Sedgemoor Chamber

Mental Health First Aid Training Sessions
2024-07-23 09:30 - 17:30 (Europe/London)
Member Led Event – 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠
𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐎𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐮𝐩𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐀𝐢𝐝 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐥, 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫:
Tuesday 23rd and Tuesday 30th July 2024, 0930-1730 both days
Our Mental Health Training and Support is something we are extremely proud of.
Our training is designed to bridge the gap between the Mental Health First Aid qualification and allowing an understanding and awareness for everyone regarding mental health.
We believe by offering this range of training, it is the only way that we will help change the narrative, end stigma, and allow people to be more open around the topic of mental health, no matter where they may feel they are on that sliding scale.
We also know that this training and support will equip people to have the confidence in starting conversations with others, without the fear of making a situation worse or not knowing what to say or do should they need to get help for the person.
The training, at any level will give people an understanding of mental health, think about how we all have mental health and what we need to do to protect this and give learners the opportunity to think about what we can do to prevent poor mental health.
The training consists of the following 3 qualifications:
Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid (RQF)
Throughout this 2-day course, learners will develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to actively promote positive mental health in the workplace by covering a range of topics, including: understanding mental health and its importance, awareness of their own wellbeing as a Mental Health First Aider, common mental health conditions, how to support those experiencing poor mental health at work with tools such as active listening and non-judgemental support.
What’s covered on the course

Learn how to spot the signs and support people that are struggling with a wide range of mental health conditions, including:
Depression
Suicide
Anxiety Disorders (including OCD, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Social Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, Generalised Anxiety Disorder and PTSD)
Eating Disorders
Psychosis
Self-Injury

We look at each condition in detail and hear from people that have real lived experience of some of these conditions, which gives learners a deep understanding of what someone experiencing symptoms may be experiencing.
Understand and learn about the symptoms a person may be experiencing, what to say and how to support an individual in the best way for them.
The mental health continuum and the differences between mental health and mental illness, and the judgment and discrimination that is often felt around this topic due to stigma and lack of understanding.
Risk and Protective factors to our mental health and learn how to implement health habits and coping techniques, including self-care.
Stress and how to recognise, manage and cope with stress – this is a very important part of the course as stress is always present in any mental health condition, whether it’s the cause, a symptom or both.
Case Studies looking at scenarios and what we can do to help, what to say and where to access and signpost to the correct support, along with how to provide ongoing support.
Where and how to access support and different types of support that are available.
Recovery and Wellbeing Recovery Action Plans

This 2-day course is packed full of useful, helpful and lifesaving information to help others and yourself.
𝐓𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤:
Email: jo@optimiseworkplacewellbeing.com
Phone: 07912 446261
https://www.optimiseworkplacewellbeing.co.uk/https://lnkd.in/eFVXp_YT
Our cost for Chamber Members for these dates, will be just £195.00 per person (usual cost is £345.00 pp)

Chamber Summer Social Barbecue
2024-07-24 18:30 - 21:00 | Greenway Farm, Skimmerton Lane, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA5 2AX, United Kingdom
OUR SUMMER SOCIAL BARBECUE IS BACK….
Come and join us for our summer social BBQ in the beautiful unique setting of Greenway Farm.
Don’t miss this fantastic, informal and enjoyable event tailored for local businesses to relax, socialise and build relationships in a stunning setting.
Timeless Images has kindly sponsored this event
On the menu:
Chicken skewers, pulled pork, slow roast brisket, burgers and sausages.
Pulled Jackfruit for the vegetarians.
Followed by Pavlova, cheesecake, brownie, cheeseboard.
Teas and Coffees also included.
The bar will be open for personal purchases of cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

This is an evening event to make it more accessible to all businesses.

Why not check how you could get to the venue using public transport using the Think Travel portal here: Think Travel : Homepage

The Dryad Inn Pop Up Pub
2024-07-27 19:00 - 22:00
Member Led Event – Dryad Gin Ltd
The Dryad Inn Pop Up Pub will be held at Broomfield Village Hall TA5 2EQ on the following dates in 2024
27th July
21st September
1st November
21st December
At each event we will be joined by The Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme who will be offering a creative area in the PopUp Pub. The purpose of these events is to bring people together, connecting, laughing, bonding. Old friends are reacquainted, new neighbours tentatively introduced and strangers became a little less so.
We open the doors at 7pm and its for over 18s only. You will be able to enjoy local beer, cider and our very special Dryad Gin. We also have non alcoholic options and a full cocktail bar with recipes named after local places and people. Our Dryad Gin in is always for sale at our events.
There is parking behind the village hall in a field but unsuitable if the ground is too wet. We normally have a Pizza Van join us or have local food available at each event.
From local oak back to the community in a glass

Meet The New GM
2024-08-08 08:30 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
Event Information:
Date: 8th August
Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Location: Victoria Park Community Centre
Victoria Park Community Centre
Join us for a special event to meet the new General Manager of the Chamber of Commerce, Roger Smith. This is a fantastic opportunity for members to connect with Roger, share your thoughts, and hear about the exciting plans for the future of our Chamber. We value your input and look forward to an open forum where your ideas can help shape our path forward.
What to Expect:
– Introduction of the new General Manager, Roger Smith
– Open forum for members to share ideas and feedback
– Overview of future plans and initiatives for the Chamber
Refreshments:
Complimentary teas, coffees, and breakfast rolls will be provided.
Please confirm your attendance by signing up for a ticket

Chamber Breakfast Connections - Inspiring the workforce of the future
2024-09-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Clarke Willmott, Clarke Willmott, Blackbrook Gate 1, Blackbrook Park Ave, Taunton, TA1 2PG
Start the day with a breakfast buffet and the chance to make new connections with businesses from across Bridgwater and Taunton.
Listen to inspiring presentations from organisations involved in supporting, upskilling and finding meaningful opportunities for our local young people and find out how you can lend your support. We are delighted to be welcoming Edventure, Next Stage Somerset and Young Somerset to the event, and our thanks go to Clarke Willmott who will be hosting us at their offices at Blackbrook Business Park.
This is the third of our super-popular, bi-annual events between the two Chambers of Commerce, enabling our members to meet, connect and be inspired.
As well as single tickets, combined tickets are also available, designed to encourage you to bring along a younger person from your own workforce.
Tickets are available to members of each of both Chambers of Commerce. Please select the ticket for the Chamber which you are a member of.
Spaces are limited so don't miss out and secure your place today!

Charity Golf Day
2024-09-20 12:00 - 17:00 | Enmore Park Golf Club, TA5 2AN
Member Led Event

We are also looking for raffle prizes for the event, if you would like to donate any raffle prizes please contact sarahcummins@brainwave.org.uk

The Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival
2024-09-21 08:00 - 2024-09-29 17:00
Experience the Magic of the Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival 2024!
This year, you’re invited to discover an expanded line-up of events, offering something for everyone. From exhilarating coastal walks to captivating arts performances, delicious food experiences, and live music, there’s no shortage of excitement at the Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival.
What’s New for 2024:
– Fish and Chip Plus Cream Tea Special: Indulge in the ultimate seaside treat at the West Somerset Railway on Sunday, September 22nd at 12:30pm.
– Murder Mystery Special: Join us for an evening of intrigue and suspense aboard the West Somerset Railway on Saturday, September 21st at 7pm.
– Blackmore Farm Manor House Tour: Explore the historic beauty of Blackmore Farm Manor House on Friday, September 27th and Sunday, September 29th at 2pm.
– Somerset Coast Challenge: Embark on an unforgettable journey along the coast, with options ranging from marathons to ultra-distance challenges.
And that’s just the beginning. With a wide array of activities and experiences, the Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival promises to be an unforgettable adventure for all.
Join the Celebration:
Whether you’re a local accommodation provider, business owner, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the festivities, there are endless opportunities to get involved. Visit the Festival Partners page to learn how you can be a part of this incredible event.

Bridgwater TWILIGHT
2024-09-21 11:00 - 21:30
Transforming familiar streets into memorable experiences
Fire and Light performances, activities and displays will take place in Bridgwater on Sept 21st.

Times: 11am to 2pm Music, Create, Make and creative activities in the town centre.
7.30pm – 9.30pm. Fire and light, performance, music, sculpture, window displays, outdoor projection and sound art in King Square, Cornhill, Blake Statue and Bridgy Gallery, Engine Room, Carnival Centre, SL-ATE Concept Store and Bridgwater Arts Centre.
There will be opportunities to take part in free light sculpture workshops leading up to the event in September
Contact us if you would like to take part in the free workshops E: events@fuseperfomance.co.uk

MHFA Refresher Training
2024-09-25 09:00 - 2024-09-26 17:00
Member Led Event – New Leaf Workplace Wellbeing

Mental Health First Aid Training – New Leaf
25th and 26th September 2024 – Face to face training The Quaker Meeting House Taunton.
You will be accessing the very best evidence-based Mental Health First Aid course available. The training is grounded in research and developed with clinical practitioners. It is proven to increase MHFAiders® confidence in supporting people with mental health issues. With this new offer, training doesn’t stop when the course comes to an end. MHFA England provide continuous support for MHFAiders® – well beyond your initial certification – so you are confident, empowered and motivated to carry out your role.
Why become an MHFAider®?
By training with us you will gain:
• A deeper understanding of mental health and the factors that can affect people’s wellbeing
• Practical skills to spot the triggers and signs of mental health issues
• The confidence to step in and support someone to recover their health by guiding them to appropriate support
• Three years of access to the MHFAider Support App® with 24/7 digital support
• Access to exclusive resources, ongoing learning opportunities, and the benefit of joining England’s largest community of trained MHFAiders®
Why choose MHFA England training?
• 91% of people had a better understanding of mental health after completing their MHFA England course
• Since MHFA England was founded in 2007, the Instructor Members have trained hundreds and thousands of MHFAiders
• All MHFA England Instructor Members are accredited by the Royal Society of Public Health, meaning you can expect a quality assured and consistent training experience
• MHFA England are committed to improving the mental health of the nation
This course runs from 9am to 5.00pm on both days
Why choose New Leaf Life Design?
New Leaf have trained over 700 Mental Health First Aiders. Our testimonials rate us the best training participants have recieved read them here
“I feel so much more confident now in my approach and knowledge around Mental Health and the support I am able to offer friends, family, co-workers and strangers. Becky has such a wealth of experience and took the time to cover issues, in depth, over the two day course. I can’t recommend the course enough. It covers such important issues that we all face and I can only imagine how much better we would all feel if we took the time to really check in with each other. Thank you Becky for being sensitive to issues, informative and reassuring through out the course.” Mel Cooper Icatcare”
Becky was a fantastic instructor during the course.It’s always hard to keep engagement online but she did it absolute justice! She was also apply to gage the room if the team were ever struggling with aspects of the course, allowing us to take adequate time process the information which was amazing. This is a fantastic course and would recommend it to other colleagues. So happy to be apart of the opportunity! Thanks again,” Lisa McGregor BrewDog
Book tickets here

Maximising Your Website’s Potential - Workshop
2024-09-25 11:00 - 13:30 | Bridgwater Town Hall, High St, Bridgwater, TA6 3BL
SBA CIC & Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce are pleased to collaborate to deliver comprehensive training webinars and events for Chamber members. This collaboration brings together the expertise and resources of SBA and its team of business professionals to create a dynamic and impactful training partnership.
We’re excited to host another training event which is FREE to members, with complimentary lunch included.
Maximising Your Website’s Potential
Date: 25th September
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: Bridgwater Town Hall
Cost: Free for members, £15 for non-members (Lunch included)
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, ensuring that your website is not only functional but also a powerful tool for driving business growth is crucial. This workshop is designed to help businesses evaluate their websites to ensure they are fit for purpose. We will explore how to assess your current tech build, implement best practices, and create a strategic roadmap for your website’s ongoing development.
The key to this is understanding your website’s role in generating leads, sales, and enquiries, as well as building credibility. We’ll also delve into effective content creation and management strategies to keep your audience engaged and your brand message clear. We’ll look at the key tools in website analytics, including Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and Google Search Console, to help you measure your website’s impact and make data-driven decisions.
What You Will Learn:

Assess Your Website’s Tech Build: Learn how to evaluate your site’s technology, ensuring it’s reliable, secure, and up to industry standards.
Develop a Website Roadmap: Set clear goals for your site’s growth and scalability, and understand its role in lead generation, sales, and building credibility.
Content Creation & Management: Discover best practices for creating engaging content that converts, and learn to manage your website effectively while enhancing SEO visibility.
Measure Website Impact with Analytics: Get introduced to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) and Google Search Console. Understand key metrics, and make data-driven decisions to improve your website’s performance.

This workshop is a great opportunity to understand how to optimise your website to drive growth. Enjoy a day of learning and networking with other local businesses, while also getting a chance to refresh your website strategy.
Reserve your spot today!

Bridgwater docks is the first UK destination of Luke Jerram's new touring artwork "Fallen Moon"
2024-10-14 13:00 - 2024-11-03 20:30 | Bridgwater Docks

Autumn Budget Overview 2024
2024-11-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join Us for an Autumn Budget 2024 Review Webinar
Date: 1st November 2024
Time: 10-11am
We are excited to announce a special webinar with Gavin Roberts, Partner at Maxwells Chartered Accountants, where we’ll break down the key changes announced in the Autumn Budget 2024. This session is designed to help individuals and businesses understand how the updates will affect them.
What to Expect:

A comprehensive overview of the Chancellor’s announcements.
Expert guidance on what the changes mean for both individuals and businesses.
An open Q&A session where your comments, questions, and insights are welcome.

Secure Your Spot: Please book your place to receive the Zoom link for the session. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and ask your pressing questions!

Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW)
2024-11-06 08:45 - 17:00, 2024-12-04 08:45 - 17:00 | Activity Warehouse, Activity Warehouse, 5 E Quay, Bridgwater, TA6 4AE
The Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work qualification is nationally recognised and meets the requirements outlined by the HSE. The course teaches real lifesaving skills that can be used in and out of the workplace. During this 1 day course, Learners will develop the skills and knowledge needed to deal with a range of emergency first aid situations, including: managing an unresponsive casualty, CPR, choking, shock, wounds and bleeding and minor injuries.
This course starts at 8.45am and finishes at 5pm.
Who’s It For?
This qualification is designed for those who have a specific responsibility at work, to provide first aid in a range of emergency first aid situations. It is also ideal for people who have a specific responsibility to provide basic first aid in voluntary and community activities.
What’s Covered?

During this 1 days course, learners will be given the opportunity to practise essential basic life support procedures and learn about first aid topics including:

Responsibilities of the First Aider
How to check for breathing
Assessment of injuries
Recovery position
Resuscitation of a non-breathing casualty (CPR)
Choking
Major bleeding and Shock management
Minor injuries & burns
Seizures
Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Secret World Wildlife Rescue Annual Charity Auction & Ball
2024-11-23 18:30
Join Secret World Wildlife Rescue for their 21st Annual Auction and Ball—a spectacular ‘Black Tie’ evening filled with entertainment, great food, and opportunities to make a real difference for local wildlife.
Evening Highlights:
-Three-Course Meal: Enjoy a delicious dinner provided by The Webbington Hotel & Spa.
-Silent & Live Auctions: Bid on a range of exciting items—from chocolate bouquets to luxury getaways. Whether you prefer the thrill of a live auction or the strategy of a silent one, there’s something for everyone.
-Casino: Try your luck at the casino tables.
-Live Music: Dance the night away with live performances.-Photo Opportunities: Capture memorable moments throughout the evening.
-Raffle Prizes: Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win hampers and other great prizes.
Tickets:
-Individual Ticket: £55 per person
-Table of 10: £500 (Ideal for groups or corporate bookings)
Looking for a festive outing or a memorable Christmas party for your team? This event offers a fantastic opportunity to celebrate while supporting a worthy cause.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Support the event further through various sponsorship options:
-Table Sponsorship: Sponsor a table of 10 for £500.
-Programme Advertising:
-Half Page: £150 plus VAT
-Full Page: £250 plus VAT
-Entertainment Sponsorship: Contribute from £350.
-Venue Decoration: Assist with costs starting from £100.
-Printing Costs: Help cover printing expenses.
Accommodation:
Need a place to stay? The Webbington Hotel is offering rooms at a reduced rate for event attendees.
About Secret World Wildlife Rescue:
All funds raised during the evening support Secret World Wildlife Rescue’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife. For over 30 years, they have been dedicated to protecting wildlife at their site in East Huntspill.
How to Book Tickets or Sponsor:
-Website: www.secretworld.org
-Phone: 01278 783250
-Email: annual.ball@secretworld.org

DS14 – Ready, Steady, Game!
2024-11-26 17:30 - 20:00
Member Led Event:

Ready, Steady, Game!
Pizza sponsored by The Realm at BTC
Join us for an exciting networking event where gaming meets AI! Dive into the future of interactive entertainment, explore cutting-edge AI innovations, and connect with like-minded professionals, gamers, and tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re a game developer, AI expert, or just passionate about the evolution of gaming, this event is the perfect opportunity to exchange ideas, collaborate on projects, and level up your network. Don’t miss out on this unique chance to be part of the next wave in gaming and AI technology!
Our Main Talk:
Ben Byford: Gaming, AI & Ethics
Throughout Ben’s career he has been passionate about Technology, Design and Ethics. Starting in Web design and development, Ben worked with companies creating sites, UI and UX projects. He’s an entrepreneur of several companies from a web platform for commissioning research, web design, games development, and a co-working space.In 2016 Ben started the Machine Ethics podcast that continues to run today, focused on AI and Ethics subjects. Ben is also a director of the Bristol games hub!
Ben splits his time between AI ethics consulting, games design and development with his company Nuclear Candy Games in Bristol, teaching and public speaking on subjects from games design to AI ethics, computing and social enterprise.
Lightning Talks:

Alex Roland – Game Changer
Richard Everard – Gaming in Education
David Adams – Esports Elite Althete Training
Techosaurus: AI Fun and Games

Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards
2024-11-29 18:00 - 23:30 | The Canalside, Marsh Lane, Bridgwater,, Somerset, TA6 6LQ, United Kingdom
Step into an evening of sophistication and celebration at the Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards! Join us for this prestigious black-tie event where we honour the outstanding achievements and innovation within our local business community.
Celebrate the hard work and dedication of Sedgemoor’s top entrepreneurs, industry pioneers, and innovators as they receive well-deserved recognition. Each award presentation highlights remarkable contributions that shape and strengthen our local economy. Be inspired by their stories, resilience, and vision for the future.
The Sedgemoor Business Excellence Awards is more than an awards ceremony; it’s a night to connect with peers, forge new partnerships, and revel in the shared spirit of collaboration and success that defines Sedgemoor’s business landscape. This is a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships in an atmosphere of support and inspiration.
Don’t miss this highlight of Sedgemoor’s business calendar! Reserve your tickets today and be part of a memorable night of recognition, networking, and celebration.

Awards Live Stream
The awards section of the event will be live-streamed for those who can’t attend in person. If you know anyone who would like to watch, share this link:
Watch Live on YouTube

First Aid at Work (FAW) 3-Day Course
2024-12-04 08:45 - 2024-12-06 17:00 | Activity Warehouse, Activity Warehouse, 5 E Quay, Bridgwater, TA6 4AE
Over 3 consecutive days, learners will develop the skills and knowledge needed to deal with a range of first aid situations, including: assessing an incident, managing an unresponsive casualty, CPR, heart attacks, choking, head and spinal injuries, fractures, anaphylaxis and more.
This course starts at 8.45am and finishes at 5pm on each day of the course.
Who’s it for?
This qualification is specifically designed for those who are appointed to act as a first aider in their workplace. It is also ideal for people who have a specific responsibility to provide first aid in voluntary and community activities.
What is covered?
During this 3 days course, learners will be given the opportunity to practise essential basic life support procedures and learn about an extended range of first aid topics including:

Adult resuscitation (CPR)
Allergic reaction
Asthma
Bone, muscle and joint injuries
Burns and scalds
Chest pains
Choking adult
Communication and casualty care
Eye injuries
Fainting
Head injuries
Use of defibrillator
Low blood sugar
Managing an emergency
Minor and severe bleeding
Poisons and what to do if someone has been poisoned
Role of the first aider (including knowledge of health and safety regulations)
Seizures
Shock
Spinal injuries
Stroke
Unresponsive adult

Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce Annual Christmas Lunch
2024-12-06 12:00 - 15:00 | The Old Vicarage, 45-51 St. Mary Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3EQ, United Kingdom
Join us for a festive celebration filled with networking & delicious food! 🎄
Date: Friday, 6th December 2024
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Venue: The Old Vicarage Hotel, Bridgwater
We warmly invite you to our Annual Christmas Lunch—a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the year’s achievements, connect with fellow members, and share in the holiday spirit together.
Dress Code: Festive Chic! Whether it’s your favourite Christmas jumper, a touch of sparkle, or smart attire with a festive twist, we encourage you to embrace the holiday vibe!
Ticket Information:

Members: £35 per person
Non-Members: £40 per person

Why Attend?

Celebrate Success: Reflect on the past year’s accomplishments with peers and colleagues.
Expand Your Network: Build new connections and strengthen existing relationships within the business community.
Enjoy and Unwind: Indulge in good food, great company, and festive cheer during this well-deserved break.

We can’t wait to celebrate the season with you!

The Big Community Christmas Meal
2024-12-23 12:00 - 19:00
Member Led Event – The Purplespoon Cafe
On Monday, 23rd December, the Big Christmas Community Meal will take place at the Purplespoon Cafe in Bridgwater. This special event, running from 12pm to 7pm (last bookings at 6:45pm), is completely free of charge, though donations are welcomed to help fund future community meals.
The event, made possible by generous donations collected throughout the year at monthly community meals, aims to bring people together for a festive celebration. Everyone is invited to join, but booking is essential to ensure there are enough potatoes peeled for everyone! To reserve a spot, please email askme@purplespoonevents.com or call 01278 726011.
Guests will enjoy delicious, locally sourced food cooked with care, alongside a full bar featuring cocktails for those who fancy a festive drink.
This meal is more than just food; it’s a celebration of community spirit, bringing together people from all walks of life to share stories, make connections, and enjoy a memorable day. With a wonderful mix of attendees already booked, there’s still space for more to join in the festivities. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a heart-warming community event!

Chamber Chat
2025-01-09 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-01-16 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-01-23 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-01-30 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-02-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Chamber Chat is a weekly online event hosted by us at Bridgwater 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: 823 6187 8612

New Year Networking Breakfast with MP Ashley Fox
2025-01-17 08:00 - 10:00 | Enmore Park Golf Club, TA5 2AN
Join us for the first Networking Breakfast of the year, with special guest Ashley Fox, the elected MP for Bridgwater. This event is the perfect opportunity to start the new year by reconnecting with local businesses and meeting new ones. Held at the stunning Enmore Park Golf Club, the morning will include tea, coffee, and pastries.
Why attend?
•Expand your network: Connect with other local businesses and professionals.
•Engage with Ashley Fox: Share your thoughts on local priorities and hear his vision for Bridgwater.
We’re thrilled to announce that this event is proudly sponsored by Sedgemoor FM! As a local radio station dedicated to serving the community, Sedgemoor FM plays a vital role in keeping us connected, informed, and entertained. We’re grateful for their support in helping make this event possible!
Ashley Fox was elected as the Member of Parliament for Bridgwater in July 2024.
Ashley is a qualified solicitor who specialised in Insurance Litigation. He practised for 15 years before being elected to the European Parliament in 2009. Ashley represented the South West of England & Gibraltar from 2009-2019.
On leaving the European Parliament Ashley set up his own company, Ashley Fox Consulting, which advises clients on how the EU operates.
In 2020 Ashley was appointed as the first Chairman of the Independent Monitoring Authority. This new public body was set up under the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement to ensure that the rights of EU citizens in the UK were upheld. Ashley joined the board of the Financial Reporting Council as a Non Executive Director in February 2022. He stepped down from these 2 public appointments upon being selected as the Conservative candidate for Bridgwater in September 2023.

Joint Breakfast Event: Bridgwater and Taunton Chambers of Commerce
2025-01-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Victoria Park Community Centre, Victoria Park Drive, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 7AS, United Kingdom
Learn how students can help your organisation develop and grow – no matter what size of business you have!
Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast and the opportunity to network with local businesses from Bridgwater and Taunton at this highly anticipated event.
Hosted and organised by current T-level students, this event offers a unique chance to discover how your business can benefit from their expertise and support. Think your business is too small to collaborate with students? Think again – we’ll show you how easy and valuable it can be! Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to grow your business and build meaningful connections.

Discover Hinkley Point C: Networking Breakfast & Site Tour
2025-02-05 08:00 - 12:00 | Hinkley Point C, HPC Cannington Park and Ride, Bridgwater, TA5 2JA
Join us for an exclusive look at one of the UK’s most significant energy projects, Hinkley Point C (HPC), paired with a fantastic networking opportunity. This event includes a fully guided tour of the HPC site and the chance to connect with like-minded professionals over a buffet breakfast in the Great Hall at Blackmore Farm.

Why Attend?

Exclusive Access: Get behind-the-scenes insights into the UK’s energy infrastructure.
Educational Opportunity: Learn about the HPC project and its vital role in the UK’s energy future.
Networking: Connect with fellow professionals over breakfast.

Schedule

8:00 AM – Meet at Blackmore Farm for a buffet breakfast in the Great Hall. Enjoy a delicious start to the day and network with other attendees.
9:30 AM – Begin the HPC Site Tour from Cannington Park and Ride.
12:00 PM – Depart Site and travel back to HPC Cannington Park and Ride

Tour Highlights
-Welcome at Cannington Park and Ride: Meet with HPC guides, receive your security passes, and prepare for the tour.
-Presentation at the Hinkley Point Visitor Centre: Gain insights into the ambitious scope and progress of the HPC project through an engaging overview.
-HPC Site Tour: Travel to the heart of Hinkley Point C for an in-depth look at the construction site with knowledgeable guides.

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.

Ask an Architect Event
2025-02-05 12:30 - 14:00 | Stone and Partners, Suite G5a Viney Court, Viney St, Taunton TA1 3FB, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 3FB, United Kingdom
FREE 15 MINUTE 1-2-1 SESSIONS
If you’re thinking about building an extension, renovating or making your dream home a reality, we are offering 15-minute sessions with one of our architects to provide free personalised, impartial advice.

T Level industry placements - Employer Support Conference Exeter
2025-02-12 10:00 - 15:30 | Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park, Sandy Park Way, Exeter, EX2 7NN, United Kingdom
You’re invited to our upcoming Employer Support Conference in Exeter
T Levels are the government’s flagship technical education programme, combining in-classroom learning and a substantial industry placement. Hosting industry placements will help you grow your talent pipeline, bring in new skills and attract young people to your organisation.
Following the success of previous regional Employer Support Conferences, the Department for Education and Strategic Development Network (SDN) are hosting a conference in Exeter, to help you find out more and start planning for placements.
Date & Time: Wednesday, 12th February 2025, 10:00 AM
Where: Courtyard Exeter Sandy Park, Sandy Park Way, Exeter, EX2 7NN
Connect and network with T Level employers and providers in your area. Understand how they are successfully delivering industry placements, share your wants and needs as an employer and work through any possible issues with T Level experts.
You’ll also have the opportunity to set up one-to-one support with one of our experts following the conference, to guide you through planning and delivering effective placements for your business.
Snapshot agenda:

T Levels and the business benefits of hosting industry placements
Hear from employers about how placements work in practice
Insights into how you can plan and prepare for placements
Come away with resources and tools to help you
Hear about the government funding available to you
Hear the students’ perspective on T Levels

Hear from employers, providers and T Level experts, speakers will be announced nearer the time.
There is no charge for attending this event and we’re hoping this will also be an excellent opportunity for you to network with employers with first-hand experience.
Follow this link for more details and to book your place.
Delivered in partnership with the Devon and Somerset LSIP.
