USING A LOVE OF THE PAST TO GO FORWARD INTO THE FUTURE
Higher Futures has firmly established itself working with businesses in Swindon and Wiltshire to up-skill their employees with locally delivered, bespoke higher level training solutions. Another area of their work is working closely with organisations to provide employability training.
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Former Lance Corporal Rob Steel served in the British Army Princess of Wales’ s Royal Regiment for six years, two years of which he was attached to 5 Rifles as a sniper. Whilst on tour in Iraq, Rob’ s mental health declined – and continued to worsen after his tour ended, which ultimately led to him being medically discharged.
After he left the army, Rob was introduced to Breaking Ground Heritage – an archaeology Community Interest Company designed by ex-forces personnel and senior archaeologists that facilitates a recovery pathway for injured personnel.
Shortly after becoming
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involved with archaeology, Rob was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder( PTSD) due to his military service. Military charity Help for Heroes( H4H) helped and supported Rob to secure a place at Winchester University to study archaeology.
Rob said“ With the help of H4H, the archaeological training has given me purpose again, I’ ve found my military skills have helped me move forward as they are so transferable. I’ d like to help others who are leaving and may become a mentor supporting other veterans via Help for Heroes. Learning with other veterans has been an
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advantage as they speak the same language. This programme has also impacted on the wider family helping myself and the other veterans in their family units. Eventually I aim to embark on a Masters and to support other veterans and to work in the industry.”
Rob Steel studied BSc Archaeology at Winchester, which is designed for students who wish to study the archaeological application of biological, physical and earth science techniques.
Darren Shorney, H4H Recovery Manager said“ This represents a great example of the relationship between Help for Heroes and
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Higher Futures, and demonstrates their continued commitment for our wounded, injured and sick service men and women. Amanda has been a catalyst in enabling Rob to meet the University entry requirements, and has support his application to access Higher Education.”
For more info: www. higherfutureshub. co. uk
@ HigherFuturesUK
HigherFutures @ swlep. co. uk 01225 756174
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Growth funding for Swindon & Wiltshire SMEs
Are you are looking to grow or improve your business? If so, there is currently fully funded support available across Swindon and Wiltshire.
Oxford Innovation is one of the delivery partners for the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Project. With over 30 years’ experience, Oxford Innovation is a leading business support company working across the UK. They have helped over 7,000 businesses grow and develop, opening doors to over £ 100m of external funding to support their plans.
Since January 2017, their specialist team have been working closely with business owners in the region, helping them achieve their goals and understand what steps they need to take to get the business they would like.
Leading the project locally is Theda Gray, business coach and strategist. Theda started her career in two family run businesses and truly understands the challenges owner-run and managed businesses face. Theda’ s experience includes working in larger London-based companies whilst qualifying as a Chartered Management Accountant and looks at a business holistically, from business strategy to software, systems and its financial foundations.
The support available as part of the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Project, can be delivered on a one-to-one basis, or through intensive workshops. The work will include a diagnostic of the company to identify opportunities for improvement, leading to a tailored plan of support. How your business can benefit from the SME Growth Project:
• Guide you through the development of a business plan impact.
• Understand your funding options.
• How to make the best financial decisions.
• Take calculated risks when identifying new markets and new business opportunities.
• Ensure thinking and decision-making is strategic and leads to sustainable achievements.
• Improve systems and processes to drive efficiency.
• Learn how to unlock the potential of your people and focus their efforts.
• Help you to identify change and help your staff through a change process.
For more information visit: www. oxfordinnovationservices. co. uk or call 01865 261480 @ OI _ HighGrowth
“ Theda’ s strong business acumen is paired with the experience of working within small owner managed companies. This really helps her identify with you and understand firsthand, the ups and downs of owning a business.”
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2017 23