Sedgemoor Chamber

Bridgwater Breakfast Hub
2022-08-03 08:15 - 10:00 (Europe/London) | The Tudor Hotel & Restaurant, 21-27 Saint Mary Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3LX
Join OD Talent Solutions at Bridgwater Breakfast Hub where we turn the spotlight on local entrepreneurs – South West Trade Frames!

About this event

Calling all Bridgwater and surrounding businesses – it’s time to switch on and start your day right, at The Tudor Hotel and Restaurant in Bridgwater, brought to you by OD Talent Solutions.
You’ll network with like-minded business professionals in a convenient location whilst treating yourself to an amazing breakfast, what better way to start a Wednesday.
In August we’ll be turning the spotlight on local entrepreneurs – South West Trade Frames. Come and join the conversation on Wednesday, 3rd August 2022!
Bridgwater Breakfast Hub is a new monthly event taking place on the first Wednesday of every month.

CABiz Breakfast networking at Mr Miles Tearoom
2022-08-02 07:30 - 09:30 | Miles Tea Room, Taunton, TA1 3PG, United Kingdom
Tuesday 2nd August 2022 – Start your day the right way at Mr. Miles Tearoom with bottomless tea & coffee, breakfast bap, and networking!
Networking with CABiz in 2022…

CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.
Guest speaker: To be confirmed
Event details
What time? 7.30 am to 9.30 am
Where? Mr. Miles Tea Rooms, 3-4 High Street, Taunton, TA1 3PG
How much? £14.50 to include tea/coffee and breakfast rolls with a vegetarian option
The Format:
7-7.30 am: Open networking
7.30-8 am: Introductions
8-9 am: Breakfast and speaker
9 am: Open networking

Tax Efficiency Within Your Business
2022-06-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Maximise your businesses tax efficiency
NatWest have teamed up with Helen Vines, a senior Chartered Tax Advisor specialising in tax expenditure, to help businesses of all sizes and types better understand how they can be more tax efficient.
The event is open to any business and is completely free of charge to join.
During the presentation we will look at:
Capital Investment.
Government Incentives.
Grants.
Tax efficiency.

CABiz Digital Networking
2022-06-21 11:00 - 12:30, 2022-05-17 11:00 - 12:30 | Online
Supporting you in 2022 – come along to our friendly and relaxed digital networking meeting to make new connections

Networking with CABiz in 2022…

CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.
Guest speaker: to be confirmed

Meet the MP - Networking Breakfast
2022-06-10 08:30 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
!!!Apologies but this event has been cancelled!!!
Ian is a great supporter of Bridgwater Business and works tirelessly to try and keep Bridgwater money within Bridgwater. He has supported the Chamber extensively and always enjoys meeting the business community at the yearly Chamber meet the MP event. Ian’s update of issues affecting the area and effects on local business are always very enlightening.
Why Attend?
A fantastic opportunity to meet professionals from other local businesses and to build relationships with them, gaining new contacts, information and support for your business.
To listen to views and ideas on the topics of the events and to raise your own points and opinions about these, and to gain information from the guest speakers. Last year’s event was a great success so book your places now to avoid disappointment. Also get to ask the questions which are key to you and your business.
By attending you will –

Have an opportunity to meet key people shaping Bridgwater’s business future.
Develop strong business relationships.
Learn from business experts.
Hear from knowledgeable and interesting guest speakers.
Be able to raise your own points on the topics in discussion.
Chance to ask key questions.

CABiz Breakfast networking at Mr Miles Tearoom
2022-06-07 07:30 - 09:00 | Miles Tea Room, Taunton, TA1 3PG, United Kingdom
Tuesday 7th June 2022 – Breakfast networking

Breakfast networking with CABiz – supporting you in 2022…

CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.

Guest speaker:
Colin Barrell of Mr. Miles Tearoom
“The ABC of surviving a pandemic and preparing for the uncertain future.”
“On Friday 20th March 2020, when Boris Johnson announced to the nation that cafes and restaurants would have to finish taking customers indoors until further notice, he feared for his business, his own future, and that of all his 28 staff. None of us knew what was coming next, and how long this situation would last, let alone if there would be any financial help on offer. Colin Barrell, Owner & Director of Mr. Miles Tea Rooms will give you his best tips for making sure your businesses flourish and are prepared for whatever challenges come your way.”

Ruby Ball - Celebrating Brainwave's 40th Anniversary
2022-05-22 19:00 | Somerset County Cricket Club, St James Street, Taunton, TA1 1JT
We have our first ever fundraising ball in the SW on 21 May, at Taunton Cricket Club, (rearranged from December 2021), and this is part of our 40th anniversary celebrations, see flyer attached.
The pandemic has been tough for everyone, particularly the families we support and our finances, with over £1m in lost revenue. We don’t receive any government funding with all our income being self- generated through events such as these.
Join us and our Patrons, Lord and Lady Fellowes, for a fizz drinks reception, three-course dinner with
entertainment from the Hooper Band and Somerset Songbirds, and a fantastic raffle and auction.
Saturday 21 May 2022
Drinks reception at 7,30pm
Venue Somerset County Cricket Club
Carriages for 1am
The money raised at this event will ensure Brainwave can continue helping children with disabilities achieve
greater independence, by providing their range of specialist therapies.
To book a table of 10 for £500,
please contact Joanne Freeman
by the 31 March 2022.
joannefreeman@brainwave.org.uk | 07872 411 580

FREE Online Mental Health Half Day Awareness Course
2022-05-11 14:00 - 18:00 | Online
Our Adult Mental Health Awareness Course is FREE for SME’s and sole traders working in sectors highlighted as most impacted by Covid

About this event

New Leaf is working with the Somerset Public Health Team to deliver workplace emotional wellbeing training to small and medium sized (SME) businesses across Somerset.

Our next free training event as part of the SME Wellbeing project is a half day Mental Health Awareness Course certified by Mental Health First Aid England to be held on Wednesday 11th May. Its free to sole traders, SMEs and Micro providers based in Somerset working in:
💚 Construction
💚 Farming and agriculture
💚 Arts and entertainment
💚 Health and social care
💚 Visitor economy so hospitality etc
This course is perfect to give you a good solid introduction to mental health and Wellbeing and become part of your wellbeing journey in your business. Courses are funded by Public health and Somerset County Council.
It is an introductory session to raise awareness of mental health.
Learning takes place through a mix of presentations, group discussions and workshop activities. We limit numbers to 12 people per course so that Kay can keep people safe and supported while they learn.
Please only book if you are able to attend and commit to the 4 hour session.
For more information please visit the booking page
Other courses available, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/sme-wellbeing-free-training-215879

Local Authority Procurement and the Supplying the South West Portal
2022-05-11 08:30 - 10:30 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
As part of our commitment here at Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce to provide information and support to local business we are pleased to invite you to this in-person networking breakfast with guest speaker Jo Hutchins, Procurement Officer at Sedgemoor District Council.
Jo will present on local authority procurement procedures and the Supplying the South West Portal with additional information being given on sustainability requirements when tendering for Local Authority contracts.
This is a fantastic opportunity to meet professionals from other local businesses and to build relationships with them, gaining new contacts, information and support for your business.
Also, you will gain important information from the guest speakers and have the opportunity to ask those key questions relevant to you and your business face to face – no emails – no phone calls!
This is FREE to attend and open to ALL local businesses.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND
Bacon baps and croissants will be available on the morning along with teas, coffees and orange juice. Any special dietary requirements should be included on the booking form in the ‘notes’ box or by emailing tracy@bridgwaterchamber.org.uk

Wine Tasting at Vinos
2022-05-04 18:30 | Vinos, 29 High Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3BG
Vinos are excited to announce our first free wine tasting event on the 4th May at 6.30pm.
The evening will include an interactive blind tasting session and will give our guests an opportunity to sample wines from our new range.
If you would join us on the night please message us and let us know how many people you would like added to the guest list.
Vinos Wine Bar, 29 High Street, Bridgwater, Somerset. TA6 3BG
Email: vinoswinebar21@gmail.com
Telephone: 01278 411141

CABiz Breakfast networking at Mr Miles Tearoom
2022-05-03 07:30 - 09:30
Tuesday 3rd May 2022 – Breakfast networking

Breakfast networking with CABiz – supporting you in 2022…

CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.

Guest speaker: to be confirmed

£14.50 to include tea/coffee and breakfast rolls and vegetarian option
Mr Miles Tea Rooms, 3-4 High Street, Taunton TA1 3PG

HR & Employment breakfast club - Bridgwater
2022-04-26 08:00 - 09:30 | The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater,, Somerset, TA6 6LQ, United Kingdom
We are excited to be starting back up our in person HR & Employment breakfast events this year with Clark Willmott.
We hope you are able to join us for the first one, taking place on Tuesday 26 April at The Canalside.
We are pleased to be hosting this event with Clark Willmott.
Our joint HR event series with Clark Willmott provide updates on hot topics, employment and HR workplace issues and new legislation. As always, our popular session will include practical information, essential action points and hands on tips! This session will also provide a focus on menopause in the workplace and managing difficult employment situations.
This series is hosted by Paula Squire, Partner and Head of Taunton’s Employment team, together with Juliette Staunton, Senior HR Consultant.
Registration is required to attend* – Booking closes 19th April!
8:00am – Registration, networking & breakfast
8:30am – Presentations
9:30am – Finish

We look forward to seeing you.
*Please add any special dietary requirements in the ‘comments’ box of the booking form. Alternatively please email tracy@bridgwaterchamber.org.uk

CABiz Digital Networking - by John Holden
2022-04-19 11:00 - 12:30 | Online
Networking with you in 2022 – join us online for some relaxed and friendly online networking making new connections and grow your business

About this event

Networking with CABiz in 2022…
CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.
Guest speaker: to be confirmed
Event details…
When? Tuesday 19th April 2022
What time? 11 am to 12.30 pm
Where? held via Zoom
How much? it’s FREE! (for your first two visits) then £20 a month membership

Promoting your business in a digital world!
2022-03-24 08:00 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
It used to be simple! Newspapers, radio ads – and if you were feeling really flush, a TV ad. Done. Promoting your business, standing out in the market and building a committed client fan-base is so much harder in the digital 2020s. On top of the endless digital options, unless you’ve got endless budget, you’ll need to do some of this online promotion yourself.
In this practical half-hour session, you’ll receive advice (and actionable ideas) on the following:

Find out WHERE your audience are online (Linked-In, Facebook, TikTok?!)
Making YOUR OWN professional-looking banners and memes
Recording IMPACTFUL VIDEO using just your smartphone
How PODCASTING can be the first stage in your sales funnel
Spread the word ‘organically’ FOR FREE on key social media (and how to avoid shooting yourself in the digital foot)

Rick Simmonds from Verbu has spent 30 years at some of Europe’s biggest media companies – as a presenter, producer and manager. Most recently, he was Programme Director of The Breeze, Network Manager of Heart and Managing Director of Wessex FM in Dorset.
With the creation of Verbu, Rick helps business owners and entrepreneurs to create podcast content, audiobooks and radio content, alongside corporate video (from training videos, to online conferences to social media clips)- all from his Bridgwater studio.
He also coaches individuals to be better public speakers and has compered awards ceremonies and events over the last year in Yeovil, Sherborne, Dorchester, Weymouth and Bridport. Plus, he’s currently working on an audio documentary featuring memories of ’The Jammy’ on Wembdon Road.

*We love meeting up with our members. However, you don’t have to be a member of the chamber to join us for our networking events, we are always happy to welcome non-members too.

CABiz Digital Networking
2022-03-22 11:00 - 12:30 | Online
CABiz Digital networking – how can we support you in 2022? How about some networking tips from seasoned networker – John Holden?
Networking with CABiz in 2022…
CABiz is all about creating results and opportunities from your networking. Ask yourself a question “Who taught you how to network”? Most of us are self-taught, learning as we go. Many people just turn up at a networking event with no focus or understanding of how best to get the maximum results from their time.
At CABiz you get a simple, friendly, relaxed format that allows you to develop your relationships with other businesses and create the opportunities you need to achieve your success.
Guest speaker: John Holden

John Holden Founder of CABiz (Calling All Businesses) will be sharing how your networking can be developed to generate more business for your business.
Many people are self-taught when it comes to networking and learn as they go. John has a proven formula that you can use in the best way you feel comfortable for your business.

Do you ask for the business?

Do you follow up in the best way?

Do you ask the right questions?

Are you in the right group?

Come along and find the best way to create more business for your business through networking the best way.

Mental Health at Work – Free Online Course
2022-03-22 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
FREE SME Toolkit Workshop
This is your free opportunity to attend this exclusive workshop on how to support your own wellbeing and the wellbeing of your team.
New Leaf is working with the Somerset Public Health Team to deliver workplace emotional wellbeing training to small and medium sized (SME) businesses across Somerset.
The focus is on supporting those who have been impacted by Covid through the virus itself, experience of lockdown or the impact of the recession.
We know that SMEs’ staff Mental Health problems has significantly impacted: staff productivity, such as need to fulfill multiple roles, acquire new skills, work under different environment with limited support, and pressure to avoid bottlenecks; business productivity – expected to meet higher demands and cope with supply uncertainties to make supply chain resilient and boost UK productivity, with the reduced workforce. This course aims to help resource you with the skills you need to support your own wellbeing and that of your staff.
The course is FREE for SME’s, sole traders and micro providers working in:

Visitor Economy
Arts and entertainment
Construction
Health and social care
Farming and agriculture

Becky Wright is a member of Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce and a local Mental Health Trainer and SME owner. Becky will provide you with a SME Toolkit for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
This toolkit helps SMEs and Freelancers take positive actions to build a culture that champions good mental, physical health and wellbeing. The toolkit provides a greater understanding of how to help those who need more support. You will be provided with an SME Toolkit for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
This three-hour certified online interactive workshop will give you the opportunity to understand:

What is mental health?
What is stress?
Tips and techniques to stay well at work
Factors that affect mental health stigma and the impact
Types of mental health conditions – spotting the signs
Useful statistics and resources to access, Mental Health First Aid overview
Practical steps to aid others and toolkit of support for you and your employees
Introduction to SME Wellbeing initiative for Somerset.

Source Materials and joining instructions will be sent to delegates the day before the course by Bridgwater Chamber
Why has this course been developed?
Somerset’s economy is predominantly made up of small businesses: 76% of the County’s businesses have fewer than 5 employees and a further 13% have 5-9 employees. SMEs are the backbone of our economy, it’s a sector bursting with talent, entrepreneurship, and potential. It is also one of the worst performing in terms of employee health outcomes, with one-third of SME employees experiencing a mental health problem during their working life (CIPD, 2016). Somerset Public Health have contracted New Leaf to deliver workplace emotional wellbeing and support for small and medium size businesses. The focus will be on the following sectors:

Visitor Economy
Arts and Entertainment
Construction
Health and social care
Farming and Agriculture

Many SMEs say that they struggle to access mental health provision due to the costs involved or they do not know what to buy to best support their employees. This workshop will provide a good introduction to Mental Health and equip you with a toolkit that you can start using in your business. You will be invited to implement 5 key aspects of wellbeing into your business.
Putting well-being at the heart of workplace design will allow us to grow a new world of work where we can look after our well-being and engage in this new economy and feel well in our being.
We are pleased to announce that our course has been independently evaluated for Continuing Professional Development purposes by The CPD Certification Service. This means our course complies with universally accepted principles of Continual Professional Development (CPD) and has been structured to meet the criteria of personal development plans. You will be asked to complete a pre and post course questionnaire in order to attend the training.
Note: Participants need to attend all three hours to receive their CPD UK Certification.
Feedback from previous attendees
Laura O’Driscoll:
‘To see a change we all have to BE the change. We can now embrace mental health and wellbeing into our businesses and support ourselves and our employees. For me that means educating myself, putting into practise what I have learnt for my own business and helping my clients understand it too’.
Juliet Love:
“Thank you both for a really great session – I thoroughly enjoyed it and am really looking forward to the 2 day workshop when it happens.”
Sue Calvert:
“Thank you for such an informative session – I have learnt so much but am not overwhelmed as the workshop was nicely paced and interactive. I will be able to use what I have learned in both a work and non-work setting.”
To watch a short clip from Becky with information about the course:
CLICK HERE

Let the Celebrations beGin! - Celebrating International Woman's Day
2022-03-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Vinos, 29 High Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3BG
International Women’s Day is celebrated on 8 March every year – our chance to celebrate women in business.
Come and join us for our Gin Tasting Networking Event and meet with other business women in the local community.
We will be joined by guess speaker, Mel Downing, business owner of Design Hive based in Highbridge.
Mel Downing is the founder and managing director of Design Hive, a branding agency based in Highbridge. Mel has dedicated her entire career to the design industry since she graduated back in 2003 and has been privileged to work with many of the local brands you see around you today.
Like many businesses, Mel has had her ups and downs to make her business the success it is today. She will be sharing her journey to help inspire other business women achieve their dreams as aspirations and not settle for second best. Come and hear her story…
A variety of Gin’s chosen by our hosts at Vino’s Wine and Ale bar on the High Street, will be on offer to trial (purchase of full measures will be extra) as well as light refreshments.
New owner, Clair, has secured a representative of a local gin supplier to come and give us a good gin tasting experience….What’s not to like!

CABiz Breakfast Networking
2022-03-08 07:30 - 09:30
MEMBER EVENT
CABiz Networking is back in person! Our first in-person meeting in 2 years, on International Women’s day with speaker Natalie Dyson

“Staying apart but pulling together?”
Natalie Dyson, a busy mum of 3 children and a full-time career woman, recently was awarded the BEM British Empire Medal in the Queens’ Birthday Honours list along with the Somerset Medal for her contribution in bringing communities together during the pandemic. Natalie’s coordination of community groups and ensuring people had the right information in a time of fear and uncertainty was a superb effort. Natalie will be sharing her inspirational story as our next speaker on International Women’s Day.

The Format:
7-7.30 am: Open networking
7.30-8 am: Introductions
8-9 am: Breakfast and speaker
9 am: Open networking

It's so much more than Football!
2022-02-17 12:00 - 14:00 | Bridgwater United Football Ground, Fairfax Park Stadium, College Way, Bridgwater, TA6 4TZ
WE ARE PLEASED TO JOIN WITH OUR MEMBERS at BRIDGWATER UNITED COMMUNITY SPORTS TRUST TO DELIVER THEIR VISION of BRIDGWATER FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE….
Bridgwater United Community Sports Trust (BUCST) is a Community Interest Company (CIC), not for profit entity, ensuring that all revenue received is used for the development of sporting activities for the local Community.
The Trust’s vision is to provide opportunities for all, through project delivery, meeting the needs of the local Community and delivering a mixture of active sessions along with education and support groups.
Adam and Sarah Murry provided positive change in driving local economies after recovering AFC Bournemouth from dire financial situation as well as rescuing Yeovil United FC, now part of the Bridgwater United FC group, following financial problems.
Come and join us for our joint lunchtime networking event and find out what plans the owners of Bridgwater United FC have for our ever-growing town….
The event will consist of: –
Bridgwater United Community Sports Trust – Oli Moore – Community Development Manager
Learn about the extensive work the Trust are doing in the community and what’s next

Bridgwater United FC – Bob Buckingham – Chairman & Adam Murry – CEO
Insight to the club’s history, vision and future plans.

Bridgwater United FC Women – Sarah Murry – Chairwoman
How can we support one another in business?

This is also a great opportunity to network with other local businesses in the area and make new connections (or reconnect with old ones) to help drive your business forward.

SCHEDULE
12:00 – 12:15 pm – Arrival & Registration,
12:15 – 12:45 pm – Lunch and Networking
12:45 – 1:30 pm – Guest Speakers followed by Q&A
1:30 -2:00 pm – networking continues (optional)

We look forward to seeing you on the day

*We love meeting up with our members. However, you don’t have to be a member of the chamber to join us for our networking events, the Chamber and our members are always happy to welcome non-members too.

Bridgwater Re-Energised – Here’s the Deal!
2022-02-09 18:00 - 20:00 | Town Hall, High Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3BL, United Kingdom
Bridgwater have been allocated £23.2 million from the Government to invest in our ever-growing town, the Town Deal Board is working to oversee the delivery of this Bridgwater investment plan.
Come and join us on Wednesday 9th February when Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce will be holding an exclusive event for the business community to hear from our district council on the exciting and much anticipated projects and developments happening in Bridgwater.
Guest Speaker: Nathaniel Lucas, Economic Development Manager at Sedgemoor District Council.
This event will give the Bridgwater business community an exclusive opportunity to learn more about plans for the town’s future; providing access to information to aid strategic decision making for their own businesses and to hear about forthcoming opportunities.
Schedule
6pm – Registration, Networking & Refreshments
6:30pm – Guest Speakers
7:15pm – Q&A
7:30pm – Networking (optional)
8pm – Close
(All times are approximate)

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED TO ATTEND THIS EVENT
Light refreshments will be available – please state any food allergies, special dietary requirements at time of booking in the ‘Additional Comments’ box on the booking form.
Projects approved by the Bridgwater Town Board are: –

2 Day Mental Health First Aid Training - Workplace delivered online
2022-01-25 09:00 - 2022-01-26 16:30 | Online
Workplace Mental Health First Aid is a two day educational course that teaches participants how to identify, understand and help a person who may be developing a mental health issue.
It provides people with the skills and confidence to recognise common signs and symptoms and effectively guide a person towards the right support. In the same way as we learn physical first aid in the workplace, Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to recognise those crucial warning signs of mental ill health at work and gives you the skills to take appropriate action … you will become a Mental Health First Aider.
New Leaf have trained 339 Mental Health First Aiders from over 71 different companies. After training we continue to support your employees through newsletters and free training updates.
Day 1
Live Session 1: 9am ’til 11.30am
Live session 2: 2pm ’til 4.30pm

Day 2
Live session 3: 9am ’til 11.30am
Live session 4: 2pm ’til 4.30pm

Cost £295.00 per person which includes registration with Mental Health First Aid England, Manual , Workbook, ALGEE First Aid Card and certification ( if you complete the course and online study)

Brainwave Presents - Fairy Tale of New York Ball
2021-12-18 19:00 | Taunton School, Staplegrove Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AD, United Kingdom
Join us and our Patrons, Lord and Lady Fellowes, for a night filled with sparkle as we enter the fairy tale of New York at Christmas.
Saturday 18 December 2021, from 7pm
at Taunton School
The money raised at this event will ensure Brainwave can continue helping children with disabilities achieve greater independence, by providing their range of specialist therapies.
Please RSVP to Joanne Freeman
by 6 September 2021
joannefreeman@brainwave.org.uk | 07872 411 580

Chamber Annual Christmas Lunch
2021-12-09 12:00 - 15:00 | The Old Vicarage, 45-51 St. Mary Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3EQ, United Kingdom
Come and join us for our Annual Christmas Lunch for some networking and great food at The Old Vicarage, Bridgwater on the 9th December.
Enjoy a two Course Meal and welcome drink whilst networking with friends in this beautiful 15th Century gem full of history over looking St. Mary’s Church.

V-Vegetarian VGO– Vegan Option GF-Gluten Free GFO – Gluten Free Option

* Booking fees included in price

Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards Ceremony 2021
2021-11-19 19:00 - 2021-11-20 01:00 | The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater,, Somerset, TA6 6LQ, United Kingdom
Come and join us for our even BIGGER and better Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards Ceremony 2021 taking place on the 19th November 2021 at The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater.
After what has been a very challenging 18 months, we are over the moon to be back in-person to celebrate the success of our businesses and their achievements from the local area.
We all know it is good to receive a pat on the back occasionally and for businesses, it can make a huge difference to staff’s morale and customer confidence when they gain public recognition.
The Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards have been running for several years with the aim of rewarding companies, enterprises and individuals who are making outstanding contributions to the growth and prosperity of the district.
This year we have moved the event to a Friday so businesses/attendees can party to the small hours without having to ‘get up for work’ the next morning. We will also be drawing the night to a close with local singer Jordan Hill.
Get those professional photos taken whilst dressed ‘to the nines’ ~ Our friends at Timeless Images will be on standby to take those professional photos of guests (additional cost) and will be situated in The Maunsel Room close to the main hall.
Good luck to all finalists!
Please note: This is a ‘Black Tie’ event.
Schedule:
6pm ~ 7pm VIP Reception sponsored by ABL South West Ltd (Invitation only).
7pm ~ Doors open to all guests
7:30pm ~ 3 course meal served
9;20pm ~ Opening speech from Chamber General Manager
9:25pm ~ Main Event Sponsor speaker ~ Sedgemoor District Council
9:30pm ~ Presentation of Award winners part 1 – hosted by Dave Englefield of Sedgemoor FM
10:15 ~ 10:30pm ~ interval
(Don’t forget to have those professional photos taken)
10:30pm ~ Main Event Sponsor speaker ~ Pardoes Solicitors
10:35pm ~ Presentation of Award Winners part 2.
11:10pm ~ Closing speech ~ Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce Chairman
11:15pm ~ Local singer ~ Jordan Hill
12:30am ~ Bar closes
1am ~ Doors close
*all times are approximate
We look forward to seeing you on the night!
*Booking fees are included in ticket price
** Once your booking is received, we will contact you directly to confirm meal choices and dietary requirements

Chamber's Annual AGM
2021-11-12 12:00 - 14:00 | Holiday Inn Express Bridgwater, Market Way, Bridgwater, TA6 6DF
The Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce will hold its Annual AGM at 12 noon on Friday 12th November at the Holiday Inn Express Bridgwater.
The AGM will be led by our Chairman Denys Rayner, followed by a presentation from our guest speakers from Balanced Energy who are striving to make it easy for businesses of all sizes to contribute towards the future of our planet.​ Their aim is to change the way businesses use and purchase their energy.
Please register to confirm attendance at the AGM
Agenda
Apologies
Minutes of last meeting and matters arising
Chair report
General Manager Report
Finance Report
Speaker – Balanced Energy
Questions & Answers
Close
We look forward to ‘seeing’ you there!

By Royal Appointment - with guest speaker Chris Hocking
2021-11-05 08:00 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
KICK THE CARNIVAL WEEKEND OFF WITH A GREAT START…
Come and join us for a networking breakfast and find out more about the
Royal Platinum Jubilee Pageant.
With guest Speaker
CHRIS HOCKING
The magnificent, amazing entries created for Bridgwater Carnival have come to the attention of the organisers of the recently announced Platinum Jubilee Pageant which will form part of the celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty the Queen’s accession to the throne in London.
His talk on Friday 5 November – Guy Fawkes Day of course – will provide an interesting insight into the many and various arrangements which are being made for the carnival’s Pageant entry as well as present a background to the event itself.

Chris Hocking has been involved in Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival since 1967 and has previously held the roles of Publicity Director and Commercial Director and he was also the carnival’s President from 2004 to 2006. He is currently the carnival’s Project Director with responsibility for overseeing special projects and grant applications and, by day, he can be found at the Bridgwater Carnival Centre.
Recently he has taken on the responsibility for delivering an entry in Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant which involves coordinating the creation of a special, full size carnival cart for the Pageant parade in London on 5 June next year. It is a great honour for Bridgwater Carnival to be involved in such a prestigious event and will undoubtedly bring a great amount of pride to the organisation as well as for the town of Bridgwater.
Schedule
08:00 ~ Registration, networking, breakfast
08:30 ~ Guest Speaker Chris Hocking
09:00 ~ Q & A
09:30 ~ Finish.
(all times are approximate)

“This is an honour beyond our wildest dreams,” said Mike Crocker, President of Bridgwater Carnival, “and serves to demonstrate the high esteem in which our event is held. It is also a testimony of the tremendous skills and remarkable ingenuity of hundreds of dedicated people who produce the spectacular entries we witness in our parade, year in, year out.

UK Citizenship - Connecting with Purpose Storytelling
2021-10-08 08:30 - 10:30
Social Business, Storytelling
Overview:

Open to UK based Social Enterprises
Two sessions to choose from
Virtual 2 hour workshop
Free to register

Your social business is a passion. What you do makes a difference, and it really matters, not only to you, but to the
people and communities you support. Your business needs support, it needs customers, who can quickly understand
what you do, and how they can support you.
In this workshop we will discover three compelling ways to communicate what you do to suit a range of situations.
Learning Objectives:
• Initially, to explore who your customers are and what they need to hear from you
• To try out a simple structure to communicate to customers in a tailored way what you do, quickly, clearly and
concisely. This will suit most situations
• To look at a second structure to illustrate impact through a longer story, fit for either a short presentation, or a talk
about your organisation
• To additionally consider a third structure which will allow you to quickly and effectively communicate your plans to
people and let them know what part they can play.
The session will be highly interactive with lots of peer group discussions and opportunities to try out the techniques
and get feedback from other social business leaders in the workshop.
Duration: Two hours
Availability: Friday 8 October, with a choice of a 8:30 or 14:00 session
Location: Hosted virtually via WebEx
Next steps: This is a free learning opportunity open to UK based Social Enterprises, for further details or to register please contact John Montague at john@socialbd.co.uk

THE BRIDGWATER DEVELOPMENT STORY
2021-09-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Town Hall, High Street, Bridgwater, TA6 3BL, United Kingdom
On Wednesday 29th September, Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce will be holding an exclusive event for the business community to hear from our district council on the exciting and much-anticipated projects and developments happening in Bridgwater.
The event will include presentations from Doug Bamsey, Deputy Chief Executive & Stuart Martin, Regeneration Project Manager of Sedgemoor District Council.
Join us on Wednesday 29th September at Bridgwater Town Hall to hear about developments such as:
Northgate Yard
Construction work has begun on Northgate Yard, the £16 million leisure regeneration project in Bridgwater town centre, led and funded by Sedgemoor District Council. The 40,000 sqft scheme has already secured anchor tenants, Scott Cinemas providing a 7-screen cinema and Allstars Sports Bowling and Bar, cinema with 8-lane bowling alley and sports bar. The development also features 12,000 sq ft of flexible restaurant space in five restaurant units with outdoor dining areas, available for local, regional and national food and drink brands to create high quality eating places.
The scheme will also feature outdoor meeting places and landscaping. The adjacent green space, Brewery Field, will be improved and updated to feature an outdoor children’s play area and parkland with a pond and landscaped planting.

Other Initiatives
As part of the Towns Fund Projects other closely related projects are also being progressed. Improvements to the Clare Street area and down Angel Crescent are partially advanced on Clare Street and visualised for Angel Crescent. This will create a much improved link between the Northgate scheme and town centre alongside commercial start up and incubator opportunities.
The docks area is also being prepared for improvements to create an enhanced facility for the residents that live in the area but also for visitors and other users of water based facilities. For example being able to hire a row boat or a bicycle, visit a café overlooking the docks are simple pleasures that should be available.
This event will give the Bridgwater business community an exclusive opportunity to learn more about plans for the town’s future; providing access to information to aid strategic decision making for their own businesses and to hear about forthcoming opportunities.
Keep up to date with the progress of the Northgate Yard development on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Twitter and LinkedIn: @NorthgateYard

EVENT AGENDA:
18:00 – Arrivals, refreshments, networking
18:15 – Attendees to be seated
18:20 – Speakers followed by Q&As
19:45 – Presentation and talks end
20:00 – Event close

Mental Health First Aid Training 2 Day Accredited Course ONLINE
2021-09-29 09:00 - 2021-09-30 16:30 | Online
Workplace Mental Health First Aid is a two day educational course that teaches participants how to identify, understand and help a person who may be developing a mental health issue. It provides people with the skills and confidence to recognise common signs and symptoms and effectively guide a person towards the right support.
In the same way as we learn physical first aid in the workplace, Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to recognise those crucial warning signs of mental ill health at work and gives you the skills to take appropriate action … you will become a Mental Health First Aider.
New Leaf have trained 304 Mental Health First Aiders from 71 different companies. After training we continue to support your employees through newsletters and free training updates.
29th and 30th September 9am till 4.30 on both days.
Day 1
Live Session 1: 9am ’til 11.30am
Live session 2: 2pm ’til 4.30pm
Day 2
Live session 3: 9am ’til 11.30am
Live session 4: 2pm ’til 4.30pm

Cost £295.00 per person which includes registration with Mental Health First Aid England, Manual , Workbook, ALGEE First Aid Card and certification ( if you complete the course and online study)
