Category: Business

The Mitie Business Boost has reached an exciting milestone, as three outstanding finalists have been awarded £10,000 each to accelerate their business growth. Cumberland Flower Farm, Executive Electric Cars Cumbria and Lakeland Life emerged as the top winners in a competitive final, demonstrating strong business strategies and a commitment to sustainability.

This year, Mitie partnered with the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) and OneAIM who joined forces to bring investment (£10,000 each) as well as their expertise to support the programme and the businesses that signed up.

With continued support from Sellafield Ltd. collaboration has played a crucial role in ensuring the initiative delivers real, lasting impact for West Cumbrian enterprises.

Now in its second year, the Mitie Business Boost programme is designed to empower West Cumbrian start-ups, entrepreneurs and SMEs by providing expert-led workshops, mentorship and crucial funding to drive sustainable development. This year’s final showcased the remarkable talent and ambition within the region, with six businesses competing for the investment.

The six finalists who made it to the final round were:

• Cumberland Flower Farm (Winner)
• Executive Electric Cars Cumbria (Winner)
• Lakeland Life (Winner)
• Wild Wool Barn
• Dosa Chaska
• Campion Creative

Participants benefitted from expert-led workshops and one-on-one mentorship to refine their business strategies and sustainability commitments. The workshops covered essential areas such as environmental impact, social value and financial sustainability, equipping participants with practical skills to develop strong business plans.

Finalists also received personalised coaching, business plan reviews delivered by Complete Business Advisory Solutions Ltd and Realise HR, and professional videography by Adamedia to enhance their brand presence and prepare for the final pitch.

The entire final event was hosted at the stunning grounds of Muncaster Castle. On 13th February, the finalists delivered compelling pitches to an expert judging panel: Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH; Gina Goulding, owner of Bakes By Gina, last year’s competition winner; Parth Metha, Director Zero Carbon Consultant, Mitie; Paul Fletcher, Group Director at Amentum and OneAIM executive board chair; and Lindsay Gray, Managing Director of Natterjack Marketing.

Each highlighted their growth strategies, sustainability commitments and how the £10,000 investment would transform their businesses. The evening concluded with a special celebration at Muncaster Castle, where the winners were officially announced and celebrated.

The Mitie Business Boost continues to be a catalyst for innovation and sustainability in West Cumbria. Through tailored support and funding, the programme is enabling businesses to scale up, create jobs and contribute positively to the local economy.

Everyone involved in the Mitie Business Boost is incredibly proud of all the participants and look forward to seeing how their businesses evolve in the coming months. Congratulations to Cumberland Flower Farm, Executive Electric Cars Cumbria, and Lakeland Life on their well-deserved success.

Paul Fletcher Group Director at Amentum and OneAIM executive board chair, said: “OneAIM were proud to be involved in the Business Boost programme for 2025. It was a privilege to be a part of the judging panel and at the same time challenging to differentiate between a diverse range of businesses.

“At OneAIM we firmly believe in not reinventing wheels and that as businesses we are stronger collectively – supporting the Business Boost was a no brainier as it aligns with our beliefs and objectives to foster a thriving, diverse and sustainable economy.’’

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of the Industrial Solutions Hub, said: “This is an exciting programme to have been involved in and I was delighted to have seen the vision, talent and ambition of each of the finalists. The iSH criteria was around business growth and each of the companies demonstrated that.

“Our congratulations go to the three Business Boost winners this year. The prize provides a truly valuable package of support which has the potential to help them to move towards the growth they are striving to achieve, resulting in a stronger, more diverse economy for the region overall.”

ENDS

Notes to editors 

Finalist, Business Overview:

• Harriet Smithson, Cumberland Flower Farm – A sustainable flower farm growing seasonal, locally sourced West Cumbrian blooms for bouquets, events, and floral workshops.
• Molly Campion & Emily Birstonas, Campion Creative – Creative communications – specialising in branding, digital marketing, and bespoke visual content for businesses.
• Aaron Groggins, Lakeland Life CIC – Social enterprise dedicated to organising community events across North & West Cumbria supporting wellbeing and social inclusion through creative and outdoor experiences.
• Sachin Mishra, Dosa Chaska – A vibrant food business bringing authentic South Indian flavours to West Cumbria with freshly made Dosas and traditional dishes.
• Susan Denham-Smith, Wild Wool Barn – A remote, off-grid retreat in the Western Lake District offering unique stays and outdoor experiences surrounded by nature.
• Neil Schofield, Electric Executive Cars Cumbria – A premium, eco-friendly transport service including luxury chauffeur-driven electric vehicles based in West Cumbria.

About Mitie

Founded in 1987, Mitie’s job is to look after places where Britain works, and it is the leading facilities management and transformation company in the UK. We offer a range of services to the public sector through our Central Government & Defence and Communities (Local Government & Education, Healthcare and Care & Custody) divisions. Our Technical Services (Engineering Services) and Business Services (Security, Cleaning, Landscapes, Spain and Waste) divisions serve private sector customers in areas such as Financial & Professional Services, Industrials, Retail and Transport, and increasingly the public sector.

Mitie employs 65,000 people. We take care of our customers’ people and buildings, through the ‘Science of Service’, and we are transforming facilities to be more flexible, safe, sustainable, and attractive to all. Mitie continues to execute its technology-led strategy and in the past twelve months has received multiple awards and validation for its ambitious near and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Find out more at www.mitie.com

About OneAIM

OneAIM (a joint venture between Amentum and Mitie) is responsible for delivering the multi-disciplined Integrated Asset Care Framework (IAC) with delivery partners Sellafield Ltd. Both partners are established across the Sellafield site demonstrating a shared ethos of high-quality, high-integrity delivery with an excellent safety culture, and fostering strong community links. IAC promotes a collaborative structure, supporting successful and effective delivery of work at the site, ensuring continued project and task delivery across the three work stream categories of Jobs, Tasks and Projects. More information can be found at www.one-aim.co.uk

About iSH

iSH (Industrial Solutions Hub) delivers programmes that build on West Cumbria’s nuclear heritage, expanding its technical capability, developing a regional industrial cluster and showcasing it to the world.

The iSH Enterprise Campus (iEC) at Cleator Moor, Cumbria will include a solutions hub where businesses in the region will be able to collaborate and work with other specialist companies from around the UK and the rest of the world.

iSH is supported in its activity by funding from Cleator Moor Town Deal Board which, working with Copeland Borough Council, secured £22.5 million from the Government’s £3.6 billion Towns Fund initiative in 2022.

AN event to connect local businesses and suppliers with opportunities linked to the development of a state-of-the-art enterprise campus for West Cumbria has taken place.

The Meet the Buyer session – organised by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH), Cumberland Council and Morgan Sindall – highlighted a long-term commitment to engage nearby businesses with the construction programme for the iSH Enterprise Campus, at Leconfield Estate, in Cleator Moor.

Plans for the development of the building, as well as its associated timelines, were shared with those attending on Monday, November 11, while the areas of capability and skills still required were also revealed.

Suppliers were then invited to talk to team members at Morgan Sindall about the process of joining the supply chain with advice and help on hand to guide people through the steps involved. It is hoped social enterprises will also become part of the delivery programme to help amplify its social impact and value.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “We want to make sure local firms are aware of the opportunities that exist in the construction and development of the Enterprise Campus building itself, to leverage fully the social and economic value the programme is able to provide.

“Seeing so many firms represented at this event is excellent and shows the ambition and energy that exists in every sector in West Cumbria. I hope as many as possible follow the process to become part of the supply chain.”

Cleator Moor Town Deal is working with Cumberland Council to deliver the Enterprise Campus at Leconfield as part of a £50 million economic regeneration initiative led by Cumberland Council with funding and support from the Government through Cleator Moor Town Deal and Levelling Up programmes. Additional funding has been provided by strategic partners including the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield Ltd and Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership.

Once completed, the Enterprise Campus will form part of a wider regeneration programme being delivered across West Cumbria by iSH which is focused on the delivery of economic growth opportunities around robotics, AI and advanced engineering and manufacturing.

Councillor Mark Fryer, the Leader of Cumberland Council, said: “This is an exciting project that will harness a wide range of benefits and opportunities for the area going forward.

“I’m very proud that the project has reached the stage where local firms and suppliers with the expertise and skills required can step forward to play a part in its construction – and events like this play a crucial part in making that happen.”

NEW members have joined the board of directors for the Industrial Solutions Hub as the organisation drives forward its mission for growth and cluster development in West Cumbria.

iSH, based in Cleator Moor, has welcomed two directors who bring a wealth of expertise in the nuclear sector and the region’s supply chain in the form of Paul Fletcher, Group Director at Amentum NDA Solutions, and Gary Dixon, Head of Asset Management for Sellafield Ltd.

Paul, who has 40 years of experience in the nuclear industry, has held senior positions with Amentum including as technical director specialising in industrial automation.

He replaces Andy White, Vice President and General Manager of Energy Security and Technology International at Jacobs, on the iSH board.

“I was delighted to be invited to join the iSH board of directors and very pleased to accept,” said Paul, who has been a Cumberland resident for three decades.

“iSH is an important development and concept for the community and its included businesses. I hope I can contribute to its continued growth and success.”

Gary Dixon is a Chartered Engineer with 31 years of experience in the nuclear industry. A Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), he currently serves as Head of Asset Management for Sellafield Ltd as it drives innovation and leads efforts to optimise the performance of longevity of critical infrastructure on site.

Gary, who is from West Cumbria, is passionate about supporting and developing the local economy. He said: “I am honoured to join the ISH board and look forward to collaborating with such a talented group of people.

“Together, we will work to drive innovation, foster growth and make a meaningful impact on the future of our local community.”

iSH is working to bring together the skills, expertise and talent that exists throughout West Cumbria – both within Sellafield Ltd and the unique supply chain that is thriving across the area – to create a pioneering problem-solving environment in robotics, AI, advanced engineering and manufacturing on both the national and international stage.

Attracting the highest calibre of talent to the board of directors is key to maintaining the momentum towards delivery of its goals. These include the establishment of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster, further clusters and the creation of the iSH Enterprise Campus at Leconfield which will bring organisations, the community and academia together in a purpose-built space.

Darren Crossley, Chair of the Board at iSH and Director of Place, Sustainable Growth and Transport at Cumberland Council, said: “We have been very fortunate to attract extremely skilled and experienced directors to our board from the start – people who are helping the organisation to make a significant impact on its work to secure lasting benefits for the region.

“Our thanks go to Andy White for the time, energy and expertise he has generously provided to iSH as a board member. We look forward to working with Paul and Gary as we establish regional industrial clusters to showcase the unique capabilities of our people, communities and businesses to the world.”

A MAJOR milestone in community sustainability was celebrated as young people were honoured for their pivotal role in the successful completion of an innovative ‘Greener than Green’ project which helped secure the future of their local football club.
The celebration event, held at Cleator Moor Celtic Club, brought together key partners, community members, and young innovators to commemorate the project’s achievements.
The ‘Greener than Green’ project, a collaboration between the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH), Co-Lab Engineering, and Cleator Moor Celtic, challenged young people to develop a sustainable solution to help secure the future of the much-loved community sports group.
Faced with rising energy costs and an uncertain economic climate, the club, which has over 400 members aged between six and 60, aimed to halve their energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
With support from iSH, Co-Lab Engineering and help from a range of organisations including Jacobs, Westinghouse, React, Technology Consortia Ltd, Radiance Renewable Energy Solutions and other local contractors including JT Atkinson and Travis Perkins, 15 young members of Cleator Moor Celtic, aged between 12 and 14, spent last year’s half term holiday working together to research and develop ideas that would enable the club to become more sustainable.
One year on, the solution has been delivered, thanks to funding from Sellafield Ltd and Electricity North West, and the installation of new solar panels was unveiled at the event in front of local figureheads, including Euan Hutton, Chief Executive Officer at Sellafield Ltd.
The renewable energy generated will help sustain the club for future generations and support the club’s growth by reducing its energy costs.
The celebration of the ‘Greener than Green’ project showcased the successful collaboration between key partners and underscored the impact of empowering local young people to tackle real-world challenges. It showed how collaboration and innovation can drive
meaningful change for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, who led the event, said: “We’re delighted to celebrate this project coming to fruition – a real partnership between Cleator Moor Celtic and the local business community. It is an important local organisation that provides sporting and social opportunities for the community and involving the club’s young members has been a huge success, a real legacy for them and the club.
“iSH is all about collaboration and enhancing the capability of those around us – in education, business or community.
“This project has enabled local young people to gain experiences that they can add to their portfolios, CVs and talk about at future interviews for apprenticeships or other employment opportunities.
“Their hard work is really going to make a difference to the community as well as getting exposure to industry – and that sets them apart when it comes to applying for jobs further down the line.”

Euan Hutton, CEO of Sellafield Ltd, praised the young people who took part in the project for giving up their school holidays to achieve an impressive, innovative and sustainable outcome for a much-loved and important community sports club, while at the same time gaining new skills which will help in job interviews and their future careers.
Euan said: “Sellafield is all about innovation – first-of-kind and one-of-a-kind innovation which is turned into repeatable operations.
“We are always onto the next new thing and the next exciting challenge, such as the RAICo collaboration with all our different robots and training our people how to operate them.
“Buildings we are building at Sellafield today, the people who will operate them have not started their GCSEs yet, and the buildings we are planning to build, the parents of the people who will operate them have not even met yet.
“So we have lots of cool jobs in robotics and other areas of Sellafield and the supply chain, but we also need a sustainable community to support those jobs, because the people who will do those jobs want to have cool places to be and cool places to live and that includes
having a good, sustainable, inclusive sports club like this.
“The fact that the young people here tonight have achieved this, saving their local football club money with a renewable, sustainable solution, delivered as part of an innovative project with the help of funders and the support of the supply chain, fills me with hope for the future.”
When asked by Euan to sum up in one word what they had gained from the project, the young people involved, who all received certificates on the night, said the “knowledge, experience, teamwork, engineering, and resilience” they had gained would stand them in
good stead for future employment opportunities.
Twin sisters Sofia and Lilly Murphy were among those who took part in the initiative. Sofia said: “I was really excited to be involved in the project and I enjoyed learning new engineering skills.” Lilly said: “Learning about different renewable technologies was a great
experience and I’m pleased the solar panels will help the Celtic club reduce costs.”

Cleator Moor Celtic Club chairman Neil Grears, who spoke at the event, said: “Thanks to everyone for getting this project, which is all about sustainability, self-sufficiency and using natural resources, over the line – to the funders Sellafield Ltd and Electricity North West and
everyone involved, it means an awfully great deal to a non-profit organisation like us. I can’t thank you all enough.”
Peter Hodgson, also from Cleator Moor Celtic, who has supported the project from the outset, hopes the outcome will bring a sense of pride and belonging to all involved, and all those who use the club.
He said: “The Greener than Green challenge was about how we can make sure the club can survive not only the cost of living crisis, but become sustainable for the community well into the future.
“iSH supported the project to get young people to consider a career in engineering, and some of those involved would have never previously thought of a career in the field. It allowed them to see what the industry is all about, and gave them the chance to work with
some young engineers from our community.
“I believe the project has given these young people a new-found confidence, and something valuable to talk about in future interviews.
“The next stage was brilliant, iSH worked with us to connect with Sellafield Ltd and Electricity North West, ensuring that the solar panel idea could become a reality. Sellafield’s funding highlights their commitment to the local community and sustainability, for which we are very grateful.
“Special recognition also goes to Clyne Albertelli and Co-Lab. As a native Cleator Moor lad, he played a vital role, and we extend our thanks to him and Co-Lab.”
Clyne, founder of Co-Lab Engineering, said: “As a local, giving back to my community and inspiring the next generation align with the purpose I set for myself and for Co-Lab.
“Delivering this initiative has highlighted a powerful way to connect education, sustainability, and community pride; I know that this is just the beginning.”
Closing the event, Gary said: “It’s inspiring to see what has been achieved here. Sports clubs like this are at the heart of our community and sustainability is the heart of everything for Sellafield, iSH and the wider community. There’s a passion for this town and this area,
there’s investment, Leconfield is buzzing, Cleator Moor is buzzing, so let’s all get our shoulder behind the wheel and build an even brighter future.”

ROBOTICS is fast becoming a go-to for nuclear decommissioning advances and today marks the launch of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster, an ambitious initiative powered by the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) to harness and expand the region’s renowned capabilities in cutting-edge engineering and problem-solving. 

Launched at the Harnessing Robotics and AI for Challenging Environments (HRAICE) event at Energus in Workington, this cluster will bring organisations with a shared vision together to elevate Cumbria as a globally recognised centre of excellence in the field of robotics engineering.

Founded in March 2024, the Cumbria Robotics Cluster aims to deliver substantial social and economic benefits to Cumbria by fostering growth in the robotics sector through collaborative innovation and knowledge-sharing. Members and collaborators include Sellafield Ltd, Robotics and AI Collaboration (RAICo), the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, and both large and small supply chain companies.

The cluster is set to play a crucial role in developing advanced robotics technologies and skills that address industrial challenges, particularly in the nuclear industry and other harsh environments.

Gary McKeating, Managing Director of iSH, said: “The formation of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster is a strategic step towards consolidating Cumbria’s position as a leader in high-tech engineering solutions. By linking together the expertise of our region’s top firms, we are not only aiming to tackle some of the most pressing industrial challenges through robotics but also to spark inclusive economic growth and attract further investment into our community.”

The HRAICE event was an opportunity for iSH to start gathering data for the cluster to build on. All delegates were asked to fill out a survey which provided a baseline of the current robotics capability in the area. This baseline was used as part of an iSH facilitated workshop at the event to start to map out where Cumbria capability sits within the broader national and international robotics scene.

Kirsty Hewitson, Director of RAICo, added: “This cluster represents a significant opportunity for synergy and innovation amongst Cumbria’s robotics experts and industries. Through this collaborative effort, we are set to map out and expand the capabilities of robotics in the region, driving forward our joint goals of technological advancement and capacity building.”

The cluster is not a commercial bidding entity but a cooperative network that encourages its members to collaborate and engage commercially as they see fit. It will also operate sub-groups focusing on specific areas of interest, providing a platform for in-depth exploration and solution development. Regular events for knowledge sharing and networking will support these efforts, fostering a collaborative environment that is conducive to innovation.

Members of the Cumbria Robotics Cluster will benefit from access to shared knowledge and opportunities to work together on projects, both nationally and internationally and to collaborate with existing robotics clusters. The cluster will continue to welcome new members who are based or work in Cumbria and who are eager to contribute to and benefit from its collective initiatives.

As it moves forward, the Cumbria Robotics Cluster will also focus on identifying growth targets, and showcasing regional strengths both in the UK and internationally.

STUDENTS in West Cumbria have been tasked by the Robotics and AI Collaboration (RAICo) and the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) to design and build robots which will be showcased at a major robotics and artificial intelligence (RAI) industry event.

Students aged 16 to 18 from West Lakes Academy and the Energy Coast University Technical College (UTC) are taking part in the challenge, with the aim of each school developing a small robot capable of transporting a mock nuclear waste barrel.

The four-week sprint challenge is designed to encourage creativity, innovation and an enthusiasm for science and technology, focusing on RAI.

Participants will demonstrate their new skills through showcasing their robots at the “Harnessing Robotics and AI for Challenging Environments” event to be held at Energus, Lillyhall, Cumbria on 21st May 2024.

The RAICo-supported event, designed to showcase the region’s RAI capability, is a chance for the students to network with industry professionals, listen to keynote speeches and find out about opportunities in the sector before they embark on their careers.

The decommissioning waste challenge will incorporate coding, engineering and creativity skills, creating a stand-out point for university or apprenticeship applications. The task replicates real-world challenges within the nuclear fission and fusion decommissioning industry.

RAICo is a collaboration between the UK Atomic Energy Authority, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Sellafield Ltd and the University of Manchester. The collaboration is accelerating the deployment of robotics and AI in nuclear decommissioning and fusion engineering.

iSH, based in West Cumbria, works on delivering programmes that bring together industry, SMEs, academia, national bodies, research facilities, and community to deliver growth and regeneration opportunities.

Representatives from iSH and RAICo are visiting the students at West Lakes Academy and the Energy Coast University Technical College (UTC) once a week for four weeks, offering guidance and a chance to build relationships with industry professionals.

It comes as part of a commitment to make a positive difference to Cumbria’s social and economic climate.

Sophie Finlinson, Project Manager at RAICo who has led the development of the challenge, said: “This educational outreach initiative offers practical exposure to students interested in STEM subjects. It could represent a pivotal step in someone’s journey towards a successful career in our industry. We’re excited to see the robots take shape.”

Hannah Pears, Education Liaison Officer at iSH, is visiting the schools, along with engineers from RAICo, to support the students and prepare them for their presentations. She said: “Who knows what exciting outcomes this could lead to? These students are engaging in a unique opportunity where they can demonstrate their skills, ask questions to industry experts, and gain experience that will look amazing on their CV.

“The challenge encompasses the emerging technologies that will revolutionise industries in West Cumbria and beyond, and will show young people that there are opportunities to be part of something innovative right on their doorstep.”

This is RAICo’s first collaboration with schools in West Cumbria. The collaboration will use effective community engagement to develop its socio-economic impact strategy with the aim to engage many more schools and colleges to inspire future industry professionals.

Robotics and AI, Advanced Engineering, Manufacturing and a revitalised Leconfield Enterprise Campus are new MD’s top priorities for West Cumbria.

Gary McKeating has a new mission. But it’s built on solid foundations and rooted in a West Cumbria region the new MD of iSH (Industrial Solutions Hub) has long since been a strong and passionate advocate for.

When it comes to the iSH team having a new Managing Director to focus in on key priorities for delivering inclusive economic growth and opportunities for West Cumbria, Gary’s previous roles have given him the experience and connections to deliver.

On a two-year secondment from his post as Head of Community and Development at Sellafield, Gary has previously held positions with AREVA UK, Nuclear Management Partners, Invest in Cumbria, Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster, and Your Housing Group, 

He knows this landscape. He sees the opportunity. He’s full of praise for the team at iSH – and partners across West Cumbria – is confident all the ingredients for success are already in place, and is a firm believer that the primary opportunity already exists right here on the doorstep. 

Just a few days into his new job, Gary has a clear vision about iSH’s role and where the team  need to focus their attention:

“We’re making sure that the outcomes that iSH is delivering for all of our partners, including those in the nuclear industry, and funders in government, are what we’ve said we will deliver. We’re forging a future for West Cumbria of a broader, wider economy.

“We’ve got an anchor institution here (Sellafield Ltd), which is very important for us, in an industry with lots of problems to solve.

“What iSH can achieve is it can galvanise a lot of the brilliant work that already goes on in West Cumbria. We’ve got a lot of fixers here solving problems every day, not only at Sellafield, but in the supply chain as well. 

“iSH can help bring together all of those elements, we can bring in academia to work with them as well, and work with a generation of fixers and doers not only to solve problems at Sellafield, but across West Cumbria.”

There are already foundations, and progress, to build on.

“We’ve got the engineering from Sellafield coming out now beyond the fence. We’ve got the Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence at Leconfield so we’ve already got stuff to build on. 

“The Centre of Excellence itself is an absolutely fantastic initiative. We need to build on the work going on there because it is a unique way of approaching problems. 

“What Craig Branney and the team are achieving there is amazing. They’ve taken elements of engineering from behind the fence at Sellafield, made problems more visible and then brought people together to develop solutions. So in effect, they are an absolutely key part of what iSH is all about.

“The six-week Sprint projects that are happening at the Centre of Excellence and the problem solving that’s already going on there are world class. iSH’s role is to amplify all that and to make sure that we’re doing the best that we can as a company to bring a lot of different entities together, ultimately to solve problems.”

Gary, who is from Workington, is determined iSH will deliver for organisations, businesses and the people of West Cumbria, and that means focusing on specific priorities – and doing that work well.

“We are working with Cumberland Council on the development of the Enterprise Campus at Leconfield because what we need to see is things coming out of the ground,” said Gary. “There’s a time imperative on that because you have to demonstrate to the community, to businesses here and to funders that things are happening. I’m a big believer in being able to point at things. 

“The other thing we are focusing on is what we want our centre of expertise and excellence to be. That’s around robotics and AI with our colleagues over at RAICo, and it’s around advanced engineering and manufacturing.

“We are not creating something that we’re going to impose on people. In terms of robotics, we want it to be led by the robotics organisations like RAICo, Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence, and the supply chain companies that work in robotics. It’s about bringing them all together and saying, “do we all agree that having a formalised robotics cluster in this region, that is greater than the sum of its parts, is something we all want?

“We want to build on what we have, map and recognise what we have, build it up and make it more visible.  What do we need to grow that cluster? What are we missing? What are the gaps? How can we fill them? And that’s not about iSH filling them, it’s about finding the right partners and the right delivery partners to fill in the gaps to start to build a robotics cluster in West Cumbria that is nationally and internationally recognised.

“It’s about iSH being the facilitator that can bring those organisations together to encourage that collaboration, to encourage that innovation, and help build on that.

“The good thing for us is we are fully supported by funders and stakeholders, so when you look at the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield Ltd and Cumberland Council here, and then national government as well, it really is a heady mix of funders and stakeholders. We’re all aligned in terms of what the outcomes need to be, which is a really healthy cluster of activity around these focus areas first and foremost and then who knows in the future where we go with potential for diversification. But I think we’ve got to make sure that we do a really good job here first on those focus areas.

“When we look at robotics, when we look at advanced engineering, and when we look at manufacturing we’ve got some real talent here.

“Then the even more exciting bit once we start to get that momentum, is how we build the skills for the future. How do we make sure that our local kids have opportunities inside and outside of the nuclear industry with some really, really exciting industries?”

Bringing inward investment into West Cumbria, helping open up opportunities for SMEs, and fostering collaborative working, are also key aims for iSH.

Gary said: “What I am really looking forward to now is getting out and about and working with all of our fantastic local companies trying to draw in inward investment and companies to come and work here with the companies that we already have. 

“SMEs are higher and higher on the agenda. That’s not only the government agenda. It’s actually higher up on major procurers’ agendas too. 

“A lot of the work that we see locally here in West Cumbria is around helping SMEs to be able to talk to other companies and join up and collaborate,

“When you look across the country and when you look across the world, there are companies that we want in West Cumbria, to match up with our local companies.

“There are local companies and companies from afar who can’t do it on their own. What we’re increasingly seeing is real collaboration between companies, such as the Cumbrian  Manufacturing Alliance, where smaller companies that may not have the ability to bid for work on their own join together with other companies. 

“That collaboration could then work in a number of ways, everything from how the company executes the contract, how they can become part of a joint venture, how they can access funding or academic support. So iSH’s role is that glue in the middle of it all.

“We are very mindful of avoiding duplication. We’re already on a reset with other local organisations we work in collaboration with, such as BEC (Building Extraordinary Communities). We’ve got some really great academic institutions including the National College for Nuclear and the Construction Skills Centre, and we’ve got some really brilliant infrastructure in place already here with West Lakes Science Park, the Bus Station, Sellafield Engineering Centre of Excellence, RAICo and when you look at what people are achieving and what is going on in those places, such as the Eagle Labs at the Bus Station, it’s brilliant.”

Gary also wants people to see real change on the ground.

“iSH itself is grounded in Cleator Moor. So what we want is for the people of Cleator Moor to see a change for the better. 

“Leconfield is looking tired. That goes without saying. But the vision of those people who set up iSH still stands – to create a hub in Cleator Moor that benefits the whole community and West Cumbria as a region.”

He’s also keen to explain iSH’s focus on delivery to others so that there are more advocates shouting with one voice for West Cumbria.

“We need to talk up West Cumbria. We need to be positive and really proactive. Because the opportunities that we have here in West Cumbria are actually second to none in terms of longevity of opportunity and in terms of the money spent through that large economic anchor down the road.

“We want people to work with us. So we’ll take them through what we’re doing. We’ll take them through what we want to see as outcomes and where they can play their part.

“In terms of our local area, in terms of business, in terms of Sellafield, we want advocates. We want the supply chain to get their shoulder behind iSH because of the opportunities it represents for businesses, communities and the region as a whole.

“The trick will be to sweat the assets of what we have here first and then, after that, look at how we can diversify into other sectors or into other regions, whether that might be nationally or internationally. 

“What we must do first, however, is to make sure that we’re solving problems here. Let’s do that really well and then build on that.”

A WELL-KNOWN and highly-experienced leader in economic development and social impact has been appointed as the new Managing Director of iSH.

Gary McKeating, Head of Development and Community at Sellafield Ltd and leading the organisation’s social impact programme, has been appointed on a two-year secondment to lead iSH after previous Managing Director John Maddison’s two-year tenure, which involved successfully launching the organisation in March 2022, ended in December.

Gary, brought up in West Cumbria, has more than 30 years of industry experience and will take over the iSH MD role full-time at the end of next month.

He said: “I am delighted to have been appointed as Managing Director of iSH to build on what has been achieved so far and to ensure the organisation achieves maximum economic and social impact through its activities across West Cumbria and beyond.”

Gary arrives in the role with a strong background and reputation in inward investment, strategy development, stakeholder relations at a senior level, and leadership of multi-million-pound programmes of work with significant social impact outcomes.

Eirini Etoimou, Sellafield Ltd’s Head of Corporate Sustainability & Supply Chain Development and Sourcing, said of Gary’s appointment: “At Sellafield we are committed to supporting our local communities and being an inextricable part of them. 

“The Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) is a high-profile programme which aims to support the regeneration of the local community at Leconfield and beyond. 

“Gary is a dedicated and very well experienced professional in the social impact and economic development field, with a great reputation within the region for his commitment and for caring for the local community.  We are proud of him and we wish him great success in his new role.”

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, added: “We welcome Gary and look forward to developing the iSH programme with partners. We are building for the future and alongside other schemes in Cumberland, iSH will support our area’s growth and economic future.” 

iSH aims to support the creation of jobs and opportunities through collaboration between industry, business, academia and community across the West Cumbria region and beyond.

An iSH Enterprise Campus (iEC) at Leconfield, Cleator Moor, is set to anchor the evolving business ecosystem in West Cumbria. The iEC is being developed in two phases and involves significant funding support from the Government’s Towns Fund (£22.5m) and Levelling Up Fund (£20m), alongside support from Sellafield, the NDA and Cumberland Council.

WEST Cumbria’s nuclear capabilities are poised to make a significant impact as a delegation of key industry leaders from the region prepare to showcase their cutting-edge technologies at the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris. 

The three-day event, starting on November 28, brings together prominent stakeholders, innovators, and experts from across the globe to discuss and explore the latest advancements in the nuclear sector.

Led by the Department for Business and Trade, the Northern Powerhouse delegation includes: Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH),  PAR Systems (UK) Ltd, McMenon, James Walker, FIS360, Nuclear Transport Solutions, Barrnon and Oakwood Engineering Solutions.

The contingent represent the region’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaborative progress within the nuclear technology sphere.

John Maddison, Managing Director of the Industrial Solutions Hub based in Cleator Moor, says the role of iSH is to represent and highlight the capability of the West Cumbrian supply chain, acting as a voice for the businesses and academic institutions unable to attend themselves.

John said: “West Cumbria has long been a hub for nuclear excellence, and our participation in the World Nuclear Exhibition underscores our commitment to advancing the industry globally. This is a chance to showcase West Cumbrian capability to a global market. 

“West Cumbria has a diverse and well established skills base geared towards decommissioning. That learning and innovation can be used and harnessed elsewhere with our knowledge and learning shared across the world. The goal is to bring back collaboration opportunities for the SMEs who so ably support our nuclear services.”

PAR Systems (UK) Ltd is an advanced engineering company specialising in remote and material handling solutions for the nuclear industry.

Managing Direction John McGibbon said: “We are delighted to be participating at this year’s event as part of the UK Pavilion. We look forward to showcasing our specialist expertise in remote/material handling systems; manipulator systems for in-cell operations; maintenance, site support and upgrade of nuclear cranes and decommissioning applications for the nuclear industry.”

McMenon, known globally for its expertise in flow and measurement instrumentation, will also be at the forefront of the exhibition. Anand Puthran, McMenon CEO, speaking ahead of the event, said: “As we navigate the currents of growth and diversification, attending the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris marks a pivotal step in our journey.

“We are not just showcasing our prowess in providing flow and temperature measurement instrumentation for nuclear projects, but also highlighting the crucial role we can play in this dynamic industry.

“It’s about more than presence it is a commitment to fostering collaborations, exploring new horizons, and solidifying McMenon Engineering’s position as a key player in the civil nuclear landscape.”

James Walker, a leading provider of sealing solutions, will demonstrate the crucial role of reliable engineering in nuclear applications. Mark Brook, James Walker Manufacturing Director who will be attending WNE as part of the delegation, said: “Although James Walker has been supplying sealing solutions to the nuclear industry for many years, applications are constantly developing. We want to make sure that our materials and expertise are considered in these cases, so I will be using the visit to WNE to carry out research into key application opportunities and to try to identify companies we may be able to partner with in developing solutions to new challenges.” 

FIS360, specialising in technology commercialisation and delivery of innovation programmes, aims to contribute its expertise to the global nuclear community. Frank Allison, CEO of FIS360 said: “FIS360’s participation at the World Nuclear Exhibition is an opportunity to highlight the importance of innovation and how it shapes the future of nuclear advancement. Our aim is to foster active connections, share insights and explore collaborative partnerships, ultimately contributing to the collective growth of and innovation within the nuclear sector.”

The World Nuclear Exhibition provides an invaluable platform for these West Cumbrian entities to forge international partnerships, share knowledge, and contribute to the global conversation on the future of nuclear energy.

The delegation’s presence at the exhibition is a testament to West Cumbria’s status as a hub for nuclear innovation and expertise. The delegation will be based at the UK & EIC (Energy Industries Council) Pavilion at the 5th WNE – World Nuclear Exhibition in Villepinte, Paris from 28-30 November.

Editor’s notes

iSH’s mission is to enable businesses, industry, academia and communities to come together in collaboration to create jobs, enhance skills, and create clear pathways into employment for the next generation. 

It aims to sell West Cumbria capability across the rest of the UK and the world, bringing a range of economic and social benefits to communities in West Cumbria through projects which will have a positive impact on people, the economy, and the environment.

An iSH Enterprise Campus (iEC) at Leconfield, Cleator Moor, will anchor the evolving business cluster in West Cumbria. This campus is currently being developed in two phases and involves significant funding support from the Government’s Towns Fund (£22.5m) and Levelling Up Fund (£20m), alongside support from Sellafield, the NDA and Cumberland Council.

BUSINESSES, industry, academia and communities in West Cumbria are well-placed to work together to maximise a wealth of opportunities. 

That’s the message from Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) Managing Director John Maddison as he prepares to hand over the baton to a new leader of the organisation.

John has been the Managing Director of iSH since it was formed in March last year.  He has built a talented team to help create jobs and diversification opportunities while also promoting West Cumbria’s capabilities to the rest of the UK and the world.

John said: “This job has always been about the place, it’s about what’s happening in the amazing businesses, industries and communities in West Cumbria, and bringing them together in the spirit of collaboration with schools, colleges and universities to create even more opportunities for the region to enhance the area’s capability.

“We are also focused on selling West Cumbria capability across the rest of the UK and the world, bringing a range of economic and social benefits to communities in West Cumbria through projects which will have a positive impact on people, the economy, and the environment.

“We have been able to identify diversification opportunities across nuclear, defence, cyber and space industries, and by collaborating with schools and colleges we are creating clear pathways into careers for young people who might otherwise have been overlooked.

“We have recruited a highly capable and talented team at iSH who are ideally placed to maximise these opportunities. I will miss them when my time at iSH comes to an end next month.

“I am delighted, however, that whoever takes on the job does so with iSH ideally placed to support the region, with the backing of its stakeholders including Sellafield Ltd, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) and Cumberland Council.”

An iSH Enterprise Campus (iEC) at Leconfield, Cleator Moor, will anchor the evolving business cluster in West Cumbria. This campus is being developed in two phases and involves significant funding support from the Government’s Towns Fund (£22.5m) and Levelling Up Fund (£20m), alongside support from Sellafield, the NDA and Cumberland Council.

The council is now advertising the iSH Managing Director role as it searches for a successor to John to lead the organisation into 2024 and beyond. 

The new Managing Director should be available to commence early in 2024. This is a permanent, full-time role for which the new role-holder must be within easy reach of West Cumbria.

Interested candidates are required to provide a relevant and up to date CV and a personal statement outlining their experience and suitability for this role.

These two documents should be emailed to Tracey.Crilley@cumberland.gov.uk before the application deadline – 12noon on Friday, December 1.

More details about the Managing Director role can be found here https://ishco.co.uk/join-us/

SOLAR power is the answer to spiraling energy costs at a football club in Cleator Moor with the issue being tackled head on by young players at the club. 

Cleator Moor Celtic is facing bills of more than £10,000 a year so players, with a little help from West Cumbrian businesses, looked for a solution to slash the costs in half and make the club more sustainable. 

The club approached the Industrial Solutions Hub (iSH) to help them come up with a solution. A collaboration was born between Cleator Moor Celtic, iSH and Co-Lab Engineering and 15 footballers, aged 12-14, were invited to take part in a three day event to come up with an engineering solution. 

The ‘Greener than Green’ project was made possible by a diverse range of businesses, from one-person start-ups to major multinationals, working with the community to help give the young people skills which will help them find future employment and secure the future of their club. 

The inaugural Co-Lab Engineering Junior Academy, has already seen a range of organisations collaborate including iSH, Jacobs, Westinghouse, React, Technology Consortia Ltd, Radiance Renewable Energy Solutions and Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club.

Options including wind turbines, better irrigation systems and solar power were looked at by the group.

At the end of the event it was decided that solar panels could be the answer to the clubs prayers and now iSH and the club are identifying what funding is available to make the £40,000 scheme happen. 

“The energy crisis is really affecting small clubs like ours. We have been around for more than 100 years and we’d love to be here for another 100 – at least,” says Peter Hodgson of Cleator Moor Celtic. 

He added: “But with prices rocketing we need to become sustainable, self-sufficient and reduce our carbon footprint. We also want to be seen as actively protecting the environment.” 

iSH has already put in a funding application for half of the amount and is hoping to get match funding from other relevant funds or businesses within the West Cumbrian community. 

Peter continued: “The continuation of the club is vital to the town. Not everyone will play football but there’s a social hub they can meet in. It’ll give them all a sense of pride and a sense of achievement that I hope spreads into the town. 

“Without iSH this event wouldn’t have happened. They are very welcome and needed in our community and they could see the benefit of this project. Yes, we hope to see the project delivered with funding for the solar panels, and our thanks must go to the iSH team for pursuing as many avenues as possible to secure it for us, but the benefits are already being felt. For me, this is already a phenomenal success story.

“The work that they are doing is so popular and their interaction with community clubs is fantastic, there are a lot of people going to feel a lot of benefit. They have supported us and pushed us. They have given the kids an opportunity not afforded to them otherwise. 

“They are a breath of fresh air and they can only be beneficial to the area. Without their vision and drive the opportunities won’t be there for the kids of Cleator Moor. 

“Running the sessions was exactly what we hoped it would be. The students involved gave up their holiday time to come along and take part in engineering and now we want them to see their ideas come to fruition. 

“Making the club sustainable is very important but more importantly was showing the girls and boys involved what it is like working in engineering. It was originally predominantly aimed at girls and we did pretty much have an even split. Of the girls who attended some are now actively pursuing how they get into a career in engineering which is just fantastic. That’s a real win too. 

“But for all of them, they get to have the involvement in Greener than Green on their CVs. They took away massive personal benefits and they got to interact with experts too. The things we take for granted, like how we create energy, they got an insight into.” 

Hannah Pears, iSH Education Liaison Officer, said: “It was such a pleasure to work with these young footballers and to see their determination to support their club, it really makes what we do so worthwhile. 

“Here at iSH we are all about collaboration. Here we worked with businesses of all sizes who have a presence in West Cumbria, the club and the young people to come up with a project that will future proof this much loved football club. 

“We are now working to secure the funding that’s needed and have already put in a bid and hope to hear good news soon.” 

All the team at iSH are devastated to hear the news of Pat Graham’s death.

Pat was a true visionary, a guiding light for so many of us.

She devoted so much of her life to making a positive difference to people’s lives.

Brought up in Cleator Moor, she was passionate about making Copeland, and West Cumbria, an even better place.

In her role as Chief Executive of Copeland Council she did so much to make that a reality. 

In recent years Pat was a driving force behind the formation of iSH, and the organisation’s mission to improve the economy of West Cumbria.

As Chair of our Board, Pat was generous with her time and commitment, bringing her expertise, energy and enthusiasm to help shape our organisation and determine what we can achieve for our wider communities through collaboration.

Pat’s boundless passion combined with common-sense pragmatism and sheer will to make things happen, means her legacy will live on not only for this generation but for generations to come.

Our Managing Director John Maddison said: “Without Pat’s drive, tenacity, leadership and support iSH simply wouldn’t be where it is today.  

“Copeland was exceptionally lucky to have Pat as its leader, iSH was very lucky to have Pat driving it forward, and I was personally very lucky to get the opportunity to work closely with her and learn from a truly inspirational leader.

“We all feel immensely proud and lucky to have known Pat, and privileged and committed as ever to continue Pat’s inspiring work and play our part in her legacy.”

SPACE sector opportunities and funding are now within reach for West Cumbrian businesses following the success of the Industrial Solutions Hub’s first Space Week.

The business events on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday highlighted the similarities between the nuclear industry and the space sector and showcased some of the exciting projects companies here could potentially get involved in. The schools and community events caught the interest of the next generation, showing them the possible future careers available on their doorstep.

Miranda Kirschel, iSH Regional Representative, said: “Overall it has just been wonderful, something really different. Our next steps are to collate all of the information and feedback from the sessions with a view to running a research and development project. 

“There have been offers of funding which is always nice from those who came to speak so hopefully we can get a feasibility study going. We are looking at starting small, building on the buzz and hopefully we’ve created enough excitement to do it bigger and better next year.

“We were able to show how the space sector is already a part of what we do here. National Nuclear Laboratories are harnessing a byproduct of nuclear waste in the form of Americium 241 on the Sellafield site to power space batteries. Alan Cross, North West Space Cluster Development Manager, described this as finding gold at Sellafield. Imagine the possibilities there alone. 

“We are also leaders in  robotics and digital technologies. Now, we will look at how we grow this capability and see what parts of the space sector may compliment what we already do.

“There’s funding available for those who want to diversify and pivot into the space sector. It was great to hear too about the really exciting projects like the micro reactor that Rolls Royce are designing and the solar farm that Frazer-Nash are designing.

“And it is always so inspiring when we’ve got schoolchildren who are interested and enthusiastic. The kids all wanted to ask questions and get involved. The planetarium was the winning feature of the day on both Wednesday and Thursday.”

Adrian Bull, Chair in Nuclear Energy and Society at The University of Manchester, opened up the second day’s session at Lakes College, Workington, on “How expertise in the Nuclear Sector can translate into the Space Sector”.

Adrian invited attendees to look through four lenses during the event: Nuclear; Space; West Cumbria; and UN Sustainable Development Goals, including working in partnership to deliver action.

Adrian said afterwards: “West Cumbria is about high tech innovation and we looked at how all those activities can serve the space sector the way they have served the nuclear sector for 70 years.

“It’s a huge opportunity, building on the heritage of West Cumbria, making the connections, building on what we have started today and creating the economic landscape of the 22nd Century, which is not as far away as we might think. We are already almost a quarter of the way through the 21st Century.

“It was brilliant to see how engaged everyone is. In many years of attending events it’s the only one I have ever been to where when the coffee break was announced not one person stood up! It’s fantastic to see how engrossed all the workshop attendees were in the discussion and planning the real action which can come out of this. It’s very exciting to be involved.”

More than 300 school children attended Space Week on Wednesday and Thursday. Claire Murray, a teacher from Thornhill School in Egremont, said: “It has been such a brilliant experience for the children. It shows them what is possible on their doorstep and gives them insight into what they could do in the future.

“They were particularly enthralled by the planetarium, it was great to see them listening and learning. And they’d like a Spot the dog robot for school!”

Editor’s notes

iSH (Industrial Solutions Hub) is an initiative of regional, national and international significance which will create jobs, opportunities for businesses and organisations to collaborate, enhance skills, provide business support, and bring a range of economic and social benefits to the community through projects which will have a positive impact on people, the economy, and the environment.

Facilitating a diverse commercial cluster that harnesses the unique skills of the region, iSH creates sustainable opportunities for the direct benefit of the people of Cumbria and the UK economy.

Supported by Cumberland Council, the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, Sellafield Ltd and Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, iSH provides an investment climate that drives networking, fuels collaboration and promotes innovation which acts as a catalyst for sustained business growth. It also expands the breadth of the regional economy, anchoring diversification towards new markets, sectors and industries.

iSH Space Week was supported by Cumberland Council, Sellafield Ltd, Jacobs, National Nuclear Laboratory, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, Whitehaven Town Council, and the Beacon Museum.

British Business Bank is inviting business people across the region to find out about funding opportunities at one of its special virtual events to mark the impact of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund.

This event, in partnership with Innovate UK EDGE and Cumbria LEP, will brief business advisers and the local business community on the funding opportunities available and on how businesses can access the £500m Fund.

The event takes place on 13th July 2023 where attendees will be able to hear about:

• The British Business Bank and how it supports Cumbria businesses
• The impacts of the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund in Cumbria
• What funding is available from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund
• Guidance from the NPIF Fund Managers on how to put together a quality application for funding
• How Innovate UK EDGE are supporting Cumbria based firms

Presentations will take around one hour followed by the opportunity to ask our speakers questions.

Location: Online
Date:  Thursday 13th July 2023
Time:  10:30 – 12.00

Click here to register

The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund project (NPIF) is supported financially by the European Union using funding from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020 and the European Investment Bank.

Join Barclays Eagle Labs at The Bus Station, Whitehaven for this free event on Thursday 29^th June at 12pm.

Ben Heslop, Programme Manager for Cumbria Business and IP Centre will be popping by to explain what the centre is and what it can do to help your business.

From 1:1 business advice and goal setting sessions through to free access to business databases and reports from Ibisworld, Kompass, Cobra, Grantfinder and many other useful research tools.

Come along and hear what Ben has to say and find out what you could access as a Cumbrian business.

Lunch will be provided.

Register here:-

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/what-is-the-business-ip-centre-and-how-can-it-help-my-business-tickets-653787705627

SPACE and the nuclear industry have many parallels, transferable skills and both have unlimited potential. Now is the time for West Cumbrian businesses to look at how they can benefit from this rapidly expanding sector, says James Cornish, just one of the speakers at the Industrial Solutions Hub’s (iSH) Space Week.

James, the Civil and Commercial Space Business Manager at Frazer-Nash, a leading systems, engineering and technology solutions business, is looking forward to returning to Cumbria next week following stints working with Sellafield Ltd and studying at Lancaster University. He said: “I was delighted to be asked back to my old stomping ground. I previously worked in the nuclear industry as a systems engineer so, I’m a perfect example of how skills between the two sectors are transferable.

“The space sector is growing quickly, it has government backing, and there’s a lot of funding available, but where we struggle is skills. West Cumbria has existing capabilities that could be leveraged towards the space sector. It is skills holding back the massive anticipated growth in the space sector.

“Nuclear technology will be an essential part of the future space economy and exploration. Micro reactors, Nuclear Electric Propulsion, nuclear batteries and heaters, are all emerging technology that is needed now. You’ve got the capability to offer that in West Cumbria. 

“The biggest challenge is understanding the market and who the key contacts are. Conferences like this one are a great opportunity to find out what’s going on and to then decide what is right for your business. At Frazer Nash, part of the KBR family, we work with many SMEs and we are actively looking to work with more.

“Plus, space is cool. It just is and it engages everyone from primary schoolchildren right up the career ladder. Come along and let us engage and convince you.”

James Cornish

iSH is hosting Space Week across West Cumbria June 26-30. 

The first two days of the event are devoted to a business audience with a wide range of speakers from the space industry addressing delegates at Lakes College on Monday and Tuesday.

Delegates will hear from James and colleagues from across the sector including Rolls Royce, European Space Agency, Satellite Applications Catapult, the National Nuclear Laboratory and many more.

The events will also include discussions on how to develop research and development in the space sector and how to attract funding to work collaboratively with universities and other organisations to grow a space cluster.

Miranda Kirschel, iSH Regional Representative said: “Space is an exciting industry for so many reasons and by bringing experts from the sector to the region to talk about its viability as a market we hope we can help businesses access those opportunities.

“iSH is an enabler, acting as a catalyst to help businesses diversify and grow, creating more employment and training opportunities for the local population and helping to regenerate our communities.

“We are confident that people from a wide range of businesses will find Space Week insightful. We also hope that it will lead to tangible business opportunities for companies and organisations in the region.”

iSH is delighted to be hosting a series of events and activities, including business-facing events, R&D focused events and educational activities with schools, to explore developing a space sector cluster in West Cumbria.

In conjunction with Cumbria Chamber of Commerce’s Business Bites initiative, businesses are also invited to attend an event on Thursday, June 29, 5pm-7pm, in the grounds of St Nicholas Church, Whitehaven.

“Let’s Talk About Space” features Alan Cross, North West Space Cluster Development Manager from the UK Space Agency, who will lead a discussion designed for local businesses and organisations on space, satellites, the data they gather, how it affects and benefits our lives, and what it could mean for West Cumbria. 

 To book tickets for iSH Space Week’s business events visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/636442435457

As well as business events, iSH Space Week will also include a series of events aimed at inspiring schoolchildren about future careers in space. 

Tim Gregory from the National Nuclear Laboratory, BBC Bitesize, and The Sky at Night, will be hosting three sessions of activities for Year 5 and 6 students at Lakes College on Wednesday, June 28. This event is now full but you can add yourself to the waiting list here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/634742159887

Whitehaven Council is hosting a day of Science Shows led by BBC television presenter, author and broadcaster Stefan Gates in the grounds of St Nicholas Church, Whitehaven on June 29.

iSH is also giving schoolchildren the opportunity to “Design a Robot” to help clean up space as part of a national ambition to support sustainability in space.

Find out more here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/LQG6F89

 *iSH Space Week is supported by Cumberland Council, Sellafield Ltd, Jacobs, National Nuclear Laboratory, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, BECBC, Whitehaven Council, and the Beacon Museum.

BUSINESS leaders reducing stress and improving their organisation’s performance will have a positive impact on capability across regions where they operate.

That’s the message to businesses in Cumbria ahead of a workshop jointly organised and delivered by Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster and iSH.

The Biological Well-Being Workshop, at Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven on June 21, 9am-1.30pm, is set to be a no-nonsense, fun, straight-talking session.

Adapt and Evolve Consultancy, who are running the workshop, pride themselves on their proven record of delivering positive outcomes for attendees.

Dr Zoe Billings and Mark Pannone, former Superintendent of Cumbria Police and Assistant Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police, who have a combined 50 years experience of working in law enforcement and dealing with life and death situations, set up Adapt and Evolve Consultancy last year to share their knowledge with businesses.

Dr Billings, an Inspector in North Yorkshire Police, who achieved a Ph.D in biology from the University of York, said their business-focused workshop is known for its hard core science about how stress negatively impacts the body and proven methods to alleviate and avoid stress through clear, easy-to-adopt advice.

Dr Zoe Billings and Mark Pannone, whose business Adapt and Evolve Consultancy is running a Biological Well-Being Workshop, thanks to a collaboration between iSH and Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster at Rosehill Theatre, Whitehaven on June 21, to help business people from across the region alleviate and avoid stress.

Dr Billings said: “People might feel they are fine, and feel like they are coping, but this workshop will teach people to recognise the signs of stress and listen to their body so they don’t realise too late.

“It provides them with a useful toolkit to deal with that in ways which won’t cost them anything – there’s no gym membership or anything like that to fund. This is advice which is really effective and really works.”

Dr Billings highlights a recent Deloitte report which states that if £1 is invested correctly in well-being it translates to £5.60 in productivity.

Office of National Statistics figures last month showed that 400,000 people in the UK were off work on long-term sick which Dr Billings said translates to one in every 13 workers.

Dr Billings said 82% of people who attended their workshops last year had since changed their lifestyle, and so far this year that had increased to 95%. Of all the attendees 100% have recommended the workshop to a relative or a friend.

John Maddison, Managing Director of iSH, said: “To maximise West Cumbria’s capability and opportunities to diversify we need business people in the region to be performing at their best. Well-being is vital to that objective and we hope this workshop helps people on a clear path to achieving that personal, professional and wider community goal.

“iSH is also about collaboration and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Dianne Richardson and the team at Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster to bring this opportunity to as many people across the region as possible.”

Dianne Richardson, Chief Executive of Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster, said: “I took a piece of advice from a taster session which Adapt and Evolve Consultancy ran for our BECBC Professional Services Group and I have already seen the health benefits. I would definitely recommend people sign up for this event. It might just change your life.”

The workshop is open to anyone in business, and members and non-members of BECBC are invited to register by emailing dianne.richardson@becbusinesscluster.co.uk

The course will run from 9.15am-12.45pm with refreshments provided and a networking lunch at the end of the workshop.

For business people who are unable to attend on June 21, there are two more upcoming opportunities to take part in Adapt and Evolve Consultancy workshops on 

July 4 at the Cumbria LEP Conference Centre, Redhills, near Penrith. Cumbria Chamber of Commerce is also running a one-hour webinar taster session on July 28. 

YOUNG footballers are kicking their half term holiday into touch to lead a green energy project which is building their own employability skills while future-proofing their community club.

The 15 teenagers are spending their school holidays working on engineering solutions to tackle their club’s sustainability challenges thanks to an innovative collaboration.

The youngsters, aged 12-14, are building wind turbines and solar panels, and looking at irrigation options as part of investigating what solutions will work best for their club.

Some of the young players at Cleator Moor Celtic taking part in the ‘Greener than Green’ project at Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club which runs from May 31 to June 2.

The ‘Greener than Green’ project at Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club in Cumbria has been made possible by a range of diverse businesses, from one-person start-ups to major multinationals, collaborating with the community to help give the young people skills which will help them find future employment.

iSH, the Industrial Solutions Hub, Co-Lab Engineering, and Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club have teamed up to run the project over three days this half term. The young footballers’ findings will be presented to the club at the end of the week. Businesses and other organisations in the area will then be sought to carry out the work.

The inaugural Co-Lab Engineering Junior Academy, has already seen a range of organisations collaborate including iSH, Jacobs, Westinghouse, React, Technology Consortia Ltd, Radiance Renewable Energy Solutions and Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club.

Graeme Close, chair of Cleator Moor Celtic, which has 350 junior players aged U6 to U16, as well as 60 senior players, said the club’s energy bills exceed £10,000 a year.

Faced with these rising costs the club’s committee set themselves the challenge of halving their energy bills and reducing their carbon footprint in the process. 

Graeme said: “If we don’t look at cost saving technologies then the club would find it difficult to operate during these uncertain times when energy prices are so high.”

Graeme Close, chair of Cleator Moor Celtic, which has 350 junior players aged U6 to U16, and is hosting a three-day ‘Greener than Green’ project to help its younger players find sustainable solutions for the club.

When the committee looked at renewable energy options, such as solar power, Graeme said figures quoted to them were way above what the club could afford.

That’s when they contacted iSH and Clyne Albertelli’s Co-Lab Engineering Academy and came up with the idea of involving young footballers in the ‘Greener than Green’ project.

Graeme said: “This project is 100 per cent focused on the kids, helping with their education, preparing them for employment and giving them experience of different energy technologies.

“The kids will then come back with some passionate, creative ideas and we will look to point them towards businesses, or funding opportunities, to bring the solutions to fruition.

“Then, when the kids are a bit older, and they are in job roles which this project has helped them achieve, hopefully they will come in here and think they did their bit for their football club, for their community and for the environment – and that’s got to be a good result for everyone.” 

Clyne Albertelli, Managing Director of Co-Lab Engineering, said: “This is an initiative which is mutually beneficial for the football club and for the players. The club will get an engineering solution to their sustainability challenges, the young players get an opportunity to learn and develop skills in engineering and sustainability.

Clyne Albertelli, Managing Director of Co-Lab Engineering, who is leading the ‘Greener than Green’ project at Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club in collaboration with iSH, the Industrial Solutions Hub.

“They will learn technical skills, including a systematic approach to problem solving and hands- on practical experience of renewable energy systems, as well as softer skills such as taking responsibility for problems, working collaboratively as a team, and presentation skills.”

Hannah Pears, iSH Education Liaison Officer, said: “iSH is all about collaboration and enhancing the capability of those around us – in education, business or community.

“This project brings a real-world problem that a local community facility is facing to the young people within that community to help them upskill and develop their technical skills within the engineering and green energy sectors as well as soft skills in problem solving and creative thinking.

Hannah Pears, iSH Education Liaison Officer, who is helping to run the ‘Greener than Green’ project at Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club in conjunction with Co-Lab Engineering.

“It’s a very enterprising project – with elements that have curriculum links – and it gives young people experiences that they can add to their portfolios, CVs and talk about at future interviews for apprenticeships or other employment opportunities.

“They are doing something different in their school holidays that is really going to make a difference to their community as well as getting exposure to industry – and that sets them apart when it comes to applying for jobs further down the line.”