The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire Edition 31: June/July 2017 | Page 23

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 .
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
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
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
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

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 .”
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