a local communications company they were our ideal partner for the campaign and we are delighted they supported us.” 

Anna Millar, KC’s Community Relations Manager, said: “Speech is something that we take for granted, yet around 2.5 million people in the UK have speech, language or communication needs. As the region’s leading communications provider this event fitted perfectly with our business and community goals, so we were delighted to lend our support.”

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KC donate £60,000 to boost Youth Enterprise in Hull

Funding boost to help young people turn their business dreams into reality

Maureen Foers OBE, Sean Royce and Charles Cracknell

LOCAL communications provider KC will donate £60,000 to Hull’s Youth Enterprise Bank over the next three years to help support young entrepreneurs to realise their business dreams. 

The John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank offers practical support and grants of up to £1,000 for young people who need finance to help set up or develop their businesses. Since it was established in 2003 it has helped more than 150 young entrepreneurs in a wide range of business sectors. 

The bank is funded through a range of donations from young entrepreneurs together with Hull Training and is closely linked to the Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership, which aims to encourage young people to become more enterprising and contribute to Hull’s target of creating 1,200 new businesses. 

The donation from KC means more enterprising young people from Hull and East Yorkshire who are aged from 13 to 21, can receive funding to buy the business equipment and services they need to get started. 

Sean Royce, Commercial and Finance Director at KC, said: “We’re delighted to support an organisation that does such important work in nurturing entrepreneurial spirit amongst the region’s young people. “Today’s enterprising young people today are tomorrow’s employers and it’s vital for their future success that they get the practical and financial support they need in the early days of their business careers. 

“As a local responsible business we have a role to play in supporting the region’s economy and stimulating business growth and this is a way of doing that while also inspiring young people to make their careers in business.”

Amongst the businesses the Youth Enterprise Bank has supported are Hessle florist Amanda’s Blue Orchid and health food and smoothie firm Xing Health. 

Maureen Foers OBE, Chair of the Youth Enterprise Bank, said: “The donation from KC means we can help more of the region’s young people make their business dreams come true and start them on the path to business success. 

“The donation also means that for the first time we can offer grants to young people not just in Hull but across the wider East Yorkshire region.” 

KC’s donation follows the recent launch of the KC Invest, an investment fund worth up to £600,000 to the local area, which will support start-ups and expanding businesses in the digital and technology sectors across the region. 

The Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership recently launched Global Entrepreneurship Week 2011, which takes place from 14-18 November. During the week children and young people across the region will take part in events to stimulate their interest in business, with guest speakers including The Apprentice stars Ruth Badger and Claire Young. 

Ruth Badger, Patron of Hull Youth Enterprise Partnership Said: “I wish to thank KC for agreeing to invest £20,000 a year for the next three years in Hull and East Ridings young people through the John Cracknell Youth Enterprise Bank. There is no doubt that the area has a reputation to be proud of supporting its enterprising young people and this investment shows that KC has bought into that success.”

 Sponsors of Global Entrepreneurship Week include KC, Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, the Co-operative, HWS Hosting, NPS Humber, St Stephens, Jobcentre Plus, Hull Training, Hull FC, Hull City AFC, Mail News and Media, Hull College, University of Hull, William Jacksons, City Works, Golding Computer Services and Arco. Businesses who want to get involved should call Charles Cracknell, Youth Enterprise Manager at Hull City Council on (01482) 612983 or visit www.youthenterprise.co.uk

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KC races ahead of the Jane Tomlinson Hull 10K corporate pack

Team KC win Hull 10K charity award

Team KC before the Hull 10K

THE team of 24 runners from KC that took part in the Jane Tomlinson Hull 10K Corporate Challenge earlier this year has been presented with theaward for raising the most money for charity. 

The team raised £5,812, with £2,775 going to Hull Children’s University and £3,037 to the Dove House Hospice Love You 2 Appeal.

 KC was one of 35 teams that took part in the Corporate Challenge,which brought together over 400 people from businesses across East Yorkshire. The Corporate Challenge provides businesses with opportunities to network and pitch themselves against other organisations to be crowned the fastest team and the biggest fundraisers. 

The Jane Tomlinson Hull 10K, organised by Mike Tomlinson, widower of the late Jane Tomlinson said: “To get 24 runners in the Corporate Team is a fantastic effort but in the middle of a global recession to raise £5,812 is truly astonishing, and credit to KC and their staff.” 

KC’s Community Relations Manager Anna Millar was the Team Leader for the KC runners. She said: “Team KC is over the moon at being crowned the biggest fundraisers of the Hull 10K. We encourage our employees to get involved in various community and charity activities and the Hull 10K is a great example – it brings people together who might not work together and it’s a chance to improve their health and fitness, but the ultimate winners are local charities. 

“The Love You 2 Appeal and Hull Children’s University are two fantastic local charities who we have a great relationship with already. The Hull 10K is just another way that we’ve been able to support them both.” 

Next year’s event takes place on Sunday 3 June, click here to register for the Hull 10k in 2012 

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KC employees give Olympic cyclists a ride for their gold medals

KC employees take part in Hull Sky Ride

The KC Sky Ride Team

KC employees gave Chris Hoy, Victoria Pendleton and Mark Cavendish a ride for their gold medals when they took part in the Hull city centre Sky Ride. 

Sky Ride events are a joint venture between British Cycling and Sky. The events aim to get a million people cycling by 2013 and people of all abilities took part in the first-ever Hull Sky Ride held in the summer. 

KC Community Relations Manager Anna Millar said: “We thought it would be fun for our employees to get together for the event to have a good time and encourage them to take up cycling.  Some of the people who took part cycle to work and others have never cycled in the city centre before. The Sky Ride was a perfect event and I hope it has encouraged novices to get on two wheels more often.” 

The KC employees had a special addition to their team – a bespoke KC bicycle designed and made by Hull Art and Design student Majeda Begum. As part of her degree course, Majeda had to find an old bicycle, restore it and then use it as the base to advertise a local business. 

Majeda explains: “I chose KC because of its long history in the city. The company is unique to the area with a logo instantly recognisable, made up of coloured dots. Making the resemblance to bubbles, the logo inspired me to incorporate a bubble machine into the design to captivate children and therefore encourage them to use a cleaner and much healthier way of transport at an early age and continue to do so later in life. 

“It was great to be welcomed into the KC team and for the company to support a positive cause. The atmosphere along the Sky Ride route was great, really communityfocused with people of all ages, and I hoped my creation entertained a few people.” 

For more information on Sky Ride events, visit their website by clicking here

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KC in the Community scores award shortlisting double whammy

KC's community programme keeping everything crossed for award success

KC volunteers work with community partner Bransholme Community Allotment and Woodland

Local communications provider KC has received two award shortlistings for its community programme. 

It has been shortlisted in the Business Community Award category of the Yorkshire Post annual Excellence in Business Awards and the KC community newsletter Right Here is one of four finalists in the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) regional PRide Awardsin the External Newspaper or Magazine category. 

The Business Community Award category of the Yorkshire Post awards is a major new category for this year. It recognises businesses that are actively working in the community to enhance education and skills development. The awards, now in their sixth year, have become one of the leading business events in Yorkshire and celebrate the most inspirational examples of innovation and enterprise across the region. 

The CIPR awards category is also new for this year’s awards, which recognise excellence and reward achievement in public relations and communications. 

Anna Millar, Community Relations Manager, said: “Since we established our community programme 18 months ago, we’ve donated over 2,800 volunteering hours and supported over 130 community groups and organisations. These award nominations are testament to the hard work and enthusiasm that our people and partners have put into the programme, we wouldn’t be where we are today without them.” 

The winners of the Yorkshire Post Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Leeds on Thursday 13 October, and the winners of the CIPR PRide Awards will be announced in Leeds on Thursday 17 November.

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Introducing the ‘E’ team!

Businesses transform Hull pupils into Eco Kids

Hull FC take part in the first Eco Day in Hull

The first ‘Eco Kids’ event has been delivered in Hull, thanks to support from local business volunteers from Hull FC, PwC, St Stephen’s and Yorkshire Bank. Eco Kids is a fun and informal way to convey serious environmental messages to children using hands-on games and role-play. 

Eco Kids, a Business in the Community (BITC) initiative, already operates in south and west Yorkshire and after its success there, Hull & Humber KC Cares (BITC’s local employee volunteering programme) introduced it to Hull.On Tuesday 17 May, business volunteers visited St George’s Primary School to help pupils learn about sustainable behaviour. The children were split into four small groups and invited to visit each activity delivered by the businesses taking part. Activities were playful and interactive, allowing the pupils to experience rather than just be told about each environmental issue explored. 

Claire Gallafant, Manager at PwC said: “Eco Kids is a brilliant way for businesses to make a real impact on the attitudes and behaviours of young people about environmental issues. It works so well because it engages young people and helps them to understand that if they all make little changes it will have a positive impact on the whole planet.” 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Managersaid: “We’re hoping to deliver many more Eco Kids sessions through Hull & Humber KC Cares – it’s a great way to encourage more environmentally friendly behaviour and schools and young people alike absolutely love it!” 

Eco Kids supports the Sustainable Schools government framework. 

For more information contact Tessa Wray atHull & Humber KC Cares on01482 638610 or at tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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KC launches start-up finance fund to boost local economy

KC has launched an investment fund of £300,000 to provide start-up and growth financing for business

(L-R) Sean Royce, Peter Sykes and Alan Gordon-Freeman

KC has launched an investment fund of £300,000 to provide start-up and growth financing for businesses in the digital and technology sectors.

Through the fund, called KC Invest, KC hopes to stimulate business growth in the Hull and East Yorkshire economy and help create new, sustainable jobs for local people.

The KC fund will be administered by two local enterprise agencies, the Acorn Fund and Sirius. They will each receive £150,000 from KC to distribute as loan financing to business start-ups and expanding businesses in the sectors KC is focusing its support on.

Both the Acorn Fund and Sirius are Community Development Finance Institutions that are able to deliver loans through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Because the financing provided by KC will be matched by ERDF, the total cash available to local businesses will be £600,000. 

People who apply for KC Invest funding through the Acorn Fund or Sirius will also have access to mentoring and support to make sure their fledgling business has the best possible chance of long-term success. Feasibility grants will also be available to fully explore business ideas where more market research is needed before financing is agreed.

 KC has launched the fund in the wake of the economic crisis and banks’ resulting reluctance to provide affordable financing for small businesses.

Sean Royce, KC’s Finance and Commercial Director, said: “The ‘perfect storm’ caused by the banking crisis and public sector cuts mean that not only is the job market depressed, but it’s also harder than ever for people to obtain finance to set up their own businesses and create work for themselves and others.

“Yet we need those new businesses more than ever now to stimulate growth and help the country’s economic recovery.

“Through the KC Invest fund we want to give practical support to new business start-ups to help support the local economy and create new jobs.

“While we have the desire and resources to do this, we’re not experts in small business support, which is why we’re partnering with the Acorn Fund and Sirius, who both have excellent and long track records in supporting new business start-ups.”

Peter Sykes, Fund Manager at the Acorn Fund, said: “KC’s commitment to the local enterprise economy is to be commended. We cannot have enough of this type of financial and hands-on support for new start-ups. It is to be hoped that the KC Invest fund can set an example of other leading local employers to get involved in the local community in a way that can help breathe new life into our economy.”

Alan Gordon-Freeman, Managing Director of Sirius, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for those involved in technology to develop and grow their own businesses. The funding can help to attract other forms of finance as well as bring other specialist support such as business management and marketing.

“KC should be applauded for this innovative community support; it will certainly go a long way in helping to create new businesses, new jobs, local wealth and more career choices in the future.”

KC hopes that KC Invest is the start of a surge of private sector investment in the region, with other large local businesses providing funding for start-ups within their sectors using the blueprint it has established. It is hosting a seminar on Friday 9 September at the Hallmark Hotel in North Ferriby where local businesses and business support agencies can find out more about how KC Invest is set up and how it operates. The seminar will be opened by the Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP. To register to attend email invest@kcom.com or call 01482 602396.

More information about KC Invest can be found on our website here. People who are interested in applying for KC Invest finance can contact the Acorn Fund on 01482 324976 or Sirius at 01482 890146.

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Humber students have a fantastic ‘app’ titude at TeenTech event

Hull and the Humber school pupils come face to face with technology experts at TeenTech event

KC’s Commercial and Finance Director, Sean Royce and TeenTech Creator Maggie Philbin

Teenagers from 30 schools across Hull and the Humber filled the KC Stadium recently to meet the people behind some of the gadgets that drive their 21^stcentury lives.

TeenTech, organised by the Humber Education Business Partnership (EBP), gave 300 school students aged 12 and 13 the opportunity to conduct experiments, handle leading-edge technology and meet the engineers, technicians and scientists from the world of big business. 

TeenTech is a lively, one day event which helps young teenagers see the wide range of career possibilities in science, engineering and technology. It was created by science broadcaster Maggie Philbin and Chris Dodson, Chairman of the Institute of Directors (South) and is run by the Education Business Partnerships. The event in Hull was the first time TeenTech had been run outside of the Thames Valley. 

Maggie Philbin, science broadcaster and TeenTech creator said: “Teenagers dream about owning the latest gadgets but few consider they could be shaping the future themselves. There’s a real need to make them aware of the rich opportunities that exist in these areas.” 

One of the highlights of the day was the ‘Design an App’ workshop, which was run by application designers Dave Addey and Alyson Fielding. They challenged each school team to create an app which was innovative and marketable. The teams had to pitch their idea to the other schools and designers in 45 seconds, and the designers were overwhelmed by the quality of the ideas, finding it a struggle to choose the winning apps. 

Prizes for Best Pitch, Best Icon, Most Marketable App, Most Innovative App and Best Teamwork were presented. The winners of the grand prize, Best App Overall, were Oasis Academy Immingham. Their app lets the usertry on different make-up looks and clothes outfits, to find out what suits or fits them before they buy. 

The school won a day with the team from theappleofmyi, who will show them how their app could be developed and marketed. The prize was sponsored by KC. 

KC’s Commercial and Finance Director, Sean Royce, said: “The KC stadium was buzzing with energy during the event, which was exactly the aim. As a communications company, we understand the need to make science, engineering and technology exciting so it appeals to more young people who might then choose it as a career path. Support from businesses within the industry is so important, and we were delighted to provide volunteers and sponsorship to the event.” 

Sandra Cooper, General Manager of the Humber EBP said: “TeenTech is a great opportunity for the students to find out first-hand about careers in engineering, technology and science.  We know that there will be a very real demand for people with specialist skills in this region and it’s important to make sure that our young people are in a position to benefit from these opportunities".

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KC employee gets on his bike for Love You 2 Appeal

KC employee gets on his bike for Love You 2 Appeal

Richard Moore before his epic charity cycle

A member of KC’s Colour Pages team has completed a 250 mile bike ride from London to Paris to raise over £2,000 for the Dove House Hospice Love You 2 Appeal.

 

KC Colour Pages Sales Development Manager Richard Moore started his journey in Twickenham and on day one of the three day challenge covered more than 70 miles to reach his ferry crossing in Portsmouth. Day two saw him and his team of fundraisers covered around 60 miles to the French town of Bernay. The final and toughest test was a 100-plus mile push to the Arc de Triomphe in the heart of Paris on day three.

 

KC’s parent company, the KCOM Group PLC, adopted UK hospice charity Help the Hospices as its Charity Partner of the Year for 2011/12. All the money raised by employees in the Hull offices of the communications provider will go to the Dove House Hospice Love You 2 Appeal. Richard completed the challenge as part of a team of over 25 riders, all raising money for Help the Hospices.

Keen cyclist Richard said: “When I saw the Help the Hospices Paris cycle challenge I knew that it was something I would enjoy, while raising money for a fantastic local cause. I cycle pretty much seven days a week, so the course wasn’t too demanding, especially with the cause spurring us all on.”

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KC is Freedom’s latest BFF!

Freedom organisers are pleased to announce latest Business Friend of Freedom is KC!

KC’s Sean Royce, Cllr Geraghty, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture at Hull City Council and VHEY’s Anna Lamb, Conference Sales Manager.

Communications firm, KC, have generously sponsored Freedom 2011 through the BFF scheme-aninitiative to attract private sector sponsorship for the city’s flagship festival- by pledging £12,000.  This contribution will be used to enrich the festival City Hall programme which will provide a splendid variety of cabaret, music and many comedy acts- full line up will be announced soon. 

City Hall also features Hull’s Freedom Chorus which will bring the community together under the directorship of Em Whitfield Brooks to sing songs from Beethoven to Queen.Many more acts are soon to be announced and details of Freedom 2011can be found at www.freedomfestival.co.uk

KC’s sponsorship brings the current total secured from private sector sponsorship to £38,000; other BFFs include Princes Quay, The Deep, Wykeland Group and The Insurance Partnership. The BFF scheme will be used in addition to the funding given by core funders Hull City Council, Arts Council England and Visit Hull and East Yorkshire to enhance the festival programme and create a unique and diverse event. Freedom also gained invaluable in kind support from KC, who will be providing the hosting for this year’s festival website. 

Sean Royce, KC Commercial and Finance Director said: “Freedom has become a highlight for the city and the region and we are delighted to be a sponsor for the second year running. Businesses have an essential role to play in supporting such important cultural events, especially following the public sector cuts. Public events boost the day and night time economy, increase visitor numbers and create a fantastic feel good vibe for residents and visitors alike. Last year the festival generated more than £5 million for the city's economy and attracted 150,000 people, making it an event that deserves the backing of the business community.” 

Businesses that want to become a friend of Freedom and get their business in the spotlight, can contact Anna Lamb on 01482 486600 or email anna.lamb@vhey.co.uk

Freedom – Hull’s annual celebration of the arts- takes place on the evenings of Thursday the 1^st, Friday the 2^nd and daytime into evening of 3^rd September. It will include an exciting and unusual mix of interactive events, family activities, music stages, street performance, world dance and comedy. Whilst Freedom’s emphasis this year is on creating a mixed cultural festival lead by the arts, not headline music acts, festival organisers remain thankful to all parties that have helped establish the event’s success so far. 

Councillor Terry Geraghty, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture said:"KC’s generous support of this new element for Freedom at Hull City Hall will further enhance the experience at this year’s festival. It is fantastic to see this level of private sector support and would be great to continue to see this level of support in the future."

Janet Reuben, Chief Executive of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, said: ‘‘To have continuing support from the private sector is wonderful news. It will help us to deliver a richer programme for City Hall that will amaze and excite the crowds at Freedom this year.’’

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KC celebrates community cohesion with Hull Pride

15,000 expected to attend tenth Hull Pride

Hull Pride

The tenth Hull Pride festival will take place in Hull’s West Park on Saturday 30 July, and after securing communications provider KC as a key sponsor of the event, organisers are now hoping more businesses will get involved  to make Pride 2011 bigger and better than ever before.

Hull Pride is the greatest celebration of community cohesion of its kind in the city. Last year it attracted nearly 10,000 people and this year, organisers are preparing for a record-breaking 15,000 visitors. The event’s popularity means more resources are needed to ensure the event can safely accommodate the extra people attending.

Andy Train, Director at Pride said: “We’re delighted with how far the event has come since the first Hull Pride 10 years ago. KC’s fantastic support is enabling us to equip the event with all the facilities we need to make the day enjoyable and accessible to everyone. We’ve also been granted a license for the first time this year and the revenue generated from the bars will be split between local charities and the costs of keeping Hull Pride running.”

Hull Pride is a mainstream event that is open to all members of the community and caters for all groups. As well as music acts throughout the day, there will also be fairground rides, crowd entertainers and face-painting for children. There will also be disabled access areas and sign interpreters for the deaf community.

This year Hull Pride will be officially opened by the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Hull. Several local organisations have already pledged their support and some familiar faces will be performing, plus Hull Pride’s biggest ever headline act – soon to be announced – which is sure to draw the crowds.

Anna Millar, Community Relations Manager at KC said: “Supporting the community is important to KC. Hull Pride is a great celebration of diversity and inclusion and that’s why we’re delighted to get involved and help the event cater for even more people this year.”

Andy said: “Support from business is very welcome and we’re over the moon that KC will be our main stage sponsor. This year is the first year we’re not receiving any specific local authority funding and so we’re relying on help from the local business community. Businesses can lend their support through a range of sponsorship opportunities or through taking a stand at the event.

“We like to think of the event as Hull and East Riding’s personal freedom festival, celebrating individuality and diversity and providing a welcoming and accessible fun-packed day that the entire community can enjoy.”

 For more information about sponsorship or advertising opportunities, please contact Simon Woolston, Financial Director, on 07970031042 or email pride@simonwoolston.co.uk

To buy tickets (£5) and for more details about Hull Pride 2011 go to www.pridehull.co.uk

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Business volunteers show charity they care with office make over

Business volunteers transform charity facilities at Hull Crown Court

From left, Ruth Truelove from Stephens, Sarah McAllister from Hull FC, Anna Millar from KC and Tessa Wray from KC Cares

Volunteers from Hull FC, St Stephens Shopping Centre and KC have given facilities used by a local charity a new lease of life.

Four volunteers helped to decorate two waiting rooms, an office and a kitchen used by The Witness Service at Hull Crown Court which were badly in need of updating.

The Witness Service is a part of Victim Support which is a national charity and provides free and confidential help and support to victims and witnesses of crime, ( both Prosecution and defence) and other people affected, such as the families and friends of victims, who attend either the Crown Court or Magistrates Court.

The businesses who gave their employees time to volunteer are all members of Business in the Community’s (BITC) volunteering programme, Hull & Humber KC Cares.

In the last two years, over 400 volunteers have taken part in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme, resulting in over 2500 hours of support for more than 60 community groups.

Brian Howe, the Crown Court Witness Service Manager said: “We support hundreds of people each year, helping and guiding them through the court process, which can be extremely stressful and daunting. Our safe and secure areas within the court provide a haven for our service users and the transformation has made the rooms more welcoming and up to date.

“I can’t believe it only took the volunteers one day to paint all the rooms. I’d like to thank the businesses who gave their employees the time to help us and of course the volunteers themselves.”

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, Tessa Wray said: “This collaborative challenge between Hull FC, St Stephens Shopping Centre and KC demonstrates perfectly that when businesses join their time and people resources together they can make a massive impact to a fantastic resource that works with so many members of the community.

“There are so many community organisations that need support, and we can help businesses engage with these organisations, and with other likeminded businesses, to help make a positive impact.”

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Hull Children’s University inspires 30,000 children

Charity looks back at success as they celebrate 15th birthday

HCU Founder and Director John Buttrick with pupils from St James CE Primary School

30,000 and counting – that’s the number of Hull’s school children who have been through the inspirational Hull Children’s University (HCU) programme since it was created 15 years ago.

2011 marks the fifteenth year for the education charity that has seen 60 schools take part in 200 modules, supported by 3000 mentors from over 200 businesses.

Dr John Buttrick, Founder and Director of HCU said: “Wow, whoever would have thought when we started HCU at Francis Askew Primary School when I was deputy head, that we would have had such an impact on the young people of our city. It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of all the schools and businesses and most importantly the young people who inspired me to start the HCU. Here’s to the next 15 years and beyond.”

The charity is able to offer its inspirational additional learning opportunities thanks to the generosity of businesses who donate financial support and the time of their employees who act as mentors on the modules.

Once such business is KC, which has supported the charity from the very beginning and recently donated the KC Learning Zone, a city centre classroom where learning modules are regularly held. KC Community Relations Manager Anna Millar said: “The success of HCU stems from the passion, dedication and belief that John evokes in the young people and business supporters alike. We are proud to be able to be part of the work John, his team and other businesses are doing to help ensure our young people achieve their career and life ambitions.”

John continues: “I am indebted to so many individuals, organisations and businesses that have made HCU the success it is. We work with children from so many diverse backgrounds and circumstances, and to enable us to continue for another 15 years we are constantly seeking new partners as the need to support our young people is growing. The support can range from a just a few hours of time to financial assistance which will help to help deliver one of our learning modules. Businesses can even be supported and guided by the HCU team to design their own module, like Humberside Airport and Arco have done.”

To find out more about HCU and how you can get involved please contact Kate Carroll on 01482 466045 or email k.carroll@hull.ac.uk

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KC supports SMEs based at The Deep Business Centre with new partnership

Renewed partnership supports The Deep Business Centre

Director of Business Services at KC Mark Conway and Colin Brown, Chief Executive of The Deep

Businesses based at The Deep Business Centre will be supported with phone and internet connectivity from KC for the next three years thanks to a renewed partnership between Europe’s only submarium and the communications provider.  

The Business Centre is home to businesses including See My Baby, Wigster and The Design Community 

Young people visiting the bespoke Learning Centre at The Deep will also benefit from the partnership thanks to the donation of 22 new laptops, the first equipment upgrade that has taken place since The Deep opened 10 years ago. 

As well as supporting the Business Centre and the Learning Centre, KC is also sponsoring Discovery Corner, a popular interactive zone for visitors young and old. 

Colin Brown, Chief Executive of The Deep said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with KC, and would like to thank them for supporting the Business Centre as well as helping us to provide fantastic IT services in our Learning Centre Their commitment to providing top class education facilities for young people in Hull is a real testament to them. 

“As a charity, we’re extremely grateful for the support of local businesses like KC, and we are looking forward to continuing to work with them.”  

Each year more than 30,000 primary and high school pupils walk through the doors of the Learning Centre to enjoy fun and educational workshops, presentations and hands-on activities which are delivered by qualified teachers. The young people learn a broad range of subjects raising awareness of the marine environment. All sessions are closely referenced to the National Curriculum. 

Mark Conway, Director of Business Services at KC said: “The Deep is one of our region’s success stories and we are proud to be continuing our partnership with them for another two years. The Deep has something for everyone, from supporting young people at the Learning Centre to helping businesses develop in the Business Centre. We look forward to working with them and continuing our great partnership.” 

And it’s not the young people visiting The Deep that will benefit from the updated equipment. The old PC equipment from the Learning Centre is being donated to charity including the former computer storage units which are being given to children’s charity Barnardos.

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KC extends partnership with The Deep

School pupils to benefit from new partnership between The Deep and KC.

Pupils from Hessle St Mount School mark launch of renewed partnership between The Deep and KC.

Young people visiting the Learning Centre at The Deep will benefit from brand new PC equipment thanks to The Deep’s partnership with KC. 

KC has renewed its sponsorship of The Deep’s Learning Centre for another three years. As part of the partnership KC has donated 22 new laptops to the Learning Centre, the first equipment upgrade that has taken place since The Deep opened 10 years ago. 

As well as providing new laptops, KC is also sponsoring Discovery Corner, a popular interactive zone for visitors young and old, and the Business Centre, which provides office and laboratory space for small to medium sized businesses. 

Susan Hornby, our Head of Education at The Deep: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with KC, and would like to thank them for sponsoring Discovery Corner and the Business Centre as well as helping us to provide fantastic IT services in our Learning Centre Their support in providing top class education facilities for young people in Hull is a testament to their commitment to the community. 

“As a charity, we’re extremely grateful for the support of local businesses like KC, and we are looking forward to continuing to work with them.”  

Each year more than 30,000 primary and high school pupils use the Learning Centre to enjoy fun and educational workshops, presentations and hands-on activities, which are delivered by qualified teachers. The young people learn a broad range of subjects raising awareness of the marine environment. All sessions are closely referenced to the National Curriculum. 

Anna Millar, Community Relations Manager at KC said: “The Deep is one of our region’s success stories and we are proud to be continuing our partnership with them for another two years. The Learning Centre offers young people a unique and inspiring learning experience in first class facilities, which now includes brand new IT equipment that will support their learning further. The Deep has something for everyone, from supporting young people at the Learning Centre to helping businesses develop in the Business Centre. We look forward to working with them and continuing our great partnership.” 

And it’s not the young people visiting The Deep that will benefit from the updated equipment. The old PC equipment from the Learning Centre is being donated to charity including the former computer storage units which are being given to children’s charity Barnardos.

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Hull KR joins Hull & Humber KC Cares

Hull KR is the latest business to join business volunteering programme

From left to right, Hull KR player Rhys Lovegrove, Tessa Wray from Hull & Humber KC Cares, Sarah Smith and Chris Tomlinson from Hull KR

Hull KR is tackling community issues head on thanks to a new partnership with Business in the Community’s (BITC) volunteering programme, Hull & Humber KC Cares. 

Hull KR has joined current members Hull FC, KC, PwC, Princes Quay Shopping Centre, St Stephens Shopping Centre, Wilkin Chapman Solicitors and Yorkshire Bank, to help address community issues and support disadvantaged communities. 

Hull & Humber KC Cares engages businesses in their communities through volunteering. In the last two years, over 400 volunteers have taken part in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme, resulting in over 2500 hours of volunteering supporting over 60 community groups. 

Chris Tomlinson, Head of Community Engagement at Hull KR said: “The volunteering opportunities and the direct contact with the community that the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme provides supports the work of the Hull Kingston Rovers Education and Sport Trust. Being able to volunteer in our communities will be a visible demonstration of our commitment and allow us to meet the people who support the club and make a positive contribution to them.” 

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, Tessa Wray said: “Hull KR has a fantastic community programme and the club spends a lot of time working with people of all ages, using rugby to forge relationships. Volunteering with like-minded businesses will enable the club to work with a wider variety of organisations and communities and see firsthand the power of volunteering. We are delighted to have them on board.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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St Stephens employees help school pupils

Employees give time to help young people improve reading skills

Ruth Truelove with (l-r) Alisha Selby, Callum Gallagher, Callum Currie and Karolina Later all aged 8

Pupils at Stepney Primary School are receiving one on one support with their reading thanks to business volunteers from Hull & Humber KC Cares. 

Two volunteers from Hull & Humber KC Cares business partner St Stephens Shopping Centre are taking part in Right to Read, a reading scheme aimed at improving the literacy rates of pupils. 

Volunteers donate one hour a week over a 12 week period to a school taking part in the project, which typically improves a child’s reading age by a minimum of six months. 

Ruth Truelove, Finance and Administration Manager and Deborah Lee, Centre Receptionist and Administrator of St Stephen's Shopping Centre visit the school once a week to hear pupils read. 

Ruth said: “We have a small management team at the centre and the Right to Read project allows Deborah and I to take it in turns to visit the school, ensuring our volunteering has a minimum impact on our business operations, and a maximum effect on the young people. The flexibility of the programme provides us both with the opportunity to get involved in our community and make a positive difference, and we enjoy working with the school immensely.” 

Stepney Primary School Headteacher, Paul Browning, said: “Ruth and Debbie came to us initially for 12 weeks and we are delighted that they have continued with the programme beyond their initial commitment. Support from businesses, through partnerships such as Hull & Humber KC Cares, is key to the success of any school. We can see the partnership with St Stephen's is already delivering results.” 

Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, Tessa Wray said: “The volunteering opportunities we have provided for St Stephens not only fit around their business operations, but are also in keeping with their corporate values, which is an important consideration for many businesses when choosing their community engagement activity. 

“The benefits the Right to Read programme delivers are unquestionable. The programme gives children the undivided attention of an adult who is not a teacher or family member, and the children get the chance to discuss topics on a one to one basis, which also improves their communications skills. Finally, they get to meet a positive role model from the world of work, which is important when working with a school in an area of high unemployment.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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KC directors muck in for the community

KC senior management team volunteer with Bransholme Enterprises

KC senior management team dig in at Bransholme Enterprises

Some businesses give money to charity, others give employees time off to do community work, but it’s rare to see the head honchos rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty. 

But that’s exactly what members of KC’s senior management team did when they took part in a Hull & Humber KC Cares challenge at the Bransholme Community Allotment and Woodland, run by Bransholme Enterprises. 

Bransholme Enterprises is a social enterprise based in the North Carr area of Bransholme. It’s work centres on the themes of environment, community and health and at its community allotment and woodland sites on Noddle Hill Way it offers accredited basic horticultural courses. 

KC’s senior management team is passionate about the local community and its members were determined to do their bit and show they’re not afraid of getting stuck in. 

As they work closely together every day, the visit to Bransholme Community Allotment and Woodland gave them some time away from the office to develop their teamwork and communication skills, as well as giving something back to a valuable community initiative. 

The Bransholme Enterprises team had them digging and planting a new garden throughout the day in order to continue the good work that was started when seven KC employees spent a day there in November 2010. 

Helen Roberts, KC’s HR Director, explained: “Community leadership is about being involved at every level and everyone at KC is committed to playing a part in the communities we serve. Job titles mean nothing when it comes to our community work, so that means everyone, from the directors right through to our apprentices, is keen to be involved.”

Bransholme Enterprises enterprise manager Kaye Sullivan said: “This is the second time that KC has supported us with volunteers, and to have the people who lead the company with us was fantastic. We got to share with them our plans for the future and quiz them about how we can become more sustainable. I’d like to thank the volunteers for all their hard work and continued support.”

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Community power to KC’s people

KC launches new way of allocating support to community projects.

KC Community Panel

KC has launched a new way of allocating support to community projects, by handing the decision making process to its people. 

The individuals, organisations and projects that the business considers for support through its community contribution programme, KC in the Community, will now be decided by the KC Community Panel.

The team of nine people, from across KC nominated themselves to be part of the panel and meet once a month to assess each request for support. 

Anna Millar, KC’s Community Relations Manager, said: “We encourage our people to play a role in our community contributions, and there isn’t a bigger role than making the decisions that directly benefit the communities we serve, and that shape our programme. 

“The response we had from our people was overwhelming.  When assessing each request for support, for financial or business support, they bring their own life experiences and knowledge of their communities to the table. After only two meetings they have already shown great understanding of our community priorities and aims.” 

Once a quarter the panel also allocates KC Community Grants to local causes and projects. In the last round of grants they awarded £500 to Special Smiles, a charity that organises day trips for children with life limiting illnesses. They also awarded £250 to the Hallgate Primary School Judo Club, run by judo World Champion Karen Briggs, and £200 to St Georges Primary School to enable the school to buy outdoor play equipment. 

To apply for a grant of up to £500 please complete our grant applciation form or to seek business services or financial support above £500 please complete our community support form. If you have any questions please contact Anna Millar on (01482) 602831 or email anna.millar@kcom.com.

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KC supports future Olympic stars

KC joins forces with SportsAid to support two future sports stars from Hull and the East Riding

Rob Clarke from SportsAid, Holly Harrison, Zachary Field and KC’s Director of Business Services Mark Conway

Local phone and broadband provider KC has joined forces with SportsAid to support two future Olympians from Hull and the East Riding. 

Seventeen year old judo champion Holly Harrison from Hull and fifteen year old orienteering star Zachary Fieldfrom Beverley have each received £500 from KC to help them with their training and competition costs.

SportsAid helps promising young athletes prepare for competitions by matching them with businesses that provide financial support.  Young people aged 12 to 18 are put forward for funding consideration to SportsAid by their sports’ governing bodies. SportsAid typically helps young people who are at the start of their journey, when, more often than not, their families are the solitary sponsor and independent recognition and financial assistance can make a huge difference. 

Holly and Zachary recently visited KC’s Hull office to meet with members of staff who wanted to wish them luck with their training and progress. 

Mark Conway, Business Services Director at KC, said: “We have lots of talented young people in our region, and as a business we feel it is important to support them to give them the best possible chance of reaching their full potential in their chosen field. 

“It was great to meet Holly and Zachary– they are both driven and enthusiastic young people and it wouldn’t surprise me if they took part in future Olympic games.” 

Holly said: “I went to my first judo class when I was 8 years old and got hooked straight away. It can be really expensive travelling to competitions and paying for my weekly training sessions, as well as my equipment costs, so the support from KC is fantastic.” 

In Yorkshire alone SportsAid has supported some of the greats of British sport including Olympic Bronze Medallist Joanne Jackson, Ashes star Tim Bresnan and World Champion Heptathlete Jessica Ennis. 

Rob ClarkeSportsAid Regional Development Manager said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with KC to support Holly and Zachary, this kind of support can give the athletes the boost they need at such a crucial stage on their journey. Both athletes have the potential to pull on a GB vest over the next few years so we’ll be following their progress with considerable interest.” 

SportsAid was founded in 1976 to help the next generation of young British sportsmen and women to succeed by raising funds from the private sector to provide financial assistance. Since 1976, SportsAid has distributed around £30 million and now gives 3,000 awards per year. 

KC is supporting the young athletes as part of its KC in the Community programme, which aims to inspire the region’s young people to achieve their full potential and support the community activities that matter most to local people.

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Hull & Humber KC Cares spreads Christmas cheer to children in Hull

Businesses host Christmas party for children in Hull

Father Christmas at the KC Cares Christmas party

Children from disadvantaged communities celebrated Christmas at the KC Stadium with an action packed party thanks to Hull & Humber KC Cares’ business partners. 

Employees from KC, PWC and St Stephens worked in partnership with KC Cares to organise the annual party for 100 children. 

Children were entertained by DJ Scottie from start to finish, with music and party games. Bobby Bubbles the children’s entertainer, face painters and a visit from all three of the city’s mascots, Airlie Bird, Roary the Tiger and Rufus the Robin helped to create a party atmosphere. 

And it didn’t end there. The children and young people were in for an extra special treat when Father Christmas made a surprise appearance, giving each child a gift.

The presents for the party were all donated by the employees of Hull & Humber KC Cares’ business partners. Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager explains: “Funds have been limited for everyone this year, but it hasn’t prevented local organisations from getting involved.

“The response this year has been fantastic. Our business partners have rallied round to fill shoeboxes with some brilliant presents. Shoebox donations are a really great way to engage employees and keep costs low. Despite the current climate, organisations are finding that their employees want to get involved and believe it’s good to give something back to their local communities.”

Hull & Humber KC Cares business partners who supported the event included KC, PwC, Chem-Dry UK, Yorkshire Bank and Associated British Ports (ABP).

Anna Millar from KC said: “A team of four of us started to organise the party in February, it’s hard work but very rewarding for all involved. It’s a great opportunity for us to be able to support the children within the local community we serve, and provide them with a great start to the festive season.”

Hull & Humber KC Cares is Business in the Community’s national employee volunteering programme. KC Cares engages companies and its employees in their communities, through a diverse range of volunteering opportunities, to address varying social issues, with a focus on education, employability, economic renewal and the environment.

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP officially opens KC Learning Zone

City centre learning base opens its doors

Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP prepares to unveil the KC Learning Zone with Kevin Walsh and John Buttrick

A tired training room that has been transformed into a bespoke classroom for Hull Children’s University (HCU) has today been officially opened by the Rt Hon Alan Johnson MP.

Mr Johnson joined pupils from Griffin Primary School and The Green Way Primary School to unveil the KC Learning Zone, which is based at KC’s Carr Lane offices.

The donation of the KC Learning Zone is just the latest commitment from KC to educational charity HCU. As one of KC in the Community’s three major partnerships, KC has also provided funding for a full-time HCU employee and designed a bespoke communications module to enhance the HCU programme. In addition, KC employees act as mentors to help deliver the HCU programme.

The Learning Zone will provide HCU with the opportunity to bring many of the young people on its programme into the centre of Hull for the very first time.

John Buttrick, HCU Founder and Director, said: “Alan has been a supporter of HCU for a number of years and I couldn’t think of anyone better to open the HCU KC Learning Zone. The young people taking part in the KC Ambassadors for Hull module were delighted to be able to share their learning experiences with him and be part of a historic moment for HCU.

“KC’s continued support is enabling us to reach more children, develop our programme of modules and for the first time in our history, have a city centre base that is designed around the needs of our young people. I can’t thank Kevin and the entire KC team enough for their effort and enthusiasm.”

The Learning Zone is kitted out with state of the art PCs and presentation equipment and is large enough to accommodate a whole class of children. The space will not only be used to deliver the KC module, but provides a space for the HCU team to work directly with teachers and provide training.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “The work that Hull Children’s University does to inspire and engage young people is vital in raising the learning and personal aspirations of our region’s next generation. KC is incredibly proud to be working with the Hull Children’s University, enabling many more children to benefit from this inspirational programme.”

Kevin continues: “We’ve had a fantastic response from across KC with people wanting to get involved in both mentoring and working behind the scenes to ensure the dedicated KC Hull Children’s University Learning Zone meets the needs of the young people. We are very excited about the partnership.”

The project would not have been possible without the time, expertise and generosity of the KC Learning Zone team and a number of other local suppliers who gave their work to the project at a reduced rate.

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Sweet smell of success for KC volunteers

Volunteers from KC plant new sensory garden at community allotment

KC volunteers at Bransholme Community Allotment and Woodland

Curry plants, eucalyptus and lavender are just some of the plants growing in a new sensory garden at the Bransholme Community Allotment, thanks to volunteers from KC. 

Seven KC employees were linked up with Bransholme Enterprises by Hull and Humber KC Cares, Business in the Community’s (BITC) employee volunteering programme. 

Bransholme Enterprises is a social enterprise based in the North Carr area of Bransholme whose work centres on the themes of environment, community and health., At its community allotment and woodland sites on Noddle Hill Way it offers accredited basic horticultural courses.  The courses are free for unemployed people and also teach ‘soft skills’ like teamwork and communication to increase attendees’ chances of gaining employment. 

Enterprise Manager Kaye Sullivan said: “As a social enterprise, support from businesses, in the form of both time and money, is essential to sustain the delivery of our programmes, which support the local community. 

“The KC employees worked with the allotment and woodland teams to establish a new sensory garden, which was funded through a KC Community Grant we received earlier this year. The sensory garden was inspired by a young boy who came to us on a school visit. As he’d been blind from birth, the team found it hard to describe the allotment and the plants being grown to him, so they came up with the idea of the sensory garden as a different way for people to experience the allotment. The volunteers were great and I and the whole team would like to thank them for the time they gave us.” 

Volunteers on the day included employees from KC’s marketing, engineering, sales and HR teams. Amongst those taking part was Business Marketing Executive Rhiannon Thomas-Osborne, who said: “We had such a good day with the Bransholme Enterprises team. As well as helping them with planting and woodland maintenance, we heard some inspiring stories of how people have turned their lives around and been supported by the project. It was great to be able to go out into our local community and be a part of something so worthwhile.” 

Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager, said: “We work in partnership with businesses to help identify opportunities for their people to volunteer in their local communities. This delivers benefits for the business, their people and local communities, so it’s a win win situation for all involved.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

To find out more about the work of Bransholme Enterprises, please visit their website.

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Hull & Humber KC Cares launches numeracy scheme

Businesses go back to school to help improve numeracy skills

Rachel Matthews of PwC with St Chalres Primary School Pupils

There were no calculators or spreadsheets in sight as a team from PwC (the international accounting firm)went back to basics to launch a numeracy scheme for school pupils in Hull. 

Hull & Humber KC Cares partner PwC has teamed up with St Charles Primary School to launch the Number Partners scheme in Hull. The 10 week programme provides extra maths help for children aged 7-14 through number games. As well as improving numeracy, the partnership between business volunteers and schools pupils provide young people with additional role models. 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, said: “We are delighted to be introducing Number Partners in Hull, not only to help raise numeracy levels across the city, but to introduce more role models from the world of work, to boost confidence and raise aspirations in those children who need it most. I’m hoping more companies will join PWC in supporting children with maths.” 

One of the PwC volunteers, Samantha Paddison, said: “It’s great to be able to use your day to day business skills and knowledge to help local school children. I don’t think businesses are aware that they can use their knowledge and skills to volunteer and help make a massive difference to their local communities.” 

Some of the children taking part in the Number Partners scheme have an advanced knowledge of maths and are ready to progress beyond their classmates, and this is made possible with the help of the business volunteers. 

The project was launched in 1998 to support the National Numeracy Strategy launched by the Government. The strategy aimed to improve standards in maths with the emphasis on children’s ability to calculate maths mentally.  

A consortium of nine businesses including BITC (Business in the Community), Britannia Building Society, HSBC and KPMG, set up the first Number Partners scheme in London. In 2003 the sheme was launched in the Yorkshire and Humber region of BITC, making its way to Hull this year. 

Tessa continued: “In the school year 2009-10, 78 per cent* of 11 year olds who received additional one-to-one tuition in maths achieved Level 4, whereas of those who did not receive additional one-to-one tuition only 49 per cent achieved Level 4. This demonstrates how projects such as Number Partners can have a dramatic effect on our young people’s future success.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

 

*Statistics provided by Hull City Council.

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KC Marketing Manager given tough sentence for charitable cause

Top bosses receive tough sentence for charity and raise over £20,000

KC Marketing Manager Shirin Zandi

Twelve bosses from across Hull & East Yorkshire, including KC Marketing Manager Shirin Zandi, became an ‘inmate’ for the day to raise money for the KCFM Smile Foundation. 

The ‘inmates’, which included commercial bank managers and a partner from a local solicitors, were first tried at the old Hull Magistrates Court for a range of offences against colleagues. Their defence was a little shaky, and a guilty verdict was the easy option for the jury assembled of 9-12 year olds from Marfleet Lane Primary School. 

A sentence of a day behind bars at HMP Hull was ordered and on Wednesday 27 October, each boss was transported by Humberside Police to the prison in handcuffs. Following an eye opening tour of the prison and an explanation of the services the prison deliver, each boss was served bread and water before being tasked to raise bail for charity for them to be released. 

A total of £20,000 was raised from the day for the KCFM Smile Foundation, which provides grants and support to organisations and charities acrossHull & East Yorkshire. 

At the end of the working day, each boss received a full pardon and was escorted from the prison and released back into the business community. 

Andrew Barber, Charity Manager at the Smile Foundation said: “This is the second time Hull Prison has kindly supported this event, and it’s a real win win for everyone involved. We cannot thank everyone involved enough for their commitment and enthusiasm to make this project a success, the funds will make a huge difference across East Yorkshire.” 

To find out more about the KCFM Smile Foundation and the projects it supports visit www.thekcfmsmilefoundation.co.uk

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Hull Children’s University KC Learning Zone transformation underway

Pupils from Sidmouth Primary School help transform KC Learning Zone

Tia Moses, Kassidy Phung and Adam Malek help Deputy Head Karen Garnett, Mark Blenkinsop KC, John Buttrick HCU and Anna Millar KC.

The process of transforming a tired training room into a bespoke classroom for Hull Children’s University (HCU) has officially been given the seal of approval by pupils from Sidmouth Primary School. 

John Buttrick, HCU Founder and Director, brought Deputy Head Karen Garnett and three pupils from the school to show them the work that has taken place so far on the KC Learning Zone, which is based at KC’s Carr Lane offices. 

The donation of the Learning Zone is just the latest commitment from KC to educational charity HCU. As one of KC in the Community’s three major partnerships, KC has provided the funding for a HCU employee and designed a bespoke communications module to enhance the HCU programme, while and KC employees act as mentors to help deliver the HCU programme. 

John Buttrick said: “It was fantastic to see work underway and being able to share the process with the pupils from Sidmouth Primary School was fantastic. KC’s continued support of HCU is enabling us reach more children, develop our programme of modules and for the first time in our history have a city centre base that is designed around the needs of our young people .I can’t wait to see the finished results and see our young people using the space.” 

The Learning Zone will provide HCU with the opportunity to bring many of the young people on its programme into the centre of Hull for the very first time. 

Helen Roberts, KC’s HR Director said: “I am delighted that work has started on the Learning Zone. It’s great to be able to work with John and his team and provide a resource to them that will make such a difference to the young people who take part in the HCU programme. 

“The development of the Learning Zone would not be possible without a fantastic team of employees and contractors who are giving their time and expertise to make the project happen, and I would to thank everyone who has played a part in bringing it to life.”

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Hull & Humber KC Cares launches numeracy scheme

A numeracy scheme for school pupils in Hull has been launched in partnership with accountants PwC.

Rachel Matthews and Richard Foster of PwC, Lynda Hoyle Head Teacher of St Charles Primary School and Samantha Paddison of PwC with pupils.

There were no calculators or spreadsheets in sight as a team from PwC (the international accounting firm)went back to basics to launch a numeracy scheme for school pupils in Hull. 

Hull & Humber KC Cares partner PwC has teamed up with St Charles Primary School to launch the Number Partners scheme in Hull. The 10 week programme provides extra maths help for children aged 7-14 through number games. As well as improving numeracy, the partnership between business volunteers and schools pupils provide young people with additional role models. 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Business Manager, said: “We are delighted to be introducing Number Partners in Hull, not only to help raise numeracy levels across the city, but to introduce more role models from the world of work, to boost confidence and raise aspirations in those children who need it most. I’m hoping more companies will join PWC in supporting children with maths.” 

One of the PwC volunteers, Samantha Paddison, said: “It’s great to be able to use your day to day business skills and knowledge to help local school children. I don’t think businesses are aware that they can use their knowledge and skills to volunteer and help make a massive difference to their local communities.” 

Some of the children taking part in the Number Partners scheme have an advanced knowledge of maths and are ready to progress beyond their classmates, and this is made possible with the help of the business volunteers. 

The project was launched in 1998 to support the National Numeracy Strategy launched by the Government. The strategy aimed to improve standards in maths with the emphasis on children’s ability to calculate maths mentally.  

A consortium of nine businesses including BITC (Business in the Community), Britannia Building Society, HSBC and KPMG, set up the first Number Partners scheme in London. In 2003 the scheme was launched in the Yorkshire and Humber region of BITC, making its way to Hull this year. 

Tessa continued: “In the school year 2009-10, 78 per cent* of 11 year olds who received additional one-to-one tuition in maths achieved Level 4, whereas of those who did not receive additional one-to-one tuition only 49 per cent achieved Level 4. This demonstrates how projects such as Number Partners can have a dramatic effect on our young people’s future success.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, KC Cares Business Manager on (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Jammy prizes for GCSE students

KC’s Helen Roberts (front right kneeling) joins Roll Deep and the Exam Jam winners

An exclusive make-over by the Mark Hill Creative Team, a trip to London with a slap up meal in a posh restaurant, a night in a 5 star hotel and tickets to a film premiere - that is what 16 year old Callum Stone walked away with at the Exam Jam event last Friday - all for doing well in his GCSEs.

Exam Jam 2010 was an exclusive event organised by Hull City Council, KC, Hull Truck and Galaxy for students who were the most improved in their GCSE exams this summer.

Over 200 youngsters earned their chance to be at the event, where Roll Deep performed live and exclusive. 14 young people (one from each secondary school in the city) also took part in a quiz, hosted by Hirsty from Galaxy and each took home a top prize. The four finalists also walked away with a 'money can't buy' prize, including a Ferrari driving experience, an exclusive match-day experience at Hull FC and a day at Galaxy Towers.

Helen Roberts, KC HR Director, said: "It was absolutely fantastic to see so many enthusiastic and excited young people at the event. Each and every one of them has put in an incredible amount of hard work to improve their GCSE grades, resulting in the best ever results for the city. Being able to show them our appreciation made me incredibly proud to be a part of the initiative and the day - it’s so important that we recognise and reward the young people who are the future success of our city."

Exam Jam is part of Hull Challenge, the city's drive to improve education across the city. As part of Hull Challenge the council has set out eight ambitious pledges to achieve by 2012, which include that the majority of young people will leave school with five GCSEs including English and maths. Early indications for this summer's results showed that 42 per cent of youngsters had reached the target, making it Hull's best ever results.

Councillor Christine Randall, Portfolio Holder for Education and Children's Services, said: "Exam Jam was not like anything we've ever done before, it was a way of giving youngsters an extra incentive to do well in their exams and it seems to have been a great success.

"The event was another chance for us to say Well Done and Thank You to all those young people who did their best in their exams. They have done the city proud and I hope that other students can take inspiration from them and continue to improve for years to come.

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KC helps Humberside Police keep communities safe

Humberside Police has teamed up with KC to spread the message about crime prevention.

Left to right: Inspector Mark Coulthard, KC Marketing Campaigns Executive Katie Cobb and PCSO Anna Clark.

Humberside Police has teamed up with KC to inform communities across Hull and the East Riding about the importance of not becoming victims of crime. 

KC has sponsored a number of crime prevention signs, which offer help and advice to local communities in areas which have seen recent criminal activity such as burglaries and theft from cars. 

Inspector Mark Coulthard, Neighbourhood Inspector for Beverley, Driffield and Hornsea areas, who is leading the project said: “I am really pleased that a local, well established and respected company such as KC has agreed to sponsor our crime prevention signs.  The signs will be placed in the community by my officers in areas where they may have been some recent issues to reinforce the message to people to take care of their possessions.  

“Most crimes are committed by opportunist thieves who look for the easy target, unlocked doors or windows, mobile phones or Sat Nav's left in cars.  Working together with the community, local businesses, and the local authorities, we aim to reduce the numbers of victims of crime and make our area, even safer." 

Nick Thompson, Director of Consumer and Publishing Services said: “The safety and welfare of our local communities is paramount and we are delighted that we are working in partnership with Humberside Police to help them continue to keep our communities safe through their crime prevention initiative.” 

For advice on how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of crime please conatct your local neighbourhood team by ringing 0845 6060222 or look on the Humberside Police Website for updated information about where you live.

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Hull FC joins forces with Hull & Humber KC Cares

The Hull & Humber KC Cares partnership has been strengthened thanks to support from Hull FC.

Jon Flatman Hull FC, Tessa Wray KC Cares and Nick Thompson KC

Hull & Humber KC Cares is a business led programme that engages employees in their communities through volunteering. Over the last two years, over 300 volunteers have taken part in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme, resulting in 2298 hours of volunteering for 92 community groups. 

Hull FC recognises the important work Hull & Humber KC Cares members do to help raise the aspirations of young people, tackle employability issues and improve local communities in greatest need. The club has pledged to support Hull & Humber KC Cares by endorsing key activities with player appearances, providing match day tickets for local groups and volunteers and promoting the programme at matches and via their contacts. 

Jon Flatman, Hull FC Community Director,said: “The club has played an integral part in the life of the people of Hull and East Yorkshire since its formation in 1865. Through sport we aim to not only raise awareness of the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle but also increase educational achievement and raise life aspirations. Hull & Humber KC Cares shares our values and we are delighted to be working with them.” 

Cares is the volunteering programme of Business in the Community (BITC), and has a network of more than 350 partner companies across the UK. The work that Cares does contributes to the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda of its members. 

Hull & Humber KC Cares Manager, Tessa Wray said: “It’s fantastic that Hull FC has seen the positive impact that the Cares programme has. Volunteering not only benefits the business involved, but their employees and local communities too. Businesses are an integral part of all of our communities and their success, and it’s important for them to give back for the benefit of their staff, reputation and for the communities they serve.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business and Community Co-ordinator on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

For more information on Hull FC please visit their website.

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KC to help Freedom go with a BANG!

Fireworks at Freedom 2009

This year’s Freedom festival in Hull will end in an explosion of spectacular colour thanks to KC, which is sponsoring the fireworks for the live music, art and dance festival taking place on 10 and 11 September. 

KC is bringing fireworks to Freedom as part of the Business Friend of Freedom scheme: a programme to encourage private sector support of one of the region’s most successful events.  As well as supporting the festival, KC has taken a ‘Gold’ sponsorship package.

Nick Thompson, KC’s Director of Consumer Services, said: “The Freedom festival has established itself as a highlight of the year for Hull, attracting tens of thousands of residents and visitors to the city centre to enjoy world-class entertainment in a fantastic atmosphere.

“KC is delighted to support Freedom by sponsoring the fireworks display taking place on the Saturday night of the festival. Freedom contributed millions of pounds to the local economy last year, as well as creating a feel-good factor for residents. We’re proud to play a part in such a successful event.”

The awe-inspiring display will be launched from Hull College on Wilberforce Drive, 10.30pm on Saturday 11 September.  Expert firework company, Kimbolton Fireworks - who have created displays for high profile events in the past including Hogmanay, Trafalgar 200 and the VJ Day celebrations - will produce the fiery finale.

Councillor John Robinson, Portfolio Holder for Image and Culture said: “The fireworks will draw the crowds together to witness the dazzling display while reflecting on all the fantastic things they have seen at Freedom 2010. We are very grateful to KC for providing this for residents and visitors and for being a Business Friend of Freedom.”

Janet Reuben, Chief Executive of Visit Hull and East Yorkshire, said: “The Freedom fireworks will be a spectacular ending to a wonderful event.  The backing of KC for Freedom is a huge boost, is greatly appreciated and has helped to create what is sure to be an amazing festival.” 

The display will complete an amazing collection of unique art performances, dazzling dance displays and an extravaganza of music. 

It is advised that people who live near to the city centre keep their pets indoors whilst the fireworks display is happening to avoid any distress to the animals.

For more information about the festival visit www.freedomfestival.co.uk , www.facebook.com/freedom2010-hull(official group)  or www.twitter.com/real_yorkshire .

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KC employees get on their bikes for The Stroke Association

Nine KC employees have cycled 85 miles in just one day, to raise money for The Stroke Association.

Members of KC staff prepare to cycle 85 miles for The Stroke Association

The challenge was the idea of Graham Pyrah, KC’s Purchasing Manager, who wanted to do something for the company’s Charity of the Year, The Stroke Association, after his father-in-law suffered a stroke earlier this year. 

Graham said: “Until people are personally touched by a stroke, I don’t think the full effects it has on an individual and their family are realised. Thankfully, my father-in-law is making a slow but steady recovery so I wanted to help raise money for The Stroke Association and the vital research, treatment, support and education work that they do.” 

The idea for the challenge came from one of the first televised national charity Telethons that KC was involved in, which took place in 1988. Employees supported the telethon in a number of ways, including a relay race between exchanges, which Graham also organised. With staff a little older and wiser and with an exchange 22 miles away in Driffield to include, he decided two wheels are better than two feet. 

Members of the charity team’s cycling abilities cover the full spectrum, from cycling commuters to a former member of the Great Britain Triathlon team, however, the majority of the team are novices. The team taking part on the day will be 10-strong in total, following Graham’s recruitment of Arco employee Damian Wright to the cause. 

The team set off from KC’s Civic exchange in Carr Lane at 7am this morning, Tuesday 17 August, and took in Beverley, Bilton, Bransholme, Brough, Cottingham, Driffield, East, Ferriby, Hedon, Hessle, Kirkella, Newland, Northand West exchanges. The team arrived back at the Carr Lane exchange at 5:15pm, and despite looking a little tired and sweaty, they were over the moon to complete the challenge in just 8 hours.

Jess Phillips, Stroke Association Account Manager said: “The KC cycle challenge is fantastic, especially as the idea has come from someone who has experienced the effects a stroke can have on a family member. They know better than anyone how important our work at The Stroke Association is, and without the support of individuals and businesses, we wouldn’t be able to help and support the thousands of people we do each year. 

“KC has been a fantastic corporate partner and have already raised over £25,000 in just five months. I am sure that family, friends and colleagues will dig deep for this cycle challenge, and the sore bums and tight calves will all be worth it.” 

To sponsor the team visit their Just Giving page http://www.justgiving.com/kc-exchange-challenge

For more information on The Stroke Association, including how they support people who have had a stroke and their families please visit www.stroke.org.uk or call their helpline on: 0303 3033 100.

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Business volunteers create science garden for primary school

Business volunteers create science garden for primary school

Volunteers at Give & Gain Day 2010

 

A tyre wormery, bug hotels and a sensory garden were all part of a science garden created for St Charles Primary School by Hull & Humber KC Cares members for Give & Gain Day 2010.

Give & Gain Day is the UK's largest day of action for employee volunteers, managed by Business in the Community (BITC).Members of Hull & Humber KC Cares, which is part of BITC’s volunteering programme, Cares, joined together to create a truly unique and educational garden for the school.

Businesses that donated the time of their employees as volunteers for the project included KC, C Spencer, Veolia, Yorkshire Bank and PricewaterhouseCoopers, with Veolia also donating vital funds for supplies to create the garden. Local suppliers including Travis Perkins and Tyremen also donated equipment and supplies.

Anna Millar, KC Community Relations Manager, was the team leader on the day. She said: “Give & Gain Day is a fantastic way for businesses to join together and work with a community partner to make a real and lasting difference. The school has a great green ethos and was instrumental in developing ideas and plans for the garden to ensure they met the needs of the children.

“I can’t thank the volunteers enough for their hard work – they all did a fantastic job and brought the plans for the garden to life.”

Hull & Humber KC Cares is a business led programme that engages employees in their communities through volunteering. Over the last two years, over 300 volunteers have taken part in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme, resulting in 2298 hours of volunteering for 92 community groups.

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business and Community Co-ordinator on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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KC joins One Hull to bring responsible businesses together

The very best of business collaboration in Hull has been showcased at a special CSR event

From left to right: Dr John Buttrick, Graham Jenkinson, Kath Lavery, Martin Shaw, Helen Roberts and Dan Maher.

The very best of business collaboration in Hull was showcased at a recent special event on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) organised by One Hull, the city’s Local Strategic Partnership. 

The event, ‘Why CSR Matters’, featured speakers from KC, Kier Building Maintenance, D3 Office Group and Jenko Design and Marketing, who spoke about the benefits of supporting the social and economic regeneration of Hull through various CSR initiatives. 

The event offered businesses the chance to network with exhibitors from 20 local organisations offering support and advice on tackling the key issues facing the city, including skills, enterprise and employment. The event was backed by the Leader of Hull City Council, Cllr Carl Minns. 

Helen Roberts, KC’s HR Director, presented the KC in the Community strategy and spoke about KC’s commitment to help inspire young people. She said: “The event was a great opportunity to share our vision and passion with like-minded and enthusiastic businesses and organisations. Giving back to the communities that matter to our customers is imperative, but CSR activities also deliver business benefits for our region, which help the business community to succeed and thrive.” 

Why CSR Matters attracted more than 120 delegates from local businesses and community groups which have the funding, expertise and resources to help businesses implement socially-responsible activity. Attendees were also able to source opportunities to work in partnership with other businesses.

For more information on One Hull please contact Ben Delaney, Project Development Officer, by visiting www.hullbusinessforum.com, calling 01482 324976 or email: b.delaney@hullbusinessforum.com

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Businesses give vital supplies to Hull & Humber women’s refuges

HULL & Humber KC Cares business partners have donated over £1,000 worth of toiletries to refuges

KC, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Yorkshire Bank and Associated British Ports (ABP), partners of Hull & Humber KC Cares, Business in the Community’s (BITC) national volunteering programme, asked their staff to donate toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and shower gel, for the regions three domestic abuse support agencies. 

The refuges, Women’s Aid Hull and Women’s Aid Grimsby provide emergency and ongoing accommodation and support to women who are fleeing domestic violence. They, and their children, often arrive at a refuge with few, or no belongings, and find something as basic as a toiletries pack, a huge benefit.Hull DAP work to provide support for victims of domestic violence and aim to ensure that domestic violence offenders are held accountable for their behaviour. 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Co-ordinator said: “We would like to thank all of our business partners and their employees for their support of this appeal. Toiletries are often taken for granted but, such simple items are gratefully welcomed by the women and children who enter the regions refuges. This collection demonstrates the positive effect that the Hull & Humber KC Cares business partners have, and how important business support is in supporting our local communities.” 

Set up in 1974 Women's Aid is the national domestic violence charity that helps up to 250,000 women and children every year nationwide, working to end violence against women and children who are in difficult situations. The charity offers women and children a safe place, gives them counselling and helps them build a new life away from abuse.

Alex Carling, Children and Young People's Support Worker and Fundraiser at Hull Women's Aid said: “On behalf of the staff, women and children at Hull Women's Aid I would like to say thank you to Hull & Humber KC Cares for their toiletries donation. Throughout the year we rely heavily on the generosity of the local community and businesses to supply the refuge with what are regarded as essentials, for example toiletries and clothes. 

“Quite often, women and children come into the refuge with no belongings due to the circumstances that they vacated their property. Thanks to organisations like Hull & Humber KC Cares, and those that participated in their collection, we are able to supply them with food, toiletries and clothes. Their donation plays a crucial part in part in the service we provide, thank you for your thoughts and kindness.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business and Community Co-ordinator on  (01482) 638610 or email: tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Hull & Humber KC Cares volunteer is region’s best

Hull & Humber KC Cares volunteer is region’s best

John Rotherham

John Rotherham,Business Partner at Yorkshire Bank, was recognised for his exceptional commitment to volunteering through Hull & Humber KC Cares, the regional volunteering programme of Business in the Community (BITC). 

Cares is a network of more than 350 partner companies that address social issues in communities by volunteering their employees' skills and time during business hours. 

John has played an active role with Hull & Humber KC Cares for five years and received his award at BITC Yorkshire and Humber Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner in Bradford. 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Co-ordinator, said: “John has shown huge dedication to the Cares programme. He’s demonstrated his support and enthusiasm towards employee volunteering by taking part in challenges, leading on activities and, importantly, encouraging others to get involved. He even stepped in as Father Christmas for our Cares@Christmas party last year when our Father Christmas became ill” 

Speaking after his award presentation, John said: “I was really shocked and humbled to win the award, as every business and employee that takes part in Cares programmes across the UK do a fantastic job. 

“I enjoy being part of the Hull & Humber KC Cares team. We play a small role in helping to make a positive impact on our communities. None of us would be able to help make a difference if it wasn’t for the support of the companies we work for, it is truly a team effort.” 

This is the second time this year that John has been recognised for his community spirit. As part of Yorkshire Bank’s 150^th birthday celebrations in January, John was recognised for his outstanding contribution towards the bank’s volunteering programme. He was awarded £500 for a charity of his choice, which he donated to Hull & Humber KC Cares. 

Tessa continued: “As a result of John’s hard work, volunteering at Yorkshire Bank’s Hull office has grown over the last year, with more employees volunteering for the first time. Our Right to Read and Employability programmes have proved successful with John’s team, and are an invaluable opportunity for volunteers to take a hands-on approach in their communities.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Co-ordinator on (01482) 638610 or email: tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Friends of Pearson Park launch Wet Woodland

The Friends of Pearson Park identified an area of the park which provided the perfect environment to create a wet woodland. Wet woodlands are damp, shady areas which attract various species of trees, plants and insects. There has been a general loss of wet woodlands in the UK during the last century but their importance is now being recognised nationally.

The creation of the woodland was funded through a Big Lottery Fund Breathing Places grant of £10,000 and developed in partnership with Hull City Council and volunteers fromThe BritishTrust forConservation Volunteers (BTCV).

The Friends wanted the wet woodland to be an educational resource for children and young people, so to help bring it to life they enlisted the expertise of students at Bishop Burton College to create an information board and bark etching plaques. The BA (Hons) Designstudents worked with the Friends to project manage the development of the educational resources, which KC supported financially through its KC Community Grant scheme.

Dr Haris Livas-Dawes, Chair of the Friends of Pearson Park said: “I would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the wet woodland project, it was a perfect partnership between The Friends of Pearson Park, Bishop Burton College, KC and Hull City Council’s tree officers.I was particularly impressed with the professionalism and creative flair of the students and I wish them all the best as they continue with their studies.”

Bishop Burton College Course Manager, Michele Thompson, said: “It is great for the students to be able to work on real projects, not just theoretical examples we give them in the classroom environment. They have worked so well together and the result is great – they should be incredibly impressed with their work.”

The KC community grants of £500, £250 and £150 are awarded each quarter. They are available to local organisations, schools and projects in the Hull and East Riding area.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “We are proud to have played a role in the development of the woodland, it will be great to see visitors enjoying it and learning about the importance of our green spaces. We are committed to improving our environment and giving something back to our local communities that can be enjoyed now and by future generations.”

Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire has only 2.6 per cent woodland cover, which is much less than the national average of 8.4 per cent. 

The aim of The Friends of Pearson Park is to make the park more attractive, enjoyable and educational: a place of social harmony. The land for Pearson Park was bought by and given to the people of Kingston upon Hull by Zachariah Charles Pearson in 1860, when he was the Lord Mayor. The park, which covers 23 acres, was designed by James Craig Niven (1828-81), curator of Hull's Botanic Gardens. Features of the park include a small serpentine lake, a broad carriage drive running around the perimeter, and a Victorian-style conservatory (rebuilt in 1930), all set in well-maintained grounds with plenty of trees and shrubs. 

For more information on the Friends of Pearson Park please visit: www.friendsofpearsonpark.co.uk

To apply for one of the KC Community Grants visit  apply online or contact Anna Millar for an application form by calling 01482 602831 or by emailing anna.millar@kcom.com

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KC makes connections at BizWeek

Communications provider KC made the most of Humber Business Week to connect with businesses across the region. 

As well as attracting plenty of attention with its World Cup-themed presence at the Chamber Expo and through hosting the popular ‘Stand out from the crowd’ event at Hull Truck Theatre, KC was also the lead sponsor of Business Week’s flagship event, the Yorkshire International Business Convention. 

The convention attracted more than 600 delegates who were entertained and inspired throughout the day by headline speaker Sir David Frost, business guru Rene Carayol and Ultimo lingerie founder and entrepreneur Michelle Mone. 

The event provided the ideal opportunity for KC to launch its new brand identity to the region’s business community. 

Delegates were able to use the hot desks in KC’s ‘virtual lounge’ to stay in touch with the office and could also trial the latest technology products from KC – including KC Cloud, Email Protect and SMART Numbers.

 Mark Conway, KC’s Director of Business Services, said: “We’re delighted to have had the opportunity to support Humber Business Week. 

“It provides a vital focus on regeneration and entrepreneurship for the region, and the events that took place this year provided motivation and practical advice to businesses of all sizes and types. 

“We were particularly proud to be the lead sponsor of the Yorkshire International Business Convention, a world-class event that I’m sure delegates will remember and draw inspiration from for years to come.”

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Business community inspired to make connections at Humber Business Week event

Business community inspired to make connections at Humber Business Week event

At the ‘Stand out from the crowd’ event at Hull Truck Theatre on Thursday – hosted by communications provider KC and Gosschalks Solicitors – business guru Nicky Pattinson shared the secrets of business success with representatives from local firms that included beauty therapists, designers, estate agents and construction companies. 

Her message – that by unlocking the aspects of your personality that can help you make powerful connections with others you can attract new business without the need for ‘hard selling’ – hit home with attendees. 

Amongst the local business people who attended was James Rule, Chief Executive of Hull FC. He said: “The event was fantastic and Nicky was an inspiring speaker. I picked up lots of tips that I’ll be putting into practice and judging by the reaction of other people who attended, they’ll be doing the same. 

“Local organisations really benefit from this type of event and the fact that it was completely free meant it was accessible to businesses of all types and sizes.” 

Nicky, who has helped companies of all types and sizes across the UK and internationally to increase their sales, said: “It was clear from the buzz in the room during and after the event that business people in the region are hungry to grow their businesses and make them more successful. 

“It was a privilege to share my experience with such a motivated audience. Great businesses are all about people, and I hope I’ve encouraged everyone who attended to make the most of their unique personalities to achieve greater business and personal success.” 

KC and Gosschalks are planning further events where local businesses can benefit from Nicky Pattinson’s advice. To register your interest in attending, just email Shirin Zandi at: shirin.zandi@kcom.com.

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Hull & Humber KC Cares volunteers transform community building

Hull & Humber KC Cares volunteers transform community building

Volunteers from KC, Yorkshire Bank and PricewaterhouseCoopers, along with staff from Business in the Community (BITC), put rollers, paint brushes and emulsion to good use, transforming tired facilities used by The Maxlife Youth Project. 

The Project, based at Kingston Wesley Methodist Church on Holderness Road, aims to help young people reach their potential by providing out of school support. It started out with a drop-in for young people hanging about in the local area with nothing to do and today over 30 young people now regularly attend the Project. It offers after school activities, including music rehearsal and tuition sessions, a drop-in youth club, sporting activities, cooking and IT. 

To see the team in full make over action please visit You Tube.

Amanda Gibbs, Maxlife Youth Project Manager, said: “We depend on grants and donations for all our funding, and as hard as we try the money can’t always cover our wish list of projects. For a long time this has included the redecoration of the space the church provide us. The volunteers worked incredibly hard to transform five rooms, which will make such a difference to the young people’s environment.  I can’t thank them enough.” 

Tessa Wray, Hull & Humber KC Cares Co-ordinator said: “Our Operations Team, which is made up of representatives from each of our business partners, wanted to take on acollaborative challenge to bring all the businesses together. When Amanda approached me it sounded like the perfect project for the partners. Eleven volunteers gave seventy seven hours to the challenge, which is a fantastic team effort.” 

BITC and KC have recently announced a groundbreaking partnership between the communications provider and Cares, Business in the Community’s (BITC) national volunteering programme, to strengthen and develop their presence in the Hull & Humber region. 

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “I would like to thank all of the Hull & Humber KC Cares business partners who volunteered to take part in the Maxlife Youth Project challenge. The Cares programme offers businesses and their staff the chance to make a real difference to their local communities through a variety of volunteering opportunities. Our business has seen the rewards of being involved in the programme, and we want other businesses to do the same.” 

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business and Community Co-ordinator on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

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Business in the community

KC leads the way with BITC to support local communities

KC  has partnered with Cares, the volunteering programme of Business in the Community (BITC), to strengthen and develop their presence in the Hull & Humber region.

Cares is a network of more than 350 partner companies throughout the UK that address social issues in communities by volunteering their employees' skills and time during business hours.

Hull & Humber KC Cares is the name of the groundbreaking partnership between BITC and KC, designed to build upon the success already achieved by the programme’s business partners through employee volunteering.

Liz Needleman, Regional Director of BITC said: “Cares offers well-established expertise in employee engagement that delivers benefits for companies, employees and communities. In addition to providing a brokerage service for high-quality volunteering opportunities, Cares also campaigns nationally to increase the impact of employee volunteering in communities of greatest need and to address social issues including education, employability and economic renewal.”

Over the last two years, over 300 volunteers have taken part in the Hull & Humber Cares programme, resulting in 2298 hours of volunteering for 92 community groups.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “We have been working with the Cares team for three years and are delighted to be increasing our support and developing our partnership. One of our aims is to use our business resources and contacts to engage with other businesses to highlight the programme and how they can get involved.

“We are proud to work with a wide variety of community groups throughout the region and want other businesses to reap the business benefits and the personal development opportunities the Cares programme offers staff, which will ultimately benefit businesses.”

Yorkshire Bank is a supporter of the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme. John Rotherham, Business Partner said:"Yorkshire Bank is committed to supporting Hull & Humber KC Cares and has been a supporter for many years.  We encourage our employees to actively participate in their local communities and being part of Cares is an excellent way to help make this happen. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Cares in the future."

Cares works with various community groups across the region including the Ings Resource Centre, East Hull. Sue Wicks, Development Worker from the Centre said: “After many years of working in partnership with Hull & Humber Cares one of the things I look forward to every year is the Cares at Christmas party, which I have taken over 150 young people to, from all walks of life.

“The businesses that organise and run this event are dedicated to giving time effort and energy to an amazing and fun party. A lot of the young people don’t have the chance to get gifts at Christmas and are absolutely amazed when they get a present, selection box and much more. I love to see their faces light up when Santa gives them their gifts. One of the most talked about things after the event is getting the chance to meet the mascots and some of the players from the sports teams in Hull. All I can say is the kids have a ball and the parents are blown away by the generosity of the businesses in Hull”.

To find out more about how to get involved in the Hull & Humber KC Cares programme please call Tessa Wray, Business and Community Co-ordinator on  (01482) 638610 or email:  tessa.wray@bitc.org.uk

For more information about KC please call Anna Millar, Community Relations Manager on (01482) 602831 or email: anna.millar@kcom.com

Notes to Editor

Business in the Community

Business in the Communitymobilises business for good.

Our approach to responsible business provides a clear framework to support and challenge business to improve its performance & benefit society through its four areas of expertise – community, environment, workplace andmarketplace.

We inspire employers to take action on the key issues - be they people or planet - and to integrate, collaborate and communicate responsible business.

Business in the Community is proud to have United Utilities as our Company of the Year 2009-2010.www.bitc.org.uk

KC

KC is proud to provide telephone and internet services to customers throughout Hull and East Yorkshire. During its 105 year history, it has consistently been at the forefront of communications, achieving many milestones along the way including its famous untimed local calls, the creation of the original classified directory and being one of the founding UK providers of broadband internet.

Today, we maintain our focus on leading the way. KC is now the only telecoms provider offering inclusive local calls in all its telephone packages and according to independent testing carried out by Epitero and broadbandchoices.co.uk, Karoo, our internet service for consumers, tops the fastest speeds of any other UK broadband provider.

Our employees are committed to not only providing the highest quality of service but also to reaching out to the communities where they live and work to provide practical and financial support to a range of organisations and charities.

KC is an active member of a number of community and regeneration bodies including Hull Cares, Business in the Community, Cat.Zero, ONE Hull, Children’s University and the Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce.

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Tree O’clock

KC employees sow the seeds for future generations and set a world record in the process

 Working in partnership with HEYwoods, an environmental initiative which aims to increase woodland cover in Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire, KC provided the funding to plant a total of 1000 native trees at the Bransholme Community Woodland in East Hull on Saturday 5 December.

Staff from the sales and marketing teams took part in the challenge as part of national tree  week. The aim of the mass tree planting was to increase woodland coverage to create habitats for wildlife, improve the overall look of the local communities, help the environment, and hopefully break a world record in the process.

Kevin Walsh, KC Managing Director said: “The ‘Tree O’ Clock’ project is a great initiative as it increases woodland cover and also involves the local communities in the development and care of their environment. The work of HEYwoods and its partners is helping communities secure a positive and sustainable future for Hull and the East Riding, whilst at the same time empowering the next generation to embrace their local environment and care for it.”

The HEYwoods initiative aims to increase woodland cover and to improve the management of existing trees, woods and associated habitats in the city of Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire (East Riding). Hull and the East Riding has only 2.6 per cent woodland cover and this is dramatically less than the national average of 8.4 per cent.

Stephen Robinson, HEYwoods Partnership Manager said: “We would like to thank KC, the Bransholme Community Woodland and all the volunteers who took part in ‘Tree O’ Clock’. Evidence is being collected from projects across the UK to see if the tree planting record has been broken, fingers crossed. Such projects enhance and improve the local environment, which is of great value to the surrounding community, the city and the region as a whole.”

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Sid Factor Success

SidFactor a success with help of KC

 The concert, which was held at the KC stadium, was the finale of over three months of hard work by pupils who are taking part in the Hull Ready ‘Make £5 Blossom’ campaign.

The campaign partners a school with a local business that helps nurture a business idea that the pupils come up with. KC sponsored each pupil £5 to cover the setting up costs of the business venture as a loan, which is paid back after the project is complete. The profits are kept by the school to reinvest in a project of their choice.

The scheme concentrates on the 13 key skills needed within a business environment such as team work, effective communication, creativity and innovation and positive attitude, to name a few. All the children have taken a role in organising the event including designing and selling tickets, printing t-shirts, event production and performing on stage.

The children were mentored by KC Marketing Manager Shirin Zandi. She has supported the children throughout the development of their business venture. She said: “The children working on the SidFactor have blown me away with their enthusiasm, ideas and willingness to learn. They have show great creativity and I hope that they have come away with a new found confidence in their ability to turn their ideas into reality. The concert itself was a huge success and it was a joy to be part of it.

“Make £5 Blossom is a fantastic way for businesses to make a real difference in their local community, it’s not just the children who have learnt a lot from this process, I have taken skills away with me too and would urge other businesses to get involved.”

Hull Ready and the ‘Make £5 Blossom’ initiative are run by Hull Youth Enterprise, which encourages children and young people up to the age of 19 and businesses to work in partnership to create and facilitate opportunities to widen the entrepreneurial spirit of Hull.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “To ensure the continued success and regeneration of our region, it is imperative that we, as the business community, encourage and support the entrepreneurial spirit of future generations. Initiatives such as ‘Make £5 Blossom’ introduce business and commerce into education from an early age, and make it both fun and engaging.  We are proud to be involved with this initiative to inspire the young talent we have in the region.”

Keren Garnett, Assistant Head Teacher at Sidmouth Primary School said: “As a school we are constantly embracing and encouraging the talents and interests of our young people and the Make £5 Blossom campaign is a great way to do this. The young people who took part  are very musical and decided they would like to put on a concert, which allowed them all to be involved, which is very important.

“The collaboration between KC and the young people has been great. The young people were so excited about the concert, especially when Shirin told them it would be held at the KC stadium.”

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Cat Zero placement

KC gives enthusiastic Cat Zero student a helping hand

 As part of his Cat Zero experience, Chris Toyon, 20 from East Hull joined the team at KC for a three day placement in November, working in the product development team. During his short time at the company, Chris showed a number of valuable skills and, when a three month placement came up, Chris was given the opportunity to develop his skills further.

KC joined the Cat Zero programme as a business partner when it launched in 2009 and helps deliver the programme by providing mentors and three day work placements.

The not for profit organisation is focused on creating opportunities for young adults aged 17-19 living in Hull and who are not currently in education, employment or training.

The programme aims to help the young people develop their skills and prepare them for the work environment. Participants take part in challenging educational and personal development programmes, which use sailing as a focal point. The experience is designed to motivate and bring about attitudinal change.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive said: “Chris is a great example of how young people can thrive and flourish in a working environment when they are given the right opportunities.  We are proud to be part of the Cat Zero scheme and the work it is doing to help the young people in our region to reach their full potential.”

The programme has achieved a 77 per cent success rate in its first year.

Chris Toyon, Trainee Customer Services Advisor at KC said: “I was so pleased to be offered a placement at KC and I am really enjoying it. I am currently learning how to handle customer calls alongside another member of staff and I hope that at the end of my placement I will have impressed the customer service team and learnt lots of new skills.

“Before I began the Cat Zero programme I was unemployed and when I saw the posters advertising the scheme I thought it would give me some more qualifications and enhance my CV. I have gained much more from the experience than I thought I would and the opportunities it has given me are going to provide me with the best chance of gaining full time employment.”

Jim Dick, Chairman of Cat Zero said: “Cat Zero wouldn’t be able to make such a difference to the lives of the young people in the programme without the fantastic support from businesses such as KC. I would like to thank them for offering Chris the opportunity to gain further work experience, which is a credit to his hard work and determination to succeed.”

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Hull Children’s University

Hull Children’s University partners with KC to inspire region’s young people

School children attending the Hull Children’s University will benefit from inspirational lessons in communications at a bespoke learning facility, thanks to a unique partnership with KC.

KC is supporting the work of the Children’s University by creating a city-centre learning base that will bring many of the young students into the centre of Hull for the very first time.

John Buttrick, Hull Children’s University founder and manager says: “The collaboration with KC will enable us to reach more children, develop our programme of modules and for the first time in our history have a city centre base that is designed around the needs of our young people.

“I can’t thank Kevin and the whole KC team enough. They have shown tremendous commitment to the future of the region’s young people. Their financial contribution supports the sustainability of theorganisation,which will hopefully lead to the involvement of more of the city’s young people.”

As well as creating a learning facility, KC is funding a full time role within Children’s University to help deliver their programme of modules. Many of KC’s employees have also volunteered to be mentors, working with the children and delivering expert tuition and support.

Kevin Walsh, KC Chief Executive says: “The work that Hull Children’s University does to inspire and engage young people is vitally important to increase the learning and personal aspirations of our region’s next generation. KC is incredibly proud to be working with the Children’s University, helping John expand his team to enable many more children to benefit from his inspirational programme.”

Kevin continues: “We had a fantastic response from across KC with people wanting to get involved in both mentoring and working behind the scenes to ensure the dedicated KC Hull Children’s University Learning Zone meets the needs of the young people. We are very excited about the partnership and hope that our new KC module is one of the most exciting yet.” 

The Children’s University’s model was established in Hull in 1997 and has now been rolled out across the UK. Having fun and learning away from the classroom and local community are high on its agenda as it aims to broaden a young person’s outlook and experience of life. The University also aims to raise levels of achievement and to develop a young person’s love and thirst for learning.

The valuable work undertaken by John Buttrick, and the Hull Childrens University, featured in an episode of Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire programme filmed in Hull last year.

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Colouring Hull green

HEYwoods and KC join forces in tree planting projects

HEYwoods and KC have teamed up to make a big difference to Hull’s environment and its local communities.

Around 2,000 new trees have been planted in and around Hull during 2009.

Nick Thompson, Director of Consumer Services at said “Our partnership with HEYwoods is an important part of our commitment to the people of Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire in that we are working together to help improve our environment and give year round pleasure now and for future generations.”

Stephen Robinson, HEYwoods Partnership Manager said “Not only does new tree planting enhance our local environment, the range of organisations involved and the role of community volunteers makes this type of project especially valuable to our area. We thank Kingston Communications for their contribution to this important work.”

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Hull & Humber Cares Christmas Party

Hull & Humber Cares spreads Christmas cheer

Employees from PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC) and Kingston Communications (KC) worked in partnership with the local organisation to organise the annual party for 100 children.

Children were entertained by DJ Scottie from start to finish, with music and party games. Magic James the magician, face painters and a visit from Hull FC mascot Airlie Bird and Hull City mascot Roary the Tiger helped to create a party atmosphere.

And it didn’t end there. The children and young people were in for an extra special treat when Father Christmas made a surprise appearance, giving each child a gift. And at the end of the party, each child received a selection box kindly donated by Orchards Fruits.

The party took on a new format this year to make the best use of resources in the light of the recession asTessa Wray, Hull & Humber Cares Business Coordinator explains, “The economic climate meant that we have to be a little more creative this year with the limited funds we had. Our business partners were superb in rallying staff to fill shoe boxes for presents and we had fantastic support from local businesses to help us with party essentials.

“Everyone who attended the party had a fantastic day and from the whole Cares team I would like to express my thanks to all involved for making the party such a success.”

The day wouldn’t have been possible without kind donations from local businesses and organisations including; Gilly’s Balloons, The Hull and East Riding Children’s Trust, Reckitt Benckiser, East Hull Employability and Enterprise Hub, West Pile, and Boyes.

Hull & Humber Cares business partners who supported the event included KC, Chem-Dry UK, Yorkshire Bank, Associated British Ports (ABP) and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC)

Business Partner John Rotherham, from Yorkshire Bank said:  “The Christmas party was a great opportunity for us to be able to support the children within the local community we serve, and provide them with a great start to the festive season. We are thoroughly looking forward to working with Hull & Humber Cares in 2010, continuing to make a positive impact in our region.”

Hull & Humber Cares is Business in the Community’s national employee volunteering programme. Cares engages companies and its employees in their communities, through a diverse range of volunteering opportunities, to address varying social issues, with a focus on education, employability, economic renewal and the environment.

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