Sedgemoor Chamber

Annual Christmas Lunch
2025-12-10 12:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | The Walnut Tree Hotel, 87 Fore St, North Petherton, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 6QA, United Kingdom
Celebrate the season with us at our Annual Christmas Lunch, this year held at the Walnut Tree Hotel in North Petherton. It is the perfect opportunity to take a well-earned break, enjoy a delicious festive lunch, and reconnect with fellow Chamber members as we round off another successful year.
Whether you are celebrating your own business milestones or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, this event brings together great food, good company and a generous helping of holiday cheer. Expect a warm, relaxed setting and a chance to toast the year’s achievements together.

What to expect
– A traditional Christmas lunch served from 12:30pm
– Friendly and relaxed connecting in a festive setting
– Time to reflect, recharge and connect before the Christmas break

Dress Code
Festive chic! from seasonal sparkle to your best Christmas jumper, we welcome anything that brings a bit of cheer to the occasion.

We’re proud to have Imprints sponsoring this event. For over 25 years, Imprints has been the go-to name for branded workwear, uniforms and merchandise across Somerset and the South West. Based in Taunton, their expert team helps businesses make a lasting impression through high quality embroidery, printing and personalised garment solutions.
From durable workwear and PPE to team kits and premium corporate uniforms, Imprints combines craftsmanship, reliability and exceptional customer service to ensure every order, big or small, is delivered with care and precision.
With a showroom open Monday to Friday, Imprints invites you to discover how workwear that works as hard as you do can elevate your brand.
imprintstaunton.co.uk | info@imprintstaunton.co.uk | 01823 323288

Chamber Chat
2026-01-08 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-02-05 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-03-12 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-04-02 10:00 - 11:00, 2026-05-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Chamber Chat is a monthly online event hosted by us at Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce. Open to members and non-members, this is your opportunity to connect with the local business community, share best practices, and discuss challenges in a safe, supportive environment.
Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the Chamber, Chamber Chat offers something for everyone:
• For Members: Strengthen connections with fellow members, share ideas, and discover opportunities to collaborate.
• For New Members: Learn more about the Chamber, meet Roger Smith (our General Manager), and explore how to make the most of your membership.
• For Non-Members: Get a taste of what the Chamber has to offer and see how joining could benefit your business.
This informal session is the perfect way to start your Thursday. Grab a cuppa, take a moment to relax, and enjoy being part of this business community. Whether you’re looking to solve a business challenge, build relationships, or simply catch up with others, Chamber Chat is the place to be.
Join Zoom Meeting: Join here
Meeting ID: 837 1110 0858

AI For Purpose: Building Technology That Actually Matters
2026-01-28 18:15 - 21:15 | Lexus Bristol Patchway, England
FREE MEMBER LED EVENT
Join us at Lexus Bristol for an essential conversation with our AI Thought Leader and co-CEO, Matt Wicks, about moving beyond the AI hype cycle to create technology that delivers real-world impact. In “AI For Purpose: Building Technology That Actually Matters,” we’ll explore a practical, human-centric framework for implementing AI solutions that solve genuine problems and empower people rather than simply implementing technology for its own sake.
This session cuts through the noise to demystify AI tools and provides a clear, actionable four-step framework for building AI applications that create positive value. Through real-world case studies spanning accessibility, scientific discovery, and environmental conservation, you’ll see how organisations are already applying these principles to generate meaningful impact.
Whether you run your own business, work in a small company or a large organisation, or are simply curious about AI, you’ll leave with concrete strategies to evaluate and guide AI initiatives toward creating genuine value for the people and communities they serve.
‍
AGENDA
6:15PM • Doors Open
Guests arrive and check in, giving everyone a chance to settle in and get ready for the event.
6:15PM – 7:00PM • Networking Social
An informal session to meet fellow attendees, share ideas, and enjoy some bites and refreshments.
7:00PM – 8:15PM • Speaker Session: AI For Purpose
Join Matt Wicks, AI expert and co-CEO, to cut through the AI hype and explore how technology can make a real difference. He’ll share a simple, four step framework for building AI that solves genuine problems and helps people. Using real world examples, from accessibility to environmental conservation, you’ll learn how to spot meaningful AI projects and ensure they create real value.
8:15PM – 9:15PM • Eat & Connect
Enjoy refreshments and food provided by The Virtual Forge. An opportunity to exchange contacts, continue conversations, and reflect on key takeaways.

HMRC's Making Tax Digital & Employment Rights Bill - What you need to know!
2026-01-29 08:30 - 22:00 | Taunton Rugby Football ClubTaunton, England
Solace Business Management Ltd and HR Dept Ltd are hosting a practical update session for Sole Traders and small to medium‑sized employers on two major areas of upcoming changes to legislation: Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment and the new Employment Rights Bill.
Navigating the changing landscape of business compliance can be challenging for Sole Traders and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Join us for an essential session that demystifies two key legislative updates set to affect your business in 2026 and beyond: Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD for ITSA) and the Employment Rights Bill.
The session will be split 50/50 with an opportunity to have your questions answered by experts in these challenging times for small businesses.

MTD for ITSA
Karen will be delivering an informative session on Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD for ITSA) designed especially for sole traders and landlords with annual income exceeding £50,000. She will explain what steps you need to take to ensure compliance with HMRC’s quarterly reporting requirements and how to prepare your business or property accounts effectively.
During the session, Karen will:
– Outline the key obligations under MTD for ITSA, including digital record-keeping, submission deadlines, and software requirements.
– Provide a practical walkthrough of how to use Xero to capture income and expenses, maintain digital records, and submit quarterly updates to HMRC.
– Discuss how business owners and landlords can stay compliant, avoid penalties, and streamline their bookkeeping processes using digital tools.
– Offer insights into how MTD will affect those with turnover below £50,000, as HMRC progressively lowers the thresholds to bring more self-employed individuals into the scheme.
– Share practical tips on getting ready for MTD from choosing the right software setup to adjusting your record-keeping habits and workflows.
This session will be relevant not only for those already within the first phase of MTD but also for anyone looking to understand what’s coming and how to future-proof their processes.

Employment Rights Bill
Helen will be covering what changes to expect in employee and employer rights, and how to prepare your business effectively.
You will also gain insight into the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill, covering what changes to expect in employee and employer rights, and how to prepare your business effectively.
During the session Helen will also give insight into the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill which includes proposals to;
– Reducing the qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims from 24 months to 6 months
– Implementing “day-one rights” for sick pay and paternity leave from April 2026
– Lifting the compensation cap on unfair dismissal to allow for higher claims
– Enhancing protections for those taking industrial action, making dismissals for participating automatically unfair
Delivered by experienced professionals specializing in bookkeeping and employment law, this event is a must-attend for business owners who want to future-proof their operations with confidence and clarity.

Beauty and the Beast
2026-01-31 17:00 - 19:00 | Bridgwater Town Hall, High St, Bridgwater, TA6 3BL
Wednesday the 28th to Saturday the 31st of January 2026
Step into a world of magic, laughter and local talent as Bridgwater Pantomime Society returns to the stage with their 2026 production of Beauty and the Beast. This much-loved annual show brings families, friends and the wider community together for a classic pantomime experience with all the fun, sparkle and silliness we look forward to each year.
Bridgwater Pantomime Society has been entertaining local audiences since 1957, with performances taking place at the heart of the town, the historic Bridgwater Town Hall. As a long-standing member of Sedgemoor Chamber, the Society continues to create opportunities for local performers of all ages, while also offering services to other amateur groups across the region.
With multiple evening and matinee performances, Beauty and the Beast is perfect for families, school groups and businesses looking to support a fantastic local production.

Tickets and Group Bookings
The box office is now open. Tickets can be booked online or by phone.
To arrange group bookings or accessible seating, please contact the team directly.
📞 07729 573954 (10:00am to 2:00pm, Monday to Saturday)
📧 BridgwaterPantomime@gmail.com

Future Leader Program
2026-02-04 10:00 - 12:00
We are excited to share more details about the ILM Future Leader Programme 2026, designed to inspire, upskill, and empower the next generation of leaders within your business.

🗓 Monthly sessions: February–September 2026
📍 Locations: Taunton & Bridgwater
Wednesdays (10:00am–12:00pm) — full dates are on the Register your interest Flyer (just scan the QR code on the leaflet attached)

Throughout the programme, your team member will:
– Gain practical skills in leadership, business clarity, marketing, finance, and wellbeing from award winning experts.
– Receive a workbook and dedicated mentor to guide their journey.
– Connect with like-minded, ambitious leaders across sectors, building valuable networks.
– Celebrate their success at a final dinner in September!

The investment is £150+VAT per participant, covering all resources and materials.
There are only 7 spaces left, so don’t miss out!

👉 Action: Scan the QR code on the leaflet (attached) today to register your interest and secure your place. Joining details will be sent in the first week of February.

Amicus Law Connects Minehead
2026-02-11 08:30 - 10:30 | The Beach HotelMinehead, England
Building Connections in West Somerset
Join us for Amicus Law Connects Minehead, a business breakfast networking group designed to bring together local businesses and residents who care about the future of our community.
West Somerset is full of talent and ambition, yet opportunities to connect and collaborate are limited. This event aims to change that by creating a space where ideas can be shared, partnerships formed, and local growth supported.
Why attend?
– Meet and network with other local professionals
– Enjoy a relaxed breakfast
– Be part of a group focused on strengthening West Somerset’s business community
Whether you run a business, work locally, or simply want to support the area’s development, this is your chance to get involved and help shape what comes next.

Valentine’s Day Dinner
2026-02-14 19:30 - 23:00 | The Castle at Taunton, The Castle Hotel. Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 1NF
Treat that special someone this Valentine’s Day, held in our elegant Garden room.

Indulge in an evening of refined flavours with a luxurious four-course dinner purposefully crafted by Head Chef Jacques Ballinger. Have you considered enhancing your evening with wine flights? Perfectly paired to elevate every course and create an unforgettable culinary experience, speak with our team for further details.

This intimate dining experience sets the stage for a truly memorable Valentine’s celebration.

Web link to tickets:
https://www.the-castle-hotel.com/event/valentines-day-dinner/

Discover Hinkley Point C: Breakfast & Site Tour
2026-02-19 08:00 - 12:00 | Hinkley Point C, HPC Cannington Park and Ride, Bridgwater, TA5 2JA
Start the new year with an exclusive look at one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects. Our first Hinkley Point C tour of 2026 takes place this February, offering a rare opportunity to see the site’s latest progress, enjoy a networking breakfast with fellow professionals, and connect directly with those helping shape the region’s energy future.
We’ll begin the morning at Greenway Farm with a hot buffet breakfast and informal networking, before transferring to the Hinkley Point C site for a guided tour and project update led by EDF’s expert team.
Whether you joined us last year or this will be your first visit, each tour brings new insights as the site continues to evolve. Additional site tours will be held later this year in June and October, so there are multiple opportunities to get involved.

What to expect
– Guided site tour and project briefing from EDF
– Buffet breakfast and networking at Greenway Farm
– Coach transfer to and from Cannington Park and Ride
– A chance to see the latest updates and future plans for HPC

Why attend?
– Gain first-hand insight into one of the UK’s most important energy projects
– See how the construction is progressing in real time
– Connect with local business leaders and professionals
– Be among the first to hear what’s coming next for Hinkley Point C
Breakfast Menu: Homemade sausages, smoky bacon, fried and poached eggs, grilled tomatoes and mushrooms, hash browns, baked beans, orange juice, teas and coffees.

Schedule
8:00am – Arrive at Greenway Farm for breakfast
9:30am – Depart Cannington Park and Ride for the guided site tour
12:00pm – Return to Cannington Park and Ride

Important Information
-On the day of your visit ALL visitors (aged 18 years and above) are required to produce valid photographic ID, either a current Passport or photo Driving Licence card. If either of the above forms of ID are not available, access to HPC Site will be denied.
-Sensible footwear must be worn on Site, no high heels or open toe shoes.
-Bags and personal belongings must be kept to a minimum. Please be aware a bag search will be carried out ahead of the visit to HPC Site.
-It is not permitted to use cameras and mobile telephones on HPC Site. We ask for phones to be either switched off or put on silence for the duration of the Site tour. Other prohibited items include radio transmitters, animals, weapons, knives, explosives of any kind, personal radios, and music players.
HPC Cannington Park and Ride Directions PDF

Interested in sponsoring this event?
Our Hinkley Point C Networking Breakfast & Site Tours are among the most well-attended events in our calendar, regularly attracting 40 or more guests, including a strong mix of Chamber members and wider business professionals from across the region.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to get your business in front of a highly engaged audience, many of whom work in construction, engineering, sustainability, skills and supply chain sectors. Sponsorship includes the chance to speak during the morning networking session, share your business materials, and stay involved throughout the experience.
If you’re looking to raise your profile and align your brand with one of the South West’s most high-impact projects, we’d love to hear from you.
Full details and packages are available here

Biz Nest South West Pre-Show Networking
2026-02-24 10:00 - 12:30 | Sheppy’s Cider Farm, Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, Taunton, TA4 1ER, United Kingdom
Hatched Agency is teaming up with the Business Fest South West team to host an exclusive pre-exhibition networking event for local businesses here in Taunton – and they’d love you to join them.
Taking place at Sheppy’s Cider on Tuesday 24th February 2026, this free, relaxed morning meetup is designed to bring Somerset businesses together ahead of the main Business Fest South West exhibition in April.

Why attend?
• Network with fellow local businesses and exhibitors ahead of the main show
• Exchange insights with past and current Business Fest South West exhibitors
• Build relationships, explore collaborations and get a feel for what attending and exhibiting is all about
• Ask questions, share ideas and connect with the Hatched Agency team
Team Hatched will be on hand throughout the morning to chat, share their experiences, and talk through how Business Fest South West can support your business growth in 2026 and beyond.
You’re also very welcome to bring along another business owner who might be interested in exhibiting – they can be registered via the same form.

Event details
📍 Sheppy’s Cider, The Old Barn, Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, Taunton, Somerset TA4 1ER
📅 Tuesday 24th February 2026
⏰ 10:00 – 12:30pm
💰 Free to attend
👉 Secure your space today – places are filling up fast!
Come along and start building connections that will help make Business Fest South West 2026 a brilliant experience for everyone involved.

Reflecting and moving forward in agriculture
2026-02-24 18:00 - 21:00

Annual General Meeting
2026-02-25 12:00 - 14:00 | ibis Bridgwater, Woodlands Court Business Park, Bridgwater, TA6 4FJ
We invite Chamber members to join us for our 2026 Annual General Meeting, taking place at Ibis Bridgwater this February.
This year’s AGM will include a mix of Chamber updates, forward planning, and a guest presentation from Jake Elsmore, Managing Director of Wrencon Limited and a member of the Somerset Economic Growth Board. Jake will share insight into how the Board is helping shape Somerset’s future economy, following the transition of the LEP and the creation of a new twenty-year economic strategy.

What to expect
– AGM reports and Chamber updates
– Guest presentation from Jake Elsmore on the work of the Somerset Economic Growth Board
– Hot buffet lunch with time to connect with fellow members

This is a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the year past, hear what’s ahead for the Chamber, and understand how your business fits into Somerset’s wider economic vision.

The Castle at Taunton, Wedding Fayre
2026-02-28 10:00 - 15:00 | The Castle at Taunton, The Castle Hotel. Castle Green, Taunton, TA1 1NF

Building Better Business in Bridgwater
2026-03-05 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-03-26 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-04-30 17:30 - 19:30 | Bridgwater Arts Centre, 11-13 Castle St, Bridgwater, TA6 3DD, United Kingdom
Building Better Business in Bridgwater is a practical training session aimed at helping Bridgwater retailers improve key parts of their digital marketing. The session will cover Google Business Profile, SEO, Facebook, Instagram and email systems.
The format will include an introduction on the key benefits and potential impact, followed by practical, hands on work where attendees will be shown how to complete specific actions on their own laptops. The session will end with two or three homework tasks to complete and review at the following session.

International Women's Day 2026
2026-03-06 09:30 - 14:30 | Sheppy’s Cider Farm, Three Bridges, Bradford-on-Tone, Taunton, TA4 1ER, United Kingdom
We’re proud to return with our second International Women’s Day event, kindly sponsored by Paul Smith Associates. It is a day dedicated to celebrating the stories, achievements and voices of women in business across Sedgemoor and the wider region.
This year we are excited to be heading to Sheppy’s Cider Farm for the first time, making the most of its beautiful setting to create a day of connection, learning and inspiration.

What to expect
– A relaxed morning of introductions, pastries and conversation
– 3 short workshops led by local women in business, offering insight, encouragement and practical takeaways
– Lunch and time to connect with others
– A private guided tour and cider tasting experience at Sheppy’s
Alongside the workshops, we will also have Debbie Johnson from Pilates in Bridgwater leading a short energiser to lift the room and Aisling Magill Photography will be there too, capturing the day.
Whether you’re attending solo or with colleagues, you’ll be warmly welcomed. This is a day for women at every stage of business to connect, share experiences and enjoy something a little different together.

We are proud to have Paul Smith Associates sponsoring this event. Based in the centre of Bridgwater and established in 1993, they are an independent, family run insurance broker providing bespoke cover for self employed people and small to medium sized businesses across the South West and beyond.
Paul Smith Associates specialise in commercial motor insurance, including taxis, HGVs, motor traders, couriers, minibuses and other vehicles used for business. They also arrange cover for commercial property, liability, shops, offices, restaurants and takeaways, as well as personal policies for cars, homes, motor cycles and cherished vehicles.
Known for friendly, straightforward advice and a genuinely personal service, the team build long term relationships with their clients and are there to help when it matters most, from finding competitive quotes to supporting you through a claim.
paul-smith-associates.co.uk | mail@paul-smith-associates.co.uk | 01278 427678
A look back at last year’s celebration

Clarke Willmott's Charity Winter Sporting Event
2026-03-19 17:30 - 21:00
After a thoroughly enjoyable evening of rounders last year, Clarke Willmott LLP are delighted to invite you to their new Charity Winter Sporting Event in aid of Young Somerset, taking place on Thursday 19th March 2026.
There will be games of Volleyball, Unihoc, Laser Pistol & Rifle shooting, safety Archery and Boccia throughout the evening with other local businesses, plus a raffle, a bake sale and other refreshments for sale.
Family and friends are welcome and encouraged to make this an evening to remember!
All of the money raised will go towards Young Somerset, the primary voluntary and community sector youth work organisation in Somerset, whose mission is to put young people first.
KEY DETAILS:
🕑Time: Arrival from 5:30pm, with the event to start at 6pm. The sporting will finish at around 8pm where food and drinks will be ready for all attendees in the club room.
📍Location: Taunton Vale Sports Club, Gipsy Lane, Taunton TA2 6LL.
👥Teams: Teams consist of 7 mixed players per team which must include at least 3 ladies on the pitch, there is no maximum amount of players as there is lots of potential for squad rotation so long as an “on pitch” balance of male/female is preserved.
💰Price: £16 per person (so a minimum of £112 per team and with the option of bringing bigger teams by paying an additional £16 per head). Every ticket includes one free drink and food (burger/hot dog with fries).
📞Who to contact: To enter your team, please email Taunton.CommunityTeam@clarkewillmott.com by no later than Monday 2nd March 2026.
If you have any questions about the event, please do not hesitate to contact us at Taunton.CommunityTeam@clarkewillmott.com
*If you are interested in playing but are not able to get a full team together on your own, please let us know and we can see whether anyone else is in a similar position and you can enter together. Friends and family are welcome to join if you cannot make a full team from staff (although due to child protection the minimum age we can allow is 14 years old and any child between the age of 14-17 must attend with a parent).

Quarterly business planning workshop for small business owners
2026-03-20 09:30 - 12:30
Refocus, plan and grow

Are you fed up with trying to wing growing your business?
Do you struggle to make the time to plan your next steps, even though you know working strategically will help you stay focused and in greater control?
This quarterly planning workshop is for small business owners who want guidance and structure to create a clear, actionable plan for the next three months so you can stay focused and see results.

– Space to focus on your business for 3 hours
– Advice on how to work more strategically
– Reflect on the first quarter of 2026
– Refocus your goals for the next 3-12 months
– Create a detailed plan for the next 3-months
– Guided workbook for you to complete and re-use
– Meet like minded business owners
– Refreshments provided throughout the morning

The workshop will take place in the beautiful Georgian Kitchen at The Pig at Combe, where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with other business owners in an intimate group setting.
Date: Friday, 20th March 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM (refreshments included)
Location: The Pig at Combe, nr Honiton
Investment: £99 (includes workbook)
Limited spaces available.
Optional: Stay on for lunch and continue the conversation

Confident Dads, Confident Children
2026-04-09 18:00 - 20:00
We would like to invite you to our upcoming two-hour workshop which will provide you with an opportunity to meet other Dads/Stepdads and learn about how to help your child deal with everyday challenges such as anxiety and low mood.

Business Growth Day
2026-04-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Bridgwater College, Bridgwater College, Bath Rd, Bridgwater TA6 4PZ, United Kingdom
The Business Growth Day, kindly sponsored by MMES, brings together a series of focused workshops designed to help small and medium sized businesses identify opportunities for growth and remove common barriers that can hold them back.
Many business owners find themselves spending most of their time working in their business rather than working on it. This event is designed to highlight practical areas where improvements, better systems or clearer understanding can make a real difference.
Across the day, a range of local experts will deliver short, practical sessions covering key areas of business, from finance and compliance to people, systems and protection.

What to expect
– A series of six focused sessions covering essential areas of business
– Practical insight you can apply straight away
– Time to connect with other local businesses throughout the day
– Lunch included with time to reflect and continue conversations

Event Schedule
9:00 – Welcome and connections
9:30 – Workshop 1 – A Practical Guide to Business Insurance
A practical guide to the insurance your business may need, and how to approach brokers or insurers with the right information. We will cover statutory insurance requirements, the types of cover that can help protect both your business and your customers, and emerging risks such as cyber attacks and cyber crime. Presented by Paul Smith, Proprietor, Paul Smith Associates
10:00 – Workshop 2 – Building Your Business’s Online Presence
Visibility matter more than ever for businesses and in this session, Rose Stacey, Director – Boring Business will cover topics such as building confidence in your digital presence, the importance of social media and choosing the right platforms for your business and email marketing along with tips on generating reviews and avoiding common mistakes.
10:30 – Workshop 3 – Karen Gascoigne – Making Tax Digital, a guide to the new rules and requirements
11:00 – Break
11:15 – Workshop 4 – David Ballantine – Wealth management for business owners
11:45 – Workshop 5 – Liberate your business to surge ahead through practical, powerful conversations whilst keeping ahead of the Employment Rights Act.
Those businesses investing in the skills, behaviours and capabilities of their Managers not only weather the storm but emerge from it stronger, more resilient and better positioned than those who do not. We will show you what to focus on, when and how – do that and you will also keep ahead of the Employment Rights Act. We will discuss practical, commercially focused people solutions in addressing challenges such as absence, high turnover, low engagement and performance, all carrying significant financial and operational consequences. The practical implications of the Reforms are also significant – Managers who lack the skills to have those early, honest, constructive conversations will increasingly expose their organisations to legal risk. Leave our session confident in how you can liberate your business at every level. Presented by Karen Wellman, Managing Director, Reframe HR
12:15 – Workshop 6 – Opening the Door to Smarter Working: What’s Possible for Your Business?
Steve Bloomer, Managing Director, Springboard IT will help us start discovering how the better use of software you already have, then if required with simple integrations, can streamline processes across your business. From reducing duplication and errors, to saving time on everyday tasks, small changes lead to new ways of working.
This session explores how businesses can start to rethink their processes by making better use of the software they already have. Through practical examples, it highlights how simple integrations and small changes can reduce duplication, improve accuracy and ease the pressure of day-to-day administration.
Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of where inefficiencies may sit within their own business, along with ideas of what is possible when systems work together more effectively.
12:45 – Lunch and connections

We’re proud to have MMES sponsoring this event. Based in Bridgwater, MMES has been delivering professional electrical and mechanical services for more than 30 years, supporting clients across Somerset, the South West and the wider UK.
Their experienced team provides a wide range of services, including electrical design and project management, electrical engineering, mechanical solutions, technology systems, maintenance and asset care, and specialist work in sophisticated environments. MMES also has extensive experience in sectors such as nuclear, power and energy, water and utilities, food and beverage, industrial and renewable energy.
With a strong focus on safety, quality, time and cost delivery, MMES has built its reputation on reliable service, technical expertise and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction.
m-mes.com | info@m-mes.com | 01278 434263

Sickness absence and its impact on your business
2026-04-22 08:30 - 09:30 | The Princess Theatre and Arts CentreBurnham-on-Sea, England, The Princess Theatre and Arts Centre, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8 1EH, United Kingdom
Is sickness absence holding your organisation back?

Discover the real cost of sickness absence and learn practical steps to reduce avoidable absence and build a healthier, resilient workplace.

Sickness absence affects every business—large or small. But many employers underestimate its true impact on:
– Productivity
– Operational costs
– Team morale and wellbeing
Join us for this focused, practical session to uncover:
✅ The real cost of sickness absence
✅ What early signs to look out for
✅ How to reduce avoidable absence
✅ Simple steps to build a healthier, more resilient workplace
Perfect for:
Employers, managers, HR leads, and anyone responsible for supporting staff wellbeing or business performance.
Why attend?
✔ Gain actionable insights
✔ Strengthen your team
✔ Improve business resilience
✔ Support your people in smarter, sustainable ways
Please note: There is limited on-site parking. Please use the nearest parking / Oxford Street Car Park.

Somerset Business Expo Exhibitor Briefing
2026-04-24 12:00 - 14:00 | Junction 24, Market Way, North Petherton, Somerset, TA6 6DFTA6 6DF, United Kingdom
This session is exclusively for confirmed exhibitors at the Somerset Business Expo on Friday the 12th of June.
Designed to help you get the most out of your stand, this briefing brings all exhibitors together ahead of the event to share key information, answer questions and provide practical guidance on how to prepare.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know for the day itself, from logistics and timings to what to expect on arrival. Alongside this, we’ll share examples, ideas and best practices to help you make your stand as effective as possible and ensure you get real value from exhibiting.
There will also be time to meet fellow exhibitors, ask questions and connect in a collaborative setting before the Expo.

What to expect
– A clear overview of the event day and logistics
– Practical tips and examples to help you stand out
– Open Q and A to answer any questions you may have
– Time to connect with other exhibitors ahead of the event

Employer Networking Breakfast
2026-05-08 07:30 - 10:00
We are excited to invite employers to our free Employer Networking Breakfast on Friday 8 May, bringing together organisations from across engineering, construction, digital and wider sectors for a morning of insight, conversation, and collaboration.
This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses to connect with like-minded employers, explore recruitment support for summer and September intakes, and contribute to shaping the future of skills in our region.
Attendees can enjoy great food, make valuable connections, and discover how they can save money, access funding, upskill their workforce, and make the most of our facilities.

Venue: Taunton Conference Centre
Time: 7.30am – 10am

Agenda
7:30am – 8:15am | Arrival, Breakfast & Networking
8:15am – 8:45am | Breakout Sessions (choose one):
• Skills & Professional Development
• Funding & Cost-Saving Opportunities
• Recruitment Support & Solutions
8:45am – 9:15am | Guest Speaker: Roger Smith
Hear from the General Manager of Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce, Roger, as he shares his experience of working with our T Level and work experience students, and the benefits this can bring to businesses.
9:15am – 10:00am | Networking & Facility Tours
Meet other employers, ask questions, and take a guided tour of our Engineering, Construction and Digital facilities.

We are also gathering employer insight to help shape the future direction of training, including the upcoming Foundation Apprenticeships, which offers a £2,000 government incentive.
Once we understand workforce needs, we can connect employers with candidates from our college talent pool who are ready to take their next step into employment. Similarly, we can support them whilst they upskill their current members of staff.
To book a place or find out more, please follow the link below:
Future, Skills and Growth Networking Breakfast Tickets, Friday, May 8 from 7:30 am to 10 am | Eventbrite

Music Quiz Night
2026-05-12 18:30 - 21:00 | The Activity Warehouse, 5 E Quay, Bridgwater, TA6 4DB, United Kingdom
Join us for an evening of fun, friendly competition and great tunes as we swap general knowledge for a music-themed challenge. From guessing the track to recognising iconic hits, this quiz is all about putting your music knowledge to the test.
This event takes a step away from the traditional approach to connecting and instead offers a more relaxed, light-hearted environment. By bringing people together through a shared activity, it helps break down barriers and creates more natural, meaningful conversations. It is a format that has proven to be one of the most effective ways to build genuine connections within the local business community.
As with previous events, teams will usually be created on the night, giving you the chance to meet new people, share a few laughs and enjoy a sociable evening. If you would prefer to come as a group, there is also the option to book a Team Member Ticket, which allows you to attend as a team of five.
Whether you joined us before or this is your first time, expect a lively atmosphere, plenty of interaction and a few surprises along the way. And of course, there will be prizes for the winning team.

What to expect
– A music themed quiz featuring a range of audio rounds
– Teams created on the night to encourage connecting
– Option to book as a team of five
– A relaxed evening with drinks available from the bar

Come along, test your music knowledge and enjoy an evening that is all about good company and great songs.

Employment Rights Act 2025: How these changes impact your business
2026-05-14 12:30 - 13:30
There’s been a lot of noise recently about the upcoming changes to the Employment Rights Act 2025 and other legislation. With headlines, opinions and speculation flying around, it’s no surprise many employers, HR teams and managers are feeling uncertain about what’s actually changing and what it means for them.
Now the April changes are squarely in place, we’re here to help you navigate through the bigger changes, due later this year and into 2027.
Join us for a clear and practical webinar where we break down the changes, amongst others, to:

✅Unfair dismissal
✅Zero and low hours contracts
✅Third party and sexual harassment
✅Fire and rehire practices
✅Flexible working requests
✅Non-disclosure agreements

📅 Date: 14 May 2026
⏰ Time: 12:30PM
💻 Location: Online webinar
🎙️ Speakers: Sarah Young, Kate Shawcross, Abigail Askew and Tara Searle

Whether you’re already working through the details or you’re not quite sure where to start, this session will give you the clarity you’ve been waiting for. The session is designed to help you understand the changes, how they impact your business and what steps you should be taking.
Please note that the session will be recorded and sent to attendees. The data submitted in the registration form will be retained by Porter Dodson LLP. For information about how we handle your data, please read our privacy notice, which can be found on our website at Privacy and cookie policy.
